First India-Jaipur Edition-13th April 2023

NAWAZUDDIN SIDDIQUI SUES BROTHER FOR `100 CRORE

Mumbai: The Bombay HC on Wednesday asked actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui and his brother Shamasuddin not to post any remarks against each other on social media. Court was hearing a defamation suit filed by actor seeking `100 crore in damages from his brother.

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ANGARA ANNOUNCES

RETIREMENT FROM ELECTORAL POLITICS

RETAIL

New Delhi: India’s retail inflation in March is back within the Reserve Bank of India’s comfort zone in March after staying above 6 per cent for the first two months of 2023. The consumer price index-based (CPI) inflation eased to 5.66 per cent, as per data released by the NSO.

K’TAKA POLLS: BJP RELEASES 2ND LIST OF 23 CANDIDATES

New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah held a high-level meeting with party’s top brass including BJP chief JP Nadda at his residence in New Delhi on Wednesday. Post meeting, BJP released its 2nd list of 23 candidates for upcoming Karnataka polls. P5

A SHOCKER! BATHINDA MILITARY STATION ‘FIRING INCIDENT’

4 jawans shot dead in sleep

Moni Sharma

Sullia: BJP MLA and senior party leader from Dakshina Kannada district S Angara on Wednesday announced retirement from electoral politics following the party’s decision to not hand him a ticket for upcoming Karnataka polls.

KHARGE, RAHUL MEET

NITISH KUMAR AND TEJASHWI IN DELHI

New Delhi: Bihar CM Nitish Kumar and Tejashwi Yadav met Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and party chief Mallikarjun Kharge in Delhi on Wednesday. Terming meeting ‘historic’, Kharge said Oppn will contest upcoming polls unitedly. P5

2 DIE, 10 INJURED AFTER CRACKERS TRIGGER CYLINDER EXPLOSION

Hyderabad: Celebrations at a Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) event turned tragic after several cylinders exploded due to use of firecrackers on Wednesday. Two people were killed and 10 others were injured in the incident.

GOVERNOR KALRAJ

MISHRA APPROVES

RIGHT TO HEALTH BILL

Jaipur: Governor Kalraj Mishra on Wednesday signed the Right to health (RTH) Bill giving its approval for it. After the governor signed the RTH Bill, the state government will now speed up work for framing the rules. P3

‘ACTION WILL BE TAKEN BASED ON PILOT’S REPORT’

First India Bureau

New Delhi: Congress leader Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, who is party incharge of Rajasthan, on Wednesday held a meeting with party president Mallikarjun Kharge regarding the issues facing the party in Rajasthan and said the manner in which Sachin Pilot raised the issue of corruption was wrong.

Randhawa said he will prepare a report as to who is at fault and action will be taken. More on P8

Defence minister Rajnath Singh has been briefed by Army chief General Manoj Pande about the incident

Bathinda: Four soldiers were killed in an incident of firing inside Bathinda military station in Punjab on Wednesday at around 4.35 am. They belonged to an artillery unit of the army. The area has been sealed off and quick response teams are conducting a search, the Army’s South Western Command has said. Police sources have said that there is no terror angle in the incident.

The gates of the Bathinda Military Station were closed following a firing incident.

Bathinda SP Ajay

Gandhi, who is heading a police team probing incident, said 2 Army officers went inside the barracks and found Sagar Banne (25) and Yogesh Kumar J (24) in a pool of blood. In another room, bodies of Santosh M Nagaral (25) and Kamalesh R (24), were found. 2 jawans hailed from Karnataka, other two from Tamil

FIRST VANDE BHARAT TRAIN

MODI’S ‘EXPRESS’

GIFT FOR RAJ!

Kashiram Choudhary and Keshav Jha

Jaipur/New Delhi: PM Narendra Modi on Wednesday flagged off Rajasthan’s first Vande Bharat Express train on Ajmer-Delhi Cantonment route via video conferencing. Speaking on occasion, PM Modi said that the new train will not only enhance connectivity but it will also boost tourism.

“Unfortunately, selfish and mean politics had always overshadowed the modernisation of the railways.

Large-scale corruption neither let development happen in the railways nor did it let the railways’ selection process be transparent,” he said, adding, it has become synonymous with devp, modernity and self-reliance. More on P3

Gehlot ji, aapke toh dono haath mein laddoo hain. Your Railway Minister is from Rajasthan. And Railway Board’s chairman is also from Rajasthan. Hence, you have double advantage.

—Narendra Modi, Prime Minister

CM Ashok Gehlot addresses media personnel at CMR on Wednesday.

—PHOTO BY SANTOSH SHARMA

MISSING INSAS RIFLE, CARTRIDGE RECOVERED, SAYS ARMY OFFICER

An INSAS assault rifle and ammunition that went missing 2 days ago and suspected to be the weapon used in the incident has been found, the army said in a statement. The army and Punjab Police are jointly investigating the incident, and they will do a forensic analysis of the assault rifle.

According to the information we have gathered so far, it is clear that it is not a terrorist act. A jawan saw 2 unidentified men in white kurta-pyjama, their faces and heads covered, coming out of the barracks after the firing, they are believed to behind the shooting. FIR has been registered.

—Ajay Gandhi, Bathinda SP

YOUR TRUST IN ME IS THE STRENGTH OF OUR FRIENDSHIP: MODI ‘THANKS’

GEHLOT

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also had his share of laughter while thanking Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot. “I especially want to express my gratitude to Gehlot ji. He has been going through a lot of trouble due to political turbulence in his state. Despite that, he took out time for development work and came for the launch,” he said. Also, work that should have been done immediately after Independence, couldn’t be done till now. But you trust me to such an extent that you brought even those tasks to me. Your trust in me is the strength of our friendship. And as a friend, I thank you for having this trust to me,” PM Modi added.

VANDE BHARAT TRAIN ‘BIG GIFT’ FOR RAJASTHAN, SAYS CM ASHOK GEHLOT

Vaccine stocks run dry as Covid climb again

First India Bureau

New Delhi: The fastchanging coronavirus is sending infections to rise in India, but the world’s top vaccine-making nation appears to have put its shield down with most states reporting that they’ve run out of Covid shots and their vaccination programme has sputtered and stopped over the past couple of months. P6

Cases may peak in 10 days, then dip: Source

Covid-19 cases in India are expected to rise for the next 10-12 days, and will gradually come down, news agencies reported citing source. The report also underlined that the diseases is heading towards an endemic stage.

ABOUT STATE’S FIRST VANDE BHARAT

 The regular service of the new Vande Bharat Express train will begin today

 The train will operate between Ajmer and Delhi Cantonment with stops in Jaipur, Alwar and Gurugram

 This is world’s first

semi high-speed passenger train on high-rise overhead electric (OHE) territory

 It will cover the distance between Ajmer and Delhi Cantonment in 5 hours and 15 minutes

Describing the launch of the Vande Bharat Express as a “big gift” for Rajasthan, CM Ashok Gehlot on Wednesday said State will become an economic leader in the country if rail facilities are increased here. Speaking at the Jaipur railway station after the state’s first Vande Bharat train was flagged off by PM Narendra Modi virtually, CM Gehlot said there is a great need for development of railways in Rajasthan due to its geographically distinct identity.

We stopped manufacturing Covishield a year ago because there were adequate stocks and only a few were taking booster shots then. But now, we have Covovax doses ready. This is an excellent vaccine… works very well against Omicron and its recombinants.

—Adar Poonawalla, SII

CEO

O‘MAHI’ VE!

Chennai Super Kings captain MS Dhoni arrives for a felicitation on the occasion of his 200th IPL match as the team’s captain before the IPL 2023 cricket match between CSK and

MEETINGS OF GEHLOT CABINET AND COUNCIL OF MINISTERS

CM GEHLOT ASKS MINS TO PUBLICISE GOVERNMENT WELFARE SCHEMES

 Gehlot asks mins to start poll preps in their districts, said a source, adding, mins were told not to make comment in Pilot case

Naresh Sharma

Jaipur: Several policy decisions have been taken in the cabinet and council of ministers meeting chaired by Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Wednesday. At the same time, the

major proposals of many departments have also been approved. The cabinet meeting was first held at 12:15 pm at the Chief Minister’s residence and after that the Council of Ministers meeting took place at 1:30 pm. In the meeting of the cabinet and the council of ministers, the main focus remained on inflation relief camp.

Inflation relief camps will start across the

My vision is 2030: Gehlot

Aditi Nagar and Naresh Sharma

CAMPS WILL START ACROSS THE STATE FROM APRIL 24, IN WHICH 10 MAJOR SCHEMES OF THE GOVERNMENT ARE INCLUDED

state from April 24, in which 10 major schemes of the government are included. In the meeting of the cabinet and

the Council of Ministers, CM Gehlot has instructed all the ministers to visit the districts under their charge before the start of the inflation relief camp, and also said that the preparations for the inflation relief camp should be reviewed. Care should also be taken to ensure that there is no shortage of any kind. It is being told that all the ministers will soon go on a tour of their respective districts. More on P8

Jaipur: Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot spoke to the media at his residence on Wednesday and said that his government’s goal is to provide relief through the inflation relief camps.

On the criticism of BJP, Gehlot said, “Our priority is inflation relief. ACB has taken action on corruption in Rajasthan.

If more raids are done then people with negative thinking say

that corruption is very high in Rajasthan. We will only talk about inflation relief camp. We will provide relief to maximum number of people in inflation relief camps.”

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot also said that his government has brought such schemes which are not there in any state.

“Those who do not want to take advantage of the schemes should not register, so that the needy can get benefits. More on P8

Prime Minister Narendra Modi flags off Rajasthan’s first Vande Bharat Express train between Ajmer and Delhi Cantt, via video conferencing, in New Delhi on Wednesday. —PHOTO BY ANI

RR, in Chennai on Wednesday. In the match, Rajasthan Royals won by 3 runs.

Governor Kalraj Mishra, CM Ashok Gehlot, Ashwini Vaishnaw, Pratap Singh Khachariyawas, CP Joshi, Bhagirath Choudhary, Lokesh Sharma & others during Vande Bharat Express flag-off ceremony at Jaipur Junction railway station on Wednesday.

PHOTOS BY MUKESH KIRADOO

Due to negligence of Congress govt, accused were acquitted: CP Joshi

Aishwary Pradhan

Jaipur : Before the assembly poll, BJP has made the acquittal of the Jaipur serial bomb blast case accused an election issue. BJP took out a candle march with the family members of the blast victims.The party supporters gathered at Ramlila Maidan where the victims were present on the stage. BJP leaders were sitting down the stage.

BJP State President CP Joshi said that 1,200 govt witnesses had given evidence that the blast accused had planted the bomb there but due to the negligence of the Congress govt, the accused were acquitted.

LoP Rajendra Rathore said that the Congress govt will have to face consequences. He announced that when the BJP government will be formed in Rajasthan, an economic package for the bomb blast victims will be brought so that families can be helped.

Former state prez Arun Chaturvedi said that due to the Cong govt not presenting strong prosecution, the accused were acquitted by the high court.

BJP took out a candle march with family members of blast victims from Ramlila maidan to Sanganeri Gate

Economic package for blast victims will be brought by BJP Govt, promises Rajendra Rathore

Stone pelted on cops in Nadbai over Ambedkar’s statue

ASpecial Leave Petition (SLP) will be filed in supreme court on behalf of the family members of the victims of 2008-Jaipur serial bomb blast case in the matter of acquittal of the blast accused by Rajasthan high court. LoP Rajendra Rathore said that the SLP will be filed on behalf of the victims.

Rathore will go to New Delhi for this purpose on Thursday. The SLP filed in the presence of Rathore. The party is getting the SLP filed by two witnesses of the case. Rajasthan HC on March 29 acquitted the accused of Jaipur serial blast case of 2008.

Cops lathicharge on MLA, others in Alwar

Ashvini Yadav

Alwar: Police lathicharged workers, including BJP MLA Sanjay Sharma outside the main gate of the collectorate on Wednesday during a Janakrosh protest by the party. When BJP workers were trying to cross over the barricade in front of the Collectorate, police lathicharged them.

