First India-Delhi Edition-22nd December 2022

STUDY TOUR ENDS IN TEARS!

BE ALERT, COVID-19 IS NOT OVER YET, SAYS HEALTH MINISTER

TEST, TRACK, TREAT!

4 CASES OF BF.7 VARIANT, RESPONSIBLE FOR COVID-19 CASES RISE IN CHINA, FOUND IN GUJARAT AND ODISHA

Moni Sharma

New Delhi: As Covid-19 cases surge in China, Japan, US, Korea and Brazil, Indian government on Wednesday directed state authorities to be on high alert and to strengthen surveillance.

Imphal: At least 20 students were feared dead and more than 40 were injured after 2 buses carrying students lost control in Noney district on Wednesday. Accident took place along Bisnupur, Khoupum Road. 5 girls died on the spot, others succumbed to their injuries in hosp.

According to the reports, 2 buses carrying students belonged to Thambalnu Higher Secondary School, Yaripok. The buses were heading toward Khoupum for a study tour. According to police, a bus carrying around 36 students and staff of Thambal-

Crucial

READ

ON JAN 6

New Delhi: Election to pick the new mayor and deputy mayor of Delhi will be held on January 6, at 11:00AM during the first meeting of the MCD, and the last date to file nominations is December 27, officials said on Wednesday.

NEPAL TO RELEASE

KILLER SOBHRAJ

nu Higher Secondary School, Yairipok met with

Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Health Minister, while reviewing the states' preparedness for Covid-19, stressed on the utmost need for surveillance, containment and management, and cautioned that the pandemic is not yet over. The minister advised the states/UTs to send samples of all Covid-19 positive cases to Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) labs to facilitate tracking of new variants.

The increasing number of Covid-19 cases in China, Japan, South Korea, France and US are posing a challenge. It is important to be prepared and remain alert against new and emerging strains of covid-19, especially in view of the upcoming festive season.

—Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Health Minister

PARLIAMENT WINTER SESSION

New Delhi (ANI): Union Home minister Amit Shah said in Parliament on Wednesday that the drug menace is destroying generations and profits being made from drugs are utilised for terrorism as well.

PIL OVER CLEAN CHIT

TO ARYAN WITHDRAWN

Mumbai:

Shah said that Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) can conduct probes across the country. “NCB is ready to help each and every state if there’s a need to do an inter-state probe. Even the NIA can help states if the probe needs to be conducted outside the country,” he added.

“Our policy is very clear: those consuming drugs are victims. We should be sensitive towards them and give victims a conducive atmosphere for their rehabilitation. But those involved in drug trafficking should not be spared,” he said.

“All the states and

UTs have to together fight against the drug menace. We need to stop the entry of drugs through borders, ports and airports. The revenue department, NCB and anti-narcotics agencies have to work against the menace being on the same page,” he said.

Follow Covid-19 rules or postpone Yatra: Min writes to Rahul & Gehlot

Dabangg IPS officer is new Special Director ED

First India Bureau

New Delhi: 2002-batch IPS officer of Karnataka cadre, Sonia Narang, is among three ED officers promoted on Wednesday as Special Directors, the second highest post in the agency. Narang will look after the central region and the special task force (STF) of the ED.

Narang is known for being a fearless cop. In July 2013, Chief Minister of Karnataka, Siddaramaiah, stated in the assembly that Narang was facing charges of helping in illegal mining.

Narang not only refuted the statement strongly but also maintained that she had never worked in areas where illegal mining was being done. The chief minister declared that he will get the mat-

ter investigated, but nothing has been heard on that ever since.

In May 2015 she received a complaint from an executive engineer that a person called ‘Krishna Rao’ was demanding a bribe of Rs 1 crore. The call had been made from the premises of Lokayukta headquarters. Narang decided to look into the matter.

It emerged that it was only a tip of the iceberg and several officials including IAS and IPS officers paid off a group of operators, including Lokayukta Justice Y Bhaskar Rao’s son, when they were threatened with raids. She ultimately got the accused arrested and Justice Rao was made to resign from the post.

‘Dirty money’ from drugs finances terrorism, NIA can help: Shah

‘We need to stop the entry of drugs through borders, ports & airports’

Union Home Minister Amit Shah at Parliament House in New Delhi on Wednesday.

