First India-Jaipur Edition-21st December 2022

2 WORKERS DEAD, 4 INJURED IN BLAST AT LUDHIANA

485 KM IN 15 DAYS: BHARAT JODO YATRA CONCLUDES ITS RAJASTHAN LEG

STOP FEEDING DRY FRUITS TO ‘FRIENDS’: RAHUL ADVISES PM MODI ON INFLATION

Rahul to interact with ex-servicemen and celebrate Jai Jawan Diwas in Haryana today

DURING YATRA:

Alwar: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi over growing inflation and advised him to stop entertaining “friends” and start attending to the public who have been suffering due to the price rise. During the

day, Rahul also had a meaningful discussion on the impact of mining in Aravali & on art, cul-

ture & history of Mewat.

Rahul Gandhi took to Twitter, “Big announcement by the Rajasthan

government to give LPG gas cylinders for Rs 500, which is half the price of the one set by the Centre. PM Ji, stop feeding dry fruits to the friends, and serve the people suffering from inflation (‘mitro’ ko mewa khilana band kijie, mehangai se trast janta ki sewa kijie)”.

Congress general secretary, communications,

Jairam Ramesh said yatra in Rajasthan began from Jhalawar on December 5 and in 15 days, it covered 485 km in 6 districts of Jhalawar, Kota, Bundi, Sawai Madhopur, Dausa and Alwar.

Yatra stayed in Alwar on Tuesday night to Haryana on Wednesday morning, Ramesh said, adding that it will have 2 phases in Haryana.

‘Gaali’ politics hits sansad!

COURT SEEKS ED’S RESPONSE TO JACQUELINE’S PLEA TO VISIT MOM

What I said during Bharat Jodo Yatra in Alwar was politically outside the House, not inside. There is no need to discuss that here. Secondly, I can still say that they had no role in the freedom struggle. They are ‘maafi maangne waale log’...What role did you play.

—Mallikarjun Kharge, LoP

Moni Sharma

New Delhi: The row over Cong chief Mallikarjun Kharge intensified on Tuesday as the BJP demanded an apology from the grand old party over indecent remarks made by its president against the BJP. Meanwhile, Kharge on other hand refused to issue an apology. Further maintaining his stand, he reiterated that BJP had no role in freedom struggle. He hailed his party leaders like Indira Gandhi for sacrificing themselves for nation & questioned saffron party again over their role in freedom struggle. P6

‘WE ARE NOT KIDS’

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Tuesday stood up in the Rajya Sabha to remind the members that “we are not children” as there was chaos again in Parliament, this time over Congress Chief Mallikarjun Kharge’s recent comment on the BJP and RSS’s “total lack of contribution” to the Independence struggle. “This kind of display of conduct and behaviour gives us a very, very bad name,” Dhankhar said, “We are setting a very bad example. People outside are disillusioned.”

LoP Mallikarjun Kharge gave an indecent speech in Alwar. The language used is unfortunate. I condemn the manner in which he used indecent language, said baseless things and attempted to present lies before the nation. I demand an apology from him.

—Piyush Goyal, Union minister

Kharge on Monday during Bharat Jodo Yatra in Rajasthan’s Alwar alleged that the BJP government “talks like a lion outside the country, but is acting like a mouse within” as it is unable to take on China for indulging in incursions along border and is running away from a debate on the issue in Parl.

MAJOR HIGHLIGHTS

 Winter Session of the Parliament likely to conclude on December 23, a week ahead of schedule, sources said on Tuesday  FIR lodged against UP Cong leader Ajay Rai Rai for his remarks

against Union minister for women and child development Smriti Irani  PT Usha is named a new vicechairperson of RS, this is first time a nominated MP has been designated for this post

Gear up genome sequencing: Centre’s

notice to States, UTs

Mandaviya to review the situation today

First India Bureau

New Delhi: The Centre on Tuesday directed states to ramp up genome sequencing as the sudden surge in Covid cases in China, Japan, US, Korea and Brazil pose a threat of looming fourth wave of the pandemic. Union health minister Mansukh Mandaviya will review the pandemic situation on Wednesday, said official sources.

“Covid-19 still persists around the world with

around 35 lakh cases reported weekly” Union Secretary for Health Rajesh Bhushan sounded alarm on the surging cases of Covid -19 globally. He reiterated that all responsible authorities contribute in gearing up genome sequencing process of all Covid +ve samples.

YouTube channels busted in fake news crackdown

New Delhi: Three YouTube channels with a total of 33 lakh subscribers have been busted for spreading fake news about Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and key institutions, the centre said on Tuesday.

YATRA HAS BEEN A BOON FOR US: GEHLOT

Alwar: Addressing the press conference on the last day of Bharat Jodo Yatra in Rajasthan, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said that Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatra has shaken the NDA government.

“Prime Minister Modi and Amit Shah are nervous. Nadda Saheb and BJP people have become distracted,” Gehlot said alleging that the (union govt) has put pressure on the media,

due to which the media of Delhi is not showing the news related to the yatra. “This yatra is for

social concern. Rahul Gandhi has come out talking about price rise, unemployment and

non-violence. The Yatra is getting tremendous support from the people. People come and

stand for hours in line to be a part of the yatra. It shows the message of yatra,” he said.

The Chief Minister further said that Bharat Jodo Yatra has proved to be a boon for Rajasthan. “The purpose of the yatra is to provide relief to the people from inflation, according to that the government of Rajasthan is also working. We promised to give gas cylinders in Rs 500,” he said.

Referring to Chiranjeevi, Pension, Urban MNREGA, Udaan and Old Pension Scheme, Gehlot said that people have got relief from inflation. Turn to P8

The YouTube channels are News Headlines, Sarkari Update and Aaj Tak Live. A government statement said that the probe against these three channels was conducted by the fact-check unit of PIB, the government’s nodal agency to disseminate information.

60% OF CHINA

MAY GET INFECTED IN

3 MONTHS: EXPERT Beijing: A top infectious disease expert has projected that more than 60% of China’s population is likely to be infected by the coronavirus in next 3 months & witness millions of Covid-related deaths.

“Thermonuclear badHospitals completely overwhelmed in China ever since restrictions dropped. Epidemiologist estimate >60% of China and 10% of Earth’s population likely infected over next 90 days,” said epidemiologist and health economist Eric Feigl-Ding on Tuesday.

Bhutto slams `2 crore bounty on his head for anti Modi remark

New Delhi (FIB): Pakistan foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Tuesday lashed out at BJP after its party leader allegedly announced `2-crore bounty on his head over objectionable remarks he recently made against PM Narendra Modi. Zardari doubled down on his “butcher of Gujarat” comment against PM Modi and said his remarks were based on “historical fact”, but the BJP was interpreting it as a “personal insult”.

UPROAR IN PARL OVER KHARGE’S ‘CHUHA’ TAUNT

 BJP ASKS KHARGE TO APOLOGISE FOR HIS REMARKS  CONGRESS CHIEF MAINTAINS HIS STAND  DISRUPTION MARS DEBATE AGAIN

KHARGE’S ‘MOUSE’ REMARK PM MODI, CONG BOSS KHARGE ALL SMILES OVER MILLET LUNCHEON!

VP Jagdeep Dhankhar, PM Narendra Modi, LS Speaker Om Birla, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and LoP in RS Mallikarjun Kharge laugh & enjoy millet luncheon at the Parliament House, in Delhi on Tuesday. Also seen here is Kailash Choudhary. More on

IN VIEW OF RISING COVID CASES ACROSS THE GLOBE...

First India Bureau

Ashvini Yadav and Ziauddin Khan

CM Ashok Gehlot speaks to media in Alwar on Tuesday. Also seen here are Jairam Ramesh & SS Randhawa.

CM stresses that Rahul’s Bharat Jodo Yatra is getting huge public support and has shaken the NDA government GEHLOT TO VISIT DELHI ON DEC 23

C M Gehlot will visit Delhi on December 23 to take part in the meeting of all general secretaries and in-charges of Congress. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has called meeting and it is possible that Gehlot may hold a separate discussion with Rahul Gandhi and Kharge to discuss a new roadmap regarding the organisation.

Ashvini Yadav and Ziauddin Khan

Rahul Gandhi waves to his supporters with CM Ashok Gehlot, Charanjit Singh Channi, Jitendra Singh, Mumtaz Patel, Shashikant Sharma and others while leading yatra, in Alwar on Tuesday.

Ludhiana: 2 workers died and 4 others were injured in an explosion that rocked a steel factory in Doraha, Ludhiana district Tuesday, police said. The blast was reported at Great India Steel company on Rampur road. “We are checking if there was any negligence on the part of the unit owners,” said DSP.

New Delhi: A Delhi court on Tuesday sought a response from ED to a plea by actor Jacqueline Fernandez, accused in a `200 cr money laundering case also involving alleged conman Sukesh, seeking permission to travel to Bahrain to visit her mother.

LIONEL MESSI

New Delhi: Lionel Messi shared on Tuesday in an Instagram post in which he could be seen sleeping in his room at the AFA complex next to golden trophy, his post has garnered over 23 million likes. He has shared a series of pictures with trophy in course of victory.

CM Gehlot reviews aid for Bhungra victims’ families from `2L to ` 5L

VASUNDHARA RAJE ADOPTS BHUNGRA BLAST TRAGEDY

FAMILIES, PROMISES TO HELP

Jodhpur: Former Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje got emotional after visiting the site where the cylinder gas blast happened in Bhungra village and said that she would adopt all the families hurt by this tragedy. When former MLA Babu Singh Rathore told her about the tragic incident.

Raje met the family members of the deceased and paid floral tributes to the portraits of the deceased. She consoled the families of the victims and said that they are all her own. “This is such an

accident, which will never get blurred in our minds,” she said.

“Arrangements will be made for the relatives of the dead, food, accommodation, education of children and social

responsibility for the injured,” she said.

Former MLA Babu Singh Rathore, BJP minister KK Vishnoi, former ministers Meghraj Lohia, Arjun Singh Uchiyada and former district president Bhopal Singh Badla will assess the needs of the families. Former JDA President Mahendra Singh Rathore, and MLA Hamir Singh Bhayal were also present with Raje.

After this, she reached Mahatma Gandhi Hospital and inquired about the well-being of those undergoing treatment there.

—Rajiv Gaur

Poonia first to meet Salumbar’s Baba Magra villagers

First India Bureau

PHASE

First India Bureau

Jaipur: Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has increased the assistance amount for the families of Bhungra gas cylinder accident from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 5 lakh from Chief Minister’s Relief Fund. The decision was taken keeping in mind the economic condition of the victims families on the recommendation of the Jodhpur district admin.

Gehlot has given instructions to provide employment on contract to the victims’ families.

Divisional Commissioner, Jodhpur has been appointed as Inquiry Officer for the accident that took place on October 8 in Kirti Nagar and December 8 in Bhungra village. The investigation report will be submitted to the state government within a month after gathering information on all as-

pects from the gas agencies, district administration officials and the family of the deceased. The investigating officers will also give their suggestions to prevent recurrence of such incidents in future.

The CM during his visit to Jodhpur on December 9 met the victims and had announced Rs 5 lakh per family under the Chief Minister Chiranjeevi Accidental Insurance Scheme.

SACHIN PILOT MEETS VICTIMS’ FAMILIES IN JODHPUR

Sachin Pilot, former president of Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee visited Bhungra village of Shergarh on Tuesday during his stay in Jodhpur to console the families of the deceased in the gas cylinder blast case. After paying tribute, Pilot reached Jodhpur and after knowing the condition of the patient in Mahatma Gandhi Hospital, consoled the family members.