The STF lathicharged

Ex-MP Jakhar refutes allegations of attack on Maderna’s car

Rajeev Gaur

Jodhpur: After MLA Divya Maderna alleged that former MP Badri Ram Jakhar’s supporters attacked her car during the marketing society elections held on Tuesday in Bhopalgarh district of Jodhpur, Jakhar rubbished the allegations as baseless and said that he was ready for any kind of investigation. Countering the allegations, he said that he will take legal opinion followed by legal action against Maderna in the matter.

Jakhar said that state Congress Committee President Govind Singh Dotasra should not have tweeted before knowing the truth because Maderna is with the BJP. He has urged Rahul Gandhi not to give ticket to Divya Maderna this time.

Jakhar said that his association with the

Sachin Pilot

@SachinPilot I strongly condemn the attack on Osian MLA Divya Maderna ji. There is no place for violence in a democracy. Our state is famous for love, harmony, unity and brotherhood. In such a situation, we should respect everyone in politics as well. @DivyaMaderna

Maderna family has been for long but there was no truth in her allegations. Meanwhile, MLA Divya Maderna has raise demand to increase her security.

workers and media persons. Sharma was also thrashed with sticks.

Sharma, MP Balaknath Yogi and other leaders sat on a dharna. Shar-

ma said that they would leave the place only after the police apologised for the action.

BJP workers first held a meeting in Company Bagh. Taking action on the case of misbehavior with MLA Sanjay Sharma and media persons, SP Anand Sharma has written a letter to the ADG (Law and Order) to take action against the 4 constables.

L eader of Opposition

Rajendra Rathore on Wednesday attacked the Congress government over BJP leaders, including Alwar (City) MLA Sanjay Sharma, being lathi-charged in Alwar during the Jan Aakrosh Rally. Rathore tweeted and said, “First in Rajsamand and now in Alwar. Everyone has the right to protest in a democracy and the voice of opposition cannot be suppressed on the strength of lathi.

First India Bureau

Ravi Katara

Bharatpur: Tension erupted in Nadbai area of Bharatpur following a dispute regarding installation of a statue of Bhimrao Ambedkar.

Stone pelting was done on policemen from Belara village. The police lobbed tear gas shells to control the situation.

The police pushed the agitators using mild force. Collector Alok ranjan and SP Shyam Singh along with the police force are present at the spot to maintain law and order. A dispute regarding installation of the statue at Belara chauraha has been go-

ing on in Nadbai for the last several days. Some people want a statue of Maharaja Surajmal to be installed there while other people want the statue of Bhimrao Ambedkar at the same place. Those demanding the statue of Maharaja Surajmal had been sitting on a dharna which was called off after intervention of Vishvendra Singh on Tuesday. He asked them to form a 11 member team to resolve matter.In the meantime, Nadbai MLA Joginder Singh Awana announced the installation of the statue of Bhimrao Ambedkar on April 14.

Jaipur: BSP will take out a march on April 20 against the atrocities on dalits in Rajasthan. BSP state president Bhagwan Singh Baba said that the march will be taken out from Jaipur police commissionerate to Raj Bhawan. After the march, a representation will be given to the Governor against the Congress Government.

Shanti Dhariwal on 2-day visit to Kota from Apr 14

First India Bureau

Naresh Sharma

Jaipur : ACS (PHED)

Dr Subodh Agarwal on Wednesday held a meeting over drinking water management during the summer season. During the meeting, Dr Agarwal said that an FIR should be lodged against the concerned contractor carrying out the work in case of breaking of line during excavation work around drinking water supply line.

Also, action should be taken against those involved in theft of water.

“Due to negligence in digging of roads, water supply lines often break and thousands of litres gets wasted. In such a situation, FIR should be registered against the concerned company,’

Jaipur: The Ajmer Vidyut Vitran Nigam Limited has improved its performance in revenue collection and action against power theft. The Ajmer discom has jumped 8 places from 27th position to 19th position. The Ajmer Discom is leading among all 3 Discoms of the state. In the 11th Power Utilities Integrated Rating and Ranking released by the Department of Energy, Ajmer Discom has secured the 19th position. Similarly, Jaipur Discom got 29th and Jodhpur Discom at 39th position. The earlier grading of Ajmer Discom was “C”, which has now improved to “B”. Managing Director N. S. Nirwan informed that based on the reduction in wastage and revenue reforms, the name of the discom has now been included in the top discoms of the country.

said Dr Agarwal. The ACS also asked to take strict action with the cooperation of the police and the administra-

tion by adopting the policy of zero tolerance in cases related to assault on engineers and employees of the PHED.

Jaipur: The Congress has announced about 53 blocks’ executive in the past two days. By Thursday, announement on 47 blocks will be made thus totalling 100 blocks. Notably, a total of 367 block presidents have been appointed so far. 1400 circle presidents, 100 city presidents and 100 ward presidents were appointed for which Lalit Toonwal issued orders on the approval of PCC Chief Govind Dotasra. The executive committee of 5 districts will be announced this week. Moreover, regarding the formation of 12 city congress committees, PCC Chief Dotasra released the list for Churu, Jhalawar, Sawai Madhopur, Sikar, & Udaipur districts.

Reacting over BJP’s rally in Jaipur, Food and Civil Supplies Minister Pratap Singh Khachari-

yawas on Wednesday blamed the previous BJP govt for the acquittal of the Jaipur bomb blast convicts by the High Court. Pratap Singh said that the blast took place when the BJP government was in power in Rajasthan. “Had the BJP filed a strong charge sheet and investigated the case properly, the guilty would not have been acquitted by the High Court. The BJP is taking out a candle march to garner votes and divert attention from issues such as inflation, poverty,” he said.

Kota : UDH Minister Shanti Dhariwal will be on a two-day visit to Kota from April 14. Dhariwal will take part in the Hath Se Hath Jodo campaign in Ward 21 during his visit. The minister will be part of the foot march which will pass through Vaishnavi Vihar, Riddhi Siddhi Nagar, Krishna Vihar, Adarsh Nagar, Ambedkar Colony, Jagdamba Colony, Tapadia Nagar, Vinayak Nagar, Nand Vihar, Gurudham, Guava Garden during the two-day. PCC Member Amit Dhariwal and other Congress leaders will also be present during the padayatra.

Transport dept completes 16 of 35 budget promises AFTER

Shivendra Parmar

Jaipur: After a good performance in revenue collection, now the transport department has done a good job in fulfilling the budget announcements, the department has completed 16 out of 35 budget announcements in the

REVENUE...

current budget. In the last financial year, the Transport De-

partment created a record in revenue collection. Transport Com-

missioner KL Swamy said that the department has completed 16

out of 35 budget announcements. Six budget announcements will be completed by the end of this month. Apart from this, work is on to fulfill the rest of the budget announcements. In announcements related to land allotment, the departments concerned have been written to give land. The Transport Commissioner said that the department is trying to complete all the budget

announcements on time. Principal Secretary Transport Anand Kumar and Transport Minister Brijendra Ola are monitoring the work for their timely completion.

Transport Commissioner KL Swamy reviews the work being done under the announcements in a meeting every week. people have started getting the benefit of the work from April.

BJP, Blast victims taking out the candle march from Ramlila Maidan to Sanganeri Gate Hanuman temple on Wednesday. BJP State prez CP Joshi and others also took part. Joshi accused the Congress govt of doing appeasement politics. —PHOTOS BY SANTOSH SHARMA

BJP MLA Sanjay Sharma showing the baton mark on his hand as he got beaten during Janaakrosh Rally in Alwar on Wednesday.

‘EVERYONOE HAS RIGHT TO PROTEST’

No. of Congress block executives appointment to reach 100 by today

ACS PHED Dr Subodh Agarwal during the departmental review meeting on Wednesday. Other officials

BSP TO MARCH TILL RAJ BHAWAN ON APR 20

PM’s ‘political’ jibe earns CM’s censure

Kashiram Choudhary & Keshav Jha

Jaipur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi lashed out at the previous UPA government before sending off the first Vande Bharat train to Rajasthan. The last part of Modi’s speech was a sarcastic remark on Chief Minister Gehlot, which remained a topic of discussion. However, replying to the Prime Minister’s quip at the function, the Chief Minister later issued a press statement.

PM Modi, at the end of his address, mentioned the infighting in State Congress. Expressing special gratitude to the Chief Minister, PM Modi said, “CM Gehlot is going through many crises these days in political turmoil. Despite that, taking time out for development work, he came here and took part in the railway programme.”

Addressing Gehlot, Modi said that the work which should have been done immediately after independence, has not been done till now. “But you have so much faith in me that you have placed that work in front of me today. I thank you very much for the trust you place in me as a friend,” he said.

PM’s remarks unfortunate, aimed at coming polls: CM

First India Bureau

Jaipur: Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot termed “unfortunate” Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remark that railways had become an arena of politics under previous governments, saying his comments on Wednesday were made with an eye on the coming assembly and general elections.

“I am sad that today in my presence, you have insulted former Railway Ministers including Lal Bahadur

Shastri, Jagjivan Ram and others. It is unfortunate to call the decisions motivated by corruption and political interest.”

He further said, “In an attempt to reduce the importance of railways, you have ended the separate railway budget during your tenure. Today if the modern train is able to run because Dr. Manmohan Singh, as the Finance Minister, did economic liberalisation in 1991 and gave new technology and opportunity to develop in India. Technological ad-

PM Modi praises Gehlot for attending launch event

First India Bureau

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday referred to Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot as a friend and praised him for attending the launch event of the state’s first Vande Bharat Express despite the ongoing political crises in his Congress party.

‘State economy to grow with more rail facilities’

First India Bureau

Jaipur: Describing the launch of the Vande Bharat Express between Ajmer and Delhi Cantonment as a “big gift” for Rajasthan, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Wednesday said the state will become an economic leader in the country if rail facilities are increased here.

Min Vaishnaw lauds Centre for railway projects in Rajasthan

First India Bureau

vancements have taken place all over the world over time, due to which new technology has also come in India and there have been improvements in the railways. It is not fair to say that the development in the Railways have happened only after 2014.”

Gehlot said, “Today your speech has been given completely keeping in view the assembly and Lok Sabha elections of 2023-24 and it is in line with the election agenda of the Bharatiya Janata Party.”

POLITICAL BONHOMIE WITNESSED

DURING LAUNCH OF VANDE BHARAT

Jaipur: Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Leader of Opposition Rajendra Rathore on Wednesday shared the stage during the inauguration of Rajasthan’s first Vande Bharat Train in Jaipur. Governor Kalraj Mishra, MP from Jaipur (Rural) Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, State BJP President CP Joshi, Rail Minister Ashwini Vaishnav and other leaders were also present on the occasion. Interestingly, State BJP chief CP Joshi showed a gesture of goodwill during the event in Jaipur on Wednesday. CP Joshi sighted former State BJP chief Satish Poonia sitting in the back row, following which, he stoop-up to bring him in the front row.

The prime minister was addressing the flagging-off ceremony of the Vande Bharat Express through video conferencing. At the end of his address, Modi pointed to the demands put forward by Chief Minister Gehlot as well as the ongoing political tussle in the Congress.

The Vande Bharat launch function was organised at the Jaipur junction rail station.

Speaking at the Jaipur railway station after the state’s first Vande Bharat train was flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually, Gehlot said there is a great need for development of railways in Rajasthan due to its geographically distinct identity.

He said rapid industrial development has taken place in Rajasthan. “For this reason, if rail facilities are increased here, the state will become a leader in the country from the point of view of the economy,” he said.

CM HAILS ASHWINI VAISHNAW AS HE IS FIRST RAIL MIN FROM RAJASTHAN

Jaipur: Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Wednesday praised Railway Minister Ashwini Vasihnaw saying that it was for the first time that the Railway Minister is from Rajasthan. The CM also put forth the demand of fulfilling pending demands including connecting Banswara, Tonk and Karauli district with rail line. “I welcome and express my gratitude to the PM on behalf of the people of the state.” “I would like to give 4-5 suggestions. Looking at the large geographical area, the rail network should be increased in Rajasthan,” he said.

Jaipur: Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw while addressing the virtual ceremony during the flagging off of Vande Bharat train by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday congratulated the people of Rajasthan. He said that the Centre is working on railway projects keeping 50 years in mind. A total of 82 railway stations of Rajasthan are being redeveloped to make it world class.

Vaishnaw said that there is tremendous enthusiasm among the countrymen regarding the operation of Vande Bharat train. “The Prime Minister has given the second generation advanced Vande Bharat train to the people of Rajasthan. It will connect Ajmer to Delhi and it is the country’s 15th Vande Bharat train,” he said.

