First India-Jaipur Edition-01st May 2023

FROM INDIA TO NEW YORK... ‘MANN’ OF THE MOMENT!

New Delhi: Hailing the spirit of the countrymen in his 100th episode of 'Mann Ki Baat', Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that every Indian became an inspiration for another through the monthly radio programme, while adding that each episode of the popular show "prepared the ground for the next one" and it gave a platform to me to connect with the citi-

PM MODI HAS AN EMOTIONAL CONNECT WITH PEOPLE OF INDIA, SAYS JAISHANKAR

New Jersey: MKB has an “enormous impact” as there is an “emotional connect” between PM Modi and people of India, EAM S Jaishankar said. Addressing Indian diaspora that gathered in New Jersey to listen 100th episode of MKB, he said, “It is an important and emotional day.”

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MALDIVES: RAJNATH TO GIFT PATROL VESSEL AND LANDING CRAFT

GAS TRAGEDY IN LUDHIANA’S GIASPURA

zens of our country. PM said that the country's positivity will take it to new heights in the Azadi Ka Amrit Kaal. Stating that tourism is witnessing fast growth in the country. Apart from 22 Indian languages and 29 dialects, Mann Ki Baat is broadcast in 11 foreign languages including French, Chinese, Indonesian, Tibetan, Burmese, Baluchi, Arabic, Pashtu, Persian, Dari and Swahili. MKB was broadcast by over 500 broadcast centres of All India Radio. More on P3, 6, 11 & 12

AMIT SHAH SAYS ‘MKB’ IS BUILDING BRIDGES BETWEEN PEOPLE AND GOVT

Mumbai: PM Narendra Modi, through his “Mann ki Baat” radio broadcast, crafts messages that venture into the nooks and corners of the nation and builds bridges between the people and the government, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Sunday.

PM SPEAKS

l On October 3, 2014, on the auspicious day of Vijay Dashami, we started the journey of ‘Mann Ki Baat’

l MKB is like “Prasad Ki Thaal” at feet of God

l Atmanirbhar Bharat to Make in India, Mann Ki Baat showcased diverse stories

l Empowering communities, celebrating success stories

l Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ campaign helps in improving gender ratio in Haryana

l Mann Ki Baat has become a unique festival of goodness

MKB’S POPULARITY INDICATES PM MODI’S CONTRIBUTION IN SOCIAL CAUSES: NADDA

Bengaluru: BJP national president JP Nadda on Sunday said that Mann Ki Baat reaching 100th episode and its popularity among people indicates that PM Modi has contributed towards social causes.

‘MANN KI BAAT’ IS MOTIVATING PEOPLE TO CONTRIBUTE IN NATION BUILDING: MISHRA

Jaipur: Governor Kalraj Mishra attended screening of 100th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ in Rajasthan Raj Bhavan on Sunday and said that ‘Mann Ki Baat’ is motivating people to contribute in nation building. Screening was attended by eminent personalities.

ANOTHER SPECIAL MESSAGE: PM MODI SPEAKS TO UNESCO DG AUDREY AZOULAY

New Delhi: PM Modi interacted with UNESCO DG Audrey Azoulay in 100th episode of MKB. The DG of UNESCO not only wished countrymen for wonderful journey of the 100th episode of MKB but also asked questions on education, cultural preservation in India.

MYSTERY LEAK KILLS THREE MINORS AMONG 11 PEOPLE

11 injured are hospitalised, Punjab govt announces ` 2 lakh ex-gratia

Sharat K Verma

New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will hand over a fast patrol vessel and a landing craft to Maldives as India’s “gift” during his visit to the island nation from May 1 to 3, defence ministry said.

MOHANTY APPOINTED AS NEW ATOMIC ENERGY COMM. CHIEF

New Delhi: Director of the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) Ajit Kumar Mohanty has been appointed as the chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission and the secy of Dept of Atomic Energy.

MAN HELD FOR POSING AS GUJ CMO OFFICIAL, GIFT CITY PREZ; HELD

Vadodara: Police have arrested a man for allegedly posing as an official of Gujarat CMO and president of GIFT City, and on charge of raping a model on promise of giving her a job.

MYSURU: PM MODI

NARROWLY ESCAPES

PHONE FLUNG AT HIM

Mysuru: A shocking security lapse has been reported at the PM’s mega roadshow in Mysuru. A phone was flung at Modi’s convoy which narrowly missed the PM. Cops have launched a probe. P5

MAHA: 3 NAXALS KILLED IN ENCOUNTER WITH POLICE IN GADCHIROLI

Mumbai: Three Naxalites, including a dalam commander, were killed in an encounter with police’s C60 Commandos in Maharashtra’s Gadchiroli on Sunday evening.

Ludhiana: 11 people, including 3 minors, were killed and 11 others hospitalised following an incident of gas leakage in Punjab’s Ludhiana on Sunday. The incident took place in Giaspura, a thickly populated residential-cumindustrial area, at around 7:30 am. One cat was also found dead on the spot. The injured were rushed to a hospital, police said. A team of doctors and ambulances were also called to the spot. The Punjab government has announced an ex-gratia of ` 2 lakh for the kin of each deceased and `50,000 for the injured.

Houses, factories have been evacuated and the entire area has been sealed

Gas sampling will be done by the NDRF. They will confirm what kind of gas it was. Blood sampling of the deceased is also being done. Doctors said that the gas affected their brains and not their lungs.

NDRF and police personnel at the site after a gas leak incident in the Giaspura area, in Ludhiana district on early Sunday.

Of the 11 dead, five were from one family, besides a couple and three from another family. One deceased, who was in his mid-20s, is yet to be identified.

THE INITIAL PROBE REPORTS STATE THAT...

Initial reports said there were four deep freezers placed inside a grocery store. People who went to buy groceries from the store fell unconscious. And those who went to rescue the people also fell unconscious. Authorities suspect that the gas might have been leaked from these freezers.

CM Gehlot to embark on 2-day poll tour of K’taka from today

Naresh Sharma

Jaipur: Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot will be on a two-day tour of election bound Karnataka from Monday. Gehlot is among the Star campaigners of Congress for the Karnataka Assembly polls. CM Gehlot will leave for Karnataka on Monday at 9 am and

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot

reach Bengaluru at 11.45 am. He will address public meetings on Monday

in Chickpet, Basavanagudi Gandhi. He will have a night rest program in Mangalore. The CM will hold a press conference on May 2 at the Mangalore District Congress office and address public meetings in Kapu and Mangalore North assembly constituencies. He will return to Jaipur on May 2 at 10 pm.

—Mandeep S Sidhu, Ludhiana Police Commissioner

The incident of gas leak in Giaspura area of Ludhiana is very sad. Police, administration and NDRF teams are present at the spot. All possible help is being provided.

—Bhagwant Mann, Punjab CM

Governor Kalraj Mishra, Govind Ram Jaiswal, Ritu Shukla, Subir Kumar and Satish Depal during MKB screening at Raj Bhavan.

Justice is more imp than Asian Games, says Bajrang Punia

First India Bureau New Delhi: Olympic bronze medalist Bajrang Punia announced that getting justice is more important than the Asian Games at the moment in a media interaction at the ongoing wrestler’s protest here on Sunday.

The protesting wrestlers on Sunday also accused the media of helping WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh more than the players, saying the newspersons should not give him the platform to speak. P5

COCKPIT ENTRY INCIDENT DGCA issues notices to Air India CEO, head of flight safety

THEIR MOTIVE IS JUST POLITICS AND NOT MY RESIGNATION: SINGH

WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who has been accused of sexual harassment by wrestlers, on Sunday slammed athletes for their protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar and said that their motive is politics and not his resignation. He alleged that those who have levelled allegations against him belong to an akhada whose patron is Cong MP Deepender Hooda.

First India Bureau New Delhi: DGCA, on Sunday issued a show cause notice to Air India CEO Campbell Wilson and Head of Safety, Security and Quality Functions Henry Donohoe for the airline’s lapses in reporting about incident of a pilot allowing a female friend inside cockpit during a Dubai-Delhi flight on February 27.

There was a delay in investigating the incident. Both the executives have been given 15 days to respond to the show cause notices.

—DGCA official

SATWIK-CHIRAG MAKE HISTORY!

1ST INDIANS TO BECOME ASIAN CHAMPS IN 58 YRS

Badminton players Chirag and Satwiksairaj pose for photos after winning the gold medal in men’s doubles at Badminton Asia Championships 2023, in Dubai, Sunday.

Star doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty rewrote Indian badminton’s history books on Sunday, becoming the first from the country after Dinesh Khanna to be crowned champions at the Badminton Asia Championships. It was India's first gold medal at the continental tournament in 58 years.

Moni Sharma

Amit Shah, Eknath Shinde, Devendra Fadnavis and others lend ears to ‘Mann Ki Baat @ 100’, in Mumbai on Sunday.

JP Nadda and others watch MKB show in Davanagere, K’taka.

5 OF FAMILY FROM BIHAR AMONG 11 DEAD

Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik addressing media at Jantar Mantar on Sunday. (B) Brij Bhushan speaks to press in Delhi.

Neighbour booked for raping woman at knife point

First India Bureau Jaipur: A 33-year-old woman has filed a case of rape against her neighbour in the Gandhi Nagar police station. The accused neighbour, who came home on the pretext of meeting her husband, raped her at knife point. Police said that in the complaint, the woman wrote the accused neighbour raped her at knifepoint. He then blackmailed the woman by making obscene videos and extorting money. Distressed by this, the woman narrated her ordeal to her husband. On Saturday, the woman lodged a report against the accused neighbour at the Gandhi Nagar police station.

Firing between cops & miscreants, 1 injured

Private bus rams into wall in Rajsamand, 3 killed, 9 injured

First India Bureau

Rajsamand: Three men were killed and nine injured when the private bus in which they were travelling rammed into a wall in the Nathdwara area of Rajsamand district, police said on Sunday. The accident occurred on National Highway 8 when the driver of the bus, which

was on its way to Churu from Ahmedabad, lost control at a turn and ran into the wall late on Saturday, they said.

Anand Kumar (34), Ranveer Meghwal (38) and Babulal Godara (26) died on the spot while nine others were injured and are undergoing treatment at a local hospital, the police added.

First India Bureau

Alwar / Neemrana: In an encounter between police and miscreants on the Haryana-Rajasthan border, about 20-25 rounds of firing were reported from both sides. Haryana Police was chasing the miscreants from Jind.

However, the encounter took place at a petrol pump just 200 meters away from the Ra-

Singh takes dig at govt over Pulwama culprits

Pali: Two died in a horrific road accident on the highway near Jadan in the district. The bike-ridden elderly and his wife collided with a trailer and got trapped underneath it resulting in the spot death of the couple. On information, the police reached the site and sent the dead bodies to the mortuary of Bangar Hospital. Police said that on Sunday afternoon, Bike-ridden Babu Puri (57), a resident of Gandhi Nagar Mandia Road, was coming to Pali with his wife Leela Devi. During this, he got hit by the trailer. After the collision, the couple got trapped in the wheels of the trailer and were dragged for a few feet. Both died a painful death due to crushing.