GSS slams Congress govt for overspending

Bhanwar S Charan

Kota: Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Tuesday took part in the oath-taking ceremony of the student union of the government college in Kota. While addressing the gathering, the union minister targeted the state government’s overspending crores of rupees in the name of the beautification of the city. “With whom

are the governments cheating? With the students or with the future of the country. Because there is no place for the students to sit in the colleges. It is not the job of the student union president to build a college building. It is the work of the administration, local MLA, and MP,” said Shekhawat. “I have heard that there is no room for the students to sit in the college of Kota. I think there cannot be a bigger scam than this. It is unfortunate if money is spent unnecessarily in the name of beauty in a city,” he added.

Jaipur: BJP state president Satish Poonia has been addressing public meetings under the public relations campaign of Jan Aakrosh Yatra. Poonia reached Baba Magra, a village on the island of Jaisamand Lake in Salumbar by boat. The people in this village are still deprived of basic amenities. Poonia said that he felt happy when the villagers told that after Independence, it was for the first time that the state president of a party had come here.

Poonia said that after reaching there, he listened to the problems

JDA Secretary suspends two officials

Abhishek Shrivastava

Jaipur: JDA administration took major action on the basis of a preliminary investigation in the matter of issuing JDA lease on a park land. Administrative Officer of Zone 5 Abdul Rashid and Junior engineer Rajendra Prasad Meena were suspended. Retired Tehsildar Omprakash Sharma and Urban planner Surendra Singh were re-

moved with immediate effect.

Besides, the JDA administration has also issued orders that Om-

prakash Sharma and Surendra Singh should not be posted in any JDA cell in the future. A showcause notice will be

47 ACB officers to be honoured with DG Disc

First India Bureau

Jaipur: The first Director General Disc felicitation ceremony will be organized on December 22nd at 10 am in the Anti-Corruption Bureau Headquarters premises.

In the felicitation ceremony, 47 officers and employees of Rajasthan ACB will be honoured with Director General Disc (DG Disc) and citation. On this occasion,

General ACB

Saini will honour the select 47 police and other services

officers and employees by giving them DG discs and citations.

Giving information, Director General ACB said that Thursday’s felicitation ceremony will see 20 RPS, four police inspectors, one subinspector, one head constable, 11 constables being honoured with DG disc and 10 officers and employees of other services will be honoured with DG citation.

Univs should focus on innovation: Guv

Udaipur: Governor Kalraj Mishra on Tuesday said that universities should become conductors of innovations in education.

“In today’s era, there is a need to bring innovation in education so that enthusiasm can be awakened in the students towards the subject being taught and students can feel the transmission of new consciousness while

studying,” he said.

Mishra was addressing the 30th Convoca -

tion of Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur in which he

gave 107 gold medals and 187 PhD degrees. Indian Paralympics

player Devendra Jhajharia and erstwhile royal family member Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar were conferred with the honorary degree of Doctor of Literature (D.Litt).

The Governor said that information and knowledge is important but it makes a person more mechanical. “Intellectually rich knowledge will not be of importance until it is transmitted sensitively,” he said.

given to the then Deputy Commissioner Mansingh Meena of Zone 5. The matter of Ayuwan Singh Nagar came

The Jan Akrosh Yatra is in its second phase and public outrage meetings are being organized. Poonia will address Jan Aakrosh Sabha at Kushalgarh

of the people and talked to the district head and the regional MLA and tried to find a solution.

The Jan Akrosh Yatra is in its second phase. Poonia will address Jan Aakrosh Sabha at Kushalgarh and Banswara district headquarters today.

DIPR ‘Sujas’ mobile app to boost presence on social media

Dr Rituraj Sharma

to the fore in Durgapura. JDA

Court accepts bail application of Saini

First India Bureau

Jaipur: A local court has accepted the bail application of Nawalgarh’s Praveen Kumar Saini who was arrested in connection with gold smuggling from the gulf country.

Justice Narendra Singh Dhaddha issued an order to release Saini on bail. He was arrested by customs on August 30 at Jaipur airport.

Advocates AK Jain,

Aditya Jain, Neha Gyamlani, and Bhavya Golecha argued in the case. They said that there is no evidence in the file of the case related to the smuggling of gold worth Rs 1 crore.

Jaipur: The Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) has launched ‘Sujas’ mobile application on the completion of four years of the Gehlot govt to boost its presence on social media. The mobile application is being showcased at the exhibition in Jawahar Kala Kendra.

Additional Director of Sujas, Arun Joshi informed that people can get all information about govt schemes through this Sujas mobile application. “The mobile application is being showcased in the exhibition that has been organised on the completion of four years of Gehlot government. More than 1500 people have even downloaded this application and are taking detailed information about various schemes of the government,” said Additional Director Arun Joshi.

Tonk Road to be named after Late Bhairon Singh Shekhawat

First India Bureau

Jaipur: Puneet Karnawat, Deputy Mayor of Municipal Corporation Greater, Jaipur said that Tonk Road will be named after former Vice President Late Bhairon Singh Shekhawat. He said that to keep the memory of Bhairon Singh Shekhawat alive, Tonk Road should be renamed as Bhairon Singh Shekhawat Marg/Road from Ajmeri Gate to Municipal Corporation limits.

Karnawat said that Shekhawat was not only the CM of Rajasthan three times, but he also became the first Rajasthani to reach the post of Vice President.

In this regard, earlier also on October 17, 2021, he had written a note sheet to the mayor to bring this proposal in the meeting of the executive committee.

Satish Poonia visited Baba Magra, a village on the island of Jaisamand Lake in Salumbar by boat on Tuesday.

JAN AKROSH YATRA IN SECOND

and Banswara district headquarters today. He also addressed a huge gathering at Lasadia in Dhariyavad today.

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat at oath-taking ceremony of the student union in Kota on Tuesday.

He targets State govt’s overspending in the name of beautification of city

had issued six leases on the park land in connivance with the land mafia.

JDA DEMOLISHES ILLEGAL FLATS IN RAMNAGAR AREA OF SODALA IN JAIPUR In a major action by the JDA’s enforcement squad, illegal flats were demolished in the Ramnagar area of Sodala in the city. The construction was being done at plot number 51 and 51A located on Shiv Path. There were flats constructed on five floors in 333.33 square yards. Among these, the illegal construction of 16 flats was being done. In an earlier action, the enforcement squad had seized the construction material, etc. Despite this action, the builder continued the construction work. Thus, the demolition of the flats was done on Tuesday.

Director

Bhagwan Lal

—FILE PHOTO

Ravi Sharma

Governor Kalraj Mishra addressing the 30th Convocation of Mohanlal Sukhadia University in Udaipur.

TRIANGULAR FIGHT FOR PREZ POST AS FILING OF NOMINATIONS BEGINS

VAIBHAV GEHLOT FILES NOMINATION FOR PREZ POST

TTE booked for molesting German girl in moving train

First India Bureau

Naresh Sharma

Jaipur: As the process of election of Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA) started, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot’s son Vaibhav Gehlot reached the SMS Stadium with his daughter on Tuesday and once again filed nomination for the post of the association’s president. A total of 17 nominations were filed for six posts.

Mukesh Shah for the post of President, Mukesh Shah for Vice-President, Vinod Saran for

Treasurer, Arun Singh for Executive Member, Shatrughan Tiwari for Joint Secretary and RS Nandu for Secretary have been nominated from Rajendra Singh

Nandu group. Interestingly, Giriraj Sanadhya has also filed for the post of president.

Talking to reporters after filing nomination, Sanadhya listed his

Seasonal diseases on rise in Raj, SMS witnesses rush of patients

Sharma

Jaipur: With the change in weather during winter season, cases of seasonal diseases have taken a steep rise these days.

The Outdoor Patient Department (OPD) of SMS hospital is witnessing a huge rush of patients with complaints related to cold, cough, fever, dengue, malaria, chikungunya, and scrub typhus.

Following the sudden rise in seasonal diseases, the medical

SWINE FLU

department has issued an alert regarding monitoring and screening of people.

Sources informed that OPD and IPD services of government and private hospitals were filled up to capacity and the number of patients with seasonal diseases are

Year Cases Deaths 2022 363 11 2021 20 1

Symptoms of Swine Flu: Cough, cold, fever, difficulty in breathing, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, blue textured nails, blood in mucus for three to four days are the most common symptoms of Swine Flu.

Prevention of swine flu: Avoid going to crowded places, if any symptoms are seen, consult a doctor immediately.

SCRUB TYPHUS

Year Cases Deaths 2022 1856 27 2021 1997 6

Symptoms of Scrub Typhus: Sudden fever after cold, headache, rash over the body, burning sensation in the eyes, muscle pain and dry cough.

Prevention of Scrub Typhus: This disease is spread by bite of mites or fleas. It is necessary to wear full sleeve clothes while working in the fields and apply insect repellent cream on the skin. Do not allow rats to be around because those insects live on the body of rats, through which the scrub typhus bacteria spread.

DENGUE

increasing each passing day.

The medical department is claiming that strict monitoring is being done and the situation is under control. However, the situation in the hospitals is painting a different picture and patients are forced to run from pillar to post to get treatment. Experts believe that this year the number of seasonal diseases was almost the same reported during the same period last year.

Year Cases Deaths 2022 12310 9 2021 20141 62

Symptoms of dengue: Sudden onset of fever, severe pain in the front of the head, pain behind the eyes and movement of the eyes, pain in the muscles and joints, loss of taste and loss of appetite.

Prevention of Dengue: Do not allow mosquitoes to grow in the house and do not allow water to collect at any place.

achievements in the last three years and said, “International cricket matches are being organised in Rajasthan again. Soon, the state will get two new stadi-

Jaipur: Congress leader Vaibhav Gehlot on Tuesday filed his nomination for the post of president of the RCA. Before filing the nomination, Vaibhav Gehlot visited a few temples in the city and offered prayers.

Vaibhav Gehlot visited Moti Doongri Ganesh Temple and Kale Hanuman Ji Temple located in Chandi Ki Taksal.

ums and better facilities will be available to the players here. I hope that all the district associations will cooperate with us in giving a push to state cricket.”

Jaipur: A 25-year-old woman hailing from Germany was allegedly molested by a Travelling Ticket Examiner (TTE) in a moving train, police said.

Police informed TTE Vishal Singh Shekhawat has been booked for allegedly molesting the woman on the pretext of giving her an AC berth.

“The incident occurred on December 13 while the victim was traveling on a general ticket from Pushkar to Jaipur. The accused TTE took the victim towards the AC compartment and sexually harrassed her on the pretext of giving her an AC berth. A case has been filed and the case will be further investigated,” police added.

First India Bureau

Jaipur: Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Tuesday handed over cheques worth Rs 50 lakh each to the wives of two patwaris who passed away after being infected with coronavirus during the pandemic. The State Government, during the pandemic, had announced exgratia for public servants who pass

Seven die in separate road accidents

Three in Ajmer’s Kishangarh, two in Chomu, and two in Dudu

First India Bureau

Ajmer/ Jaipur: Seven people were killed in separate road accidents in Ajmer, Chomu, and Jaipur, police said on Tuesday.

Three youths were crushed to death by a speeding truck in Kishangarh town of Ajmer district on Monday night. Police informed that two of them died on the spot while one succumbed to injuries dur-

35-yr-old woman gangraped in Muhana area

First India Bureau

Jaipur: A 35-year-old woman was allegedly gangraped by two unidentified men in Muhana area of Jaipur on Tuesday.

The incident occurred early in the morning when she had ventured out to relieve herself near her house.

ing treatment.