Vande Exp’s unique features for passenger comfort

Kashiram Choudhary

Jaipur: The Vande Bharat Express has several unique features and indigenously designed for passenger comfort. First India spoke to crew members of the train and learned some hi-tech features of the train.

The new trains have

PROMOTING GENDER EQUALITY, ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT

Women20 Int’l Meet in Jaipur from today

Dr Rituraj Sharma



The first day will see the launch of Women 20 Innovation, Mission Digital Women, financial and digital literacy and skilling programmes

Jaipur: The two-day 2nd Women 20 (W20) International Meeting will be held in Jaipur from Thursday. A delegation of 120 women from 18 countries will participate in the G20 summit and discuss issues on promoting gender equality and economic empowerment of women globally. The summit will be held in Hotel Lalit. Union Minister of

State for Culture Arjun Ram Meghwal will be the chief guest at the

programme. The inaugural session will be addressed

by Member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister Dr Shamika Ravi, Secretary of Ministry of Women and Child Development Indeevar Pandey, Chief Secretary Usha Sharma, and G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant.

The first day will also see the launch of Women 20 Innovation, Mission Digital Women, financial and digital literacy and skilling programmes.

aircraft-style seats offering better sitting and reclining comfort to the passengers. The seats of the executive class can be turned up to 360 degrees. The time taken by the new Vande Bharat to attain a speed of 160 kmph will be 140 seconds, compared to 145 seconds earlier. The resid-

ual acceleration at 160 kmph will be 0.1 m/ second as against 0.05 m/second.

Likewise, the passengers can even speak to the train guard and loco pilot from the coach. Breakfast and dinner facilities are also available on the train. The train is specially designed for specially-abled people.

Right to Health Bill becomes law after Governor Kalraj Mishra gives approval

GOVERNOR SENDS RAJ ADVOCATES PROTECTION BILL 2023 TO PREZ

Jaipur: Governor Kalraj Mishra on Wednesday sent the Rajasthan Advocates Protection Bill 2023, passed by the State Assembly on March 21, to the President for consideration due to amendment of the provisions of the Central Act. Mishra said that since the provisions of Article 200 of the Constitution of India apply to this Bill passed by the Legislative Assembly, it has been sent to the President for consideration.

the

Municipality Amendment Bill 2023,

Baba Amte Divyang Vishwavidyalaya, Jaipur Bill 2023 and Rajasthan Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (Facilitation of Establishment and Enforcement) Amendment Bill.

I express my special gratitude to Gehlot ji as he is going through political crises but despite that, he took out the time for dev work: PM

Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually launches new Vande Bharat Express train. The train will run on Ajmer-Delhi stretch. —PHOTOS BY MUKESH KIRADOO

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot

Vande Bharat Express becomes operational at JaipurDelhi stretch on Wednesday.

CM Ashok Gehlot with CP Joshi in Jaipur on Wednesday.

Governor Kalraj Mishra, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot attend the launch of Vande Bharat Train in Jaipur on Wednesday. Also seen are Ghanshyam Tiwari, Bhagirath Chaudhary, CP Joshi, Rajendra Rathore, Rancharan Bohra, Rajyavardhan Rathore, Satish Poonia, Jaskaur Meena, Diya Kumari, Kalicharan Saraf, Narpat Singh Rajvi, Ashok Lahoti, Dr Somya and others. —PHOTO BY MUKESH KIRADOO

WOULD THE WORLD EVER BE STABLE AND INCLUSIVE?

DR RAMAVTAR SHARMA The

Physician and Columnist

According to a report prepared by the United Nations World Economic Situation and Prospects (WESP) 2023, world output growth would decelerate significantly. It is now projected to be 1.9 percent from previously estimated 3.0 percent. The whole world has suffered from some interconnected events with negative implications on the lives of nations and individuals. Almost all these severe and mutually reinforcing shocks were totally or partially preventable. A grave pandemic Covid 19 was treated more as administrative rather than medical emergency. Despite tall claims and except for Sweden, all governments across the world acted either under panic or arrogance and many of their leaders even suggested laughable measures to fight the virus.

There is a great dearth of visionary leadership across the globe. Most of the prominent leaders of dominant countries seem to be completely indulged in saving theirown position in their respective country. They appear to be oblivious of looming water and food shortages and even if they are, their actions do not reflect their genuine concern. A one year widespread rain deficit is all that can bring unmanageable disaster

As though this pandemic was not enough, Western world started playing regional politics the moment the wounds of the viral attack started healing a bit. Europe suggested that Ukraine be part of the European union and then become a member of Nato - the strategic military alliance mainly targeted at the Union of Soviet Socialist Republic of yester years now represented by Russia. President Putin of Russia responded by attacking Ukraine with full force. The war which was expected to be over in less than a week is still going on even after one year of its beginning. This war and viral pandemic caused food price inflation because of logistic issues created by war. Superimposed on food shortage was the energy

ACCORDING TO A REPORT PREPARED BY THE UNITED NATIONS WORLD ECONOMIC SITUATION AND PROSPECTS (WESP) 2023, WORLD OUTPUT GROWTH WOULD DECELERATE SIGNIFICANTLY. IT IS NOW PROJECTED TO BE 1.9 PERCENT FROM PREVIOUSLY ESTIMATED 3.0 PERCENT

crisis due to restrictions on Russian gas and crude. As though all this was not enough, debt tightening, early global recession, joblessness and climatic issues all contributed to making life very difficult for many people.

We are living in the midst of a unique crisis - Cost-of-living crisis. We are watching people traveling to misery - from autocratic, repressive and corrupt regimes of Islamic countries to Europe. Religion has always been used as a tool to power by the unscrupulous but this phe-

nomenon is more blatant now. Viewed closely, there is nothing spiritual in any religion. It is all about politics and big money. The claims of enlightenment through religion are bogus and deceptive. Religious hatred, infighting and persecution is the main cause of penury and migration amongst the majority of nations. Migration is not easy, so many people die in the perilous journey and majority of them live a life of partial slavery for the rest of their life. Biodiversity loss and ecosys-

tem collapse are two other fast emerging crises upon whom least attention is being paid. Floods and famine would keep inflation high. As the public is living under significant debt and supply chain related high food prices, stagnation and socio-economic turmoil may put life to extreme stress for most of the population. Whenever geopolitics takes precedence over economics, danger of multi-domain conflicts starts appearing on horizon. So much happens so rapidly that human lives become least precious.

Amid all this negativity, great thing are happening in the field of technology. Quantum computing, artificial intelligence, 3D printing on 4D printer and blockchain technology would create an entirely new world in practical life. But these are costly technologies that not all countries can afford. For those

IS THE US IN A SPACE RACE AGAINST CHINA?

Headlines proclaiming the rise of a new “space race” between the U.S. and China have become common in news coverage following many of the exciting launches in recent years. Experts have pointed to China’s rapid advancements in space as evidence of an emerging landscape where China is directly competing with the U.S. for supremacy.

This idea of a space race between China and the U.S. sounds convincing given the broader narrative of China’s rise, but how accurate is it? As a professor who studies space and international relations, my research aims to quantify the power and capabilities of different nations in space.

When I look at various capacities, the data paints a much more complex picture than a tight space race between the U.S. and China. At least for now, the reality looks more like what I call a complex hegemony – one state, the U.S., is still dominating in key space capabilities, and this lead is further amplified by a strong network of partners.

A CLEAR LEADER MAKES FOR A BORING RACE

Calling the current situation a race implies that the U.S. and China have roughly equal ca-

pabilities in space. But in several key areas, the U.S. is far ahead not only of China, but of all other spacefaring nations combined.

Starting with spending: In 2021, the U.S. space budget was roughly US$59.8 billion. China has been investing heavily in space and rocket technology over the last decade and has doubled its spending in the last five years. But with an estimated budget of $16.18 billion in 2021, it is still spending less

than a third of the U.S. budget.

PARITY WITH NUANCE

While the U.S. may have a clear advantage over China in many areas of space, in some measures, the differences between the two countries are more nuanced.

In 2021, for instance, China attempted 55 orbital launches, four more than the U.S.‘s 51. The total numbers may be similar, but the rockets carried very different payloads to

orbit. The vast majority – 84% – of Chinese launches had government or military payloads intended mostly for electronic intelligence and optical imaging. Meanwhile, in the U.S., 61% of launches were for nonmilitary, academic or commercial use, predominantly for Earth observation or telecommunications.

ALLIES AS FORCE MULTIPLIERS

A major point of difference

who can buy them, these newer technologies would solve, party or fully, health care, food supply chain logistics, climatic and security issues. But they also have some major side effects also. Misinformation might spread very widely and even more faster than the present social media. Technology has brought ugly side of society to the fore. Many blue- and whitecollor jobs may also disappear. As societies grow, multiple domains start affecting life. Because of this multiplicity, polycrises start accelerating . To combat these crises geopolitical cooperation is essential otherwise multiple disasters would become inevitable. The world is entering into four types of shortages, that of water, food, minerals and metals. These shortages would create great difficulties for human life. To create a resilient, stable and inclusive world, global consensus should emerge on all these four almost possible shortages because that requires a major shift in the way people live. For a long period of time we have forgotten that we reap what we sow. Rapid, uncontrolled and unnecessary consumerism has greatly destroyed so many natural resources for non-productive uses like war and luxury.

To develop human capital, greater global investment would be required in the near future before climatic changes cause irreversible damage to the planet. The requirement of money can be huge and would not be possible to mobilize without international contribution and cooperation. Could it be possible to bring warring and competing forces together for a cause to save life on earth? People commit murder and suicide to satisfy their ego. There is a great dearth of visionary leadership across the globe. Most of the prominent leaders of dominant countries seem to be completely indulged in saving their own position in their respective country. They appear to be oblivious of looming water and food shortages and even if they are, their actions do not reflect their genuine concern. A one year widespread rain deficit is all that can bring unmanageable disaster. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHOR ARE PERSONAL

TOP TWEETS

between the U.S. and China is the nature and number of international collaborations.

For decades, NASA has been fruitfully cultivating international and commercial partnerships in everything from developing specific space technologies to flying humans into space. The U.S. government has also signed 169 space data sharing agreements with 33 states and intergovernmental organizations, 129 with commercial partners and seven with academic institutions.

CHINA IS NOT THE ONLY

GAME IN TOWN

While China may seem like the main competitor of the U.S. in space, other countries have space capabilities and aspirations that rival those of China. India spends billions on space and plans to return to the Moon, possibly with Japan, in the near future. South Korea, Israel, Japan, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, Germany and the European Union are also planning independent lunar missions. Japan has developed impressive technological space capabilities, including rendezvous proximity technology to send a spacecraft to an asteroid and bring samples back to Earth, that rival and even surpass those of China.

SOURCE: THE CONVERSATION

Senior leader of BJP and founding member of Bharatiya Jana Sangh, revered Sundar Singh Bhandari’s entire life was devoted to national service and social welfare. His ascetic life and organization skills light up the path by becoming an inspiration to innumerable workers. Today I pay my respects on his birth anniversary.

Anurag Thakur @ianuragthakur

Connectivity is the most basic condition of tourism. Today, during the journey from Delhi to Shimla, the co-passengers of the flight expressed their gratitude to Prime Minister Mr. @narendramodi ji for this air service and shared their experiences related to Devbhoomi Himachal. Incredible Himachal!

SPIRITUAL SPEAK

Taste and see how good the Lord is! The one who takes refuge in him is truly happy!

Bible

Jagat Prakash Nadda @JPNadda

Zelenskyy writes to Modi, seeks humanitarian aid

New Delhi (ANI):

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking additional humanitarian aid including medical equipment from India, the external affairs ministry said on Wednesday.

The request came during the recent threeday visit to India by Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Emine Dzhaparova who handed over Zelenskyy’s letter to Union Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakashi Lekhi, a statement from the foreign ministry said. “Dzhaparova also called on Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, Meenakashi Lekhi. Besides holding discussions on a wide range of bilateral and interna-

tional issues of mutual interest, she handed over a letter from President Zelenskyy, addressed to Prime Minister Modi. Ukrainian request for additional humanitarian supply, including medicines and medical equipment was also shared by her,”

according to the statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs.