—PHOTO BY PTI

House not for reckless politics:

Shah

over

MP’s Pegasus

charge Union

Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday took exception to Congress member Gaurav Gogoi’s allegation that government snoops on politicians with Israeli spyware Pegasus. “He has levelled a very serious allegation that Pegasus has been installed in his mobile. He must submit here the basis (of his accusation) in the House. Either his words are removed or he must submit the basis,” Shah said. “The House is for serious discussion, not for reckless politics,” he added. Gogoi urged Speaker Om Birla to issue an order if he made any mistake in asking the government this.

DELHI MAYOR POLL

People gather near the wrecked remains of a school bus that overturned while trying to make a sharp turn on the Old Cachar road, in Noney on Wednesday.

—PHOTO BY ANI

First India Bureau

accident & over-

turned at Nungsai village, around 50 km south west of Imphal.

Chief Minister N Biren Singh meets injured and enquires about their health at RIMS hosp, Noney on Wednesday.

PM MODI, CM BIREN GRANT EX-GRATIA; PRESIDENT, VP, NADDA CONDOLE DEMISE PM Modi announced an ex-gratia of `2L to the next kin of deceased and `50,000 to injured from PMNRF. CM N Biren Singh gave assurance of `5L each from CMRF to kin of deceased. Prez Droupadi Murmu, VP Jagdeep Dhankhar, BJP chief JP Nadda and others expressed condolences.

Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya wrote to Congress MP Rahul Gandhi and Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot regarding Covid norms in Bharat Jodo Yatra. He has issued a diktat amid a surge in Covid cases in China and East Asia. In the letter written to Rahul and Gehlot, Mandaviya said that Covid norms should be strictly followed during yatra and the use of mask, sanitiser be implemented. ‘Only vaccinated people should participate in yatra. Follow rules or suspend yatra,’ read the letter.

Mansukh Mandaviya chairs a review meeting with Rajesh Bhushan, S Aparna, Dr VK Paul, Dr NK Arora, Rajesh S Gokhale, Rajesh Kotecha and Rajiv Bahl in view of rising Covid-19 cases on Wednesday.

ZELENSKYY IN US: UKRAINE PREZ TO MEET JOE BIDEN AT WHITE HOUSE

Washington: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will meet with President Joe Biden at the White House on Wednesday and then deliver an address to a joint session of Congress at Capitol Hill. His first known wartime trip outside Ukraine since the start of Russia’s invasion last February.

Kathmandu: Nepalese SC has ordered release of the French serial killer Charles Sobhraj, known as “the Serpent”, who preyed on western tourists travelling on the hippie trail in south Asia in the 1970s and was jailed for life for the murder of an American woman.

A criminal PIL challenging the ‘clean chit’ given to actor Shah Rukh Khan’s son Aryan Khan in the cruise ship drug bust case was withdrawn from Bombay HC on Wednesday. Acting CJ SV Gangapurwala called it a “publicity litigation”.

Police destroy 2,800-kg seized drugs

New Delhi (PTI): The Delhi Police on Wednesday destroyed over 2,800 kgs of drugs worth Rs 1,513.05 crore seized under a campaign in the last eight years, officials said.

Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora and members of the disposal committees were present when the drugs were destroyed in an incinerator in Delhi’s Nilothi, they said.

The police said effective action is being taken against traffickers under the Centre’s ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan’ to eradicate the drug menace from Delhi-NCR.

According to an official statement, Saxena expressed satisfaction over the efforts being undertaken by Delhi Police to curb the drug

menace in the capital.

The Drug Disposal Committees (DDC) of Delhi Police’s Crime Branch and Special Cell shortlisted the seized drugs which were no longer required for any legal proceedings and approval of the competent court was obtained for their destruction, the statement said.

The DDCs physically examined, verified the weight and other details of the each of seized items, report of chemical analysis and any other documents and recorded its finding

Man thrashed following firing in East Vinod Ngr

New Delhi (PTI): A man who fired at a property dealer but missed the target was thrashed and injured in East Vinod Nagar area, police said on Tuesday.