“The deceased has been identified as Harish Chandra (41), Mohammad Irdhis (24) and Dinesh Nath (19). The youths were crossing the road after meeting a friend. Suddenly, a speeding truck ran over them killing Dinesh and Harish on the spot. Mohammad Irsdhis was rushed to JLN Hospital in Ajmer, but he too succumbed to injuries during treatment on Tues-

day,” police said.

In Chomu, two people were killed when a Fortuner car collided headon with an overloaded truck. Police informed the deceased has been identified as Shubhkaran and Mahendra,

both residents of Khandela town in Sikar.

Meanwhile, two people were killed in Dudu town of Jaipur district on Monday night after pickup van rammed into a motorcycle. Police informed that a man and her niece were heading towards Palu Kalan Village on a motorcycle when a speeding pick up van hit them at NarenaRupangarh Marg.

“The incident occurred near Mammana Toll. The bodies were handed-over to family members after the postmortem,” police said.

Patwaris

MALARIA

Year Cases Deaths 2022 1508 00 2021 925 00

Symptoms of malaria: Fever, sweating, body ache and vomiting

Malaria Prevention: Do not allow dirt and water to collect around you. Immediately consult a doctor as soon as symptoms like fever appear.

Police said that the woman, a mother of three kids, went to a secluded place outside her house to relieve at around 5 am when the accused caught her. One of the accused stuffed a cloth in her mouth and the other raped her.

Nagrik co-op society office sealed by team

Abhishek Shrivastava

Jaipur: Joint teams of JDA, cooperative department and police conducted raids on the premises of housing cooperative societies in the matter of settling illegal colonies.

The action was led by deputy registrar (city) Deshraj Yadav on the premises of Sirsili housing cooperative society, Navbharat housing cooperative

EXPERTS ON KOTA SUICIDES

society, Om Shiv housing cooperative society and Nagrik cooperative society.

During the raids, office bearers of Nagrik cooperative societies ran away following which the office of the committee was sealed.

The teams also seized new and old leases, slips, agreements etc.

First India Bureau

Jaipur: The Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI) has tightened it’s noose against real estate developers for evading ITC, GST and CGST in their transactions.

The DGGI scrutinised the records of real estate developers and found grave irregularities in their GST and CGST transactions.

The tax evasion is leading to revenue loss to both state and central

away due to corona while serving. Late Sanit Kumar (Neemrana, Alwar) and Late Rameshwar Dayal Meena (Raini, Alwar) were working on the post of Patwari and the officials got infected with Covid-19 while on duty. As a result Sanit Kumar died on May 9, 2021 and Rameshwar Dayal Meena on May 16, 2021 during treatment.

Jaipur (PTI): The viceprincipal of a government college was allegedly caught in an inebriated state in Sriganganagar on Tuesday, police said. The vice-principal, identified as Ashok Meena, is seen being manhandled and thrown out of the college by some students in a purported video that went viral on social media. Anupgarh PS SHO said, “Students, after finding Meena drunk, pushed him outside the college and then took him to a hospital.”

government. The DGGI drew the attention of builders towards seven important points and observed different GST rates in residential and affordable houses.

‘Fear of ‘aftermath’, not failure pushes students to end lives’

lll

The number of suicides by coaching centre students stood at 18 in 2019 and 20 in 2020.

However, no student suicide was reported in COVID-hit ‘2021’

Kota (PTI): Lakhs of students come to Rajasthan’s coaching hub Kota every year with dreams of getting into some of the country’s most prestigious colleges but many soon find themselves bogged down by hectic routines, peer pressure and the burden of expectations, according to experts.

It’s not the fear of failing an exam but its “aftermath” — insult and humiliation — which pushes them to end their

lives, the experts said.

The recent suicides of three students preparing for competitive exams here have triggered a fresh debate

over the factors that prompt students to take the extreme step. Students often find it harder to cope with the emotional stress rather

than that of studies, Dr Harish Sharma, principal psychologist at Allen Career Institute here told PTI.

“Academics-related stress among students is not as high as emotional stress. The students are not actually afraid of failing an exam but of its aftermath — insult and humiliation. So they prefer to go into escapist mode,” he said.

The burden of expectations of others clubbed with that of their own

expectations is often what demotivates students, Sharma said.

“The parenting style is the same as it was in the 1970s, while the child has a modern brain of 2022 and demands a scientific explanation for whatever he is asked to do. At times, parents make their child do something that he or she may not want to do. The burden of expectations of others as well as their own demotivates chil-

dren,” he said.

Back-to-back lectures, test series, a constant race to outdo one’s peers and trying to keep pace with the curriculum — this is what the average day of a student studying in a Kota coaching centre looks like.

Amid this tight schedule, many students watch web series to catch a breather but often don’t know when to stop, causing them to lag behind in their studies, Sharma said.

First India Bureau

Jaipur: Vivek Sharma was elected as President and Gajraj Singh Rajawat as General Secretary in the election of the District Advocates Bar Association, Jaipur.

Vivek Sharma defeated the outgoing President Dr Sunil Sharma by 134 votes.

In the election held on Monday, 1,418 lawyers out of 1,558 cast their votes in which Vivek Sharma got 771 and Dr Sunil got 637 votes.

CM hands over cheques worth `50L to wives of Covid-deceased

JDA, Co-op Dept, and police jointly raid premises of housing cooperative societies

Vaibhav Gehlot to take on Mukesh Shah, Giriraj Sanadhya in race for RCA chief

Vaibhav Gehlot along with daughter Kashwini Gehlot and RCA Secretary Mahendra Sharma submits nomination papers to Sunil Arora in Jaipur. Former IAS TR Meena was also present. (Inset) Vaibhav Gehlot with his family members before filing nomination papers. —PHOTO BY SANTOSH SHARMA

Front part of the SUV damaged after collision with a truck.

Wives of two Patwaris, died due to Covid-19, receive cheques from Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Tuesday.

DGGI to take action against real estate developers for tax evasion

Vice-principal of Govt college caught in inebriated state

Vivek Sharma new Prez, Rajawat GS of Dist Adv Bar Assn

—PICTURE FOR REPRESENTATIONAL PURPOSE

Vikas

AMID CHILL, POLITICAL

‘BONFIRES’ KEEP HEAT ON…

ROBIN ROY The writer is Senior Journalist and former Managing Editor, First India

Winter has finally set in with all the festivals and fairs being inaugurated. But amid the goodwill gestures and the comfortable settings, politics is continuing unabated albeit in a veiled manner. While we look back to see what all happened in the political arena, it is now all quiet on the rajneeti front… as 2022 almost comes to an end. This year ended on a political high with three major elections being held… the Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh Assembly elections and the Delhi MCD polls.

THE OUTCOME IS KNOWN TO ONE AND ALL. NOW IT’S ALPVIRAM AS THEY SAY…

In 2023, five states will go to polls and before that the political lull is much-required. We take a look at how despite the festive season and chill around, the embers of the political yagna keep ticking…

In the past one week, the 28th edition of Kolkata International Film Festival was inaugurated in Kolkata where in a very generic way, dignitaries expressed themselves. Also in Parliament, the Mahua Moitra and Nirmala Sitharaman verbal chit-chat generated some heat in this winter.

WE SHALL FOLLOW THE BYTES AT BOTH THE OCCASIONS…

Speaking during the inauguration of the Kolkata International Film Festival at the Netaji indoor Stadium, West Bengal Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, on December 15 asserted that the state always fights for humanity, unity and integrity and does not bow down to anyone on these issues. She went on to say, “Bengal has been fighting for unity, humanity, diversity and integrity. This struggle will go on,” she said.

To keep the Winter session of Parl warm and politically relevant, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had on Wednesday slammed TMC led WB govt and said that it is not about whose hands the ‘matchbox’ is but how it is used. While hitting back at TMC’s Mahua Moitra’s remarks in Parl, Sitharaman said that Centre used ‘matchbox’ to bring light to the lives of people, whereas in Bengal, it was used for arson

“Besharam Rang,” the hashtag “Boycott Pathaan” has been trending on Twitter. People on social media are criticising SRK and Deepika Padukone’s green and saffron costumes in the song.

The Opposition lashed out at the government pointing to its effort to obtain gross supplementary expenditure for the 2022-23 grants worth around `4.36 lakh crores for the current fiscal. The additional requirements include net cash outgo aggregating to over `3.25 lakh crores and gross additional expenditure, matched by enhanced receipts aggregating to over `1.10 lakh crores

What was indirectly seen as a precursor to the pre-release bash of his film Pathaan, Shah Rukh Khan was also present at the Kolkata International Film Festival. During his speech at the event, SRK, who is eagerly anticipating the release of Pathaan, touched upon the negative impacts of social media and the negative energy that spreads in society through social media platforms. Since the release of Pathaan’s song

PROHIBITION PAIN IN NITISH’S BIHAR

Without referencing Pathaan, Shah Rukh talked about the “narrowness of view” on social media and even questioned those with a pessimistic outlook. “Cinema and advent of articulation through social media platforms have now become the foremost expression of human emotions and experience. The collective narrative of our times is shaped by social media and contrary to the belief that the spread of social media will affect the cinema

negatively, I believe cinema has an even more important role to play now.” SRK said.

Moreover, while responding to the ‘#BoycottPathaan’ trend against his film, SRK said, “I have no objection in saying that whatever the world says, I, you and all positive people are (Zinda Hai) alive.” His final ‘zinda hain,’ conveyed in the style of his Pathaan character, drew applause from the huge crowd gathered there.

HEAT ON IN PARLIAMENT

To keep the Winter session of Parliament warm and politically relevant, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had Wednesday

slammed the Trinamool Congress (TMC) led West Bengal government and said that it is not about whose hands the ‘matchbox’ is but how it is used. While hitting back at TMC’s Mahua Moitra’s remarks in Parliament, Sitharaman said that the central government used ‘matchbox’ to bring light to the lives of people, whereas in Bengal, it was used for arson.

Smarting under Mahua Moitra’s attack on the Centre, Sitharaman hit back, saying “maachis” of people’s mandate given to Mamata Banerjee’s party led to arson and loot in the state post election victory.

“Recently, the BJP had a fantastic victory in Gujarat. Post-election, the elected government came to power peacefully and was sworn-in. Now, compare it with what happened in West Bengal, post-elections. Now, who used the matchbox and how, is the question,” Sitharaman said.

“When we had the so-called matchbox, we gave Ujjwala Yojana, Ujala, PM Kisan, launched Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, but when you (TMC) got the matchbox, there was arson, rape, violence in Bengal post elections. Houses of BJP workers were set ablaze. A central minister was attacked,” she added.

Earlier, known for her fiery speeches, Moitra had heavily criticised the government for its assertions of economic progress. The choice of her words, jibe and the scathing attack was backed by data and included the taunt “Who is Pappu now”. The counterpoint by the Finance Minister was equably loquacious, hitting back to “Search Pappu in her backyard”.

The Opposition lashed out at the government pointing to its effort to obtain gross supplementary expenditure for the 2022-23 grants worth around Rs 4.36 lakh crores for the current fiscal. The additional requirements include net cash outgo aggregating to over Rs 3.25 lakh crores and gross additional expenditure, matched by enhanced receipts aggregating to over Rs 1.10 lakh crores.

However, before the action starts in 2023, politicians seemingly will all take a break as we all hope that Santa Claus will have enough gifts for all… especially for the ones who remained deprived in 2022 and for those who were robbed of their rights in 2022.

Merry Christmas to All!

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHOR ARE PERSONAL

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s prohibition policy is far from successful but he is not the one to backtrack. With a thriving black-market his social reform idea is getting defeated. The demand of alcohol lovers is being clandestinely met, albeit at a price. Those who do not have access to proper liquor go in for its spurious version, which is easily available but has more often turned out to be a lethal potion. According to a report, the state witnessed over 200 hooch deaths between 2016 and 2021 and there is a rise in prohibitionlinked corruption. At the same time the prohibition policy has led to a sharp fall in the state’s revenue.