The statement read that the next Inter-Governmental Commission between New Delhi and Kyiv would be held in India on a mutually convenient date.

KARNATAKA ELECTION Amit Shah holds meeting over 2nd candidates list

New Delhi (Agencies):

A day after Bharatiya Janata Party released its first list of candidates for the upcoming Karnataka Assembly polls, Union Home Minister Amit Shah today held a high-level meeting with the party’s top brass in New Delhi.

The meeting was underway at Amit Shah’s residence where BJP chief JP Nadda, party general secretary (organisation) BL Santhosh, national general secretary and Karnataka in-charge Arun Singh and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan were present.

Sources told ANI that the meeting took place against the backdrop of displeasure by several Karnataka leaders after the first list of BJP candidates came out.

The Party is also facing backlash in Karnataka after releasing its first list of 189 candidates for the upcoming Assembly polls.

Of the 189 candidates, 52 are new faces who have been given tickets.

The list includes 32 candidates from the OBC community, 30 from SC and 16 from the ST community.

CANDIDATES’ 1ST LIST PROVOKES PROTESTS

Bengaluru (Agencies): The BJP has announced the first list of 189 candidates for the Karnataka assembly election. Several MLAs have been dropped and Congress turncoats chosen in the first list. BJP MLA R Ashok will contest from his home seat Padmanabhanagar, and Kanakapura too, where he will face the state Congress chief DK Shivakumar.

BJP KEEPS DOING

NEW

EXPERIMENTS:

K’TAKA

LEADER

Bengaluru (Karnataka)

(ANI): With the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) giving tickets to 52 new faces in its first list of candidates for the upcoming Karnataka assembly elections, the party’s national general secretary CT Ravi on Wednesday said the BJP stand apart from other parties as it keeps on experimenting. BJP fielded CT Ravi from the Chikmagalur constituency.

23 CANDIDATES IN BJP’S 2ND LIST FOR K’TAKA, 12 SEATS YET TO BE NAMED

Bengaluru (ANI): The Karnataka BJP has released its second list of 23 candidates for the assembly election to be held next month. The BJP yesterday released the names of candidates for 189 seats in the 224-member assembly, which means 12 more candidates are yet to be announced. The second list does not include the Hubballi seat, from where the current BJP MLA Jagadish Shettar. There are two women in the second list of 23 candidates.

BENGALURU’S FORMER TOP

COP IS BJP’S CANDIDATE

Bengaluru (ANI): With the BJP releasing the first list of candidates for 189 out of the 224 seats for the upcoming Karnataka Assembly elections, the party fielded former Bengaluru police commissioner Bhaskar Rao from the Chamrajpet constituency. A day before filing nomination for Karnataka Assembly elections, the former Bengaluru police commissioner today offered prayers at Sri Dodda Ganapathi temple in the city.

CONG VETERAN THIMMAPPA’S DAUGHTER JOINS BJP

Bengaluru (ANI): Rajanandini, the daughter of veteran Congress leader Kagodu Thimmappa joined BJP on Wednesday. The induction of Rajanandini to the BJP took place in the presence of former Karnataka CM BS Yediyurappa. Meanwhile, former Karnataka Deputy CM Laxman Savadi resigned as a Legislative Council member and from the primary membership of BJP after he was denied the Athani constituency ticket.

WILL FOCUS ON WOMEN VOTERS: BJP WOMEN’S WING CHIEF

Bengaluru (ANI): Ahead of the upcoming Karnataka Assembly elections, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)

Mahila Morcha president Vanathi Srinivasan today said the party will ensure that not a single woman is left behind without supporting the BJP. “Being the Mahila Morcha, we will concentrate on women voters. A big shift has been taken in UP, Manipur, Goa and Gujarat and the confidence that women show to BJP is across the nation. We want to capture that support. We want to ensure that no single women supporter is left behind without extending support to BJP,” Ms Srinivasan told ANI. “In all government schemes, over 50% of beneficiaries were women,” she added.

Both the ministers, Dzhaparova and Lekhi exchanged views on bilateral and global issues of mutual interest.

India has assured of providing enhanced humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. Following their meeting, MoS Lekhi took to her Twitter

handle to reiterate what Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, during a bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in September last year that, “Today’s era is not of war.” During her visit Dzhaparova held bilateral talks with Sanjay Verma, Secretary (West), MEA.

The bilateral agenda included – spheres such as economic, defence, humanitarian assistance, and global issues of mutual interest.

The Ukraine deputy foreign minister briefed Secretary (West) about the prevailing situation in Ukraine. The two sides agreed to hold the next round of Foreign Office Consultations in Kyiv on a mutually convenient date, according to a statement released by the MEA.

PM ADDRESSES PROG FOR NEWLY INDUCTED TEACHERS IN MP

New Delhi (Agencies): The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi addressed the programme for newly inducted teachers in Madhya Pradesh via video message today. Addressing the gathering, the PM remarked that the campaign to provide government jobs to the youth in Madhya Pradesh is going on at a fast pace where thousands of youths have been recruited on various posts by organising employment fairs in different districts. PM Modi informed that over 22,400 youths have been recruited for the post of teachers and congratulated the youths who have received appointment letters for getting involved in such an important work like teaching. The Prime Minister also emphasised that the Central Government has implemented the new National Education Policy keeping in view the requirements of modern and developed India and highlighted that the government lays special emphasis on skill development to promote employment and self-employment.

AIIMS GUWAHATI TO BE INAUGURATED ON APRIL 14 BY PM MODI

New Delhi (Agencies): All India Institute of Medical Sciences will be launched in Guwahati on Friday, April 14, 2023 by the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi. The newly built institute is the first AIIMS of the Northeast. The PM, apart from inaugurating the campus, will also lay other foundational projects.The Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya shared stunning first pics of the Institute. Ayushman Northeast! PM @NarendraModi Ji to dedicate to the nation AIIMS Guwahati, the first AIIMS of Northeast, on 14th April. Have a look at the stunning pictures of the New AIIMS of New India!” he tweeted.

Historic step taken to unite Oppn parties: RaGa

New Delhi (Agencies):

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday said a historic step was taken to unite the Opposition parties and insisted that the grand old party will take all parties along in the ideological battle against the BJP-ruled central government in the 2024 general elections.

Gandhi’s statement came after he, along with Congress chief

Mallikarjun Kharge, held a meeting with Bihar CM Nitish Kumar and his deputy Tejashwi Yadav in New Delhi.

“This is a historic step to unite the opposition. We will develop the vision of the opposition parties & move forward. We will all stand together,” Gandhi said. “We will unitedly stand against the attack on institutions, the attack on the country,” he said.

What is the politics of Pawar family?

Mahesh Sharma

New Delhi: It is difficult for anyone to understand the politics of Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar. Their political ally - Congress -is worried about Pawar family’s politics, while the BJP leaders are also confused as to what politics senior and junior Pawar are actually trying to do. It is also a big question whether both are playing their respective roles in a political game or their games are different?

Apart from the Congress, other opposition parties, which are trying to form a front ahead of the next Lok Sabha elections, are also trying to understand Pawar’s politics.

First of all, an attempt is being made to solve this mystery that when Sharad Pawar’s party remained with

the opposition on Adani’s issue throughout the budget session and kept demanding to form JPC, then how did Pawar oppose the demand of JPC as soon as the session was over and how did he come out in support of Adani? Pawar has done this earlier also. If he is with the opposition, he should be seen with it. If he does politics in Maharashtra, he wants to be seen with corporates as well,

ment and the BJP so that the family is safe from the attacks of central agencies.

Ajit Pawar has more complicated politics than Pawar senior. He supported his uncle’s stand on the Adani issue and said it was the party’s line. Only then the question is whether the politics they are doing apart from this should be considered as party line or not? He openly opposed the controversy over Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s degree and said that it is a non-issue.

IN THE COURTYARD DECIDE IN 10 DAYS ON AIADMK BYELAWS: DELHI HC

Apart from Cong, other opposition parties, which are trying to form a front ahead of the next LS polls, are also trying to understand Pawar’s politics.

After this, he took a different line from his uncle on the issue of Electronic Voting Machine ie EVM. Sharad Pawar had discussed the shortcomings of EVMs in a meeting with opposition parties in the past, but Ajit Pawar has said that EVMs cannot be tampered with. Along with this, he also praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Is this also the party line?

New Delhi (PTI): The Delhi High Court on Wednesday asked the Election Commission of India (ECI) to decide within 10 days a representation by the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) to update in its record the party’s amended bye-laws. The order was passed by Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav on a petition filed by the AIADMK and its interim general secretary Thiru K Palaniswamy.

WITHOUT FULL JUDGMENT, JUDGE CAN’T READ: SC

New Delhi (PTI): The Supreme Court has ordered the sacking of a trial court judge in Karnataka, holding that a judicial officer cannot pronounce the concluding portion of a judgment in the open court without the entire text of the judgment having been prepared or dictated. The Supreme Court direction came on a plea filed by the Registrar General of the High Court of Karnataka.

29 Of 30 CMs crorepatis, Didi only exception

New Delhi: Twentynine of the 30 incumbent Chief Ministers are crorepatis with Andhra Pradesh’s Jagan Mohan Reddy having the highest assets totalling `510 crore, according to poll affidavits analysed by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR).

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has the lowest total assets of about `15 lakh, the ADR said. The ADR and Election Watch (NEW) said they have arrived at this conclu-

sion after analysing the self-sworn poll affidavits of all the 30 current chief ministers of states and union territories. There are 28 state chief ministers and two union territories -- Delhi and Puducherry -- also have chief ministers. The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir does not have a chief minister currently. Out of the 30 chief ministers analysed, 29 (97 per cent) are crorepatis with the average assets being `33.96 crore for every chief minis-

TOP 3 CMS IN TERMS OF ASSETS

 Andhra Pradesh's Jagan Mohan Reddy (over ` 510 cr)

 Arunanchal Pradesh's Pema Khandu (over `163 cr)

 Odisha's Naveen Pattnaik - (over `63 cr)

CMs WITH LOWEST ASSETS

 West Bengal’s Mamata Banerjee (over `15 lakh)

 Kerala’s Pinarayi Vijayan (over `1 crore)

 Haryana’s Manohar Lal (over `1 crore)

ter, the ADR said.

As per ADR, out of the 30 chief ministers, 13 (43%) have declared serious criminal cases including those related to murder, attempt to

‘`100 CR WORTH MIDDAY MEALS OVER-REPORTED’

murder, kidnapping and criminal intimidation. Serious criminal cases are non-bailable offences with over five years of imprisonment, the report said.

New Delhi PTI: Serving of around 16 crore midday meals worth over `100 crore were over-reported by the local administration in West Bengal from April to September last year, a panel appointed by the Ministry of Education has found. The Ministry of Education (MoE) had in January constituted the ‘joint review mission’ (JRM) to review the implementation of the centrally sponsored scheme PM POSHAN in West Bengal following complaints of irregularities.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge with party leader Rahul Gandhi, and Bihar Deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav after a joint press conference, at his residence, in New Delhi on Wednesday.

Valley being spruced up in full swing ahead of G20 meetings

Srinagar (Agencies):

Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have scaled up work on infrastructure projects and are taking security reviews as part of the preparations for the upcoming G20 summit in the union territory.

Top officials from the J&K administration on Wednesday were part of a high-level review meeting convened by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in New Delhi, a first in the two scheduled meetings that will be chaired by Home Secretary A K Bhalla.

Director General of Police Dilbagh Singh, Chief Secretary Arun Kumar Mehta, DG CID R R Swain & other senior officers from J&K attended the meeting. The G-20 summit meetings are most likely to be held between May 22-25.

GOA GETS INFRASTRUCTURE FACELIFT AHEAD OF G20 MEETINGS

Panaji (PTI): Ahead of G20 meetings in Goa, the coastal state is witnessing fast-paced work on road repairs, infrastructure upgrade, and beautification. The first of the eight scheduled G20 meetings in Goa will be held from April 17. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Tuesday held a meeting with government officials to review the preparations for the G20 meetings in the state. Nodal Officer for G20 meetings in Goa Sanjit Rodrigues told reporters on Tuesday that result of the ongoing infrastructure-related works would be soon visible and they will ultimately benefit the people of the state. CM Sawant said he reviewed various aspects pertaining to the preparations, including power infrastructure, aesthetics and lighting of monuments, and the government is sparing no effort to ensure everything is in order.