According to the police, Rahul (20) fired at a property dealer Rakesh (40) which did not hit the latter. Thereafter, Rakesh and others beat Rahul. On Monday, information was received regarding a firing incident in Street number 3, East Vinod Nagar, they said.

At the spot, one coun-

try made-pistol, one fired cartridge and one live cartridge were found, the police said.

Complainant Rakesh was discharged from a hospital, whereas Rahul was referred to a higher centre for further treatment, the officer said.

In his statement, Rakesh has alleged that earlier Rahul had threatened his nephew. On Monday, Rahul came with his associates near the shop of the complainant, DCP (east) Amrutha Guguloth said.

in each case and other mandatory procedures, it said.

The drugs which were destroyed include four kg of Ketamine, five kg Pseudoephedrine, 26.161 kg charas, 3.4 grams LSD, 204 grams of cocaine, 2,372.830 kg of ganja, 213.697 kg heroin/ smack, 22.378 kg crude heroin, 39 bottles Pakvil, 32 tablets Addiso KN, and 238.652 kg psychotropic substances, officials said.

The drugs were seized in a total of 65 cases registered from

Such campaigns are run to keep youth away from drugs. I congratulate Delhi Police. They execute such tasks and also who are guilty are punished. We will start more such programmes in future —VK Saxena, Lt Guv, Delhi

2015 to 2022 and 154 accused persons were arrested in connection with inter-state drug trafficking operations, it said.

“The campaign is being run under the direction of Union Home Minister to eradicate drugs from the country. Recently, we have seen drugs coming in the country and our forces are seizing them.

“When such campaigns are run, the aim is to keep youth away from drugs. I congratulate Delhi Police. They execute such tasks and also who are guilty are punished. We will start with such more programmes in the future,” Saxena said.

Manipur woman among six held with drugs worth ` 24cr

First India Bureau

New Delhi: The police arrested six people, including a woman from Manipur, in separate incidents and recovered drugs worth over Rs 24 crore from their possession, officials said Wednesday.

The police said they recovered at least 9-kg contraband from the arrested accused identified as Rahul Gupta (35), Prateek Gupta (32) and Brijsh Kumar (33), residents of Uttar Pradesh, Nemneihat Chongloi (35) of Manipur, and Sandeep (35) and Sunil (32), both from Delhi.

Heroin brought from Manipur was supplied to different parts of India, including Delhi-NCR, police said. Total 5.4-kg of high-grade heroin and 4.040-kg opium worth over Rs 24 crore

LEADING FROM THE FRONT

in the international market were recovered from their possession, they added.

On December 5, the police got a tipoff that Rahul would come to the Outer Ring Road to supply heroin to one of his contacts, DCP (Special Cell) PS Kushwah said.

He was apprehended near the Burari flyover. On checking, 4.5 kg of fine quality heroin and 4.04 kg opium were recovered from him, the DCP said.

Based on his disclosure, his associate Prateek was arrested from UP's Bareilly and 500 grams of heroin was recovered from his possession.

Another team arrested Chongloi from Manipur. Later, Kumar was also nabbed from Shahjahanpur in UP on December 7, police said.

LG urges Khattar to stem flow of effluent in Najafgarh drain

First India Bureau

New Delhi: Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena has urged Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar to check effluent flowing into Najafgarh Drain from various sources in the state, officials said on Wednesday.

According to an official statement, Khattar has also proposed a joint meeting between officials to comprehensively address the issue in one go. The LG with several other officers will soon attend the meeting to be held in Chandigarh.

The Najafgarh drain contributes up to about 40 per cent of pollution to Yamuna, and in its turn, receives 36 per

From count of 1,100, when Yamuna enters Delhi, faecal coliform reaches 2L at ISBT as Najafgarh drain joins it

cent of its pollution from several drains in Haryana.

Thirty-two drains which are responsible for 44 per cent of pollution in Najafgarh drain have been partially trapped by the Delhi Jal Board, while 52 other drains responsible for 20 per cent pollution which fall into Najafgarh drain are yet to be trapped.

Boycott call: Traders burn Chinese goods in Karol Bagh

New Delhi (PTI):

Scores of traders gathered in Karol Bagh and burnt Chinese goods to display their anger against the neighbouring country’s latest incursion in Arunachal Pradesh.