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar’s prohibition policy is far from successful but he is not the one to backtrack. With a thriving black-market his social reform idea is getting defeated. The demand of alcohol lovers is being clandestinely met, albeit at a price

Nitish Kumar would do well to take a lesson from his counterpart in Uttar Pradesh - Yogi Adityanath. The revenue from excise in UP has been constantly rising over the years. In 2019 the excise

revenue jumped 38 percent to Rs 24,000 crore under a new excise policy which made online bidding mandatory to get rid of cartels. Its excise policy for 2021-22 envisages making safe country-liquor available to those who love it. The government expects a jump of Rs 6,000 crore in excise revenue, a significant amount for the state.

It is not that hooch deaths have not taken place in UP under BJP rule but the government has taken swift and effective action to keep hooch makers in check. With country-made and foreign-made liquor easily available there is no corruption, which also does a lot of good. Bihar should persist with prohibition only if it has other revenue-generating sources.

IN-DEPTH

BILAWAL, MARRI SHOWED THE TRUE CHARACTER OF PAKISTAN

Pakistan won’t change its stripes was made clear by its Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari with his harsh, unwarranted and “uncivilised” comments against Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a UN meeting. The External Affairs Ministry said that Bhutto’s comments “mark a new low even for Pakistan”. After India’s strong retaliation, Pakistan People’s Party leader Shazia Marri threatened, “India should not forget that Pakistan has an atom bomb. Our nuclear status is not meant to remain silent. We will not back down if the need arises.” This war-mongering was totally unexpected but is in tune with Pakistan’s true character.

Before pointing at India, Pakistan should recall its own record in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) which seceded after years of atrocities and human rights violations. As for Marri’s threat of a nuclear war it is her naivety that has been exposed. Marri forgot the historic surrender by the Pakistan army in Dhaka and former Prime Minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto promised to fight a 1000-year war with India.

SPIRITUAL SPEAK

Being deeply learned and skilled, being well trained and using well-spoken words: this is good luck.

Buddha

Best

Dharmendra Pradhan @dpradhanbjp

Magical #Millets for lunch at the Parliament. Tiny in size but ‘Mighty’ in nutrients and health. I appeal to everyone to include the goodness of millets in their daily diet. Let us also take every opportunity to enhance awareness about this magical super food. #IYM2023

l Vol 4 l Issue No. 195

l RNI NO. RAJENG/2019/77764.

Printed and published by Anita Hada Sangwan on behalf of First Express Publishers. Printed at Bhaskar Printing Press, D.B. Corp Limited, Shivdaspura, Tonk Road, Jaipur. Published at 304, 3rd Floor, City Mall, Bhagwan Das Road, C-Scheme, Jaipur-302001, Rajasthan. Phone 0141-4920504.

Editor-In-Chief: Dr Jagdeesh Chandra

Editor: Anita Hada Sangwan responsible for selection of news under the PRB Act

Amit Shah @AmitShah

wishes to all the jawans on the foundation day of Sashastra Seema Bal. To keep the borders of the country intact, there has been a golden history of courage, bravery and supreme sacrifice of the soldiers of @SSB_INDIA. The bravery, passion and dedication of the soldiers of Sashastra Seema Bal is a source of inspiration for the whole country.

Make popularising millets ‘Jan

Andolan’: PM Modi to BJP MPs

New Delhi (PTI): Good health associated with millets and sports took centre stage in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address at the BJP parliamentary party meeting here on Tuesday as he asked MPs to promote them and even joined lawmakers for a special millet lunch.

Making millets, grown by most small farmers in the country, popular amounts to serving the country, Modi told BJP MPs, according to Union minister Pralhad Joshi who briefed reporters.

This should be made a “jan andolan” (people’s movement), Joshi said while quoting the prime minister.

PM Modi noted that the UN has declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets on his government’s request as he called for making the bouquet of grains high on nutrition a popular choice of food for

PM MODI, NADDA ATTEND BJP PARLIAMENTARY PARTY MEET

New

people. With tens of thousands of foreign dele-

IN THE COURTYARD

PARSA COAL BLOCK: SC REFUSES TO STAY MINING PROJECT IN HASDEO ARANYA

New Delhi: The Supreme Court has refused to stay a coal mining project operated by the Adani Group and owned by Rajasthan Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited, in the biodiversity-rich Hasdeo forests in Chhattisgarh, saying it will not come in the way of development. The area has witnessed protracted protests by the native tribal communities over environmental concerns and the impact mining activities could have on tribal rights. A bench made it clear that pending petitions challenging land acquisition for Parsa coal block in Hasdeo Aranya forest area shall not be treated as any kind of restriction against coal mining activities.

SC REJECTS UP’S

PLEA WITH `1L COST

New Delhi: The Supreme Court has rebuked the UP govt over an inordinate delay of 1,173 days in filing a petition against a judgement of the Allahabad High Court and that too with “incorrect particulars”, saying a State litigation cannot be taken “so casually”. While rejecting the plea with a cost of Rs 1 lakh, the apex court said it has no doubt that such matters are filed in a “cursory manner” so the petitions are dismissed.

“COPS NOT NEEDED TO DO MORAL POLICING”

New Delhi: The Supreme Court has upheld the CISF’s decision to remove a constable from service after he was found guilty of demanding physical favour from a couple. The SC order came in an appeal filed by the CISF against a Gujarat High Court order that a constable named Santosh Kumar Pandey, who was dismissed from service for misconduct, should be reinstated.

UTTAR PRADESH COURT ACQUITS BJP MP IN 29-YEAR-OLD ATTEMPT TO MURDER CASE

Gonda: A local MP-MLA court here has acquitted BJP MP from Kaiserganj Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and three others in a 29-year-old case in which they were accused of attempting to murder former Uttar Pradesh minister Vinod Kumar Singh. According to the prosecution, four assailants opened fire on Vinod Kumar Singh, also known as Pandit Singh, on December 24, 1993 outside his house in the Nawabganj area here. The police filed a charge sheet after registering a case against the BJP MP, and his associates Gyan Singh, Deep Narayan Yadav and Devdutt Singh.

gates expected to attend a large number of meetings associated with the

these foodgrains

Modi, fellow MPs enjoy millet lunch in Parliament

New Delhi (ANI): PM Narendra Modi on Tuesday, along with fellow Members of Parliament, enjoyed a lunch hosted by agriculture minister Narendra Tomar to mark Millet Year 2023.

The PM was present at the event for nearly 40 minutes. Sitting alongside PM Narendra Modi while having the meal were agriculture minister Narendra Tomar, defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankar and ex-PM HD Devegowda.

BJP Parliamentarians seek Prez rule in Bihar

New Delhi (Agencies): BJP MPs from Bihar on Tuesday raised the issue of deaths due to consumption of spurious liquor in the state in Lok Sabha, seeking imposition of President’s rule there.

BJP MP and former Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad claimed during Zero Hour that post-mortem of those who have died after consuming spurious liquor in Bihar’s Chhapra, has not been done.

This, the lawmaker from Patna Sahib said, was a violation of human rights.

G-20, now being chaired by India, Modi said millets will be on the menu.

“We prepared delicacies including Roti and sweets made out of Jwar bajra and ragi. I was delighted that the Prime Minister really enjoyed his meal here,” Minister of State for agriculture Shobha Karandlaje said.

Mizoram CM expands his Cabinet, inducts 1 new face

Aizawl: Mizoram CM Zoramthanga on Tuesday expanded his cabinet by inducting a fresh face and elevating three ministers to the Cabinet rank.

Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati administered the oaths of office and secrecy to K. Lalrinliana, Lalchhandama Ralte, Lalruatkima and Lalrinawma.

Lalrinawma, who resigned as Deputy Speaker of Mizoram Assembly last week, is the new inductee while the

three other ministers were Ministers of State earlier. Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister Tawnluia, their cabinet

Cong stages walkout in Gujarat Assembly

Gandhinagar (Agencies): Congress MLAs staged walkout from the Gujarat Assembly in protest on Tuesday. They alleged that the ruling party was abusing power, not following the procedures and snatching away the rights of the opposition members. Senior Congress leader Arjun Modhwadia while addressing the media

The Congress MLAs staging a walkout on Tuesday.

said, “It is unfortunate that on the first day of the Assembly session, we have to stage a walkout in protest.”

JIO TRUE 5G IN KERALA

Pressure mounts on BJP to expand

K’taka cabinet

Bengaluru (Agencies): The pressure is mounting on the ruling BJP in Karnataka to expand the cabinet ahead of the Assembly elections which is less than four months away. Senior leaders, Ramesh Jarkiholi and K.S. Eshwarappa, have stayed away from the ongoing 10-day winter session being held in Belagavi Suvarna Vidhana Soudha.

CM Vijayan inaugurates Jio True 5G

lll

Trivandrum will be followed by Thrissur, Kozhikode and Malappuram by Jan 2023. By Dec 2023 every tehsil and taluk of Kerala will have Jio’s 5G services

First India Bureau

Mumbai: Jio starts its True 5G services in Kerala by launching its 5G services in Kochi City and Guruvayur Temple premises. The Honourable Chief Minister of Kerala, Pinarayi Vijayan launched Jio True 5G and Jio True 5G Powered Wi-Fi services today, digitally from Trivandrum, for an event organised in Kochi. Jio demonstrated the immersive benefits

of 5G in the field of healthcare, through Jio Community Clinic medical kit, and the revolu-

tionary AR-VR device, Jio Glass. These benefits will bring transformational changes in the

lives of people in Kerala. Speaking at the event, Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan said “I am happy to launch Jio’s True 5G services in Kerala. 5G services in the long run will bring transformational benefits for people of Kerala. Jio has invested over Rs.6000 crores for deploying the 5G network in Kerala and this shows their commitment towards our State. They will be launching 5G services in Trivandrum by this month end.”

Prasad demanded that the teams of National Human Rights Commission and National Commission for Protection of Child Rights should visit Chhapra as many of the dead are minors.

Amid protests by

MP Minister retaliates to Congress MLA

Gwalior (ANI): MP Minister Usha Thakur has retaliated to Congress MLA Arif Masood for his Saraswati Shishu Mandir remark. Late Monday, Thakur said, “There is no objection, get the Shishu Mandir checked. Shishu Mandir gives an intense initiation to patriotism and Sanatan culture. It was hours after, Masood said that the govt should clarify “which literature had been found wrong and where” following order of scrutiny of madrasas.

JDU members, BJP MP from Maharajganj Janardan Singh Sigriwal and LJP MP from Jamui Chirag Paswan alleged that the Bihar government is trying to hide facts about the tragedy.

Paswan said that the tally of Chhapra hooch tragedy has been rising on a daily basis and the state government has failed to take action against

the perpetrators. He demanded imposition of President’s rule in the state.

Both Bihar BJP MPs and JDU members raised slogans against each other in Lok Sabha.

More than 70 persons have died in Chhapra hooch tragedy. The JDU-RJDCongress Grand Alliance government is in power in Bihar.

not same Cong, now it is Italian Cong: BJP

New Delhi (PTI): The BJP claimed on Tuesday that the current Congress is not the “original” one but “Italian Congress” as it hit back at the opposition party on its president Mallikarjun Kharge’s jibe that while his party helped the country get independence, the ruling party did not lose even a “dog” for the nation.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi expressed his party’s strong condemnation of Kharge’s comments and claimed that the opposi-

tion party was wrong in claiming the legacy of the freedom movement as Mahatma Gandhi had said after independence that the Congress should be disbanded.