Cabinet’s ACC approves curtailment of tenure of OSDs of 2 Union Ministers

New Delhi (Agencies):

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the curtailment of the tenures of Officer on Special Duty (OSDs) of two Union Ministers—Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani. Two separate orders of this effect were issued by the Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT) on Tuesday.

As per the order, Piyush Goyal’s OSD Anuj Gupta’s tenure has been curtailed with effect from March 7, 2023, while that of Irani’s

Keshub

Mahindra

passes away

‘UK’s asylum status misused by pro-Khalistan elements’

UKRAINE MIN URGES KYIV’S G20 PARTICIPATION

New Delhi (ANI): Emphasising closer cooperation between Kyiv and New Delhi, visiting Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Emine Dzhaparova called India a ‘Vishwaguru’ which is also home to some of the spiritual gurus, and suggested how India can play a bigger role in the ongoing war. “Ukraine really wants India to come closer to it,” said Dzhaparova. “Because it has an impact on the economic growth and to the economies of G20. So, our message to India is to consider the participation of Ukraine officials at the events of G20, the one on the parliament level, or the September summit that will take place in New Delhi. I believe that the President will be happy to speak up on behalf of the Ukrainian people”, she said.

New Delhi (ANI): India on Wednesday raised concerns on the misuse of the United Kingdom’s asylum status by pro-Khalistani elements to aid and abet terrorist activities in India and requested better cooperation with the UK. India also requested better cooperation with the UK and increased monitoring of UK-based Pro-Khalistan extremists and to take appropriate proactive action.

During the 5th IndiaUK Home Affairs Dialogue held in New Delhi earlier today, India also pointed out its concerns over the breach of security of the Indian High Commission in London.

The Indian delegation was led by Union Home Secretary, Ajay Kumar Bhalla and the UK delegation was led by Permanent Secretary, Home Office, Sir Matthew Rycroft. The meeting was also attended by other

Nation records over 7800 Covid cases

senior officials of both countries.

Both sides reviewed the ongoing cooperation and identified further steps that can be taken to explore opportunities and synergies in advancing cooperation in counter-terrorism, cyber security and global supply chains, drug trafficking, migration, extradition, and anti-India activities in the UK including ProKhalistan Extremism among other issues.

“The Indian side specifically conveyed its

concerns on the misuse of UK’s asylum status by the Pro-Khalistani elements to aid and abet terrorist activities in India and requested better cooperation with the UK and increased monitoring of UKbased Pro-Khalistan Extremists and take appropriate proactive action. India’s concerns over the breach of security of the Indian High Commission were also emphasized,” a statement issued from the Ministry of Home Affairs said.

CRUCIAL READ

New Delhi (Agencies):

Keshub Mahindra

former chairman of the Mahindra & Mahindra Group of companies, passed away at 99 in Mumbai on Wednesday. He served as chairman of the conglomerate from 1963 to 2012. Keshub retired in August 2012 after which his nephew Anand Mahindra took over the company. He joined the Board of the company in 1948 and was elected chairman in 1963.

OSD Shah Devanshi Viren has been curtailed with effect from January 31, 2023.

“The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the proposal for ex-post facto curtailment of tenure of Shri Anuj Gupta (a private person), Officer on Special Duty to the Minister for Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and Textiles (Shri Piyush Goyal) in the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade w.e.f. 07.03.2023,” reads an office memorandum regarding the curtailment of Gupta’s tenure.

New Delhi (Agencies): India added a single-day rise of 7,830 new coronavirus infections on Wednesday, the highest in 223 days, and the count of active cases in the country has increased to 40,215, according to the data released by the Health Ministry. The death count due to the contagious disease has increased to 5,31,016 with 16 new fatalities - two each in Delhi, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, and one each in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Haryana and UP. Five virus-related deaths were reconciled by Kerala, the data updated at 8 am stated.

XBB NOT DANGEROUS VARIANT: SOURCES

New Delhi (Agencies): XBB is an Omicron sublineage and it is the most prevalent one among the Omicron variants. Over 200 cases of XBB1.16.1 mutated sub-variant have been found in India amid the recent surge in Covid infections. However, health ministry sources have told media that XBB is not a “dangerous variant” amid surge in Covid cases.

9 COVID DEATHS IN MAHARASHTRA IN 24 HOURS, 1,115 NEW CASES

Mumbai (Agencies): Maharashtra reported nine Covid-related deaths in the last 24 hours, the highest in the latest surge in infections in the state. The state also reported 1,115 fresh Covid cases, according to the government’s latest bulletin. These include 320 new cases and two deaths in state capital Mumbai, which recorded a positivity rate of 14.57%. Currently, there are 5,421 active cases in the state. Of those, 1,577 are in Mumbai. With this, the cumulative figures have risen to 81,52,291 cases and 1,48,470 deaths in the state.

INDIAN MAN GETS 18 MONTHS IN JAIL OVER TIKTOK VIDEO

London: A 68-year-old

Indian-origin man has been sentenced to 18 months imprisonment by a UK court over a video he posted on social media found to be offensive to certain communities. Amrik Bajwa was sentenced and fined GBP 240 after pleading guilty to one count of sending by public communication network an offensive/indecent/ obscene message.

MAN KIDNAPPED 2-YEAR-OLD,

THEN

KILLED HER IN PANIC

New Delhi: The neighbour of a two-year-old girl, whose body was found hanging in a bag on his door in Noida, has been arrested on Wednesday. Soon after the girl went missing, her parents informed the police and a search was launched. Scared of getting caught, Raghvendra panicked, strangled the child to death with a shawl and stuffed her body in a bag.

2 INDIAN-ORIGIN START-UP EXECUTIVES CONVICTED OF $1 BILLION FRAUD IN US

New Delhi: Two Indian-origin executives of a Chicago-based start-up have been convicted by a federal jury in the US of running a USD 1 billion corporate fraud scheme that targeted the company’s clients, lenders and investors. Outcome Health co-founder and former CEO Rishi Shah, and Shradha Agarwal, co-founder and former president, were both found guilty.

1 held, 10 bombs recovered in Delhi's Metro Vihar Chowki

New Delhi (ANI): Del-

hi Police arrested one person in connection with the recovery of 10 bombs from the Metro Vihar Chowki in North Delhi’s Narela Industrial area, officials said.

The arrested person identified as Dilip had hidden the grenades

near a sewer. Ravi Kumar, DCP said a police team has reached out to nab one of his associates, Kashiram, whose location has been traced to Madhya Pradesh. Meanwhile, students at a school were evacuated on Wednesday after a bomb threat via email.

IN NEW IT RULES

SWAT team arrives at a school where an email regarding a bomb threat was received, at

MAN ARRESTED FOR MAKING HOAX BOMB THREAT CALL TO PATNA AIRPORT: POLICE

New Delhi (Agencies): Police arrested a man on Wednesday for allegedly making a hoax call and threatening to blow up Patna’s Jayaprakash Narayan International Airport.

A joint team of police, CISF launched a search but did not find anything. Patna SSP, Rajeev Mishra said an airport

official had received a bomb threat call which turned out to be a hoax and nothing was found. “Samastipur police have taken the caller into custody. Initial inquiry revealed that the person had made the call under the influence of alcohol. Detailed inquiry is being done.

Fact-check provision

tantamount to censorship of Press, says INS

New Delhi (PTI): The Indian Newspaper Society (INS) on Wednesday urged the Centre to withdraw the amendments to the IT Rules 2021, saying the provision allowing the govt to set up a factcheck body to label contents related to it “fake” or “misleading” is tantamount to “censorship” and violates freedom of expression.

As per the newly notified rules, the INS noted, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology will enjoy the power to constitute a fact-check unit, which will have sweeping powers to determine what is “fake or false or mis-

leading” with respect to “any business of the Central Govt”. The said unit will also have the power to issue instructions to intermediaries, including social media platforms, Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and other service providers, to not host such content and take it down if already published,

I’m safe because of you: Jailed gangster Ahmed to reporters

Shivpuri(ANI): Jailed gangster Atiq Ahmed, who was being taken to Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj from Gujarat’s Sabarmati Jail, on Wednesday thanked the media and said it is because of the media that he is safe.

“It’s because of you (the media) that I am safe,” Atiq Ahmed told reporters while being transferred to Prayagraj.

the INS added.

“The Indian Newspaper Society is deeply disturbed by the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2023, issued by the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology on April 6, 2023,” the media body said.

On Tuesday, Prayagraj Police was taking mafia-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed from Sabarmati Jail to Prayagraj, to present him in a murder case and took a halt in Bundi. “My family has been ruined...I was in jail what will I know about it (Umesh Pal murder case),” he said.

ATIQ ALLEGES HARASSMENT IN SABARMATI JAIL

Shivpuri (PTI): Gangster-politician Atiq Ahmad on Wednesday claimed he was being harassed in the Sabarmati Central Jail in Gujarat. He also claimed that his family was ruined, but he was safe because of the media.

ED SEARCHES AT PREMISES LINKED TO GANGSTER ATIQ

New Delhi (Agencies): The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is carrying out searches at around a dozen locations in UP as part of its ongoing money laundering case against Atiq Ahmed, who is serving life imprisonment.

The G-20 summit meetings are likely to be held in Srinagar between May 22-24. —FILE PHOTO

Piyush Goyal Smriti Irani

‘ABSOLUTE POWER’

People undergo a thermal screening during a mock drill in view of the rising COVID-19 cases in Gurugram on Tuesday.

Sadiq Nagar, in New Delhi on Wednesday.

Security personnel stand guard as ED raided the residence of Atiq Ahmed's lawyer, Khan Saulat Hanif, in Prayagraj on Wednesday.

—PHOTO BY ANI

—PHOTO BY ANI

QUICK DISPOSAL OF CRIMINAL CASES

Raj police to form special teams

Quick Investigation Disposal Team will investigate criminal incident in 3 shifts of 8 hrs each

First India Bureau

Jaipur: In view of the spurt of cases of firing and other serious crimes, Rajasthan police is going to form special teams called Quick Investigation Disposal Team that will swing into action quickly after the incidents.

Additional SP (incharge) and Inspector (co-in-charge) will command this team which will be constituted by the crime branch in every district.

The team will work 24x7. Following the instructions of DGP Umesh Mishra, the crime branch has started the process of forming the teams in districts.

Crime Branch’s DIG Rahul Prakash said that the Quick Investigation Disposal Team is being formed for quick and accurate investigation in the most sensitive crimes. The team

will investigate the criminal incident in 3 shifts of 8 hours each.

The team will collect evidence on the spot and carry out investigation in the least time There will be a total of 19 policemen in the Quick Investigation Disposal Team in each district. The team will be led by Additional SP rank officers.

Nawalgarh MLA rejects allegation of grabbing property as basless

Bikaner: Inspector General of Bikaner Range, Om Prakash Paswan, will be honoured with a DG disc. Union Home Ministry will honour Om Prakash Paswan at a ceremony to be held at the Bureau of Police Research and Development Headquarters on Thursday. He will be given the award for better assessment during police training in 2021-22. Paswan, who worked as the deputy director of RPA, is appreciated by many for his work. He is also appreciated for innovation in cybercrime, fake currency and organised crimes. —Laxman Raghav

DGP Mishra instructs cops for regular patrolling

Shivendra Parmar

Jaipur: DGP Umesh Mishra held a review meeting at the Jaipur Police Commissionerate and gave instructions to SHOs and DCPs to patrol regularly in their areas. DGP gave instructions to speed up investigation of cases. He also congratulated the police officers for maintaining law and order in Jaipur. Mishra expressed concern over the current condition of the traffic system in Jaipur. He said that the traffic system needs to be better and instructed the DCP traffic to take action against drivers without helmets. He said that strict action should be

40-yr-old Dalit man beaten to death in Barmer

taken against those flouting traffic norms.

Praising the Jaipur Police, Mishra said that the accused in the Zee Club firing was caught.

Police Commissioner Anand Srivastava, ADG Crime Dinesh MN, ADG ATS SOG Ashok Rathore, Additional Commissioner of Police Kailash Chand Vishnoi, all DCPs, ACPs and police officers of the commissionerate, incluing Kunwar Rashtradeep were present.