According to the Chamber of Trade and Industry, traders from several markets pledged to boycott Chinese products.

The traders wore black bands on their forehead and lit a bonfire of Chinese-made products.

House burgled; cash, jewellery of `1 cr stolen

New Delhi(PTI): Unidentified persons allegedly broke into a house and decamped with cash and jewellery worth over Rs 1 crore in west Delhi's Nihal Vihar, police said on Tuesday.

The incident took place early on Saturday. No arrests have been made in the case so far.

The family members claimed that the cost of the articles stolen was

worth over Rs 1 crore.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Outer) Harendra Kumar Singh said, "We received information regarding the incident and a case of

The victims said they fell unconscious as the accused sprayed something

burglary has been registered."

A special team has been formed to investigate the case. CCTV footage from the area is being checked to get clues

Bomb hoax: IGI security drill

New Delhi: A bomb hoax at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport here sent security officials in a tizzy on Wednesday, eventually leading to an hourlong security drill to eleminate chances of any untoward incident at the country’s busiest civil aviation facility.

A social media chat about “bombing and eliminating” Delhi’s IGI Airport triggered a counter-terrorist security drill on Wednesday, official sources said.

The threat was categorised as “non specific” or hoax around 6:30

am after over an hour of anti-sabotage checks at the facility even as normal passenger traffic continued, they said.

The chat posts, whose creators are being traced by the police, also talked about “eliminating” the airport, the sources said.

A bomb threat assess-

ment committee, comprising security, intelligence and airport operators, was triggered into action. The threat was declared a “hoax” and “not serious” after about an hour of antisabotage checks at the three IGI terminals by CISF, police and airport authorities, they said.

about the accused, the police said.

The police said the victims claimed that they had fallen unconscious after the accused sprayed some substance.

Investigation is underway and all claims are being verified. The accused had allegedly searched all the cupboards and beds, they said.

Griraj Sharma, own-

er of the house, said, "I was sleeping in another house when I received a call from my elder son regarding the burglary. I rushed to the spot and saw that the whole house had been ransacked."

Sharma alleged the police initially did not cooperate. However, they later met the DCP who assured appropriate action.

CTI chairman Brijesh Goel urged the Central government to stop importing products from China, saying the neighbouring country needs to be taught a lesson for attacking Indian soldiers on the borders.

‘STOP IMPORTING PRODUCTS’

“During the protest, traders pledged that they would boycott Chinese products. The Indian government should make a policy under which the products that can be made in the country should not be imported from China,” Goel said in the statement.

Son goes to party with father’s gun, held

New Delhi (PTI): A 22-year-old man was held carrying his father's loaded pistol in north Delhi's Roop Nagar area, police said on Tuesday.

The accused has been identified as Harsh, a resident of Maujpur, they said.

He stole the pistol from his father's almirah and went to a party with it to impress his friends, police said.

The matter was reported to police Sunday around 11.45 pm when the caller told them that some people were seen carrying a firearm at Shakti Nagar Chowk red light, a senior police

officer said.

A police team rushed to the spot and chased down the fleeing suspect.

One country-made pistol loaded with one live cartridge was recovered from his possession, Deputy Commissioner of Police (north) Sagar Singh Kalsi said.

The accused said that he stole the pistol from the almirah in his house and came to a party with his friends in Shakti Nagar, Kalsi said.

New Delhi(PTI): A 35-year-old delivery manturned-thief was arrested from north Delhi's Gulabi Bagh area with a switchblade knife on him, police said on Tuesday. The accused was identified as Ravi Bajaj, a resident of Paharganj, they said.

A police patrol had got a call Sunday night saying that a man was seen lurking around with a knife near Veer Banda Bairagi Marg in Gulabi Bagh, Deputy Commissioner of Police (north) Sagar Singh Kalsi said.