Not aware if Cong rebels were promised positions: CT Ravi

Panaji: Stating that he is not aware whether any posts were promised to eight rebel Congress MLAs, BJP’s Goa desk in-charge CT Ravi on Tuesday said that the CM, not him, has the power to reshuffle cabinet. He was addressing the media after attending the core committee meeting of the BJP, here. “You are asking the right question to the

OPPOSITION IN GOA DEMANDS

RELAXATION IN BAN ON

“Authorities

wrong person about reshuffle. I am not aware if they (8 MLAs who

joined BJP) were promised any post while joining BJP,” Ravi said.

Rahul Gandhi to interact with farmers in Haryana today, says Jairam Ramesh

Alwar (FIB): The Congress general secretary, communications Jairam Ramesh on Tuesday said that Rahul Gandhi will have interactions with ex-servicemen in Haryana on Wednesday and with farmers and farmers’ organisations on Friday.

Gandhi, with other leaders and party supporters, will reach Delhi on December 24 for a nine-day break.

During this, ‘Bharat Yatris’ will go home in

their respective states, including Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra, Assam and Manipur, and nearly 70 containers that are

yatra will go for maintenance and for making necessary arrangements in them in view of the cold.

At a special millet lunch, PM asks the Parliamentarians to promote

VP Jagdeep Dhankhar with PM Narendra Modi, LS Speaker Om Birla, Oppn leader in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge and Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar (back) during the millet luncheon, at Parliament House, in New Delhi on Tuesday. —PHOTO BY ANI

Delhi: The BJP parliamentary party meeting began with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, other top BJP leaders and party MPs participating, in the national capital. Prominent party leaders included national president JP

Nadda, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar,

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal and V Muraleedharan. Gujarat BJP chief CR Paatil organised a dinner to celebrate the party’s biggest victory in the recently held assembly polls in the state.

Bihar Assembly Oppn leader Vijay Kumar Sinha with Leader of the Opposition in Legislative Council Samrat Chaudhary at a presser, in Patna on Tuesday. —PHOTO BY ANI

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan at the launch of Jio True 5G services.

colleagues, Mizoram Assembly Speaker Lalrinliana Sailo, a host of dignitaries and senior officials were present.

Mizoram CM Zoramthanga with the ministers on Tuesday.

It’s

LOUD MUSIC

Panaji: Goa’s Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao on Tuesday demanded relaxation in the ban on loud music during festivals in the coastal state.

harass our local traditional organisers but give full liberty to for-

eigners for rave parties,” Alemao alleged. Obeying the High Court’s direction, Goa police have started to act against those playing loud music after 10 p.m. Thus the weddings and other cultural programs are stopped after 10 p.m.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi speaks to media.

moving with the

Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh. —FILE PHOTO

HAVEN’T ENUMERATED CASTE CENSUS: MHA

New Delhi (ANI): The Home Affairs Ministry (MHA) on Tuesday said the Govt of India has not enumerated the caste-wise population other than Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) in Census since independence.

Members of Parliament have asked questions on the present status of the proposed 2021 Census and asked whether the Govt is considering to conduct caste and sub-caste including the synonymsbased census in the proposed census.

Responding to the questions, Minister of State (Home Affairs) Nityanand Rai said that the intent of the Government to conduct Census 2021 was notified in the Gazette of India on March 28, 2019.

“Due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Census 2021 and the related field activities have been postponed until further orders,” he said.

On being asked the details of the funds likely to be spent on the proposed census, he said that the Government has approved Rs 8754.23 crore for the exercise of Census of India 2021.

CRUCIAL READ

GIRL MARRIES HER ‘KIDNAPPER’

Hyderabad: The kidnapping of a 18-year-old girl from Telangana’s Rajanna Sircilla district took a twist with the girl now releasing a video of her marriage with the boyfriend who “kidnapped” her. Shamili stated that she was not kidnapped but at her request, her boyfriend Gnaneswar took her from home as her parents were trying to marry her off to some other man.

VIOLENCE

The incidents of Naxal violence have reduced by 77 percent from the high of 2,213 in 2010 to 509 in 2021, Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai said in Lok Sabha on Tuesday. Similarly, resultant deaths (civilians and security forces) have reduced by 85 percent from the high of 1,005 in 2010 to 147 in 2021, Rai said, adding that the declining trend continues in 2022. “Steadfast implementation of the national policy has resulted in consistent decline in violence in Left Wing Extremism (LWE) affected areas by 77%,” he said.

864 IPS OFFICERS’ POSTS VACANT ACROSS INDIA: MHA

A total of 864 posts of Indian Police Service (IPS) officers are currently vacant across the country, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) informed the Lok Sabha on Tuesday. The vacancies in the service are caused due to factors such as retirement, resignation, death, removal of service, MoS (Home) Nityanand Rai said in a written reply.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is investigating eleven cases in which nexus between terrorists, drug smugglers and traffickers based in India and abroad have been found, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) told the Lok Sabha on Tuesday. Asked whether the government is aware of the increase in the number of cases of nexus between terrorists, drug smugglers and traffickers based in India and abroad Rai said, “NIA is investigating 11 cases in which nexus between terrorists, drug smugglers and traffickers based in India and abroad have been found.”

OUT OF OVER 18 LAKH GRIEVANCES, AS MANY AS 15,68,097 REDRESSED IN 2022: CENTRE TO PARLIAMENT

New Delhi: A total of 18,19,104 grievances were received by all Ministries and Departments of which 15,68,097 PG cases were redressed in 2022, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions stated on Tuesday. Of these 11,29,642 cases were disposed of by the Central Ministries and 4,38,455 cases were disposed by the States and UTs, the ministry said in a statement. According to the ministry, the average disposal time of Central Ministries and Departments has improved from 32 days in 2021 to 27 days in 2022. As many as 1,71,509 appeals were received of which over 80 per cent were disposed of. Over 57,000 grievances have received the rating of “excellent and very good” from the citizens in the feedback conducted by the BSNL call centre during July-November.

MP BRIJ LAL MOVES ZERO-HOUR NOTICE IN RAJYA SABHA TO DISCUSS RPG ATTACK IN PUNJAB

Recruitment of Maoist cadres: Chargesheet filed against 5

New Delhi (ANI): The NIA has filed a charge sheet against five persons in a case linked to radicalization and recruitment of youth into the Communist Party of India (Maoist).

BRS MLA

Pilot Rohith Reddy appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for a second day on Tuesday. The MLA, who was questioned for about six hours on Monday in connection with the alleged money laundering probe, told reporters, After coming out of ED office, that there was still no clarity about the case in which he was summoned.

PROBE ON AS BRIDGE BUILT OVER RIVER IN BIHAR COLLAPSES

Begusarai: An inquiry has been ordered into the collapse of a yet-to-be-inaugurated bridge in Begusarai district of Bihar, an official said on Tuesday. The bridge built over the Burhi Gandak river collapsed in the early hours of Sunday bringing the spotlight on sub-standard construction works in the state, he said. The bridge had developed cracks a few days earlier.

Eviction issue: Assam Opposition stages walkout from Assembly

Guwahati (ANI): The All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) on Tuesday walked out from the Assam assembly on the first day of its winter session. As per AIUDF MLA Aminul Islam, the Opposition AIUDF staged a walkout after the Speaker of the assembly refused to allow their demands seeking discussion on the eviction drive in various places in the state.

“AIUDF walked out from the Assam assembly after the Speaker did

not allow our demand to discuss on the issue of eviction drive by the state government in various places of the state,” Aminul Islam said.

Notably, the winter session of the Assam Legislative Assembly began on Tuesday for five days. In the session, more than 20 bills are likely to be presented.

“It will be a session of 5 days. More than 20 bills are going to be presented in the Assembly,” State Minister Pijush Hazarika said.

Mumbai (Agencies):

In a major boost to the defence capabilities of India, the fifth submarine of Project – 75, INS Vagir, was delivered to the Indian Navy on Tuesday. It is a Kalvari class submarine of Project 75, Yard 11879. Project 75 includes the indigenous construction of six

New

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Brij Lal gave Zero Hour notice in the Upper House of Parliament to discuss the Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG) attack in Punjab. A low-intensity blast was reported at the Tarn Taran Police Sanjha Kendra in Punjab on December 9, which the police said was a Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) attack. It also said that they have registered a case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. In the case, the Punjab Police on December 16 informed that they have arrested six persons, including two juveniles, for RPG attack at Police Station Sarhali building in Tarn Taran.

ED PROBING 87 MONEY LAUNDERING CASES AGAINST MPs, MLAs & MLCs IN LAST 5 YEARS: MoS CHAUDHARY

New Delhi: During the last five years, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has taken up investigation in around 87 cases under the provisions of Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA) against MPs, MLAs and MLCs (both former and sitting). Minister of State (MoS), Finance, Pankaj Chaudhary on Tuesday in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha said that during the last five years 59 Prosecution Complaints (PCs) have been filed before the Special Court (PMLA) which are at various stages of trial. The provisions of PMLA came into force with effect from July 1, 2005 and till date trial has been completed only in 36 cases by the Special Court, PMLA and the remaining 1,082 cases are at various stages of trial.

submarines of Scorpene design. INS Vagir will be soon commissioned into the Indian Navy. It was launched in November 2020 from MDL. Sea trials were commenced in February this year. Before,

The NIA filed chargesheet before a special court at Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh against the five accused — Dongari Devendra, Dubasi Swapna and Chukka Shilpa - for motivating Radha to join the Chaitanya Mahila Sangham (CMS) and subsequently radicalized and recruited her to the proscribed organization, CPI (Maoist), under the leadership of underground Maoists, RK (since deceased) Uday and Aruna.

The probe so far revealed that the accused had indeed attracted gullible young girls to the organization, CMS, under the guise of social work and depending on their dedication to the organization, such girls would be identified and sent to the proscribed organization, CPI (Maoist), the NIA said.

In a first, ASI gets water, property tax notices for Taj Mahal

Agra: In a first, the Agra Municipal Corporation has slapped a notice on the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) asking it to pay Rs 1.9 crore as water tax and Rs 1.5 lakh as property tax on the Taj Mahal, a protected monument, famous all over the world. The bills are for the financial year 2021-22 and 2022-23. ASI has been asked to clear the outstanding dues within 15 days, failing which the property (Taj Mahal) would be “at-

tached” if the tax was not cleared within the stipulated time. ASI superintendent archaeologist Raj Kumar Patel said, “property tax is not applicable on monuments. We are also not liable to pay taxes for water as there is no commercial use of it. Water is used to maintain greenery within the premises. Notices related to water and property tax for Taj Mahal have been received for the first time. It could have been sent by mistake.”

980 dancers selected for Grand Finale of Nat’l competition

500 dancers out of the finalists would perform a grand cultural show during the Republic Day 2023 on the theme of ‘Nari Shakti’

New Delhi: Ministry of Culture organised two-day National Level Competition (Grand Finale) of the Vande Bharatam Nritya Utsav 2023. The first day of the competition was held at Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium, here on Monday. The competition was organised on Tuesday and 980 dancers have been selected

for taking part in the National Level Competition (Grand Finale).

The Grand Finale also featured a special function in the evening which was graced by the august presence of Speaker, Lok Sabha Om Birla; Union Minister for Culture, Tourism and North Eastern Region GK Reddy; Minister of State for Culture

and Parliamentary affairs Arjun Ram Meghwal; Minister of state for Culture and External Affairs Meenakashi Lekhi and Minister of state for Defence Ajay Bhatt.

500 dancers chosen from the finalists would perform a grand cultural show during the Republic Day 2023 on the theme of ‘Nari Shakti’.