Mukesh Mathrani

Barmer: A 40-year-old dalit man was beaten to death by some upper caste people in Rajasthan’s Barmer district. Incident, that took place on Wednesday morning under Girab police station area in Barmer. Digant Anand, superintendent of police in Barmer confirmed the report. It is informed that an old rivalry led to the incident, police said.

SC issues direction to Jaisalmer Municipal Council

New Delhi (ANI): The Supreme Court has directed the Jaisalmer Municipal Council that auction notice related to plot allotment of Goverdhan Das Kalla Awasiya Yojana shall contain a specific recital that the auction will be subject to the outcome of the pending petition. A bench of justices Abhay S Oka and Rajesh Bindal in a recently delivered order has made

this clarification while disposing of a petition filed by one Dharmendra Singh Mohta.

Dharmendra Singh Mohta has moved Supreme Court challenging the Raja Court and urged the top court to stay the entire process of allotment for Goverdhan Das Kalla Awasiya Yojana and direct the respondents to restrain to draw lots, declare the result of the lot-

tery or conduct any further proceedings in pursuant to the allotment under the scheme in question during the

pendency of the matter. The top court agreed to modify the Rajasthan High Court order by adding directions that the Auction Notice which may be published hereafter by respondent No 2 (Municipal Council, Jaisalmer) shall contain a specific recital that the auction will be subject to the outcome of the pending Writ Petition before Ra-

The top court also made it clear that while issuing letters of allotment to the allottees, the respondent Municipal Council, Jaisalmer shall incorporate in the letter of allotment that the allotment is subject to the outcome of the pending Writ Petition before the Rajasthan High Court. Dharmendra Singh Mohta was represen ted by Sanyat Lodha, Sanjana Saddy and Surbhi Arora.

Police identified the deceased as Kojaram Meghwal (40), a resident of Asadi village in Barmer. It is informed that the incident took place on Wednesday morning when the victim was grazing the cattle in his field. In the meantime, around 7-8 accused reached there and attacked him with the sticks.

SP Digant Anand himself visited the Asadi village and took stock of the situation.

ACB nabs for ASI taking Rs 7k bribe in Jodhpur

Dr

the media in Jaipur on Wednesday.

Kamal Kant

Jaipur: Nawalgarh

MLA Dr Rajkumar Sharma on Wednesday rejected the allegation of Gautam couple of grabbing a property in Bapu Nagar as baseless. He said that the land was purchased in 1982 by Acharya Hari and Acharya Dwijesh and it was written in the registry that they were living there as tenants. He said that it was the responsibility of Dr Shiv Gautam to get the registry done but he deliberately got the registry in his name.

Sharma said that due to their relations, Acharya Hari and Acharya Dwijesh never objected over this and also gave full amount of registry.

HC disposes off plea against strike of doctors

High Court in its order said that the purpose of PIL has also been fulfilled

First India Bureau

Suspended AdSP Divya Mittal released from jail

First India Bureau

Tigress T-79 cub goes missing in Ranthambore

He said that Acharya Dwijesh took the decision to donate the building with his will to Vidya Kalyanam or Satyarshi Acha rya Hari Vedic Research Institute.

Don’t rely on

Dinesh Tiwari

Jaipur: Lok Sabha

Speaker Om Birla on Wednesday took part in the 10th convocation ceremony of IIS University in Jaipur. The program was organised in APJ Abdul Kalam auditorium in Mansarovar area wherein the varsity Chancellor Dr Ashok Gupta presided over the ceremony.

While addressing the students, Speaker Om Birla outlined the New

Jaipur: The Rajasthan High Court on Wednesday disposed off the petition challenging the protest of doctors over implementation of Right To Health Act. The division bench of Acting Chief Justice MM Srivastava and Justice Anil Upman disposed off the petition by terming it as unmaintainable. The

shortcuts

High Court in its order said that the doctors’ strike has now ended and the purpose of the PIL has also been fulfilled. Hence, now there is no point in continuing it further.

Ajmer: Suspended ASP Divya Mittal, who is facing corruption charges to a tune of Rs 2 crores, was released from jail on Wednesday. RPS officer Divya Mittal was granted bail by the NDPS Court on Monday, but due to govt holiday on Tuesday, she could be released from jail. She was released from jail after the bail documents were ready when the court opened on Wednesday.

CONVOCATION CEREMONIES

in life: Birla

gram, they should not follow shortcuts in life as success does not come easily.

8TH

Om Birla addressed the convocation ceremony of MNIT and IIIT, Kota at MNIT, Jaipur campus on Wednesday.

Education Policy - 2020 and said that whatever field you choose, you will be a empowered and enlightened women

of India, who will lead the future. He also advised the students that despite living in the era of Chat GPT and Insta-

During the convocation, 2870 girls were awarded degrees in various streams. A total of 117 students were given PhD degrees, 722 post graduation and 2031 undergraduate degrees. Similarly, 99 gold medals, 18 were given plaques, 30 were given endowments and 499 were given merit certificates.

Jaipur: The eighth convocation of the Rajasthan University of Health Science (RUHS) will be held on Thursday. Governor Kalraj Mishra will preside over the ceremony while Chief Minister Gehlot will be the chief guest of the ceremony. Medical and Health Minister Prasadi Lal Meena will be the special guest on the programme. RUHS Vice-Chancellor Dr Sudhir Bhandari will also be present on the occasion. Forty-four doctors will be given degrees of DM, M.Ch. of 55 students and PhD to 35 students.

Sawai Madhopur: The cub of Tigress T-79 of Ranthambore National Park has not been sighted since last four months and has reportedly gone missing. Officials informed the movement of the cub was mostly in the nontourist zone of Phalodi range. The cub’s mother Tigress T-79 was seen in Zone – 10 of the national park, but most of the time the movement of the tigress and the cub remained in the non-tourist area. DFO Mohit Gupta informed

that no recent photo of T-79 cub has been captured on the camera trap. “Constant tracking is being done and the forest officials are also continuously monitoring through cameras and other resources,” said Mohit Gupta.

First India Bureau Jodhpur: Jodhpur’s Bilara police station’s ASI was caught red handed by the special team of ACB Jodhpur while taking a bribe of Rs 7,000. The ASI had demanded Rs 15,000 as bribe for not making the complainant an accused in a buffalo theft case. ACB’s Additional Director General Hemant Priyadarshi said that the complainant had registered a complaint that Bilara ASI Ramakishan Vishnoi had demanded Rs 15,000 and was troubling him. The complaint was verified and a trap was laid and Ramakishan Vishnoi was arrested.

Om Birla awards degree to 2870 students at IIS University

Bharat Dixit

Jaipur: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said that in today’s changing India, the country is being represented by women power.

“Not only this, the Prime Minister of the country has also been a woman in the past,” he said at the convocation ceremony of IIS university in Jaipur.

dents were awarded

CONVOCATION OF RUHS TO BE HELD TODAY

BIKANER IG OM PRAKASH PASWAN TO BE HONOURED WITH DG DISC

Relatives of the deceased staging a dharna in Barmer.

Rajkumar Sharma addressing

Om Birla & Ashok Gupta confers degrees to students during the convocation ceremony of IIS University in Jaipur on Wednesday.

Rakesh Tatwal

GRABBING LAND

—PHOTO BY SANTOSH SHARMA

Ramakishan Vishnoi

Greetings on Baisakhi! A bountiful harvest is good news not just for the farmers, but for the nation as a whole.

RANDHAWA: WON’T ALLOW RAJ TO BECOME PUNJAB

IMPORTANT MEETING TO BE HELD AT KHARGE’S RESIDENCE TODAY

Akshay Rai

New Delhi: Congress’

Rajasthan in-charge

Sukhjinder Randhawa, on Wednesday, gave a major statement on the rebellious attitude of Sachin Pilot, saying that he ‘will not allow Rajasthan to become Punjab.’

Talking to reporters, Randhawa said, “I am looking into all matters.

Sachin Pilot’s issue regarding corruption is correct, but the way of raising this issue is wrong. First indiscipline action should have been taken regarding Sachin Pilot. But it was not done at that time, but now action will be

taken. Raj leaders aren’t talking like Punjab. 100 MLAs are united regarding CM Ashok Gehlot.” Referring to past instances of indiscipline in party’s state unit, Randhawa said ac-

tion wasn’t taken many times earlier as well when it should have been done but this time ‘action will be taken.’ He, however, didn’t specify what kind of action would be taken on issue.

New Delhi (PTI): The Congress’ in-charge of Rajasthan Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa met with party chief Mallikarjun Kharge here on Wednesday, a day after Sachin Pilot observed a fast in Jaipur demanding action in cases of alleged corruption under the previous Vasundhara Raje-led BJP government in Rajasthan. Randhawa met with Kharge for about halfan-hour at his 10 Rajaji Marg residence here, sources said. Pilot also reached Delhi on Wednesday. There was speculation

Randhawa discusses Pilot’s fast with Kharge Randhawa meets Pilot @Gymkhana?

First India Bureau

New Delhi: Wednesday witnessed a ‘stir’ in the Congress party from Rajasthan to Delhi as State incharge

Sukhjinder Randhawa met Mallikarjun Kharge over Sachin Pilot case. Randhawa spoke to Sachin Pilot and probed his mind.

Sachin also went to the gymkhana club late in the evening and now the entire Congress ‘realm’ is trying to find

out whom did Pilot meet at the gymkhana?

Highly placed sources in party reveal that cabinet reshuffle & expansion may happen soon! With this, the episode of Sachin Pilot will end as Pilot will get new responsibility. Randhawa will meet Pilot regarding his future.

Before this, Randhawa will meet Cong leaders, ministers and MLAs of Raj for which Randhawa may come to Jaipur today or day after.

that he might meet Randhawa and other senior leaders, but sources close to Pilot said no meetings were scheduled.

Taking strong objection to call of undertaking a daylong fast by Pilot, Randhawa on Monday evening had said that any such protest against its sitting government would amount to anti-party activity.

As Pilot was leaving the site where he held the fast in Jaipur on Tuesday, he told reporters that his fast will speed up movement against corruption.

New Delhi: As the political ‘drama’ continues in Rajasthan, there is tremendous stir in the political circles of Jaipur and Delhi amidst the rebellious attitude of Sachin Pilot. Rajasthan Congress incharge Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa met Mallikarjun Kharge regarding this issue and informed about the whole matter. Kharge conveyed the same thing to Rahul Gandhi. It is said that Sachin Pilot met Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa for half an hour and Randhawa tried to know what was on Sachin Pilot’s mind. Before this, Sachin Pilot reached Delhi from Jaipur. It is being said that the high command is keeping an eye on Pilot’s activities. Notably, Kharge has called a meeting on the issue of Sachin Pilot in Delhi on Thursday and for this, Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa has been asked to stay back in Delhi only.

—Aditi Nagar and Akshay Rai

CM Gehlot cites ACB raids on corrupt officers to dismiss Pilot’s charge of ‘inaction’

Jaipur (PTI): Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Wednesday cited Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) raids on corrupt officers to dismiss his former deputy Sachin Pilot’s charge of inaction in cases of corruption during the previous BJP dispensation. He side-stepped questions at a press conference on Pilot’s protest, saying that his government’s fo-

cus was on easing inflation and nothing else is going to distract him from it.

“Do you know the number of raids carried out by the AntiCorruption Bureau across the country?

How many people, including four-five IAS, IPS (officers), have been caught here? Has this happened anywhere in India?” Gehlot said responding to a question on Pilot’s

charge.

In reply to another question on Pilot’s protest, Gehlot said, “Our aim is to ease inflation. This is our only focus and we are not going to deviate from it.”

Congress leader Pilot on Tuesday sat on a fast in Jaipur, piling pressure on his own party by targeting the Ashok Gehlot government for “inaction” in alleged cases of cor-

ruption when the BJP ran the state. Reacting to a question that while he is focusing on easing inflation, the BJP is raising communal issues, Gehlot said, “My aim is Mission 2030 and easing inflation is the first step towards it. Who is doing what, we are not bothered about it.” Under the mission, the government aims to make Rajasthan the top state by 2030.

CM Gehlot...

Yogesh Sharma

Jaipur: In the issue surrpounding Pilot’s allegations against Vasundhara Raje, the former Raj Dy CM has not yet got the support of senior leaders of his own party. In fact, Congress veterans are refraining from speaking against Raje. In fact, even the pro-Pilot ministers and MLAs have not given any big statement yet while state Congress President Go-

vind Singh Dotasra, Harish Chowdhary, Bhanwar Jitendra Singh, Dr Raghu Sharma and Namonarayan Meena too haven’t said anything on the matter.