Vikas Sharma

Jaipur: A 2-day health screening camp for children was organised in Shree Mahaveer College in Jaipur. The medical camp, jointly organised by Shri Satya Sai Heart Hospital and the Medical and Health Department as part of the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Program, screened 486 children and found that 324 kids suffered from heart-related ailments.

NHM Director Sudhir Kumar Sharma said 324 out of 486 children are suffering from heart-related diseases and will be operated free of cost

treatment by Shri Satya Sai Heart Hospital, Gujarat. Besides surgeries, the necessary treatment will be given free of cost to 162 children,” he said.

Lunaram Darji

Jalore: A patwari was suspended in Jalore for allegedly sending obscene messages to a female officer. The patwari, Ramesh Kumar, posted at Dhamseen gram panchayat in Raniwara town, has been arrested by the Raniwara police. Following his arrest, the District Collector Nishant Jain suspended the accused Patwari.

BRAHMIN RATNA AWARD FUNCTION

First India Bureau Chittorgarh: Former Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh Digvijay Singh visited Sanwaliyaji temple on Sunday.

Later, during an interaction with the media, he attacked the Narendra Modi government and said that he has no expectation of any kind from the present government on the Pulwama episode but has faith in Sanwali-

ya Seth. “Now only God will punish the culprits,” he said. Singh, who was on a tour of Jhalawar, participated in religious programmes. He remained silent on the ongoing protest at Jantar Mantar by women wrestlers against Wrestling Association President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. He also did not speak regarding the upcoming assembly elections in MP.

Kinjar Dham: Locals warn police of protest over insulting Shivling issue

First India Bureau

Karauli: A photo in which a man is seen insulting Shivling in Kinjar Dham went viral on Sunday which instigated the local people who demanded immediate arrest of the accused. The locals held a meeting and gave an ultimatum to the police to arrest the accused within 3 days. The incident is believed to have occurred 3-4 days back but

Brahmins should give direction and guidance to

society for welfare of all: Ramcharan Bohra

lll

A state level Brahmin Ratna award function was organised on the occasion of conclusion of Lord Parshuram

Jayanti celebrations

First India Bureau

Jaipur: Jaipur City MP Ramcharan Bohra during the state level ‘Brahmin Ratna’ award function organised by Sarva Brahmin Mahasabha said that Brahmins should give direction & guidance to the society. Brahmins have always worked for the benefit of society. Pandit Suresh Mishra, National President of Sar-

va Brahmin Mahasabha, said Brahmins talk about the welfare of all. But today, they are lag-

ging. They should get an opportunity to move forward, he said. Former minister Arun Chatur-

vedi said that youths should follow the path shown by Parshuram.

President of Vipra Welfare Board Mahesh Sharma said Sarva Brahmin Mahasabha & other social organisations should unite the society & show strength in a democracy. Patron of Mahasabha, Adv. HC Ganesha said Mahasabha has fought a long battle for reservation in the interest of the society.

the photo surfaced today on social media. The locals said that if the accused is not apprehended in 3 days, then an agitation will be

launched. “Strict action will be taken against the accused after registering an FIR”, said Phool Chand Meena, Deputy SP Todabhim.

jasthan border. The miscreants had abducted a young man from Jind. The cashier of the petrol pump located on the Jaipur-Delhi highway road in Jaisinghpur Kheda was shot by miscreants.

Rewari police seized the black Scorpio vehicle of Jind number. After the fierce encounter, the Rajasthan-Haryana border became a police cantonment.

Ex-student body prez dies trying to save drowning wife

Bundi (PTI): A 28-yearold man on Sunday died while trying to save his wife who had fallen into a pond while bathing in a village in Rajasthan’s Bundi district. The deceased has been identified as Kailash Gurjar, a resident of Guda village, SHO (Dabi) Dharmaram said.

Gurjar’s wife slipped into deep water while bathing in the mining pond. Noticing his wife drowning, he jumped into the water body to rescue her but he drowned, he said.

Some villagers rescued the woman and she was rushed to a hospital in Kota, where she is undergoing treatment, the SHO said. A rescue team fished out Gurjar’s body from the mining pond after about two hours of effort, he said.

The body was handed over to the family members after post-mortem. Gurjar was elected as the president of the Bundi college students’ union in 2019-20.

Int’l Yoga Day: 50-day countdown prog to be held on May 2 in Jaipur

First India Bureau

Jaipur: Ministry of AYUSH has started preparations for the International Day of Yoga to be celebrated on June 21 in the country. Programmes are being organised in different cities, for which a 50-day countdown has been made.

On May 2, a yoga programme will be held at Bhawani Niketan in Jaipur where around 15 to 20 thousand people will be present. Minis-

ter of State for AYUSH Mahendra Bhai Munjpara reached Jaipur on Sunday to take stock of the preparations. During a press conference, Munjpara said that

ministers, MPs, MLAs, the common man, and officials of the Ministry will participate in the programme. A 50-day countdown programme will be held in Jaipur.

People gather near the accident site in the Nathdwara area of Rajsamand district, late on Saturday.

Police personnel with injured passengers who are being treated in a local hospital, in Rajsamand district on

Ramcharan Bohra, Pandit Suresh Mishra, Arun Chaturvedi, Mahesh Sharma, and others during ‘Brahmin Ratna’ award function in Jaipur on Sunday.

Pratap Singh Khachariyawas, Dr. Raghu

districts. Tourists seen enjoying at Albert hall while commuters braving rain on JLN Marg in Jaipur. —PHOTOS BY SUNIL SHARMA

324 children suffering from heartrelated ailments to be treated free

RAIN BRINGS RESPITE TO SOME, TROUBLE FOR OTHERS

Foreign delegates take part in yoga session during recently held TWG G20 meeting. —FILE PHOTO BY ANI

All ears: From people to politicians

From Governor Kalraj Mishra, Union Minister

Gajendra Singh

Shekhawat to Leader of Opposition Rajendra Rathore, Ex-CM

Vasundhara Raje, along with general public of State, all listened to the live broadcast of the 100th episode of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Mann ki Baat’ radio address on Sunday. Governor Mishra also addressed the gathering after the programme. ”Mann ki Baat is a historic and unique initiative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi through which he directly communicates with the citizens,” he said.

Man held for posing as IAS in Bharatpur

Bharatpur (FIB): A 27-year-old man was arrested for allegedly posing as an IAS officer in Rajasthan’s Bharatpur district on Sunday, police said.

Sarjeet Singh Jatav was a tenant in the house of Mahendra Singh Jatav and had introduced himself as an officer of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), they said.

During his stay, he had also proposed Mahendra Singh’s daughter for marriage and also borrowed Rs 2.75 lakh from him, police said.

Mahendra Singh found out that Sarjeet Singh was not an IAS officer and lodged a complaint with the Mathura Gate police station, they said.

Student breaks leg in stage fall as brawl erupts at RU

Spycam: Flat owner held for filming female tenants in U’pur

Man, who died by suicide during Malis’ protest, cremated

CM visit to RU cancelled due to rain in city

Bharat Dixit

Jaipur: A controversy erupted over a poster just before the inauguration of Five Year Law College and Research Student Representative

office in Rajasthan University. The controversy escalated so much that both the student representatives clashed. During the scuffle, a student fell from the stage and fractured his leg.

University registrar and students clashed on stage. Students had reached the stage regarding arrangements.

Later, due to rain, no-

Munesh’s surprise visit: Piles of garbage on road, officials absent

First India Bureau

Jaipur: Mayor of Jaipur

Municipal Corporation

Heritage (JMCH)

Munesh Gurjar on Sunday did a surprise inspection of Civil Lines Zone and checked cleanliness and sanitation work in the area.

During her inspection, sanitation workers and Chief Sanitary Inspectors (CSIs) were found absent. The Mayor directed to give notices to negligent sanita-

body’s poster could be put up in the programme. Even CM Gehlot could not reach the inauguration programme as it was raining. Finally, MLA Harish Chaudhary inaugurated the Research Student Representative Office. On the other hand, Vice Chancellor Rajeev Jain and others inaugurated the other programme.

First India Bureau Udaipur: A man was arrested in Udaipur on Sunday for allegedly filming obscene videos of women through spy cameras which were installed at the rented flat, police said. Police said the accused has been identified as Rajendra Soni (36), a resident of Laddo Ka Mohalla in Chittorgarh. Spy cameras were installed during repair works and attached with an internet router, which accused saw on his mobile phone, police said.

Cub captured, Op on to cage mother leopard

First India Bureau

Ravi Katara

Bharatpur: The body of the man, who died by suicide last week during an ongoing agitation of the Mali community demanding a separate 12 per cent quota, was cremated in his village, police here said on Sunday.

Meanwhile, the talks remained inconclusive on Sunday and the agitation entered the tenth day in Nadbai, Bharat-

pur. Protesters stood amidst heavy rain and gave speeches. Hundreds of women and men are present at the protest site. Police and administration took help of drones to know the happenings at the site.

OBC commission and Saini committee will meet on Monday for the latter’s demand of 12 per cent reservation.

The Saini society has blocked NH-21 in Bharatpur.

Police

officials to get DGP Disc award

First India Bureau Jaipur: As many as 13 police officers, policemen and employees will receive DGP disc awards. Saurabh Srivastava, A. Ponuchami, Lata Manoj, Alok Kumar, and Preeti Jain will get DGP disc among other IPS officers. Police Inspector Tribhuvan Kumar Vashisht will also get a DGP disc. Meanwhile, DGP’s Additional Private Secretary Banwari Lal and DGP’s personal assistant Sandeep Kansal will get this honour for the second time.

Hindu Singh writes to CM over Pak migrants issue in Gangana

Rajeev Gaur

Vinoba Bhave Nagar

JMC Heritage

Munesh

interacts with a lady during surprise inspection on Sunday. Other officials were also present.

tion workers and the contract firm for not working properly.

Two CSIs of Heritage Municipal corporation

were also served notices under 17 CC and have been directed to improve the sanitation condition within 48 hours.

Jaipur: A leopard cub was captured in a cage at Cambay Golf Resort but the mother remained outside the cage and was aggressive. The forest department team was in a fix about capturing the mother in the cage. Had the two been together in the cage, they could have been shifted to the jungle.

The Forest Department has been monitoring the movement of leopards for several

days in the closed Cambay Golf Resort located in Jamdoli. Two female leopards were seen with cubs in the rooms of the closed resort. The officials expressed the possibility of more cubs in the resort. The rescue team is keeping an eye on the leopard and the cubs.

Jodhpur: President of Seemant Lok Sangathan Hindu Singh Sodha has written a letter to Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot urging him to take the matter seriously regarding Pak migrants in Gangana.

Sodha, in a letter, has urged the Chief Minister that the government should prepare a separate rehabilitation plan for non-citizen

displaced persons and the reserve price should be reduced in

Awasiya Yojana reserved for the previously displaced.

Hindu Singh Sodha said that the government land was given to these poor people by taking money. The land mafia sold it in the name of Nimit Kam Nagar. When JDA action was taken, brokers started collecting money in the name of helping people. He demanded a high-level inquiry in the issue.

Mayor

Gurjar

Iconic Raj Mandir Cinema hall in Jaipur goes housefull as people listen to 100th episode of Mann Ki Baat on Sunday.