For this purpose a creative team of renowned choreographers, composers, writers and creative designers have been engaged to conceptualise a seamless cultural show. Vande Bharatam Nritya Utsav is the dance competition event being organised by the Ministry of Culture and Ministry of Defence.

INS Vagir, four submarines constructed under Project-75 awre already in service.

VANDE BHARATAM NRITYA UTSAV 2023

Two dancers Shradha and Aditi during a performance.

TELANGANA

BRS MLA APPEARS BEFORE ED FOR SECOND DAY

Hyderabad:

Google CEO Sundar Pichai calls on EAM Jaishankar on courtesy call. They discussed India’s digital transformation and global strategic developments.

Assam State Assembly in Guwahati.

Vagir submarine delivered to Navy

GoI has not enumerated caste-wise population other than SCs and STs in Census since Independence: Ministry in Parl

People confident that Modi govt will recover land lost to China in 1962 war: BJP MP Prataprao Patil in LS

WINTER SESSION OF PARLIAMENT

BJP

Delhi (ANI):

NAXAL

REDUCED BY 77% IN LAST 11 YEARS: GOVT TELLS LOK SABHA

NIA INVESTIGATING 11 CASES OF GANGSTERTERROR NEXUS: HOME MINISTRY TELLS LS

Longewala hero Bhairon Singh cremated with State honours

Jodhpur (PTI): Hundreds gathered to pay tribute to Bhairon Singh Rathore, a hero of the 1971 India-Pakistan war, who was cremated with full state honours in his ancestral village here on Tuesday. Rathore’s bravery in at Longewala post inspired Bollywood film “Border”, breathed his last at AIIMS here on Monday.

His mortal remains were taken to the BSF headquarters where people gathered to pay their last respects to him. Later, the mortal remains were taken to his native village, Solankiatala in Shergarh sub-division.

Former CM Vasundhara Raje, former state minister Yunus Khan and several public representatives, police and

Army personnel and exservicemen were among those who paid tribute to Rathore at BSF HQs.

Raje said that we need to take inspiration from Bhairon Singh. She said that the contribution of Bhairo Singh will always be remembered.

Rathore’s mortal remains reached his home at around 12:30 pm in a

Charter flight movement goes up at Jpr airport, 5-6 charter planes operate daily

Kashiram Choudhary

Jaipur: Tourists visiting Jaipur are at their peak these days. Flight movement had increased at Jaipur airport from the month of October itself. However, the maximum increase is seen in non-scheduled or charter flights.

According to schedule of flights at Jaipur International Airport, on an average 59 flights operate daily, but these days there is a significant increase in charter flights. The movement of non-scheduled flights started increasing from the month of

l 75 charter flights in August l 76 charter flights operated in September l In October, 141 flights

October and has further gone up in November.

Two ground handling agencies have been assigned the responsibility of handling charter flights at Jaipur air-

departed l 160 flights departed in November

l This number is likely to touch 200 in December

port. One is Air India and the other is Indo Thai.

These days, on an average, 5 to 6 charter planes operate daily from Jaipur airport.

DELHI, CHANDIGARH FLIGHTS DIVERTED TO JPR AMID FOG

D ense fog disrupted flight operations at New Delhi and Chandigarh airports on Tuesday morning. Half-adozen flights were diverted to Jaipur. Due to fog at Chandigarh airport, flights could not operate till 11 am. Flights to land at Chandigarh Airport were diverted to Jaipur. Although the nearest airport from Chandigarh is New Delhi airport, due to fog there, the landing and takeoff of flights was taking time. So, all the flights were diverted to Jaipur. Four flights to Chandigarh and two flights to New Delhi were diverted to Jaipur. These included an international cargo flight from Macau to New Delhi.

BSF vehicle and left for the cremation ground at around 2 pm, said his son Sawai Singh.

Slogans hailing Rathore rent the air as villagers joined the war veteran in his final journey. Rathore was accorded a Guard of Honour at the cremation ground, where his son lit his pyre.

First India Bureau

Sikar: The Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Tuesday evening caught two men for taking a bribe of Rs 1 lakh on behalf of the junior engineer of Khatu Nagar palika in Sikar district.

The JEN Dinesh Kumar Meena managed to escape during the action and was being searched, an ACB official said.

Deputy SP (ACB) Rajesh Kumar Jangid said that a contractor had filed a complaint against Meena that he was demanding a bribe of Rs 1.50 lakh for clearing his pending bills worth Rs 16 lakh. After verification of the complaint, a trap was laid.

Jaipur: Deepak Hooda scored a century while playing for Rajasthan in a Ranji Trophy match. He scored 133 runs in 187 balls with the help of 14 fours and a six. Owing to his century, Rajasthan scored 310 runs against Kerala for five wickets. Rajasthan’s Salman scored 62 and Yash Kothari scored 58 runs.

Jalaj Saxena, on the other hand, has been the most successful

MP Diya meets PM Modi, urges to develop new tourist circuit

First India Bureau

Jaipur : MP Diya Kumari met PM Narendra Modi on Tuesday, during the winter session of Lok Sabha. During the meeting, She urged PM Modi to develop a new tourism circuit connecting all the monuments associated with Maharana Pratap in Rajsamand Lok Sabha constituency.

She also mooted to provide insurance facility for cultivation of Chetri rose by presenting various products made from Chetri Rose of Nathdwara. Expressing gratitude to Niti Aayog for approval of

MINING SURVEY IN EVERY DISTRICT SOON

of Dr Dev Swaroop.

Jaipur : Amid controversy over his LLB degree, the Vice Chancellor of Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar University Dr Dev Swaroop has resigned. He sent the resignation to Governor Kalraj Mishra. The resignation has been accepted.

There was a dispute regarding the LLB degree

Following complaints, Raj Bhavan had formed a committee to probe the matter and examine the degree of Dr Dev Swaroop First India had published about this news prominently.

In his resignation, he requested to be relieved of service due to personal reasons. He will be relieved on Dec 26.

Jaipur: The Department of Mines will be conducting a survey in each district to ascertain the availability and reserves of mines and minerals. ACS (Mines & Petroleum) Dr Subodh Agarwal said that instructions have been given to prepare district survey reports of mines and mineral in all districts.

“After the survey re-

port, it will be presented to District Collectors, following which, it will be uploaded on the website for 21 days for feedback of the

general public. After the recommendation of the District Collector, approval can be done by the State Environment Impact As-

IN REVENUE BOARD...

sessment Authority after examination of the State Label Expert Appraisal Committee,” said ACS (Mines) Dr Subodh Agarwal.

“In this report, all the possible mineral wealth, availability and reserves of minerals available in the district can be assessed, while the possibilities of demand and supply of related minerals will also be assessed,” added Dr Agarwal.

Jaipur: A green energy corridor will be made in Rajasthan at a cost of Rs 1055 crores. For this, an MoU between Department of Energy, RVPNL and KfW (German bank) was signed here.

The MoU was signed by Salih Yildirim from KfW, RVPNL Chief Engineer S C Meena and senior deputy secy- energy department Brij Kumar

bowler for Kerala, taking two wickets.

Batting first after losing the toss, the Rajasthan team had a very bad start and four batsmen of the team had returned to the pavilion for 105 runs.

Captain Ashok Menaria failed to score while vice-captain Mahipal Lomror also got out with a low score. After this Hooda and Salman took over the innings. Both shared a 191-run partnership for the fifth wicket.

Jaipur (FIB): A PIL seeking to restrain the state govt from paying pension to Ex-MLAs will come up for hearing in Rajasthan HC on Wednesday. The PIL filed by veteran journalist MC Dandiya has stated that a total of 508 former MLAs are getting pension in Rajasthan which is putting a annual burden of Rs 25.95 cr on state govt. Advocate Vimal Chaudhary said that Article-195 of the Constitution gives the Legislative Assembly the right to decide the allowances but the constitution has not given the right to fix pensions, then why pension is being given.

Gupta in the presence of principal secy energy Bhaskar A Sawant. Under the MoU, an energy corridor will be built for transmission of green energy and lines related to 400 KV GSS in Udaipur and Hanumangarh, 220 KV GSS in Dungarpur and Dalot will be developed. KfW (German Bank) will give a loan of Rs 414 crore for the corridor. A grant of Rs 290 crore will be given.

With three RAS appointed, Govt fills vacancy to some extent!

lll

However, against a sanction 11 member strength from RAS cadre, 9 have been filled and two posts of RAS members are vacant

Jaipur : The state government has appointed three members in the Board of Revenue - Dr Rakesh Kumar Sharma, Gireesh Parashar and Mahendra Lodha - and all three are senior RAS officers. A committee under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary has made the selection.

With these appointments, the total strength of the Board has increased to sixteen mem-

bers and a chairman, while 4 posts of members, out of the sanctioned strength of 20,

are still lying vacant. Moreover, against a sanction 11 member strength from RAS cad-

re, 9 have been filled and two posts of RAS members are vacant. Similarly, of the five IAS

With these appointments, the total strength of the board has increased to 16 members and a chairman, while 4 posts, out of the sanctioned strength of 20, are still vacant

cadre members, appointment has to be done on two, while the advocate quota (4 positions) in the

board are full. Notably, the sppointment of 3 RAS officers has been done after a long time. The state government had invited applications throigh DoP for interest RAS to fill the vacant posts. But even though the DoP issue circulars twice, no one applied for the position and when the applications finally came in after the circular was issued a third time, 3 members have been selected.

Dr Girish Parashar is a 1997 batch RAS and posted as Additional Divisional Commissioner, Jaipur but he will retire in July 2023.

Mahendra Lodha is a 1999 batch RAS and currently posted as Additional Director— Ayurveda at Ajmer. He will retire in July 2026.

Rakesh Kumar Sharma is also a 1997 batch RAS and serving currently as Member, Tax Board, Ajmer. he will retire in Februray 2027.

Naresh Sharma

Mavli Marwar gauge conversion, MP Diya also requested for approval of Merta Pushkar and Ras Bilara railway lines.

Prime Minister narendra Modi also assured that all these issues will be taken up. He also provided guidance on different topics.

Rajendra Chhabra

Former Raj CM Vasundhara Raje, former state min Yunus Khan and several public representatives, police and Army personnel and ex-servicemen paid tribute to Rathore

BSF took-out a rally during the last rites of Naik Bhairon Singh, thousands of civilians and villagers also joined on Tuesday.

Rajsamand MP Diya Kumari met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday and sought his guidance on various issues.

Former CM Vasundhara Raje paying tribute to Naik Bhairon Singh. She reached BSF HQs directly from airport and then left for Bhungra.

JeN DK Meena’s middleman Magan Jat and Pooran.

Deepak Hooda playing a cracking shot against Kerala during Day 1 of Ranji Match being played at SMS Stadium, Jaipur. (Inset) Hooda walking into the middle after 3-yrs of break in Ranji.

Hooda scores hundred for Raj on Ranji Trophy return against Kerala

As controversy erupts over degree, Dr Swaroop resigns

MoU for green corridor worth `1,055 cr signed

PIL to restrain exMLAs pension to be heard today

JeN escapes trap, 2 middleman held for taking `1Lakh

STEADY INCREASE SINCE AUGUST MONTH

Nirmal Tiwari

Kashiram Choudhary

First India Bureau

ACS Mines Dr Subodh Agarwal and Director Mines Sandesh Nayak and other officials during the meeting on Tuesday.

Dr Rakesh Kumar Sharma Gireesh Parashar

Mahendra Lodha

RaGa, Dr Mayaram discuss economy in BJY

monthly foot march requisite to gain position in Congress’

Alwar: On Tuesday morning, the ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’ started from Burja village, near Bhagwan Mahavir IIT.