New Delhi (ANI): Delhi Police on Wednesday apprehended three juvenile boys, accused of stabbing a person in North East Delhi. “On Monday around 6:00 am Sonu alias, Taajudin was sitting in his clinic, at A-156 Jhuggi Daya Basti in North-East Delhi, wherein one minor boy came to get exchange his mobile phone for Rs five hundred. On the victim's denial, the minor along with his two associates (all juvenile) stabbed Sonu's vital organs and flee,” Delhi Police said. In the response to the incident, Delhi Police registered an FIR at Sarai Rohilla Police Station on Tuesday against the juvenile boys under sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and launched a probe.

The drugs were worth ` 1,513.05 crore and were seized during the last eight years

LG Vinai Kumar Saxena and Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora carry a bundle of drugs to destroy them at an incinerator by Delhi Police under the Centre's 'Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan', at Amritapuri, Nilothi Village on Wednesday. —PHOTO BY ANI

BJP MP Poonam Mahajan at Parliament during the Winter Session, in New Delhi on Wednesday. —PHOTO BY PTI

Traders shout slogans during a protest against Chinese products at Karol Bagh market on Wednesday. —PHOTO BY PTI

Chamber of Trade and Industry chairman Brijesh Goel urged the Central government to stop importing products from China, saying the neighbouring country needs to be taught a lesson for attacking Indian soldiers on the borders.

First India Bureau

REPRESENTATIONAL PHOTO

Ensure genome sequencing of samples: CM tells health dept

Centre

retary Rajesh

said such an exercise will enable timely detection of newer variants, if any, circulating in the country and will facilitate undertaking

of requisite public health measures.

The Delhi government sources said it is keeping a close watch on the COVID-19 situation amid a sudden spurt in cases in Japan, South Korea, Brazil, China and the US.

40 UPSC aspirants detained for protesting

New Delhi (PTI): Police detained around 40 UPSC aspirants protesting in Old Rajender Nagar demanding to be allowed more attempts in the civil services exams, a senior officer said on Wednesday.

Auto driver foils abduction bid by blocking fleeing car

First India Bureau

New Delhi: In the wake of reports indicating sudden surge in fresh Covid-19 infections in China and elsewhere, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has directed the health department to ensure genome sequencing of samples and take other steps needed to meet any eventuality, officials said on Wednesday.

On Wednesday, the Centre also took stock of the situation and advised states to gear up the whole genome sequencing of positive samples to keep track of emerging variants.

In a letter to states and UTs, Union Health Sec-

When will this trial end, lawyer asks HC

New Delhi (PTI): The Delhi High Court on Wednesday said it will hear on January 9 the bail plea by JNU student Sharjeel Imam in a UAPA case related to the alleged conspiracy behind the 2020 riots here.

A bench of justices Siddharth Mridul and Rajnish Bhatnagar deferred the hearing after Imam’s counsel sought an adjournment in the matter and directed the special public prosecutor to file a soft copy of the charge sheet in the case in the meantime.

The court, which had earlier reserved verdict on bail plea by United Against Hate founder Khalid Saifi in the same case, also permitted his senior counsel to make certain additional legal

submissions. Advocate Rebecca John, appearing for Saifi, argued that the power of a constitutional court to grant bail was not circumscribed by provisions of the UAPA and the court has to see if there have been violations to fundamental rights of the accused under Part III of the Constitution.

“My client has suffered about three years of custody... The charge sheet in FIR 59/2020 has 495 witnesses, 33 protected witnesses, 63 investigating officers. Three supplementary charge sheets have been filed. More are expected to come. In which reasonable world will this trial end in the foreseeable future with 15 accused?” John asked.

APOSTLE OF PEACE

"The Delhi government is keeping a watch on the Covid situation. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal himself is monitoring the preparedness," a senior Delhi government official said on Wednesday.

"The CM has directed health department officials to ensure genome sequencing and other steps needed to meet any eventuality.

Whatever steps needed to meet the emerging Covid situation will be promptly taken," the officer said.

Public health challenge of Covid still persists around the world with around 35 lakh cases reported weekly.

A group of 60 to 70 aspirants had assembled at Bada Bazaar, Old Rajender Nagar (near Thalassery restaurant), around 7 pm Tuesday with banners and posters, DCP (central) Shweta Chauhan said.

The group had applied for permission to protest, but it was rejected, the DCP said.