—PHOTOS BY SUNIL SHARMA

Vijaya Rahatkar and CP Joshi listen to Mann Ki Baat in Jalore. Rajyavardhan Rathore, others attend event at Manipal University.

Guv Kalraj Mishra, others listen to Mann Ki Baat at Raj Bhavan.

Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and others listen to Mann Ki Baat in Jodhpur.

MLA Kalicharan Saraf and other BJP workers listen to Mann Ki Baat at Raja Park on Sunday.

Vasundhara Raje, Dushyant Singh, Ashok Parnami, others listen to Mann Ki Baat in Sanchore.

MP Diya Kumari listens to 100th Mann Ki Baat episode with people of Nathdwara on Sunday.

Jitendra Singh and Rajendra Rathore listen to Mann Ki Baat in London on Sunday.

Vasundhara Raje and Dushyant Singh in Sanchore on Sunday.

Vice Chancellor Rajeev Jain, Harish Chaudhary, Ramswaroop Ola, Abhishek Chaudhary at the inauguration ceremony of Five Year Law College and Research Student Representative office at Rajasthan University on Sunday. —PHOTO BY MUKESH KIRADOO

Lok Sangathan President, Hindu Singh Sodha

Protest continues at NH-21 amid rain on Sunday.

INDIA’S LARGE POPULATION

A BOON OR A BURDEN?

ADVANTAGES OF POPULATION GROWTH

l MORE PEOPLE LEADS TO GREATER HUMAN CAPITAL

DISADVANTAGES OF POPULATION GROWTH

COST TO THE ENVIRONMENT: Attempting to minimise carbon and methane emissions in order to mitigate global warming is becoming increasingly challenging as the population grows. There will be a greater threat to natural habitats as a greater population has greater demand for housing and farmland. This will increase pressure to cut down forests to make way for farming and housing.

POPULATION OF INDIA IN AGE GROUPS

25%

0 TO 14 YEARS

BELOW ARE THE MOST POPULOUS COUNTRIES IN THE WORLD...

1428.6 India

The issue of population growth is complex and multifaceted. It requires a nuanced and balanced approach that takes into account the social, economic, and environmental factors at play. By working together, we can find ways to address the challenges posed by population growth and create a more sustainable and equitable future for all

Over the course of history, the world has seen instantaneous population growth. It has enabled a rich diversity of culture, and technology and improved living standards. However, population growth is increasingly coming at a cost in particular to the environment and development. Overbreeding levels are contributing to the depletion of natural resources and causing widespread pollution. The issue of population growth has been the subject of much debate and controversy. Some argue that continued population growth is deeply damaging to the planet and threatens the survival of many natural habitats. Others believe that there is still room for more people, provided we learn to live more in harmony with nature and adopt more efficient and sustainable ways of living. Recently, it was found that India’s population has surpassed China to become the world’s most populous country. While this news may come as a surprise to some, it is not unexpected given India’s population growth trajectory. Despite the challenges that come with having such a large population, there are also many benefits to India’s size.

POPULATION GROWTH:

PROs AND CONs

India’s large population is an asset in many ways. If there are more human resources, for one, India has a large and diverse workforce that has contributed to its rapid economic growth in recent years. According to the World Bank, India’s GDP has grown at an average rate of 6.9% per year over the last decade, making it the fastest-growing ma-

l HIGHER ECONOMIC GROWTH

l ECONOMIES OF SCALE

l THE EFFICIENCY OF HIGHER POPULATION DENSITY

l THE IMPROVED DEMOGRAPHIC STRUCTURE OF SOCIETY

l CRITICAL MASS

CONGESTION: Congestion will occur if there are too many individuals in a limited place. Road congestion is a big issue all around the world. According to one analysis, congestion cost the EU €111 billion (1% of GDP) in 2012. With population development, the costs of congestion will only rise, resulting in lost time, increased pollution, and decreased production.

WATER SHORTAGES: Already, up to 40% of the world’s population is threatened by water scarcity and drought. According to the UN, water scarcity might force 700 million people to flee their homes. An increasing population will put a strain on restricted water supplies, which will be a factor in many small and large wars as countries seek solutions to the water deficit.

DEVELOPING UNSUSTAINABLE WASTE: We are presently producing non-biodegradable waste that we are having difficulty processing. It usually ends up in a landfill, where it emits methane and causes other harmful issues.

jor economy in the world. India is also home to a large and growing middle class, which is fueling demand for consumer goods and services. The past 200 years have shown exponential growth in technical development and innovation. There are many factors behind this, but the world’s growing population means we have a bigger pool of human capital and the possibility of these cuttingedge discoveries increases.

Population growth will lead to economic growth with more people able to produce more goods. It will lead to higher tax revenues which can be spent on public goods, such as health care and environmental projects. In addition to its economic strength, India’s large population is a source of cultural richness and diversity. India is home to over 2,000 ethnic groups and more than 1,600 languages. This diversity has helped make India a vibrant and fascinating place to visit and explore. India’s cultural heritage, which includes ancient temples, palaces and other historical landmarks, attracts millions of tourists each year. Farming and industry have

Dharmendra Pradhan @dpradhanbjp

benefited from economies of scale, which implies that as the population expands, food output and industrial output may grow even faster than the population. For example, Thomas Malthus predicted at the start of the nineteenth century that population increase would lead to famine because we would be unable to feed the rising population. His catastrophic forecasts, however, did not come true because he failed to grasp that the productivity of land, labour, and capital could all expand more than proportionally. The majority of the inhabitants worked on the land 300 years ago. Technological innovation and economies of scale have resulted in dramatically higher land productivity as farmers employ mechanisation and economies of scale to increase food output. In terms of per capita carbon footprint, areas with a high population density are significantly more efficient than rural areas and places with a low population. When people live in densely populated areas, they are more likely to use public transport and live in apartment buildings which are

18%

10 TO 19 YEARS

26%

10 TO 24 YEARS

68%

15 TO 64 YEARS

7% 65 YEARS PLUS

1425.7 China

340.0 US

277.5 Indonesia

240.5 Pakistan

(Figures are in million) Source: United Nations Population Fund

easier to heat. In big cities, transport and the delivery of goods are much more efficient, whereas, for low population densities, the average cost and environmental footprint are much higher.

Many Western economies are experiencing a decline in population, leading to an imbalance of an ageing population that places a significant strain on society’s resources, particularly health care and pensions. Moderate population growth can help to mitigate this issue by increasing the proportion of young, working people, which can help to rebalance the demographic structure.

A larger population can enable a critical mass of people to support a more vibrant and diverse society. With a smaller population, there is less scope for diversity, but as the population grows, it can support a broader range of cultural activities. This diversity can help to enrich the social and cultural fabric of society and create a more dynamic and thriving community.

India’s population growth has also been accompanied by improvements in healthcare and education. Life expectancy in

India has increased from 32 years in 1947 to 69 years in 2020, and the country has made significant strides in reducing infant mortality rates. Similarly, India’s literacy rate has increased from around 12% in 1947 to over 74% today, with more children than ever before attending school. Despite these positive developments, India still faces many challenges related to its large population. One of the most pressing issues is providing adequate healthcare and education to all citizens, especially those in rural areas. India also needs to address issues related to poverty, unemployment, and inequality, which can be exacerbated by a large population.

To address these challenges, India has launched several initiatives in recent years, including the National Health Mission and the Skill India program. The National Health Mission aims to improve access to healthcare services, especially in rural areas, while the Skill India program is designed to train and certify workers in a variety of industries. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY

KARNATAKA ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS

Cong is ‘scrap’ engine: Modi

Kolar (Agencies): Continuing his attack against the Congress on second day of his visit in Karnataka, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday described the grand-old party as a “scrap engine”.

Addressing a huge gathering here, the Prime Minister said: “Congress’ scrap engine party can’t ensure development. The speedy development can only be ensured with double engine government of the BJP.”

“I am waging a war against corruption. Due to this, the most affected and aggravated are Congress party leaders. They can’t tolerate this and are

K’TAKA WILL GIVE REPLY TO CONG ON MAY 10: PM

Kolar (ANI): Coming down heavily on Congress, PM Modi on Sunday said the people of Karnataka will give the party a “befitting answer” in the upcoming polls. PM Modi said, “Today when I am fighting against corruption, Congress is disturbed the most. Congress is now threatening. The people of Karnataka will give them a befitting answer on May 10. Congress has a bundle of fake guarantees. They don’t fulfil any promise made to the public. ‘Unfulfilled guarantees’ are their record.”

WFI chief Brij Bhushan speaks to media.

Gonda (PTI): Embattled WFI chief and BJP

MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh on Sunday said that he is to resign if protesters go back and sleep peacefully.

“If they (protesters) will go back (to their home) and sleep peacefully after my resignation, I am ready to resign,” he said.

He praised Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav for not associating himself with the ongoing protest by top wrestlers of the country, saying Yadav was “standing with the truth”.

He is in the eye of a storm after the grapplers levelled sexual harassment charges against him.

PM: CONG, JD(S) DID NOTHING FOR K’TATA

Channapatna (PTI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday launched a scathing attack on the Congress and Janata Dal (Secular), saying that the two “dynastic” parties were responsible for political instability in Karnataka, and that they “encourage corruption”. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also alleged that both these parties saw Karnataka as an ATM, and that they found opportunity in instability.

BJP TO RELEASE ITS POLL

MANIFESTO TODAY

Bengaluru (ANI): The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is expected to release its election manifesto for Karnataka Assembly elections on Monday, party sources said on Sunday. The manifesto will be released by party president JP Nadda in the presence of Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai and party veteran BS Yediyurappa. Sources said the party manifesto may focus on welfare measures for the youth, infrastructure development and women empowerment.

NADDA BLAMES CONG GOVTS FOR RIOTS

Davangere (ANI) Bharatiya

Janata Party’s (BJP) national president JP Nadda on Sunday alleged that the Congress “encourages riots” in society whenever the party gains power. Addressing a public rally in the poll-bound state of Karnataka, the BJP national president said that the BJP-led government has been committed to working for the development of the poor, farmers and women of the state.

threatening me,” Prime Minister Modi said. He said they should have discussed about development, instead, they are discussing about snake and its poison.

“I am not sad about it. The snake rests with all the grace on the neck of Lord Shiva. (Hindu god). For me, I have found Lord Shiva in the people of this country,” he said.

“I am happy to remain as snake on your (people) neck. You are like Shiva to me. To keep the leaders who talk about it at bay, please bless me on May 10,” he appealed to people, indirectly referring to AICC chief Mallikarjun Kharge’s jibe.

CONG DELAYED RAM MANDIR FOR 70 YEARS: SHAH

—FILE

WFI, SAYS CHIEF

Gonda (ANI): WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh on Sunday said that 90% of Haryana athletes trust WFI and said that “You don’t get justice from Jantar Mantar.”

The Delhi Police on Friday registered two FIRs against WFI president Singh over allegations of sexual harassment and exploitation of female wrestlers by him.

PROTEST DRIVEN BY POLITICIANS: BRIJ

BHUSHAN

Gonda (PTI): WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh has claimed the athletes’ protest at Jantar Mantar is being driven by the politicians from day one. The country’s top wrestlers, including Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia, have been protesting since April 23, demanding criminal action against Singh.