Despite the cold morning, a large number of local people joined the Yatra. Former Finance Secretary of India, Dr Arvind Mayaram and his wife, Shail Mayaram interacted with Rahul Gandhi while walking during the Yatra. Their discussion revolved around what kind of challenges befall the economy. Moreover, there was a suggestion to reduce the interference of State in order to eliminate corruption from various stages in governance system. Arvind cited the example that through the MSME Act brought by the Raj govt, the govt’s interference in this sector has reduced to a great extent. Similar steps need to be taken on a large scale.

In the afternoon, Rahul met with two groups. The first group mainly talked about the history and culture of Mewat. Another group talked about the effects of mining on the Aravalli. The representatives present there gave some suggestions related to education and culture in Mewat. The issue of girls’ education was particularly raised.

At the same time, many things came to the fore regarding the problem of mining in Aravalli. The issue of installation of crushers near settlements and population.

Rahul Gandhi listened to everyone seriously & requested CM

Gehlot, sitting nearby to solve the problems at the earliest. The Chief Minister said that the budget is to be declared soon & they will sit and discuss with all the representatives and try to solve the issues.

In the evening, the Yatra started from Bagad Tiraya in Alwar & ended at Ramgarh.

During this, there was a huge crowd of locals on both sides of roads.

Everyone was excited to witness the Yatra on its last day in the State.

2ND

LEADERS

Party sources said that leaders of second line will get important roles.

On Monday’s meeting with Rahul Gandhi, MLAs Divya Maderna and Danish Abrar were also present & they are now considered as the leaders of the second line of Rahul Gandhi’s team. The RaGa team has also listed some other leaders for second line.

They would get important roles in govt and party organisation in future. Young and loyal leaders will also be brought forward.

SP turned Congress

MLAs Sandeep Yadav, Wajib Ali and Lakhan Singh participated in Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatra. They also met Gandhi at the camp in Lohiya Ka Tibara. Gandhi met the MLAs and other public representatives at the camp after lunch. He also had a plan to meet the party workers. Gujarat Congress in charge and former health Minister Raghu Sharma, his son Sagar also took part in the Bharat Jodo Yatra.

Jaipur (PTI): As Rahul Gandhi-led Bharat Jodo Yatra completes its Rajasthan leg, PCC Chief Govind Singh Dotasra announced on Tuesday that it will be mandatory for all in Congress’ state unit, including ministers, MLAs & office bearers, to walk 15 kilometres once a month to connect with the people.The Yatra from Kanyakumari to Kashmir entered Congress-ruled Rajasthan, where elections are due next year, on December 5 and has covered 485 km in six districts of Jhalawar, Kota, Bundi, Sawai Madhopur, Dausa and Alwar.

The PCC president said, “If someone wants to work in the organisation, someone wants to become an MLA, someone wants to be a minister, then all of them will have to walk 15 kilometers once a month among the people in the villages. We will also ensure that.” The Congress leader said that the Bharat Jodo Yatra was “a celebration for

The government and organisation, we all will work together. We will decide on January 26 or January 27 when to start the 15-km walk once a month. It will be mandatory for every minister, legislator, worker, and people of the organisation to walk 15 kilometers once a month.

—Govind Singh Dotasra, PCC Chief

all of us as well as guidance to further strengthen and empower the party”.

Dotasra further said that the government did good work in the last four years and will continue to deliver with the same vision and plans.

FARMERS PROTEST DURING BJY, DEMAND LOAN WAIVERS

On the basis of the report, necessary decisions will be taken regarding the Congress Party’s State Unit. RaGa camp has made a plan to get the State Congress out of individualistic politics and Randhawa’s feedback

Agroup of farmers in Rajasthan’s Alwar held a protest during the Congress’s Bharat Jodo Yatra, demanding a waiver of their loans. Speaking to ANI, the farmers complained that the Rajasthan government has not fulfilled its promise of a farm loan waiver. One of the farmers said, “Rahul Gandhi promised loan waivers for the farmers, but nothing has happened.” “None of the promises were fulfilled. We are also facing water scarcity,” another farmer said. The Bharat Jodo Yatra will cover a distance of 3,570 km by next year. It is the longest march on foot by any Indian politician in the history of India, the Congress had claimed earlier.

FROM P1…

Yatra has...

“We will make these plans the basis & try to remove the shortcomings in upcoming budget. Making plans & their successful implementation are two different things. These 5 schemes have been successful.

Pawan Arora

Rajeev Gaur

Jodhpur: The closing ceremony of Housing Board Employees’ Sports Competition was organised with RHB Commissioner Pawan Arora as the Chief Guest. Chief Engineer of RHB (Jaipur-I) KC Meena presided over the event. The officers & employees of the Housing Board participated in the competition with enthusiasm.

Pawan Arora himself came to Jodhpur from Jaipur to encourage the officers & staff participating in the competi-

tions & ran in the competition, to encourage the players, officials and staff, and came out victorious. Not only this, but the RHB Commissioner also won in tug of war competition.

Addressing the event, Arora said that along with quality work, sports activities are also very important.

“Our team, which gives results in work with team spirit, is also on top in the field of sports.

Our team, which gives results in work with team spirit, is also on top in the field of sports. I am happy that all my players are playing the game with agility.

—Pawan Arora, RHB Commissioner

Housing Board has been rejuvenated and the Board is working out of the box. Work has been done on many im-

portant schemes including Chaupati and Mukhyamantri Awas Yojana. This work could n’t be possible without your cooperation. Congratulations, we will face all challenges with new energy after these games,” Arora said.

Participants were rewarded at the end.

Meanwhile, Arora also observed the construction work of Jodhpur Chaupati being built by RHB near

After the programme in Raj Bhavan, the President will go to Mount Abu and Pali. In Pali’s Rohat, she will participate in National Scout & Guide Jamboree.

The theme of social security that we have kept will continue in future too. The Raj govt will soon form a scheme for social security of workers working through apps like Ola, Uber, Swiggy, so that companies cannot do arbitrary things with them.

Rajasthan will be the first state to do so,” the CM said.

Attacking the BJP, Gehlot said, “During Corona our government helped lakhs of people. It was our effort that no one sleeps hungry. Now the SC has also given the same decision that the government should ensure that no one sleeps hungry. We will also work on the issues that have come up during the yatra. Rahul Gandhi has asked to increase the number of

English schools. We will spread a network of English medium schools all over Rajasthan,” he said.

Commenting on Yatra’s impact, Gehlot said. “This Yatra also has a message. Rahul Gandhi has been successful in delivering his message. People believe that unemployment, inflation should be reduced & that if the constitution survives, the country will survive.”

Speaking on misuse of agencies, Gehlot said, “A list is given from above where raids are to be conducted before polls. People who donate to Opposition are threatened. Today one sided game is going on. This has to be understood by country & the people. If you don’t understand, you will be in trouble. Congress has protected democracy. Cong used to run the govt based on ‘log kya kahenge’. In our time, resignations of CMs, Ministers took place, but have you ever heard about resignations in BJP govt,” he said.

Ashvini Yadav and Ziauddin Khan

Ashok Udyan. Food and drink stalls will be set up in this Chaupati. Arora took detailed information regarding the construction work and said that this work should be completed within the stipulated time & also to take special care of quality of work. He instructed officers to build the Chaupati in an attractive way so that people can get better environment and facilities.

Rahul Gandhi with Dr Arvind Mayaram and his wife Shail during the ‘Bharat JodoYatra’ in Alwar on Tuesday. Also seen here is Bhanwar Jitendra Singh and others.

Rahul is intrigued by the art of folk artistes and tries his hands at balancing and spinning a bicycle’s rim with kids during the ‘Bharat JodoYatra’ in Alwar.

A man from the crowd holds an old family photograph of the Gandhi family including Rajiv Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, Priyanka & Rahul.

Rahul Gandhi shares a light moment with the children during the ongoing Bharat Jodo Yatra in Alwar on Tuesday.

‘15-km

n RaGa listened to everyone’s problems and asked CM Gehlot to resolve them at earliest n DGP Umesh Mishra, ADG Biju G Joseph & ADG Intelligence S Sengathir successfully monitored security in BJY

B

LINE

TO GET IMPORTANT ROLES IN PARTY

LEADERS MEET RAHUL, DR RAGHU WALKS DURING YATRA

RHB Commissioner Pawan Arora being greeted with a memento by Housing Board’s staff during Sports Competition in Jodhpur.

Pawan Arora enthusiastically participates in Tug-of-War sport during the Housing Board Employees’ sports competition in Jodhpur.

Divya Maderna

Danish Abrar

I like the smiling faces of the employees & they shouldn’t have work stress:

First India Bureau

Jaipur: President Droupadi Murmu will inaugurate the Constitution Park built in the Raj Bhavan in Jaipur on January 3. Various aspects of the Constitution including the historical facts have been displayed in the park made on the initiative of the Governor Kalraj Mishra. The park made by JDA at a cost of Rs 7 crore also has the statue of Mahatma Gandhi.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi handled Rajasthan very wisely during his Bharat Jodo Yatra. Rahul understood from the feedback received during the Yatra that hasty decisions can be harmful. He has entrusted the new in-charge Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa with the task of preparing a detailed report on what future decisions have to be made in Rajasthan. Randhawa will prepare a “Progressive Report”. Party Chief Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul have asked Randhawa to prepare an unbiased report

will serve as a “milestone” in this.

RAHUL ‘SKILFULLY’ HANDLES BJY IN RAJ!

Forever Miss, Mrs and Teen 2022 witnessed a dazzling night on Sunday at Hotel Marriott, Jaipur, where ravishing models walked the ramp wearing exquisite designer collection and the best ones from each category were crowned on the occasion!

Abeautiful crowning ceremony of National level beauty pageant Forever Miss, Mrs and Teen India 2022 Season 2 powered by Forever Leaves and Forever Star India was organised at Hotel Marriott, Jaipur on Sunday. The top finalists of Miss, Mrs and Teen category from all across the globe showcased their looks and talent by walking the ramp in designer evening gowns. Despite the challenges and tough competition, it was a delight to see beautiful women come together with one common intention, “Beauty with a Purpose”. I personally believe that, these pageants really help voicing the glories and challenges of various cities, states and cultures. The self-assured responses and deeply held convictions of the models ensured that the crown belonged to them.

CEO and Founder Rajesh Aggarwal and Show Directors Jaya Chauhan and Khushi Sabu said that a total of 56 models of Miss, Mrs and Teen categories have participated in the national level crowning, which included 18 models in Miss category, 28 in Mrs and 10 in Teen.

The first crowning of this international pageant is going to happen from India. The passionate team plans to expand this pageant to 139 countries through social media platforms.

Models’ attire was presented by Forever Fashion, jewelry collection by Krishna Rawat with beautiful makeover by Chinka, Mani Arora, Jyoti Sharma, Tanya, Tanvi, Apoorva Nagar, Jaya Chopra and Reena Chowdhary. The official show choreographer of the pageant is Shailja Suri, assistant choreographer Sakshi Shekhar and ramp walk trainer Saloni Gusain. In both these pageants, the crowning of the participants has been done by the housewives of the Indian Army. All the participants have been provided with a gift hamper from Forever Leaves.