The protesters were raising slogans against the department of personnel and training and were asked to disperse from the spot, Chauhan said.

According to police, when the protesters refused to budge and were seen to be preparing to pitch a tent there settling with mattresses etc in front of the media, additional force was called in to remove them.

New Delhi (PTI): An auto driver with his presence of mind foiled a kidnapping bid when he drove his auto in the way of the car in which a man was being forcibly taken away, police said on Wednesday.

The incident happened in Kalkaji area on Sunday, they said.

Police have arrested a man and a woman in connection with the abduction attempt.

The arrested have been identified as Iqrar Ali, 27 of Sahibabad in UP, and Anuradha alias Priti Gupta, 19, of Sunder Nagri, they said.

When police reached the spot on Sunday at around 6.50 pm, Ali and Anuradha were already trapped inside the car, with their target, Javed, with them.

During interrogation, Anuradha revealed that she was part of the conspiracy to honeytrap Javed, with other associates, a senior police officer said.

She said that she was

informed by her associates that Javed belonged to an affluent family and there was a good scope of extortion of hefty sums from it if they abduct him.

The three had tried twice before to abduct Javed, but he refused to come and meet Anuradha on both occasions, Addl DCP (southeast) Surendra Choudhary said.

Anuradha was allegedly in touch with Javed through WhatsApp chats and calls. She had befriended Javed on Instagram a month ago, and on Sunday finally he had agreed to come to Kalkaji Metro Station to meet her.

DoE tells schools to sensitise students about air pollution

New Delhi (PTI): To combat air pollution and raise awareness amongst children about climate change, the Directorate of Education has directed its schools to organise sensitisation activities.

All deputy directors of education (DDE)-district have been requested to nominate two prominent private schools and two govern-

No salary to mohalla clinic doctors, staff: Assembly panel pulls up officials

New Delhi (PTI): Delhi Assembly's committee on petitions pulled up senior officers for blocking salaries of some doctors and nursing staff of mohalla clinics and stopping medical tests at these facilities.

AAP MLA and committee member Saurabh Bharadwaj said they found Principal Secretary (Health) Amit Singla had not visited a single mohalla clinic. He was directed to henceforth visit at least three clinics on a daily basis.

Bharadwaj also rued

that due to the stoppage of tests, people were unable to get their tests conducted and some could not avail of the health benefits and medicines that should have been provided to them.

"It is unfortunate to see that government officials who hold such senior positions are so

FIGHTING MALNUTRITION

The health dept has unspent amount of `70 cr, while only `13 cr goes into salaries

unsympathetic in such a situation," he added.

He said they had received a petition over the issue of non-payment of salaries to some doctors and nursing staff of mohalla clinics. Senior officials were summoned and asked to submit relevant documents, he said, adding a decision

will be taken subsequently.

“For three months, some doctors and nursing staff of mohalla clinics had not been receiving their salaries timely. This was the case for September, October and November. Several medical tests that usually are conducted for patients at the mohalla clinics have also not been happening now as the private partners in whose labs the test samples are to be analysed have also not received their funding,” he said.

Govt schools to introduce pre-lunch ‘mini snack’ break

First India Bureau

New Delhi: In a bid to address the issue of malnutrition in school children, the Delhi government has planned to bolster students’ diet in the schools run by it.

The government is introducing mini snack breaks and parents counselling sessions in all city schools.

A circular issued by the Directorate of Education (DoE) directs schools to include a

Choices

10-minute mini snack break in the school timetable. The mini break should be 2.5 hours before the lunch break, it

said. Schools have been asked to prepare a weekly planner of snacks offering three food choices

Record of height & weight of each student must be correlated with general health so that kids at risk of malnutrition may be identified in time. DoE circular

every day which may include food items such as seasonal fruits, sprouts, salad, roasted chana, peanuts etc.

The planner will be displayed in each class.

“Suggested items should be cost-effective.

Students must be advised to bring at least one food item mentioned

in the weekly planner for mini snack break.

“Head of schools and home science faculty to monitor implementation of planner during this break. In evening shift schools, mini snacks with low volume and high nutrition should be preferred in weekly planner,” the

DoE circular said.