7 WOMEN WRESTLERS GET POLICE SECURITY

New Delhi (Agencies): The Delhi Police on Sunday provided security to all seven women wrestlers who have complained against WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. The Supreme Court had asked the police to provide appropriate security to the victims who have levelled allegations against Singh.

BJP

RECTIFIED WRONG DONE BY CONG: SHAH

Udupi (ANI): Lashing out at the Congress in poll-bound Karnataka on late Saturday evening, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) rectified wrong done by Congress by doing away with Muslim reservation quota in Karnataka. The Home Minister made the remarks while addressing a gathering in Byndoor. Amit Shah said, “BJP has rectified the wrong done by Congress by doing away with the Muslim reservation quota in Karnataka.”

SARMA TAKES JIBE ON CONG’S VICTORY CLAIM

Guwahati (PTI): Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday said the Congress must have “gathered some knowledge” about EVMs, as it has been predicting victory for the grand old party in the Karnataka Assembly polls. The southern state will go to polls on May 10 and counting of votes will be undertaken on May 13, with the Congress seeking to oust the incumbent BJP government.

J&K people can’t be deprived of elected govt for a long time: Ghulam Nabi Azad

If the DPAP is elected to power, we will ensure the poor are provided free electricity and other benefits so that they won’t face burden on their budget.

—Ghulam Nabi Azad, Chairman, DPAP

The former Union minister said that DPAP is a party that believes in democratic values and will ensure that various pro-people initiatives are launched to benefit the weaker sections of people in our

London (ANI): Highlighting the country’s strides in the pharma and biotechnology sector, Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh on Sunday said the Indian vaccine market is expected to reach a valuation of Rs 252 billion by 2025.

Dr Singh, who is leading a high-level official Indian delegation to the United Kingdom, visited the 175-year-old London Science Museum on Sunday. He spoke about setting up similar science museums in India by the government. The Minister said that the idea of setting up these museums is to help enable the common citizens particularly the youngsters to realise their hidden potential and sometimes even discover their inherent aptitudes of which they themselves may not be aware of. It also ignites

Ghulam Nabi Azad addresses a rally in Srinagar. —FILE PHOTO

society if elected to power.

“If the DPAP is elected to power, we will ensure the poor are provided free electricity and other benefits so

that they won’t face burden on their budget. We will also work to create diverse economic opportunities in various sectors including tourism, agriculture and

horticulture so that the economy of common people improves,” the Democratic Progressive Azad Partychief said at a public gathering at Bandipora.

Udupi (ANI): Union Home Minister Amit Shah on late Saturday said that the Congress party was stuck on the question of Ram Mandir for the past 70 years and added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation of the Ram temple immediately after the Supreme Court delivered the verdict in this matter. While addressing a public rally in Udupi, Amit Shah said,” For 70 years, the Congress party was stuck on the question of Ram Mandir, hanging it, misleading it. As soon as the judgment of the court came, he did the work of laying the foundation of the Ram temple”. He further stated that the construction work of the Ram Mandir temple will be completed in the year 2024. “In 2024 the work of building a grand temple of Shri Ram will be completed at the same place where Ram was born in Ayodhya,” Amit Shah said.

DA crisis in WB: Joint forum accuses Mamata govt of vindictive transfers

Kolkata (Agencies):

The joint forum of state govt employees, spearheading the movement in demand for enhanced dearness allowance at par with Central govt employees and the arrears on this count by West Bengal govt, has accused the state govt of resorting to vindictive transfers of the employees participating in the agitation on the issue.

An office-bearer of the forum said that in the last one-month period transfer orders for 580 state govt employees were issued.

“Almost 90% of staff

REPORTS 5,874

NEW PATIENTS

for whom such transfer orders were issued participated in the general strike convened by the forum on March 10. Employees currently posted in Kolkata have been transferred to remote areas in the Sundarbans region in South 24 Parganas district,” he added.

7 NEW MP HC JUDGES TO BE SWORN IN TODAY

Union MoS Dr Jitendra Singh at Imperial College, London, on Saturday (local time). —PHOTO BY ANI

curiosity in them which then may help sharpen their scientific temper and inspire creative innovation.

The Science Museum is a major museum on Exhibition Road in South Kensington, London. It was founded in 1857.

London: Union Minister of State (MoS) Dr Jitendra Singh visited the 175 year old London Science Museum and shared the experience of the initiative of setting up similar science museums undertaken by PM Narendra Modi in India. Dr Singh said that the idea of setting up these museums is to help enable the common citizens particularly the youngsters to realise their hidden potential.

New Delhi: India recorded 5,874 new Covid-19 cases in the last 24 hours, around 1297 less than the count reported on previous day, a bulletin of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Sunday. There has been a decline in the number of positive cases of Covid-19 in the last few days. The active cases stand at 0.11 per cent, added the official records. Around 7,533 cases of Covid-19 were reported on Friday, whereas the country logged 7,171 cases on Saturday, according to official records. The daily positivity rate stands at 3.31 per cent, while the weekly positivity rate is at 4.25 per cent. A total of 92.66 crore Covid-19 tests have been conducted so far, with 1,77,281 tests undertaken in the last 24 hours.

Jabalpur: The Madhya Pradesh High Court Chief Justice, Ravi Malimath, will administer the oath of office to seven new judges of the HC on Monday, as per an order. With this, the number of judges in the MP High Court will go up to 37 against the sanctioned strength of 53 judges, HC registrar general Ramkumar Choubey told news agency PTI.

AAP MLA, WIFE CONVICTED IN 2009 ASSAULT CASE

New Delhi: A local court on Saturday convicted AAP MLA Abdul Rehman for intimidating and assaulting a govt school principal in 2009. Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Harjeet Singh Jaspal also convicted MLA’s wife Asma in the case, saying the prosecution successfully proved its case, beyond reasonable doubts.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a public meeting for the upcoming Karnataka Assembly elections, in Kolar district, on Sunday.

—PHOTO BY PTI

“Ready to resign if protesters go back & sleep peacefully”

Srinagar (Agencies): Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) chairman Ghulam Nabi Azad on Sunday said that the time has come for the assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir and it is undemocratic to deprive the people of an elected government for a long time.

“India’s vaccine market `252 bn by 2025”

COVID-19: INDIA

DR SINGH SHARES INDIA’S EXPERIENCE IN SUCCESSFUL VACCINE INITIATIVES

CENTENARY EPISODE OF “MANN KI BAAT”

PM’S RADIO TALK HISTORIC, INSPIRING: BJP LEADERS

New Delhi (PTI): BJP leaders, including Union ministers, tuned in on Sunday from various locations in India and abroad to listen to the “historic” 100th episode of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Mann Ki Baat’, calling it an inspiring initiative to connect with the masses.

The party had said that nearly four lakh venues would be set up for people to listen to the prime minister’s broadcast as it went all out to make the 100th episode a mega exercise in public connect.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said through ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Modi “crafts messages that venture into the nooks and corners of nation. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who listened to the episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, termed it “historic”.

‘OPERATION KAVERI’

India brings back another batch of 229 from violence-hit Sudan

New Delhi (PTI): India brought home another batch of 229 people on Sunday under its mission to evacuate stranded Indians from violence-hit Sudan.

The fresh batch of evacuees arrived in Bengaluru, a day after 365 people returned from the African country to Delhi.

“#OperationKaveri

One more flight brings back 229 passengers to Bengaluru,” External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar wrote on Twitter on Sunday.

The total number of Indians who have been brought back home

from Sudan now stands at 1,954, according to official data.

The Indians were brought back from the

Remote villages of Assam get electricity for 1st time

Karbi Anglong

(ANI): It was a bright moment in their life when they had, for the first time, their houses lit up with an electric bulb. These are the members of the 2,600 households in the remote villages of Bokajan assembly constituency in Assam's Karbi Anglong district, who got their electricity connection

I thank colleagues of AIR who record MKB with great patience. I am also thankful to translators, who translate MKB into different regional languages. Grateful to Doordarshan, MyGov, electronic media and of course, the people of India, for success of ‘Mann Ki Baat’. NARENDRA MODI, Prime Minister

TN airports on alert after seizure of exotic animals

evacuees returned to New Delhi in a commercial plane earlier last week on Wednesday.

The second batch of 246 Indian evacuees hadarrived in Mumbai in a C17 Globemaster aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) last week on Thursday.

India, Russia mull over to accept RuPay and Mir cards

after 75 years of the Independence. Residents of the Rongteke area, Tokbi, Rongpi, Timung, Samjel, Mukhang, Muljang, Dakiram Tokbi, Bule Thang Kuki, Molnom, Hengmul were delighted when the first bulb lit in their locality. They felt very happy when the administration was able to provide electricity.

Saudi Arabian city of Jeddah where India has set up a transit camp for the evacuees.

The first batch of 360

Under “Operation Kaveri”, India has been taking its citizens in buses from the conflict zones of Khartoum and other troubled areas to Port Sudan from where they are being taken to Jeddah in the IAF’s heavy-lift transport aircraft and the Indian Navy’s ships.

Chennai: The authorities at international airports in Tamil Nadu are on alert after seizure of exotic animals including 22 snakes and a chameleon from a woman passenger who arrived from Kuala Lumpur. The officials have deployed special squads at all four airports and extra vigil is in place after the seizure of the exotic animals at the Chennai airport. Green Cornsnakes, Mexican black kingsnakes, green anacondas and chameleons were also seized.

New Delhi (PTI): India and Russia will explore the possibility of accepting RuPay and Mir cards in each other's country for hassle-free payments amid sanctions imposed by the West on Moscow.

In the recent high level Internal Governmental Commission meeting on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation (IRIGCTEC), it was discussed and agreed to explore the opportunity of allowing acceptance of these cards, sources said on Sunday.

The mutual acceptance of RuPay (India) and Mir cards (Russia)

Salman opens on receiving death threats

New Delhi (Agencies):

Actor Salman Khan has opened up on receiving death threats, his security and shared his experience on how he is dealing with it. In a new interview, which was held in Dubai, Salman said that there was no fear of threats and he was totally safe in the UAE. He added that there is a problem in India. He also added that he is doing whatever he has been asked to do and is being ‘very careful’.

Salman was provided with Y-category security by the Mumbai Police amid death threats. The

EX-WII OFFICIAL CLAIMS...

Maharashtra govt assigned security escorts to the actor after he received a threat letter

from the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. At a show, Salman said, “Security is better than insecurity. Yes, security is there. Now it is not possible to ride a bicycle on the road and go alone anywhere. And more than that, now I have this problem that when I am in traffic, then there is so much security, vehicles creating inconvenience to other people. They also give me a look. And my poor fans.”

“Inadequate space for cheetahs in Kuno Nat’l Park”

Bhopal (PTI): Madhya Pradesh’s Kuno National Park (KNP), which has seen the death of two cheetahs in less than a month, has “inadequate space” for these felines brought from Africa, an exWildlife Institute of India official has claimed.