MITALI DUSAD mitalidusad01@gmail.com

CLOCKWISE: Jyoti Dubey, Manushi Parmar, Nicole Fernandez with Saloni Ranjan as she flaunts herself in western and traditional gown

Sunidhi Shashikant Khare

—PHOTOS BY MUKESH KIRADOO

(L-R) Jaya Chauhan, Ishwari, Nicole Fernandez, Manushi Parmar and Shailza Suri during the ceremony

India – A Potential Higher EDUCATION HUB

KARTIK BAJORIA cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

According to most surveys, the average cost of an American college is approximately 30,000 USD per annum. That means about 21 Lac Indian rupees, which generally doubles with stay, food and other expenses. Now we are talking about 40 lacs per year. Multiply that twice, even four times, depending on the length of one’s foreign education degree (undergraduate or postgraduate), and one is staring at this insurmountable figure well in excess of a couple of crores. This presents a huge opportunity for a country like India. an

opportunity to build our country as a new global hub for higher education.

The foundation for this is already laid. India is at the cusp of becoming that global hub.

But what more can be done? Let us explore the present situation and future steps that can pave the way for us to become the centre for higher education.

OUTBOUND NOW INBOUND

Traditionally India was not seen as a fitting option for higher education by most native students. The

However, this trend, albeit on the rise within India and among Indian students, does not reflect how India itself has emerged as a viable and attractive option for foreign nationals as a destination for their higher education. There has been, over the past decade, a transformational increase in the number of private universities within India.

ECONOMIC POWER SHIFT

The other reason for the rising foreign students influx into India (estimated at 30,000 students in 2018) is the global economic power shift. We live in an era where the established economic status-quo is being questioned.

From traditional power centres of the Americas and Europe losing some of their clout, jobs, growth rates, opportunities moving East, specifically to countries such as China and India, more and more foreign nationals are open to the idea of seeking work and settling in Asia. It will ostensibly prepare students better, with academics more aligned with local work

ethos & requirements, culturally more in sync, and present an opportunity to network in the region while still studying, expediting the jobhunt post acquiring that higher education degree.

THE ALLURE OF SPECIFIC SUBJECTS

Over time, Indians have created an enviable reputation as experts in specific areas, particularly Engineering and IT (information technology). It might sound like a cliché but the fact remains, the world over, in the most respected and largest corporations, there are scores of Indians who are in key roles when it concerns engineering and information technology. Sundar Pichai, the CEO of tech giant Google is just one such name that immediately comes to mind. Indian therefore is perceived as a great option for higher education in these particular areas of education, and hence attract many overseas students to come here and take graduate and postgraduate programs in the sciences or IT.

FOCUS ON RESEARCH

If there is one facet of higher education that

the West is known for, places immense emphasis on, is Research. Almost every well-regarded university abroad has a robust ethos, and generous investment in Research. This is one area where Indian universities and colleges need to up their game.

MARKETING PUSH

Like we see with colleges and universities from abroad, be they from the Americas, Europe, the UK, or further East; Indian universities too must make a concerted effort to organize/participate in education fairs, events, where students from the world over can be made aware of them, courses on offer, relatively low fee structure and so on. Without this massive PR push, a lot of what is on offer will remain in the dark, and potentially thousands of students will not even consider the country for sheer lack of awareness.

ENVIRONMENT

Finally, as a country, government would do well to engage in a sustained and relentless campaign that makes the country attractive to foreign nationals, starting with allaying many fears associated with India, safety, security and moving the focus then to the more enticing facets of India – history, travel, diversity, hospitality. This, combined with ease of visa and other documentation to visit, stay and study in India, will provide a final and much needed impetus to potential students, making it hard to then ignore the country as a viable higher education option.

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 and you will find yourself up to it. Academic front seems favourable. You are likely to buy something you have been longing for. You are likely to spend some time in self introspection.

TAURUS

APR 21 - MAY 20

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.

GEMINI

MAY 21 - JUNE 21

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.

CANCER

JUNE 22 - JULY 23

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

LEO

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

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

VIRGO

AUG 24 - SEP 23

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.

YOUR DAY

LIBRA

SEPT

Responsibilities are likely to increase manifold. Those feeling lethargic and unwell may get back on the path to perfect health.

SCORPIO

OCT 23 - NOVEMBER 22

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.

SAGITTARIUS

NOV 23 - DEC 22

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.

CAPRICORN

DEC 23 - JAN 20

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.

AQUARIUS

JAN 21 - FEB 19

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.

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. You will get a chance to tap your potential on the professional front.

FACEOFTHEDAY

Horoscope by Saurabbh Sachdeva

CELEBRATE THE SYMPHONIES OF DECEMBER!

Sunday mornings in December are a lot more exciting with festive-themed brunches. Priyambi along with Rishee Miglani, brand ambassador, First India Fashion Connect hosted a lavish brunch for the who's who of the Pink City at Notion, Jaipur. Various people from all spectrums kicked off their day with signature delicacies from Notion. The gathering was tucked into an appetizing array of epicurean flavours. A lot of the guests chose to stay longer than expected for the buzzing ambience and breathtaking view. City First brings to you some glimpses!

THE MAGICAL SHOW!

CITY FIRST

CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL

CITY FIRST

Jaipur Moms Group celebrated Christmas

Carnival ‘Jolly Jamboree’ at PODAR Jumbo kids school on Tuesday. DCP police Prahlad Singh Krishnia and Dr Himanshi Gehlot graced the occasion as Chief Guests.

Jaipur Moms Group team presented the donated hair to Dr Himashi for her NGO ‘Inventive Helping Hand Society’ which creates wigs for cancer patients.

DCP Trafic Shree Prahlad Singh Krishnia launched the Toy Donation drive which is a campaign of the group in association with NGO R4 - Our Fore Vision. Rachna Kaushik, the founder told us that Jaipur

Moms Group is a community of moms who always encourage fellow women to come forward and give them a platform to showcase their work.

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National level beauty contest

Venus Miss and Mrs Universe 2022 was organised at Bhanwar Singh Palace, Jaipur where the top 14 models from all over the country participated in the Miss

tor

category and the top 18 models partake in the Mrs. category.

Venus Miss & Mrs Universe 2022 was held from December 16 to December 18. The Grand Finale of the pageant was held on Saturday in which Bollywood Direc-

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The magical evening

BLS (BLS) training, given by Sahayata Sanstha was held at Bhankrota police station on Tuesday.

ADGP Traffic Rajasthan VK Singh graced the occasion as Chief Guest.

SHO Bhankrota Mohan Meena, Dr Maya Tandon- Former Head of the Department Anesthesia, Retired RAS Tarachand Saharan and Obstetrician Dr Achala Kapoor along with Program Coordinator Udayveer Singh were also present.

MACHINE MADE DISHES

CITY FIRST

‘Mealberg’, a highend luxury dining outlet was inaugurated in Pink City on Sunday. MTV Roadies fame actor Rannvijay Singha and Prince Narula graced as special guests. They not interacted with the crowd present but also appreciated the food and congratulated the owners.

Shriram Soni, Director, Mealberg, said that we are the first company in India and the fourth company in the world to provide high-end luxury dining experience to the common man using food science, innovation and technology.

Instead of preparing food by chefs like in other traditional restaurants, the dishes here are prepared by scientists, because cooking will be done on all robotic machines, in which food science, technology and innovation have been incorporated.

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DRIVEWAY DEVI INAUGURATED

CITY FIRST

The

Jaipur-based designer Himmat Singh known for showcasing special garments with superior handwork & craftsmanship with interesting cuts, contemporary styling and innovative fabrics. Singh, Khadi consultant and facilitator greeted Congress leader Rahul Gandhi with Khadi made Nehru jacket and a safa in traditional Rajasthani style. Himmat Singh also gave a Khadi made shawl to CM Ashok Gehlot. The ministers appreciated his creativity, comfort and design.

Muskaan and Hero Moto Corp took the initiative to organise a Safe Two Wheeler Riding Program for the Engineering students of the Mechanical and Automotive branches at Manipal University. Muskaan which has partnered with Hero in many such programs feels that there is no safe riding training for the youth who mostly prefer riding motorcycles.

The birthday of supermodels Tanu Choudhary and Khushi Vijay was celebrated with much fervour at The Shangri-la Farm on Monday. Gaurav Gaur, Director Elite Miss Rajasthan along with supermodel Akanksha Bhalla and others were also present on the occasion and wished the ravishing ladies good health and success. —PHOTOS BY MUKESH KIRADOO

Vicky Ranaut, Mrs India Shweta Mehta Modi, Venus Mrs India Rajasthan Kiran Rajawat, Mrs North Star Priyanka God, and fashion designer Aman Chowdhary were present as the jury members.

witnessed various crownings in all the three categories. Not only the models thoroughly enjoyed the show but the audience was equally thrilled and appreciated the performances showcased.

The National Level Award Show Real Super Woman and Real Super Heroes Award 2022 Season 3, powered by Forever Leaves and Forever Star India was organised at Hotel Marriott, Jaipur on Monday. CEO and Founder Rajesh Aggarwal and Show Director Jaya Chauhan told that more than 70 people from different states of the country were awarded in the Super Women & Super Heroes Award Show.

Seedling Modern High School held its Annual Sports Carnival on Tuesday at Jaipur National University’s Indoor Sports Complex, Jagatpura. Around 1000 students participated in this program. Dr Sandeep Bakshi, Chancellor JNU and CEO & Director of Seedling Group of Institutions extended floral greetings to esteemed Chief Guest Ashwini Bhagat (IAS) Chairman Rajasthan Civil Appellate Tribunal and Dr Preeti Bakshi, Executive Director of Seedling Group presented a memento as a token of goodwill.

Pink City of Jaipur turned Green to support Mental Health Awareness with the inauguration of the Driveway Devi Art Show, a oneday event held at the city’s prominent couple Anuja

Mishra Bajoria and Kartik Bajoria’s home on Saturday. The show was curated by Hem Rana. The event was extremely well attended and inaugurated by Rukshmani Kumari (AIPC Rajasthan Chief), celebrated Architecht Shamini Shankar and veteran journalist and

founder of Raghukul Trust Sadhana Garg by imprinting their handprints dipped in green paint on a blank canvas. For the Art Show, artists sent in their work to be displayed and all the proceeds from the sales were entirely donated to women’s mental health causes.

—PHOTOS BY MUKESH KIRADOO

—PHOTOS

BY MUKESH KIRADOO

—PHOTO BY MUKESH KIRADOO

Birthday beauties Tanu and Khushi with (L-R) Harshita Singh, Yoshita Arora, Kalpana Gupta, Gaurav Gaur, Soni Yadav, Sheena Parashar, Himakshi Choudhary, Akanksha Bhalla and Riya Suledia

Khushi Vijay (L) and Tanu Choudhary (R)

Dr Himanshi Gehlot with Vanshika Chaudhary, Kavita, Shaurya Sahay and Amanpreet Kaur

JJ Kashyap and Dinesh Nandwani felicitate Arundhati Hate

Prahlad Singh Krishnia

Rannvijay Singha and Prince Narula with fans

(L-R) Shriram Soni, Lalit Soni and Suneeta Verma

(L-R) Anuja Mishra Bajoria, Sudhir Mathur, Rohini Singh, Natasha Bishnoi and Kartik Bajoria

Rukshmani Kumari indulges in the artwork

Neha Khullar and Priya Modi with interns from PUCL

Dr Ashwini Baburao, Shailza Chauhan & Col Bharat Singh

Sheileza Chouhan

Himmat Singh with CM Ashok Gehlot

Himmat Singh with Rahul Gandhi

The Hero Moto Corp & Muskaan instructors with a group of two wheeler rider students in a practical demonstration

An exciting T20 cricket match was played at Karol Cricket Ground on Monday between RS Academy and SBI. SBI won the match by 10 runs with a target of 187 for which Harsil took 80 runs and Pushpi took 28 runs and 2 wickets. Mayank Parmar from RS Academy scored 80 runs and Harisingh scored 61 runs to help their team reach 177.

Dr Maya Tandon