In fact, now Congress workers are wondering if BJP has played any ‘role’ in this entire tussle between Gehlot-Pilot camps? A top BJP leader of Delhi gave a blunt answer saying, “This is Congress’s internal fight & we don’t have any ‘role’ in this.”

Aditi Nagar and Naresh Sharma

Jaipur: Chairing a cabinet & council of ministers meeting on Wednesday, CM Gehlot said that 2,700 inflation camps will be set up across Raj. Some camps will continue to run. We are running with Mission 2030. In terms of GDP, Raj has been at No. 2 position across the nation, which makes us proud. My mission is 2030. What does the public think?

The public should feel that the government worked for us. We want to make the public feel.

Can’t say if these schemes will remain or not if the government changes. We will make the public realize this,

DON’T

CM Ashok Gehlot, while responding to First India’s query on tackling the Opposition during a press conference, said that his target was 2030 & provide relief to masses. He said that he didn’t care what the Opposition would do. First India asked, “You are talking about relief from inflation & the BJP will

raise the issue of communalism. How will you counter this?” Speaking about Aditi Nagar’s question on people’s acceptance of Rahul Gandhi, Gehlot said that Oppn’s conspiracy failed with BJY. “Bharat Jodo Yatra scared the BJP & the PM & Rahul Gandhi is devoted to the country & its countrymen,” he said.

no matter how many roadshows PM Modi and Amit Shah have. There is a struggle of ideology in country. PM should enact a law for social security. Education and health are our priority. 303 colleges were opened

in 5 years,” Gehlot said. The CM further added, “The state has achieved a lot in the field of education. NDA govt should make law on lines of UPA government. Masses must be benefited by schemes.”

Meetings of fellow party workers & responsibility of publicising govt’s public welfare schemes was also given to ministers. CM has directed the ministers to sit with administrative officers in their home districts to implement flagship schemes & budget announcements of govt & provide maximum benefits to masses

It is said that in the meeting, the ministers were instructed not to make any kind of remark in Sachin Pilot case. Gehlot said that there shouldn’t be any kind of rhetoric in media & on public forums. This is also the signal from party high command, he told ministers. Meanwhile, several proposals of Medical, Edu, Revenue etc were approved in meeting.

RHB to organise Meet Brothers night on April 16

Shivendra Parmar

Jaipur: The coming Sunday evening is going to be wonderful for the applicants of ‘NRI Club-21’. On April 16 at 7 pm, Bollywood’s famous duo Meet Brothers and singer Khushboo Grewal will enthrall the audience at a musical concert at NRI Colony, Pratap Nagar, Jaipur.

RHB Commissioner and President of ‘NRI Club-21’ Pawan Arora

said on Wednesday that only the applicants who have applied for mem-

bership of the Club and those who will apply, will be able to enjoy this

musical concert. “Applicants can get free passes from the Club prem-

Crucial decisions of CM’s Cabinet Meet

Naresh Sharma

Jaipur: State cabinet meeting was held under the chairmanship of CM Ashok Gehlot at CMR on Wednesday. In this, several important

proposals including distribution of pattas in raw settlements, Rajasthan Laws Repeal Bill 2023, various service rules, allocation of land for gaushalas and hostels were approved.

 Survey of raw settlements of cities, leases will be issuedunder the ‘Prashasan Shehron Ke Sang’ (PSKS) campaign.

 Drinking water problem will be solved in multistorey buildings.Now they will be issued water connections under PHED schemes.

 Amendment in Land Allotment Policy-2015

 133 obsolete and unnecessary laws will be repealed.This bill will be placed in the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly.

 Interest rate fixed on excess grant recovery from cement company.

 Rajasthan Librarian and Physical Instructor Instructor Service, Approval of (College Branch) Rules, 2023.

 Cabinet amends Rajasthan Subordinate Services (Recruitment and Other Conditions of Service) Rules, 2001.

 The cabinet has approved the proposal to amend the Rajasthan Education Service (College Branch) Rules, 1986.

 The cabinet has approved Three service rules included in the reservation of outstanding players.

Applicants of NRI Club 21 can get free passes from the Club premises from April 12 to 15 between 10 am to 7 pm. A gala dinner has also been arranged for the applicants along with the musical concert.

—Pawan Arora, RHB Commissioner

ises from April 12 to 15 between 10 am to 7 pm.

A gala dinner has also been arranged for the applicants along with the concert. The theme of the concert is- Tie your laces, to tap your steps on the dance

floor,” Arora said. “RHB has so far received more than Rs 25 cr on account of membership. One can apply for membership by April 15 & visit the website www.nriclub21.com for other info,” he said.

 The cabinet approved the proposal to name Agriculture College, Mandawa in Jhunjhunu district after Shri Ramnarayan Chaudhary, keeping in view the public sentiments.

 Free land allotment to Gaushala in Sanganer Tehsil.

 Land allotment for community building of Bhil Samaj Vikas Samiti Bhilwara.The cabinet has approved the proposal for allotment of land to Bhil Samaj Vikas Samiti, Bhilwara on token amount for community building.

 Litterateur Bashir Ahmed Mayukh will now get a pension of Rs 25,000 per month. The cabinet has approved the proposal for enhancement of pension in view of his remarkable services in the field of literature and his old age. Right now he is getting 11,000 per month pension.

FROM P1…

We want to make the public feel that the State government worked for us, asserts CM Gehlot

SACHIN PILOT’S ISSUE REGARDING CORRUPTION IS CORRECT, BUT THE WAY OF RAISING THIS ISSUE IS WRONG, SAYS STATE IN CHARGE

Sukhjinder Randhawa speaks to media in New Delhi on Wednesday.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot in conversation with First India’s Aditi Nagar at the CMR on Wednesday. Also seen is Lokesh Sharma.

CM Ashok Gehlot addresses media during a press conference at CMR on Wednesday. (Inset) First India’s Naresh Sharma asks a question to CM at press conference. —PHOTOS BY SANTOSH SHARMA

Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa after meeting Mallikarjun Kharge at the latter’s residence in New Delhi on Wednesday. —PHOTO BY PTI

DRESS LIKE THE

When it comes to fashion, celebrities have always been an influential force. From Audrey Hepburn’s iconic little black dress to Lady Gaga’s outrageous meat dress, stars have shaped fashion trends for decades. But lately, a new trend has emerged: star-inspired fashion.

The trend has been seen on runways, red carpets, and everyday wear. It involves incorporating stars, constellations, and celestial motifs into clothing and accessories. The trend has been embraced by both high-end designers and fast-fashion brands, making it accessible to a wide range of shoppers.

One of the key elements of star-inspired fashion is the use of metallics, especially gold and silver. Dresses, blouses, and even pantsuits have been adorned with shimmering star patterns, adding a touch of glamour and sparkle to any outfit.

Another popular trend in star-inspired fashion is the use of sheer fabrics, such as tulle and chiffon, to create a celestial effect. These fabrics have been used to create ethereal, flowy dresses with star and constellation patterns, perfect for a night out under the stars.

Accessories have also been given a celestial makeover, with starstudded jewelry and handbags popping up everywhere. Hair accessories, such as star-studded barrettes and headbands, have also been a big hit, adding a touch of whimsy to any hairstyle.

Celebrities themselves have been quick to embrace the starinspired trend, with stars like Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, and Emma Stone all sporting celestial-inspired clothing and accessories. Even the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, has been spotted wearing a star-patterned blouse.

The trend has even expanded beyond fashion, with star-inspired beauty products becoming increasingly popular. Glittery starshaped eye shadow palettes, celestialthemed nail polishes, and star-shaped hair clips have all been a hit among beauty enthusiasts.

In a world where everything can feel uncertain, the star-inspired trend offers a sense of whimsy and wonder. Whether it’s a gold star-studded dress or a constellation-patterned blouse, incorporating celestial motifs into fashion and beauty choices is a playful way to add some sparkle to everyday life.

Whether it’s a subtle star pattern or a bold metallic statement piece, star-inspired fashion is sure to make you feel like a shining star yourself. City First brings to you fashion from the heaven!

UTTKARSHA SHEKHAR uttkarsha.shekhar@firstindia.co.in

ARIES

MAR 21 - APR 20

Limiting some items from your diet will have a positive effect on your health. There is much to achieve today. Academic front seems favourable. You are likely to buy something you have been longing for. Retailers and service providers will find their cash registers ringing.

TAURUS

APR 21 - MAY 20

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 your desired things. Change of season requires you to take good care of your health. Stars on the romantic front look strong for some.

SCORPIO

OCT 23 - NOVEMBER 22

TRY THESE METHODS TO PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD

HOME-REMEDIES TO FIX THE COLOR OF YOUR NAILS

Although it can look disastrous, it’s fairly simple to fix. We have a few quick and effective remedies to brighten up your nails and make them look healthy again.

DR KRISHANGA cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

These days, due to the rise in the trend of social media usage, most of us have become quite conscious of our looks and appearance and are keen on putting our best foot forward at all times.

Often, we indeed feel embarrassed to let our nails peep out of our shoes, and the main reason behind it is the discolouration of our nails that is not only pulling our confidence down but also not letting us enjoy the fashion that we just keep eyeing.

Now we do everything to keep our skin healthy; we scrub and moisturize and make sure that everything is kept in perfect health, but what about our nails?

They are unkempt, broken, or worse, discoloured!

BAKING SODA: It sounds like we are going to bake, but this key baking ingredient can serve as a great fix for your discoloured nails.

HOW TO APPLY?: Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with the juice of a lemon, and apply this to your nails. After a minute, rinse it all off.

HYDROGEN PEROXIDE: This is quite a popular and powerful agent often used for bleaching. It’s a miracle worker on yellow nails.

HOW TO APPLY?: Make sure you use 3% hydrogen peroxide. You can either apply a small amount directly on your nails or mix one tablespoon of it with 2.5 tablespoons of baking soda in a small bowl made of plastic. Apply this paste to your nails, leave it on for 2-3 minutes, and rinse off with warm water. Repeat once a day every six to eight weeks.

TEA TREE OIL: Not all discolourations are due to nail polish woes. Bacteria and fungus could be behind this ruckus on your nails.

HOW TO APPLY?: Applying a small amount of tea tree oil, about a drop, to your nail beds. After a couple of minutes, rinse it out using warm water. You can do this twice a day for a few weeks.

LEMONS: Ever heard of ‘When life gives you lemons, chuck it right back?’ Well, that is the plan. If you’ve got discoloured nails, then throw some lemon juice right at them because lemons are a wonderful remedy for yellow nails.

HOW TO APPLY?: You can either rub your nails with sliced lemon or with a cotton ball soaked in lemon juice. Let this sit on your nails for anywhere between 10 and 30 minutes, then rinse off.

THINGS TO ADD TO YOUR NAIL CARE ROUTINE

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. A close friend may motivate you for a vacation, so start applying for leave.

GEMINI

MAY 21 - JUNE 21

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 professional circle is likely to get a boost.

CANCER

JUNE 22 - JULY 23

Problems faced on the financial front are likely to disappear. Someone who admires you will leave no stone unturned in appeasing you today. Those unwell are likely to recover soon through regular medication. Something may keep you from realizing your full potential on the academic front.

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 to the next level.

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.

Prospects of marriage for lovers are set to brighten. Some of you can book tickets to someplace exotic.

YOUR DAY

Horoscope by Saurabbh Sachdeva

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. Someone you despise is likely to turn over a new leaf, so let bygones be bygones.

SAGITTARIUS

NOV 23 - DEC 22

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 city cannot be ruled out for some. Travel arrangements may be on your mind.

CAPRICORN

DEC 23 - JAN 20

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.

AQUARIUS

JAN 21 - FEB 19

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, as you manage to earn a lot.

PISCES

FEB20 - MARCH 20 Going the extra mile for someone will be greatly appreciated by all. Much hustle and bustle can be expected on the social front to your delight.Someone may not agree to your terms but that should not affect your productivity. Overall health remains perfect.

WHAT CAUSES NAILS TO TURN YELLOW OR DISCOLORED?