The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), which is overseeing the ambitious cheetah reintroduction project in the country, has called a meeting in

RISK MANAGEMENT PLAN TO DEAL WITH SERIAL ESCAPEES: EX-OFFICIAL Bhopal (PTI): Notably, months before the cheetahs were brought to India from Africa, a risk management plan was drafted stating a contingency plan is in the process of being put in place for dealing with serial escapees. Permissions are being obtained for the release of these animals into the Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve. This protected area has an 80 km fence enclosure, sufficiently stocked with game (place with herbivores population), to hold serial escapees. This enclosure is free of tigers, but does support a low density of leopards, wolves and striped hyenas, it said.

is spread over an area of 748 sq km and has a buffer zone of 487 sq km.

WII former dean Yadvendradev Vikramsinh Jhala, who was part of the cheetah project in the past, told PTI that KNP has inadequate space for these animals.

“We have to make (more than one) cheetah populations and manage it like a metapopulation where you move animals from one place to another,” the former WII official said.

The PayNow-UPI linkage is the world’s first real-time payment systems linkage to use a scalable cloud-based infrastructure.

will help Indian and Russian citizens to make hassle-free payments in Indian rupees and Russian ruble in their respective countries, sources said.

The meeting, cochaired by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Russia

Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, also agreed to explore the possibility of interaction of Unified Payments Interface (UPI) of National Payment Corporation of India and the Faster Payments System (FPS) of the Bank of Russia.

CRUCIAL READ

BHIWANDI BUILDING COLLAPSE: DEATH TOLL RISES TO 5, RESCUE OPERATION UNDERWAY

Thane: The death toll in the Bhiwandi building collapse rose to six on Sunday, a National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) official statement said. NDRF officials further mentioned that four teams were working on the site of the incident. “Three from Mumbai and one from Pune HQ are on the site of the incident. Further rescue operations are underway,” the statement said. The three-storey building collapsed in the Bhiwandi area in Thane district on Saturday afternoon trapping several people under the debris.

2 MINOR SISTERS

RAPED IN MP’S

INDORE; 2 HELD

Indore: Two minor sisters were allegedly raped by one of their relatives and his friend in Madhya Pradesh’s Indore, the police said on Sunday. According to police, the two accused who are also minors, raped the girls at a relative’s place in the Bhanwarkuan area. The girls stayed at their relatives’ place for the past three years, and were allegedly raped on several occasions, the victims’ parents alleged in a complaint to the police.

DOC AMONG 6 HELD IN VIZAG KIDNEY RACKET CASE

Visakhapatnam: The local police arrested a doctor and five others in a kidney racket case. Cases under Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 307, 326 and 420 have been registered against them. More accused are likely to be arrested. Police said on Sunday that they have arrested Prameswara Rao, doctor of a private hospital, and middlemen Kamaraju, Srinu, Shekhar, Elina and Kondamma. Visakhapatnam Police Commissioner told a news conference.

DELHI GIRL ATTEMPTS SUICIDE, BLAMES HARASSMENT BY COLLEGEMATE

New Delhi: An 18-year-old girl attempted suicide in the Malviya Nagar area of New Delhi after allegedly being harassed by her male collegemate, said police. The Delhi Police said the girl was immediately rushed to hospital and that she was discharged after getting medical treatment. “An 18-year-old girl attempted suicide after allegedly being harassed in the Malviya Nagar area on Saturday. The girl was immediately rushed to the hospital where she was discharged after getting medical treatment,” said the Delhi Police in a statement on Sunday.

Indians, evacuated from war-torn Sudan, board a flight as they leave for Delhi, in Jeddah on Sunday. —PHOTO BY ANI

Actor Salman Khan says he feels no fear. —FILE PHOTO

Cheetahs have been brought to India under the inter-continental translocation programme to revive their population in country.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh with other BJP leaders listens to the 100th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, at BJP HQ in New Delhi, on Sunday. —PHOTO BY PTI

UP CM Yogi Adityanath listens to the 100th edition of Mann ki Baat programme, in Lucknow on Sunday. —PHOTO BY ANI

People listen to ‘Mann Ki Baat’ programme, in Haridwar, on Sunday.

Anurag Thakur listens to Mann ki Baat, in Jalandhar.

Nitin Gadkari listens to PM’s radio programme in Nagpur.

Randhawa discusses Raj politics in 2

nd meeting

with Dr CP Joshi

Randhawa later left for New Delhi, where he will submit his report to Party High Command

Yogesh Sharma

Jaipur: AICC in charge for Rajasthan, Sukhjinder Singh

Randhawa once again met Assembly Speaker Dr CP Joshi on Sunday during which, he is believed to have held discussion about the expansion of the party organisaton and political appointments. The meeting lasted for nearly 45 minutes. He met Joshi yesterday also.

Randhawa later left for New Delhi where he

3 CO-INCHARGES GET DISTRICTS

are informing youth about Constitutional values’

Workshop in 12 Raj districts, 125 camps have been held in country

Yogesh Sharma

Jaipur: All India President of Rajiv Gandhi

Member of Parliament said.

She was in Jaipur to hold dialogues with selected youths in ‘Sarvoday Sankalp’ workshop at PCC. She said that some of the youths will be sent for further training at Maharashtra’s Mahatma Gandhi Sevagram Ashram.

will submit his report to the Party High Command. In Jaipur, Randhawa had one-to-one meetings with the party leaders and did brainstorming on the appointments of district presidents.

It is believed that

Randhawa took Joshi’s opinion on the politics of Rajasthan.

While leaving for Delhi, Randhawa told media that the BJP leaders have lost self control due to the Mahangai Rahat camp organised by the state

WISHING SPEEDY RECOVERY...

government. He said that BJP leaders were unable to digest relief given by State government to poor. He said that Congress will re-

peat govt in Raj after assembly polls. “CP Joshi is encyclopedia of politics,” Randhawa told media after meeting Joshi on Saturday.

Panchayat Raj Organisation Meenakshi Natarajan on Sunday, called Prime Minister Narendra Modi’ ‘Mann ki Baat’ programme as a ‘one-sided’ affair and said that he did not listen to the mind of the farmer and women.

The 100th episode of ‘Mann ki Baat’ radio programme was broadcasted on Sunday. “PM did not listen to the mind of the farmer who

Gehlot govt mum over failed law & order system in Raj: BJP’s Rawat

First India Bureau

Jaipur: BJP Mahila Morcha’s National General Secretary Deepti Rawat on Sunday said that the condition of women in Rajasthan is deteriorating, for which the Gehlot government of the Congress is responsible.

agitated against the farm bill. The PM did not listen to women, female wrestlers are protesting, but they are unheard by the Prime Minister. A large number of women came out on the streets and protested against CAANRC but they were not listened to,” the former

“We are telling the youth about the constitutional values and aspirations of the people.

We are making them aware according to Baba Saheb’s thinking,” she said.

Meenakshi Natarajan further said that this exercise is not limited to elections and is spreading the ideology of the party at the Panchayat level.

Dhariwal meets people in ‘Haath Se Haath Jodo’ drive

First India Bureau

Kota: UDH Minister Shanti Dhariwal on Sunday took part in the ‘Haath Se Haath Jodo’ Campaign of the All India Congress Committee in Kota and heard public grievances. Dhariwal along with

his son Amit Dhariwal met people in Kala Talab Area of Kota and spoke to people on various issues. Notably, the UDH Minister has been meeting people in his assembly constituency under the Haath Se Haath Jodo Campaign for the last few days.

Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar along with his wife Sudesh Dhankhar visits former Foreign Minister Natwar Singh and his wife Heminder Kaur to enquire about their health at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram on Sunday.

She said that women constitute half of the population in the state, which is completely distressed and Chief Minister Gehlot should resign for such a condition of the woman.

Addressing a press conference at the party’s state headquarters here, Rawat said that law and order has completely deteriorated in

the state and crime rate has increased. She also alleged that the state government had not implemented central government schemes.

Rawat, who was on a two-day visit to the state, said that rape cases increased by 19 percent in 2020. “The State government is trying to hide the figures. The

Raje irked over disorder at Jhalawar airstrip

Aishwary Pradhan

Jaipur/Jhalawar: Former CM Vasundhara Raje was extremely angry on Sunday after seeing the chaos at the Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay airstrip in Jhalawar.

She visited Jhalawar from Sanchore, got down from the helicopter and went straight to the lounge of the airstrip where dust had gathered. The VIP lounge was also very dirty. Its gate was broken and was lying aside.

The facilities for passengers were also poor. Their doors were bro-

BJP leaders to tour Raj after K’taka polls

First India Bureau

Jaipur: With just a few months left for the Assembly elections, senior BJP leaders will start visiting Rajasthan for election rallies and to hold meetings of the party workers. After Karnataka elections, the tours of party leaders will increase in Rajasthan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to address a BJP meeting in Sirohi district on May 12.

Party President JP Nadda may also visit the poll bound

state in the second week of May.

On the other hand, state in-charge Arun Singh will camp in Rajasthan for the preparations related to the visit of the central leaders to the state of Rajasthan.

ken. The pantry was also dusty. The glasses in the lounge were bro-

ken. All the ACs were out of order. Collector Bharti Dixit directed

state’s law & order system has failed, but the Gehlot govt is mum,” she said, ading that Raj should take lessons from UP govt for controlling crime.

Rawat, Mahila Morcha’s State President Alka Mundra & other leaders listened to PM’s ‘Mann ki Baat’ programme at a school.

PM Modi’s

wife Jashodaben pays obeisance at Ramdevra temple

First India Bureau

Jaisalmer: PM Narendra Modi’s wife Jashoda ben visited Runicha Dham, Ramdevra. Then she left for Pokaran and saw the Red Fort there. She also visited the memorial of Baba Ramdev’s Guru Balinath & wished for nation’s peace and prosperity. BJP workers had organised a programme to mark 100th episode of PM Modi’s ‘Mann Ki Baat’ & Jashodaben was

JODHPUR DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

the chief guest. Her brother & his family were also present. Ben inter-

acted with BJP workers but left 10 minutes before the episode started.

With removal of 3 officers, all’s not well in JDA!

Rajendra Chhabra

Jaipur: The government is conducting a high-level inquiry into a much talked-about land dispute related to Jodhpur Development Authority (JDA), in which action against the Commissioner and the Deputy Commissioner has been taken.

Senior IAS officer T Ravikanth, Principal Secretary Medical Education, is being given the responsibility of the inquiry. According to sources in bureaucracy, this is an unusual inci-

dent when both the senior officers of an authority have been removed considering them responsible in one case.

JDA Commissioner Navneet Kumar (RAS officer of 1997 batch) was removed and put under APO status by DoP last week. Earlier, on April 19, Deputy Commissioner Ravindra Kumar (RAS officer) was suspended in the same matter.

The dispute over the land of Narayan Dharmarth Samiti in Jodhpur, which is worth crores of rupees, is

more than 20 years old.

In the year 2002, Rajat Mishra was the Collector in Jodhpur. He had taken this private land in possession of the government.

However, the Revenue Board set aside the action of the Collector considering it wrong. Since then, this matter is stuck in the courts. Still one side’s appeal is pending

in the High Court. It is said that in the year 2022, the government had approved 90-A of this land. After this, the outgoing Deputy Commissioner Ravindra Kumar issued the lease deed in favour of the account holder in October 2022. When the fact came to light that the account holder had wrongly obtained the lease deed by giving a false affidavit, Ravindra Kumar cancelled the lease deed on March 31, 2023. It is believed that Ravindra Kumar showed negligence

and irresponsibility in the entire proceedings.

Along with this, Commissioner Navneet Kumar has also been found guilty of supervisory negligence. Sources said that based on the report of Jodhpur Collector Himanshu Gupta, the DoP has taken action against the two officers.

According to experts, all is not well in JDA for some time now.

In the last three years, three commissioners have been removed and put under APO status. On October 18, 2020, Meghraj

Singh Ratnu was removed. Then 2017- batch IAS officer Avdhesh Meena was removed on October 17, 2022. Avdhesh remained on this post for just 75 days. Now the latest case is of senior RAS officer Navneet Kumar, who was put under APO status on April 27. He too could stay on this post only for 6 months. There is certainly something wrong in JDA that three commissioners have been removed. This thing is considered unusual in the administration.

PWD officials to improve arrangements of airstrip immediately.

‘We

Meenakshi Natarajan

Shanti Dhariwal during the padyatra being undertaken under ‘Haath Se Haath Jodo’ campaign in Ward No. 62 of Sundar Nagar area in Kota on Sunday. Also seen here is Amit Dhariwal & others.

Members of Ramdev Samadhi Committee felicitate Jashodaben by presenting her the photo of the folk deity, Baba Ramdev on her visit to the famous Ramdevra temple in Jaisalmer on Sunday.

Vasundhara Raje attends the wedding ceremony of the nephew of Devji Patel at the Jajusan village in Sanchore on Sunday. Also seen here are Devji Patel and his family & Dushyant Singh.

Vasundhara Raje discusses mismanagement at the Airport Lounge with Collector Bharti Dixit in Jhalawar on Sunday.

Deepti Rawat addresses media during a press conference at BJP HQs in Jaipur on Sunday. Also seen are Alka Mundra & Anand Sharma.

Do not focus on what you don’t want – you will just block positive energy from flowing to you, focus on what you DO want.

—Dr Jagdeesh Chandra, CEO & Editor-in-Chief, First India

PM MODI’S WORKING ABILITY & COMMITMENT TO NATION HAS NO SECOND: GUV GC KATARIA

In a tete-a-tete with Dr Jagdeesh Chandra — CEO and Editor-inChief, Bharat24-Vision of New India and First India; CMD, First India News, Governor of Assam Gulab Chand Kataria shares his life experiences. Governor Kataria also shares his first meeting with PM Narendra Modi, how the Prime Minister works untiringly for the people and how he ideated to connect the public in a string and remind them of their heritage.

Excerpts… (Part-I)

 When you were a teacher, did you ever think that you would enter into politics one day?

Gulab Chand Kataria:

No, I had not thought of that. But I had definitely got associated with the Sangh and I thought that there can not be any coordination between the work of the Sangh and state work. I started working in the Vidhyapeeth from the very first day and I never turned towards government job. I am from a simple family and honestly, one cannot think about reaching till this level in politics.

 So you entered politics from the ‘shakha’?

No, I didn’t enter politics from shakha. In fact, after my first year in college, I started working and studying as well. And after I completed my B.Ed, I was selected as a Geography professor by Vidhyapeeth at Jhadol, which is a tribal area. I worked as a teacher there for three years, but after six months of starting work, I started holding Sangh’s shakhas which carried on for a long time. Due to this, senior leaders like Gulab Singh ji used to come there and I used to live in Pradhan Sahab Bhairon Singh ji Shekhawat’s home. When I used to wear a necker and go for the shakha, he did not used to like it. In the beginning he did not say anything, but when the election for 1971 was announced and candidates of Chahuta were contesting, and after the election, my name was being taken at the local level, so he asked me to either work full time for the Sangh or to continue with my job. At that time I told him that right now I am at an age where I can work for the

Sangh, so if you deem it fit, you can keep me or remove me. So after three years of work there, on the day when school was closing for summer vacation, on May 15, he handed me a letter saying my services were no longer needed. I returned without any grudge in my heart and I never felt any disrespect towards him. The reason for this was that in such an interior area people used to go and teach kids under the light of lanterns, in that tribal area, so I had immense respect for their service belief towards the society.

end for the day around 9:30 pm, I used to go and teach two tutions and around 11:30 pm I would reach home. And then I would leave home at 5:30 am for Sangh’s shakha. So, in a way, I did a lot of hard work, but my idea was that now that I have connected myself to the Sangh, and when even the pracharaks, even after getting their degrees and gold medals, carry a just a bag to work for the nation, then I too shall give importance to this work.

 So when did you contest your first election?

group together and said that we should do something like this. People told me why I was looking to engage in such stupidity since I have come out of jail after so many days but I said no something has to be done. So, we held that felicitation program. A huge crowd came in that meeting, much like that assembled in Atal ji’s meetings. So it appeared that people have immense sympathy in the hearts of people who have gone through that phase in the Emergency.

Rajasthan had only ten seats. At that time too Girija Vyas ji contested against me and she won the Lok Sabha election opposite me by about 21,000 votes. After that I started working with Bhairon Singh ji and he worked to further carve me as a politician in that tribal area.

 So, when did you meet Narendra Bhai for the first time?

Rajasthan during Om Mathur ji’s time and thus he used frequently visit the state.

 As a citizen, how do you rate Narendra Modi as a Prime Minister?

 So, when did you enter active politics?

That I entered in much later. After I lost my job, I thought that I should study further. However, later I joined in a primary school at Ayad, but when I appeared for an interview of a College, they became miffed with me saying that I went for the interview without telling them which, according to them, meant that I did not have any inclination of spending a long time at the school.

Then I thought that a private job would be difficult so I studied law. My salary could not suffice because there was burden of the entire family. So after my law college would

I contested in 1977. When I joined LLB, I was given the responsibility of the city in the Sangh and from there I was included in the Vidhyarthi Parishad. So while studying in Law College I used to work for Vidhyarthi Parishad. Perhaps my luck was good that in 1974, Vidhyarthi Parishad won in all Colleges and Universities in Udaipur, so in a way people started understanding my command. And after sometime, in 1975, the Emergency was imposed and since I used to work for Sangh, several raids were conducted to arrest me. I worked for two months but then one day I was caught and put behind bars. I stayed behind bars for about eight and a half months and my case was in DIR and I was acquitted, so I came out of jail and started practising as an advocate. I was only starting up when elections were announced. We thought that now that election has been announced, so all the senior leaders who have been released from the jail after eighteen or nineteen months, then should be publicly felicitated. I took my

 You have been an eight time legislator and one time MP. Did you lose any election? Yes. I lost two elections.

One after Indira Gandhi ji’s death and in the Assembly election held after that I lost by 1,120 votes and Girija Vyas won from Udaipur seat opposite me. Then in 1989, I went to Lok Sabha and when the election was to happen, Rajiv Gandhiji was assassinated and at that time

When Narendra Modi was a pracharak in RSS and had started handling the work of BJP in Gujarat, at that time I used to go to Gujarat for work from Udaipur, so I met him there. Then he used to work in the organisation so he came to Rajasthan as well. Then he took out a Tiranga Yatra with Murli Manohar ji from Kerala and he unfurled the Tricolor at Lal Chowk. At that time I was a Lok Sabha member. So we went till there and after that my personal connect with him grew further. And then he was working as general secretary and was also an incharge of

See, I have an experience of 40-45 years. I have seen multiple Prime Ministers of the nation including Atal ji, but I don’t know, this man’s working and ability has no second. This is the first PM, I have seen who has never taken leave of one day, hasn’t rested for one day and without stopping even for a day, continuously has kept working. But the way he has lived his life. In politics, due to one or the other reason, be it friends or family, one’s name may get mugged or tarnished, but this individual’s life has been devoid of any such instance. Secondly, his life revolves around the nation and what can we do as service to nation.

I have seen him as Chief Minister of Gujarat and when Bhandari ji was Governor there I used to go there and then for organisational meetings too I used to go there and at that time I used to meet him.

 In 2014, he started the ‘Mann Ki Baat’ program as a direct connect with the public. How do you visualise that program?

Definitely, this was a first of its kind of program that I have seen happen by a sitting Prime Minister. he thought about the program and through it, what he feels about the nation, he says that to the public and what the public feels about the nation, he interacts on that aspect too. Connecting small and big, all groups with him and to listen to them

and to bring forth those who have done good for the nation in however way they have, even if it is a woman, he has done that. For example there is a village in my area where the villagers cleaned a historic Bawri, so PM Modi spoke on that in his ‘Mann Ki Baat’. Based on ‘Mann Ki Baat’, he brought the people together during the Covid crisis through the ‘Thali and Taali’ campaign. And then, even though there was time to bring the vaccine, and people said many different things, yet he went ahead unperturbed and brought the vaccines. And in that too, he ensured that a proper chain is followed. First those who protect us were vaccinated and then a proper chain was followed so there was no fight for it. So the system with which he took it forward is commendable. In a country as huge as India and to get the people vaccinated twice, is no mean feat and he got it done without any feeling of difference in any person.

So this shows the way the man works. Also, in my life, I saw it for the first time, either it was in Atal ji’s time to connect all villages with roads; whatever scheme and programs that he (Narendra Modi) has brought, it has touched every person without discrimination be it cleanliness drive, or Ujjawala scheme, or opening of bank accounts or PM Awas or Har Ghar Jal scheme, all this is cent percent a brainchild of a person who wants to connect everyone without any discrimination. This I really liked. He always encouraged good work and when ever he came across any shortfalls in us, he

would point it out. He has introduced many changes in our organisation as well. To top it, he has decision making power too.

 Another aspect of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ has been that it has brought forward the grassroot change makers. Definitely. It is amazing. People who have played a huge role in the nation’s freedom struggle and those too from the pre-independence time, about whom not much is known by general public, but who played a vital role; I don’t know how he found about them and researched about them, he brought such heroes forward about which no one had even thought of. Now look at Mangarh Dham and the way he highlighted Govind Guru. In this way, even those who played the smallest of roles, PM Modi has brought their names to the fore. He did not see if one is rich or poor. If a woman from Kerala has done something good, he appreciated that person in his ‘Mann Ki Baat’. So anyone who has done any good work has been highlighted. Even students, who become tensed over examination, he has held talks with them to ease that tension and drive home the point that examinations and studies, though important, are not everything in life as a person could be made for other works too. He joined people with the slogan local for vocal, Khadi, millets. So in a way, he has attempted to connect Indians with out heritage.

TO BE CONTINUED…

During the show #JCWithAssamGovernortrended top All-India on Twitter

Dr Jagdeesh Chandra in conversation with Governor Gulab Chand Kataria during The New JC Show at Raj Bhavan, Assam.

Dr Jagdeesh Chandra greets Gulab Chand Kataria during The New JC Show at Raj Bhavan, Assam.