Discoloured nails are an indication of an underlying illness and can also serve as an alarming guide to what could be the cause of it. For instance, yellow nails can indicate the possibility of diabetes and thyroid disease. Sometimes bacteria and fungi can also cause discolouration.

Make sure you follow these basic nail care practices to keep your nails healthy: LET YOUR NAILS BREATHE: Nail polish can surely be fun and add that extra touch of colour to your life, but remember that your nails need that breathing space. As per evidence, it can also be noted that dark nail polishes can discolour a tad bit more than light ones. So, make sure you rotate between those dark and light shades and also give yourself a few days’ breathers between applications.

DON’T SKIP THE BASE COAT: It might sound boring and seem like a lot of work, but if you don’t apply that base coat before actually using nail polish, then you are taking away that extra layer of protection that would eventually lead to discolouration.

USE A NAIL BUFFER: You can try to gently buff away the top layer of your nails with the nail buffer. But make sure not to go overboard, you don’t want to weaken your nails.

Source: https://www.medindia.net/news/lifestyleandwellness/discolored-nails-try-these-to-put-your-best-foot-forward-210931-1.htm

Britney Spears is quite active on her social media space. Yesterday, Britney took to the ‘gram and posted a video where she can be seen dancing by herself and having a generally good time. Sharing the video, she wrote about her moisturizing routine and how she needs to apply lotion every night after visiting a few ‘exotic’ locations. “It’s so beautiful out and I want to get out more … paps are everywhere

COLOUR GALORE AT THE CHICEST

Although we're big followers of Spring's easybreezy freeness, we can still check out a sleeveless vest and how Deepika Padukone rocked it as her travel outfit.

For color enthusiasts, the Pathaan actress look has just what you need. Look at how scarlet red can shine on and Deepika's velvet vest is a fitting picture. Chosen from Adidas, her puffer piece is curated from a combination of recycled and renewable

Sara's equation with mother

Sara Ali Khan is one of the most loved actresses in Bollywood and also one of the most talented ones. She is currently basking in the success of her recently released movie Gaslight released directly on the OTT platform. Apart from this, fans also always praise her for her values, and now in An recent interview, she opens up about the equation she shares with her

mother Amrita Singh. On talking about her mother Amrita Singh, Sara said, “Visualising life without mom to any degree is what scares me the most. Most often the one thing that I can definitely rely on is that Mom is the reason to wake up. On most days, that’s it, that’s the reason. I can’t have that.”

but not nearly as bad as it is in LA though,” she wrote. “I looked like an idiot !!! My facial expression, the way I was leaning over, the pooch in my stomach !!! It was horrible because they got a pic of me in a helpless situation, so, of course, I get protective of myself !!!” she wrote. She further added that the same thing happened when she went out with a friend.

materials. It proves that 70s coolness can be made available in 2023 and here goes the best from the block of vests. Before you buy into the coziness and chicness of this Adicolor amazingness,

Down with fever

Samantha Ruth Prabhu took to Twitter and shared she is down with a fever and has lost her voice due to hectic schedules and promotions. Ever since last month, Samantha has been living with a choc-o-bloc schedule with back-to-back shoots and promotions of the upcoming film Shaakuntalam. This has led the actress to fall sick. Taking to her Twitter handle, Samantha Ruth Prabhu wrote, I was really excited to be amongst you all this week promoting my film and soaking in your love. "Unfortunately, the hectic schedules and promotions have taken its toll, and I am down with a fever and have lost my voice. Please join team #Shaakuntalam at the Annual Day Event of MLRIT this evening… will miss you."

comprehension. Off the jet and airport and onto your wardrobes next, this long topper with a fabric max smooth can be bought from the brand's web-

SOMETHING IN COMMON?

Nick Cannon feels he and Taylor Swift have something in common and that they might understand each other ‘really well’. The 42-year-old actor and rapper recently was in a conversation with Howard Stern (via CNN), when the latter asked him if his family was complete. For the unversed, Cannon has 12

children, whom he shares with six different baby mamas. Responding to the question, Nick said that he never knows if he is answering the ques-

tion correctly, whenever he is asked. He noted that in the past, his answer to the same question offended certain religious communities when he said that he was “putting it in God’s hands.” Stern said that it would have to be someone very special to have a child with Nick Cannon, and then went on to suggest Taylor Swift’s name. Find out what the comedian said about that.

LEADING LADY

emo D'Souza is reuniting with Nora Fatehi for his tentatively titled, Dancing Dad. “Nora plays a very important role in the film, and both Remo and Nora are excited to collaborate with each other once again. She will feature in a never seen before avatar, and is giving her all to the part. They are presently shooting in Ooty. A large OTT platform is backing the

project,” informs a source close to the development. Remo D'Souza and Nora Fatehi have earlier worked together in Street Dancer 3D, which had also featured Varun Dhawan and Shraddha Kapoor.

Earlier this month, Nora had put up a post on Instagram, dropping hints about kickstarting a new project. However, she didn't reveal any further details. “New beginnings. It’s a vibe out here in Ooty! First day of shoot was (used a smiling face emoji with heartshaped eyes)”.

‘I want to get out more’

Samantha Ruth Prabhu

Her tweet...

Taylor Swift

Nora Fatehi

Her post...

Sara Ali Khan

Britney Spears

Deepika Padukone

GAME OF HARD WORK AND EXCELLENCE

NEW SHADE OF SUMMER

CITY FIRST

Jaipur Jewels Foundation or-

ganised a Hawaiian theme Party to welcome summers at Hotel Palace Ajmer Road Jaipur on Wednesday. Young Entrepreneurs were dressed in Floral themes to welcome the summer season with summer fruits. The President of JJF, Vikas Shweta Maloo shared that a pool party was organised for the 250+ members with a Rain dance and Foam dance. All the members enjoyed the musical theme party.

Secretary Vineet Priyanka Jain shared with our executive that in the evening a gala show was organised by the members, for the members. In this event, more than 250 members were

divided into 10 groups. There were 5 rounds for each group. The first round was the drama round in which various skits were organised like a few scenes from Mahabharat, The Kapil Sharma Show, the speech of Chatur from 3 Idiots, and The Hansa prafull comedy.

The second round was the secret Superstar Round in which each team had to perform a song with a twist. The members participated very uniquely in this round. The third round was the NatuNatu round in which the participants presented various unique dance forms. It was very difficult for the judges to decide on the winners as each performance was different and unique from the others. cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

KAVITA CHAUHAN cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

Miss Teen Diva, presented by First India News and Bharat24- Vision of New India is winning all hearts and setting new benchmarks with its grooming and talent rounds. A motivational session under the same was organised to boost the confidence and morale of the top 35 finalists, at Stardom Resort, Jaipur on Wednesday.

Jagdeesh Chandra graced the afternoon as the keynote speaker and motivated the participants with his encouraging words. Besides sharing valuable insights and experiences on how to overcome challenges and achieve success in the modelling industry, he said, “Miss Teen Diva is a blend of glamour and elegance contrary to the traditional state of pageantry, happening on an International level in India. Empowering young women while allowing them to grow and develop a positive self-image, is the focus of this beauty pageant. I congratulate all the partici-

Parneeta, Kanishka, Vedika, Kanggna, Saumya, Meher, Daniella, Palak, Trishna, Ananya, Khushi, Yashika and Vaishnavi

the face of adversity.

Nikhil Anand, Director, said, “I’m really excited for the grand finale. The girls are all set to put their best foot forward. This season will be more magnificent an glamorous.”

The session also helped models to work on their confidence and self-esteem.

Many participants shared their positive feedback, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to attend the motivational session and for the invaluable insights they gained

‘Jan Bhagidari’ PROGRAM

CITY FIRST

G-20, W-20 public participation program was organised at JNU on Wednesday.

The theme of the program was transforming the lives of women and girls through education and skilling.

pants and wish you all a huge success.”

The session focused on various aspects of modelling, including the importance of a positive attitude, the significance of selfbelief, and the value of perseverance in

PROUD MOMENT!

Jaipur’s renowned jewellery manufacturer Amrapali Exports has been selected by the Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council as the top fashion jewellery exporter in the country recently. It is to be noted that Amrapali is receiving this Government of India award

EVENTS!

The poster launch ceremony of Rajasthan’s biggest Kids Talent Fest organised by Fusion Group and Net Scope Entertainment was held at Town Coffee, Jaipur, on Wednesday. In the poster launch ceremony, Miss Rajasthan organiser, Yogesh Mishra and Miss Intercontinental India Mittali Kaur launched the poster. Om Prakash Meena and Mahendra Singh Rathore were also present on this occasion.

Mahendra Singh Rathore said that Kids Talent Fest is being organised for the first time in Rajasthan to honour talents who have contributed to the field of education in Rajasthan. In the fest, children will be able to understand the importance of studies.

for the 10th time, recently in Jodhpur.

During the occasion, CM Ashok Gehlot had

given the award for the highest turnover and highest growth of jewellery exports in Rajasthan. On coming to April 23, Piyush Goyal, Union Minister for Industries and Commerce will present this trophy and certificate at a grand function at Hotel Grand Hyatt Mumbai.

Tarang Arora, Creative Director, Amrapali, said that our de-

signed products are in great demand in the USA, Europe, the Far East and Middle East countries. This award is dedicated to our master craftsman, talented designers and artisans who have made Amrapali famous among celebrities & film stars and have made it the preferred brand of departmental stores.

The magnificent polo match titled Jaipur Prema Bissa Memorial Junior Polo Cup, organised by Rajputana Riding and Polo Club witnessed the grand polo match between RRPC Polo team and Himgiri at RRPC Dera Ashwa on Wednesday. During the match, RRPC won the Junior Championship by scoring 6 scores. 5 goals were made by Savir Godara and 1 by Maria, whereas Himgiri scored 4 goals.

On Friday, OTH commemorated its 10th anniversary of the restaurant in grand style. The jubilant celebration was graced by a host of distinguished personalities, including renowned influencers and the owner, Dushyant Singh’s, close-knit circle of family and friends. Several notable influencers from Jaipur, such as Jaipur By Marcela, Fit Yet Foodie, The Foodie Devi, and All About Jaipur, among others, also made an appearance. The much-awaited event saw OTH unveil its latest menu and ambience, packed with numerous delectable food additions.

Actor, Model and theatre artiste Pratham Sharma who hails from Jaipur is currently seen as one of the contestants in India’s first-ever love reality show on Netflix titled IR - ‘In Real Love’, hosted by Rannvijay Singha and Gauahar Khan. Being one of the contestants, Pratham, who has studied at Rukmani Birla Modern High School Jaipur, shared how he believes

connections.

Dr Sandhya Purecha, President of W-20 India, expressed her views as a special speaker. During the program, Dr Sunita Sharma, Patron and President of Jaipur Physiotherapist Network, also thanked JNU for supporting the

campaign for women’s empowerment. On this occasion, FICCI members, various NGOs and Sarpanches of and a delegation of women and child development officers of the State were also present. JNU Chancellor Dr Sandeep Bakshi said during the W-20 ‘Jan Bhagidari’ program, achieve the goals to increase women’s participation, ensuring girl child education and overall empowerment of women. He said that public participation is very necessary to make women’s concerns a mass movement.

Jagdeesh Chandra was greeted by Narendra Ojha, Makhhan Lal, Mahendra Bohra and Nirmal Tiwari during a courtesy visit at the former’s residence on Wednesday.

—PHOTOS BY SUNIL SHARMA

Jagdeesh Chandra with (L-R) Pallavi, Divyanka, Riddhi, Satvika Singh, Aarohi, Ishwarya, Khushpreet, Karemma, Kavin, Titas, Nitya, Sejal, Sana, Aditi, Guneet, Nikhil Anand, Kashish, Anwita, Barsha, Nandini, Athena,

Jagdeesh Chandra addressing the finalists. Also seen is Nikhil Anand

Sejal Gupta and Pallavi Gautam

(L-R) Priyanka, Monika, Rashi, Priyanka, Sapna, Poorvi, Seema and Sugandh

(L-R) Ravi, Kuldeep, Hitesh, Akhil, Gaurav and Ravi

Tarang Arora

Mittali Kaur and Yogesh Mishra

Pratham Sharma

Dr Sandeep Bakshi with others during the event

Jagdeesh Chandra with (L-R) Narendra Ojha, Makhhan Lal, Mahendra Bohra and Nirmal Tiwari