UTTKARSHA SHEKHAR uttkarsha.shekhar@firstindia.co.in

It is rightly said that “the colour aquamarine is like a breath of fresh sea air -

als such as wood or seashells. For prominent statement,

around flattering hue. The cool undertones of aquamarine have the potential to liven up pallid or fatigued-looking complexions, while its subtle green undertones can accentuate green or hazel eyes. Regarding accessories for aquamarine garments, the options are extensive. Both gold and silver jewellery complements this colour impeccably, as do natural materials such as wood or seashells. For those who prefer to make a more prominent statement,

Aquamarine garments are an elegant and versatile addition to wardrobe. City first brings to you fashion from sea shores

any sea

THE LOCKDOWN

CINEMA LIST

Good movies, like all works of art, are more than entertainment. They (should) have the power to “comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable”, as the Mexican poet and academic Cesar A Cruz has said. It was during the tough, depressing and nightmarish lockdown times three years ago, while most of us were in pain all around and the atmosphere was heavy and gloomy, one sought refuge in enter-

tainment, movies and OTT series specifically. This list is borne out of those times. This is an eclectic collection of no particular theme or style or even language, except that they all touched my heart equally well, diverse as their stories, genres, languages and treatment might have been. In these comparatively happy times, while I sincerely hope and wish that the worst is behind us, I have compiled my first to-watch list for you:

ARANYER DINER RATRI

ANUPAMA

A yesteryear gem (1966) from Hrishikesh Mukherjee, this is a sensitive story of a young girl and her troubled relationship with her father, which becomes all the more problematic when a romantic interest creeps in. A handsome, sensitive Dharmendra and reticent, adorable Sharmila Tagore play the main lead, but in my view, the film should be also watched by Shashikala and David who have played their parts consummately. The film has a very well-written script and the songs are, well, incomparable. (Mubi and probably YouTube too)

RAMMAT GAMMAT

This short Gujarati film by Ajitpal Singh is about two school friends, their close friendship and how it negotiates the class and caste divide between the friends. With crisp storytelling, this 18-minute film engages one deeply and leaves one with a curious feeling of not being able to do enough. (Mubi 2021)

AGANTUK

Made in 1991, this was the last film of Satyajit Ray. A long-forgotten relative turns up and disturbs the placid domesticity of a family. There is a whole conflict about his identity and the film beautifully and sensitively brings out how the family deals with the incredulity and continual doubt about his identity. If you know the master actor Utpal Dutt from only his “Bhatwadekar” style roles in Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s films, this (and one more which I have watched) film should be watched to appreciate his subtle skills and also Ray’s. (Mubi & YouTube)

IN WHICH ANNIE GIVES IT THOSE ONES

PAROMITAR EK DIN

This 2000 Bangla film by Aparna Sen (she acts too in this) is about how a woman married into a traditional Bengali family tests, and surmounts, the limits of patriarchy, convention and tradition. That she has tacit support from her mother-in-law is something of a rarity. The movie deftly explores relationships with very good acting by the whole cast.

(Remember the masterful character actor Rajesh Sharma of Khosla Ka Ghosla fame?

I didn’t know he was a Banglarooted artist!) (Mubi)

This 70s college movie is straight from that stable of “parallel cinema” which was quite de rigour in those times. Though featuring SRK in a blink-and-miss debut, the actual star (if you could try imposing commercial cinema terminology onto this movie), is a young Arundhati Roy. The movie explores this tantalising combination of frivolousness and the seriousness of the final-year students of an Architecture Course. A lot of us who have been to hostels in a professional course and waiting to be thrust into the real world would identify with it. The whole hostel and college setting is so real and gives a glimpse into those times. What about the curious title, you say? Well, watch it and find out. (Youtube)

FACEOFTHEDAY

EEB ALLAY OO

Satyajit Ray’s magic is at work in this 1970 movie, while he tells a story about how four friends take a weekend off from their city lives and go to a jungle, and how their city-bred selves come to re-examine themselves in these new settings. All characters are beautifully fleshed out, but the ones to watch especially are Soumitra Chatterjee and Sharmila Tagore. There is this scene when the group plays a memory game, which shows Ray’s expert and innovative camera work, and also the tense interaction between the characters. (YouTube)

PLACEBO

A hard-hitting documentary which explores the dark alleys of the mental landscape of students in the premier and unarguably the most coveted medical college of India - AIIMS. With candid camera work and some animation too, the director Abhay Kumar introduces viewers to the extremely highpressure situation which college students face and some even take the unfortunate way out, of suicide. The film tracks the college lives of four students, one of whom is the younger brother of the director himself. This 2014 movie was a much-acclaimed film. (Mubi)

NAYAK

This is such a charming nugget of a movie! A bittersweet tale of an entirely unseen Delhi of migrants and monkeys, which many of us won’t even know exists. Each frame shines with such beautiful and fresh cinematography. The icing on the cake, nay, the cake actually, is consummate acting by all. This 2020 film by Prateek Vats is to be watched for its sensitive portrayal of migrants' lives in Delhi and their hopes and tribulations. It is a sure-shot winner if you are looking for some sensitive “hat ke” film.

(Netflix, 2020)

ARIES

MAR 21 - APR 20

Uttam Kumar and Sharmila Tagore star in this 1966 film by the master Satyajit Ray. Uttam Kumar plays himself, well sort of because he plays a film actor and a superstar. He travels on a train to Delhi to collect an award and during the journey meets Sharmila Tagore, a journalist who is not much conversant with his work and his fame too. The movie is about how these two diverse people interact with each other, both from the vantage points in their respective lives. Ray is a master at exploring interactions between personalities and here too it is a treat to watch on the screen. (YouTube)

Limiting some items from your diet will have a positive effect on your health. There is much to achieve today and you will find yourself up to it. Academic front seems favourable. You are likely to buy something you have been longing for.

LEO

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

Financial front remains rosy and promises to bring in gains. Good professional guidance may become the key to further your career. A family member may make you proud with an achievement. Spending time with friends is possible. Some of you may decide to take your romance.

SAGITTARIUS

NOV 23 - DEC 22

TAURUS

APR 21 - MAY 20

Your bank balance is likely to swell and make you financially secure. Buying something expensive for the house is indicated. Responsibilities are likely to increase manifold. Those feeling lethargic and unwell may get back on the path to perfect health.

VIRGO

AUG 24 - SEP 23

Someone’s good advice will help in making the right decisions on the academic front. Things start looking up on the health front as you manage to remain regular in your workouts.Some of you can book tickets to someplace exotic.Overall health remains perfect.

CAPRICORN

DEC 23 - JAN 20

GEMINI

MAY 21 - JUNE 21

A 1966 Hrishikesh Mukherjee film with the fun quotient up there at the top. Mehmood, Biswajeet and Keshto have done exceedingly well. Laugh riot with such melodious songs, it is a proper afternoon entertainment. A situational comedy with males in drag, this movie must surely have proven inspiring for a whole bunch of movies thereafter, even today. (YouTube)

NOTTURNO

This was a documentary I caught by chance on Mubi, the digital streaming platform which shows a curated collection of acclaimed movies from all over the world. I didn’t know what to expect but once I started watching, it caught me by the scruff of my neck and I could not get up without finishing it. It is a kaleidoscope of stark, haunting shots of the aftermath of the warlike life people are leading in areas of Lebanon, Iraq, Kurdistan & Syria. With minimal dialogue and no voiceover even, the characters (real, all of them) tell their story with their mostly vacant eyes and mechanical lives. There are the scenes of families dealing with the loss of life and money and continual tension, of their dilapidated homes, of men and women - as desperate citizens and resigned soldiers and parents and wage earners. Made by Giafranco Rosi, this seems like a collage of shots- breathtakingly beautiful and inconsolably sad at the same time. (Mubi)

Family issues that are leading to disputes are likely to be resolved amicably. There is a chance of somebody taking you along for a function or a party. Keeping track of something or someone may prove an uphill task. Your standing in your circle is likely to get a boost.

LIBRA

SEPT 24 - OCTOBER 22

You may want things differently on the domestic front, but will need to convince others about your ideas. A break from the routine is indicated and will give you time to do things you were not getting time. Change of season requires you to take good care of your health.

AQUARIUS

JAN 21 - FEB 19

CANCER

JUNE 22 - JULY 23

Problems faced on the financial front are likely to disappear.Something may keep you from realizing your full potential on the academic front. A practical solution may be found for a complex problem at work. Those in love will feel much closer now, than before.

SCORPIO

OCT 23 - NOVEMBER 22

Something new may be acquired for the home by homemakers. An initiative on the health front is likely to give rich dividends. Those involved in a project will be able to give a good account of themselves. You despise is likely to turn over a new leaf, so let bygones be bygones.

PISCES

FEB20 - MARCH 20

KHUSHBU, Model

You will succeed in wriggling out of a tight financial situation by curbing wasteful expenditure. An outing with family promises much fun. Prepare well for a long journey, if you want to travel comfortably. Shifting to a new house or a new city cannot be ruled out for some.

This is a positive day that proves special for some. Meditate to embark on a new spiritual journey. You will be able to regain lost ground on the academic front to come at par with the rest. Excellent showing at work will get you hand-picked for an important assignment.

Something being organised on the social front may get you totally involved. Expect immediate returns from the investments made by you. Workload is likely to increase on the professional front. This is a fine day on the financial front. Good understanding and mutual respect is likely to enhance.

Going the extra mile for someone will be greatly appreciated by all. Someone may not agree to your terms but that should not affect your productivity. You will get a chance to tap your potential on the professional front and impress those who matter.

Saurabbh Sachdeva

RAHUL GAUR Industrial marketeer rahuljigaur@gmail.com

BIWI AUR MAKAN

100 EPISODES OF

MANN KI BAAT!

ommenting on the 100th episode of Mann Ki Baat, the Prime Minister said he received thousands of letters and messages from the people and was "swept away by emotions" while reading them.

He said that the people of the country have to be congratulated for the 100th episode of his monthly radio program that began on October 3, 2014.

Several Bollywood celebs like

He (PM Modi) is taking out time to understand the problems of common people. This is amazing. He is reaching out to people in small towns and villages who are doing such good work and people are not aware of it. So he is bring ing such people in front of all the citizens and they are getting amazing global recognition. I'm sure it's going to inspire a lot of youngsters.

Madhuri Dixit, Shahid Kapoor and Rohit Shetty attended the screening of PM Modi's 100th episode of 'Mann Ki Baat' at Raj Bhavan, Mumbai on Sunday.

Modi ji wanted to stay connected with the people, I think that’s the sign of a great leader. All the greatest leaders in history, whether it be Kings or Prime Ministers have always stayed connected to the people. There cannot be a deeper connection than this, to be able to speak your mind and listen to people’s words, to be able to convey your words to them. I felt very fortunate that I was invited here. It’s a privilege to be here.

I felt inspired, if one leader can show us the right path, then there is nothing impossible. When I was watching I felt how lucky we are that we have such an inspirational leader whom people listen to, from whom they are inspired, which is very rare. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday addressed the nation in the historic 100th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ and said that his radio programme is the “Mann Ki Baat” of millions of Indians and an expression of their emotions.

—ROHIT SHETTY, Director and Producer

Met Gala 2023 debut with Edward

The Met Gala is one of the most prestigious events in the fashion calendar every year.

The highly-anticipated event is scheduled to take place on May 1. Well, Alia Bhatt will be going to make her debut this year on the red carpet and we are just su per excited to see the actress. Re cently, she shared some BTS pic tures and dropped a hint of her special companion. Taking to her Instagram handle, Alia Bhatt shared a cutesy picture with her cat Edward. The ac tress looked stunning in a black-col oured gown as she was holding her furry baby and planting a kiss on its cheek. The first pic was captioned, "Prepping for the Met", while she wrote in the second pic, "with my own Coup-Ed." Well, fans are now eagerly waiting for Alia to make her jaw-dropping appearance at

He has conducted himself with such success that he has the support of the people. He has tried to stay connected with the people. I believe this is very important for any society in the world. It is very important for a leader to communicate about whatever he is planning and take people into confidence so that people also know how they should conduct themselves. They’ve got a vision, they’ve got a direction to follow. This is really the beginning of a huge mass movement.

—AAMIR KHAN, Actor

MAJOR VACATION GOALS

Malaika Arora and Arjun Kapoor share the most adorable pictures together on Instagram. A few days ago, Arjun and Malaika jetted off to Germany for a vacation, and since then, they have been sharing glimpses from the trip. Now, Arjun Kapoor took to his Instagram to share a photo dump from his Ber-

lin diaries with his ladylove Malaika, and it is sure to give you major vacation goals! On Saturday, Arjun Kapoor shared a series of pictures on Instagram. The first one shows him leaning against a wall, with ‘Berlin; written over it. In the next picture, we see Malaika Arora walking on the streets of Berlin, in a puffer jacket, tights and boots. The next pic-

ture shows Malaika Arora taking a nap on the flight, while the next one is an adorable selfie of Arjun and Malaika.

Hitting rock bottom?

Megan Fox is no longer residing at Machine Gun Kelly's house after missing his birthday party. According to a source, the two are on another split. It has been confirmed by The US Sun. The couple, who have been in an on-and-off relationship, were initially plagued with breakup rumours in February. It was suspected that the rocker cheated on Megan, but the

MORNING PDA

idharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani are one of the most loved couples in town. The duo started dating on the sets of Shershaah. And, after keeping their relationship under wraps for quite a long time, the duo finally sealed the deal in February this year. Post their wedding, they are dishing out major couple goals on social media. On Sunday morning, Kiara took to Instagram and offered a glimpse of her healthy and scrumptious breakfast with Sidharth Malhotra. Interestingly, she was seen enjoying her breakfast in her husband's Superman bowl. It's adorable!

Kiara shared a picture of her breakfast on her Instagram story. She was seen having her healthy meal in Sidharth's bowl. Along with it, she wrote, "His breakfast bowl" and tagged him. She also used the 'Happy Sunday' GIF in her post. A while ago, Sidharth reposted her story and wrote, "My breakfast partner" followed by a red heart emoji.

duo denied the involvement of a third party. They were later spotted on a vacation to Hawaii, which may look like a make-up break for the cou ple, but it might not have worked out as the couple seems to be off ever since they returned. However, the romance has cooled down since they returned, and Megan hasn't visited her fiance's house in days, where he spent his 33rd birthday without her earlier this week.

Debut in Marvel Studios

Actor Mila Kunis recently made headlines when rumours sur faced she is making her debut in Marvel Studios’ reboot Fan tastic Four. Amidst that, ever since Marvel Studios acquired its film rights in 2019, fans are speculating Mila will be a part of the Fantastic Four reboot. During a recent appearance on The Late Late Show with James Cord en, Mila Kunis rubbished the rumour about her potential involvement in Marvel Cin ematic Universe’s Fantas tic Four reboot. She even teased the fans and said she knows who will be cast. When James Corden asked the actress if she is going to play the role of Susan Storm in the up coming Fantastic Four reboot, Mila Kunis said, “Apparently, if you go to lunch with somebody that is also in the industry, you then start working together, according to the internet.”

—MADHURI DIXIT, Actress

—SHAHID KAPOOR, Actor

Alia Bhatt

Arjun’s post

Megan Fox

Malaika Arora

Her story...

UTTKARSHA SHEKHAR

PM Narendra Modi addressed the country through his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’ which completed its 100th episode on Sunday.

‘Mann Ki Baat’ gave me the platform to connect with the people of India, PM Modi said. He said, “For me, ‘Mann Ki Baat’ has been about worshipping the qualities in others. Every episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ has been special. It has celebrated positivity, and people’s participation.” City First highlights the viewpoints regarding Mann Ki Baat, that were expressed by our enthusiastic readers from Jaipur.

Prime Minister Modi’s commitment to maintaining a strong connection with the people is indicative of his exceptional leadership qualities. I consider it an immense honour to have been invited to this gathering and feel privileged to be present here. I was deeply moved and inspired by the talkt. It is a rare privilege to have a leader who commands such widespread attention and inspires so many with his visionary ideas, and I feel truly fortunate to be part of his era.”

—AJAY KAROLIWAL, BJP President, Chandi ki Taksal

The 100th episode of PM Narendra Modi’s monthly radio program made its global broadcast on Sunday and it was no less than a historic moment for me and my family. I personally feel, which started on October 3, 2014, has become a key pillar of the government’s citizen-outreach program addressing multiple social groups and has spurred community action. It is the personification of our citizens; here we celebrate positivity, and people’s participation, said by PM.

It is a remarkable feat that our Prime Minister Modi is diligently devoting his valuable time to apprehending the predicaments of the masses. His sagacious efforts to traverse through the bylanes of obscure hamlets and towns, to discover the laudable work of unsung heroes and heroines, are simply astonishing. He is exalting these noble individuals, hitherto unknown to the general populace, and their accomplishments are gaining unprecedented global acknowledgement, which is indeed a stupendous accomplishment.

—ARTI SHEKHAR, Art Teacher

What began as an initiative turned into a wave of emotion. Mann ki Baat has made us realise the importance of expressing ourselves. It feels like I am personally a part of the Prime Minister’s life. A surreal experience.

—MOHIT CHOUDHARY, Producer & Director

Fantastic 5 for BlanCKanvas

CITY FIRST

Blanckanvas, a dynamic creative house situated in the heart of Mumbai, has completed 5 years in business. The company, which originally started off as Parimal Modelling Academy, has evolved into a talent hub that moulds aspiring individuals into figures that are ready to take on the Indian glamour industry. With more than 2500 workshops, over 50 operational batches, and more than 850 graduates, Blanckanvas has made a mark in the industry by transforming lives and making their professional talents.

Jagdeesh Chandra extended his best wishes to Parimal Mehhta, Founder & CEO, Blanckanvas Media Pvt Ltd for successfully completing a period of 5 years in the business.

The academy, which broadened its spectrum after two successful years in business, collaborates with some of the most brilliant minds in the industry to offer more to students who enrol with them. Blanckanvas has two unbiased IPs, OMG FACE OF THE YEAR and GLAM ONN

Calendar, and opens an array of options for every student that graduates.

Blanckanvas has shaken hands with some of the leading names in the industry and onboarded them as mentors. These include fashion choreographers Lubna Adam, Vahbiz Mehta, Achla Sachdev,

fashion designers Archana Kochhar, Asif Merchant, ace stylist Bharat G, celebrity fashion photographer Amit Khanna, Sayan Sur Roy, Priyankk Nandwana; health experts Karan Hebbar, Vaishnavi Jain, dance choreographer Suresh Mukund, runway lifestyle Varun Katoch, Rubaru Mr India Pankaj

Kharbanda, celebrity entrepreneur Rohit Reddy, actors Mrunal Jain, Iris Maity, Rohit Khandelwal, supermodels Kavita Kharayat, Sunny Kamble, Vaibhav Maurya, Lakshya Sharma, Parul Bindal, Jaspal Kaur, Namrata Sharma, Prateik Jain, Deepika Motwani, Shourya Aditya, and directors Suzad

Iqbal Khan & Soumya Shivhare. Skinworks, Signature Smiles, Kapil’s Salon and Academy, and Orane International are in charge of sharpening the different skills of the students.

Blanckanvas aims to train students in different verticals like fashion and styling, social etiquette, ramp walk and poses, fitness, nutrition, psychology, pageant training, fashion photography, social media etiquette, acting and direction, and overall skill development.

As Blanckanvas celebrates this milestone, it promises to further evolve while remaining India’s number-one modelling academy. We wish them all the best of luck for the road ahead.

I think the initiative has worked out nicely over time. A program like this helps the citizens connect better with their leader. The consistent messaging is that Indians are special people and should feel motivated in assisting the progress of our country. We have seen that several topics discussed on the program, be it about sanitation or female literacy, have turned out to be national revolutions. Truly a commendable effort.

Listening to Modi Ji’s Man Ki Baat opens our minds to a variety of subjects which we might have missed out and being a citizen of my country India, I congratulate My PM and citizens for the 100th episode of our PM Modi Ji’s “Mann Ki Baat”. In Mann ki Baat he talks about innovative ideas and keeps encouraging and inspiring to do things innovatively for the betterment of the nation as well as the society thank you, Modi Ji.

—CHANDRESH BEGERHOTTA, Entrepreneur

Man ki Baat has created history. It has provided a roadmap to the masses and reinforced radio as an important medium of communication. Each episode of Man ki baat was dedicated to specific issues and solutions.

—LAKHAN RAGHUVANSHI, Assistant Professor, MUJ

I believe the effort has been a success. A programme like this one helps citizens engage with their leaders more effectively. Several topics discussed on the programme, such as sanitation or female literacy, have resulted in national revolutions.

—NIDHI BAGRA, Homemaker

DURING THE DAY! BEAUTY PERSONIFIED!

The debut episode of Mind’s EyeMusic for Mental Health, organised by Driveway Devi and Mango Souffle, took place at the Kamal Talai art gallery and was sponsored by Mayoor School Jaipur and Towncoffee on Sunday. The event aimed at displaying the positive effect that music has on Mental Health. In fact, research has shown that it can lessen the impact of depression and anxiety by serving as a temporary distraction. Anuja and Kartik Bajoria, a Jaipur- based writer and an educator couple have been working in the field of Mental Health awareness through their platform Driveway Devi. The baithak comprised of performances by musicians Tanish and Raman on the violin and flute respectively, ably accompanied by tabla maestro Dinesh Khinchi. The music was based on Rag Ahir Bhairav.

PROUD MOMENT!

Supermodel Anwita Sundaram, exuded an air of elegance and poise as she struck a pose that left onlookers spellbound at The Dubai Mall, near Burj Khalifa, on Saturday. As the Second Runners Up of the esteemed Miss Teen Diva 2022, Anwita’s beauty and grace is simply unparalleled. She effortlessly captured the hearts of millions as with her innate talent and captivating persona.

Oozing oomph in an offshoulder attire, her stunning appearance is a true vision of beauty and grace.

Saianki Chatterjee is a Bengali girl from the city of Kolkata. She recently represented Karnataka on the national platform of VogueStar Miss India 2023, which took place in Jaipur from April 14 to 16.

Saianki emerged the first runnerup position for Miss VogueStar 2023 at the national level.

—VAIBHAV ATOLIA, Physician

—ADITYARAJ SINGH SISODIYA, Entrepreneur

Lubna Adam cuts the celebratory cake, also seen are Rina Mehta and lovely students of Blanckcanvas (L-R) Naman, Arunima, Shilpa, Richa, Nandita, Geetlanjali, Anuja, Kartik, Dinesh and Tanish