The department has also directed schools to hold class-wise counselling sessions in consultation with home science teachers emphasising on relation between healthy diet and its effect on performance in academics and growth.

It said the sessions should also focus on encouraging parents and guardians to make low cost high nutritive value dishes as suggested by home science teachers.

ment schools as the first points of contact for sensitisation and send the details of the schools to the Science Branch by December 26, a DoE circular said.

The sensitisation ac-

tivities include plantation drives on campuses, promoting the use of school buses for students and avoiding the use of private vehicles and creating a no traffic zone around schools.

EX-SC JUDGE GUPTA IS CHAIRPERSON OF NEW DELHI INT’L ARBITRATION CENTRE

New Delhi: Former Supreme Court judge Hemant Gupta has been appointed as chairperson of New Delhi International Arbitration Centre (NDIAC), according to a Personnel Ministry order. NDIAC was established for the purpose of creating an independent and autonomous regime for institutionalised arbitration.

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the appointment of Justice Hemant Gupta (R) as NDIAC chairperson and that of Ganesh Chandru and Anant Vijay Palli as its part-time members, the order said.

FIRE BREAKS OUT AT MIC DROP RESTAURANT

New Delhi: A fire broke out at a restaurant in South Extension on Wednesday afternoon, officials said. According to Fire Department Authorities they received a call about a fire at the Mic Drop restaurant in South Extension Part-2 at 12.45 PM, Delhi Fire Service said. No casualties have been reported so far. A total of seven fire tenders were rushed to the spot. The fire has been brought under control, sources said.

HC GRANTS INTERIM BAIL TO RIOTS ACCUSED

New Delhi: Delhi High Court granted interim bail to a Delhi riot accused to attend the marriage of his son and daughter. The petitioner is an accused in a case registered at Dayal Pur police station in 2020. Justice Jasmeet Singh granted bail to Ibrahim from December 25 till January 10 to attend his son and daughter's marriage ceremonies. The bench directed him to surrender before jail authorities on January 10 at 5 pm.

New Delhi: LG VK Saxena has allowed cafes and restaurants in Siri Fort Sports Complex, Qutub Golf Club and Bhalswa Golf Club here to remain open till 1 am from Wednesday, a move aimed at bolstering city’s nightlife ahead of new year festivities, officials said. These DDA joints, run by private licensees and offering food and beverages, have a daily footfall of thousands. Earlier, visitors could avail food and beverages only between 9 pm and 11 pm, officials said.

Bhushan

n

asks states to track new Covid variants

n Cases surge in Japan, China, Korea and Brazil

People without face masks at Sarojni Nagar Market in New Delhi on Wednesday. (R) A woman with face mask on at Khan Market on Wednesday. —PHOTOS BY PTI

Subhrakant Panda, president of industry body FICCI, said there is no need for panic yet but alertness is certainly called for, and that the Indian economy has the depth and resilience to withstand any “short and sharp” disruption to the global supply chain. “I don’t think there is a need to panic. But alertness is called for,” said Panda, also MD of Indian Metals & Ferro Alloys Ltd and former head of Covid Task Force at FICCI during the peak of the pandemic.

NO NEED TO PANIC, SAYS FICCI PREZ BUT URGES ALERTNESS

Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama arrives for an interactive session at Salwan Public School, in Gurugram on Wednesday. —PHOTO BY PTI

JNU student Sharjeel Imam was booked under UAPA in 2020.

Observing a vehicle-free day for staff once or twice a week and wet mopping in schools are also among the suggested measures

WHY DRAGON PROVOKING INDIA: AFTER GALWAN NOW TAWANG

BELAGAVI ROW: K’TAKA AND MAHA CAN’T WAIT FOR TOP COURT ORDER

India hopes to become a primary power in its region, finally de-hyphenating from Pakistan, and able to compete with China in South Asia but this may be true as long as Indian military is strong enough to not allow a repeat of 1962 in the Himalayas.

Despite ongoing Ukraine war entering a crucial and dangerous mode Modi’s statement that the ‘Era of War is Over’ is a belief that China will not go to war with an India. India by defining Pakistan as visible enemy and Terrorism as invisible enemy, leaving out China from the firing line may be deemed to be acceptance of China’s occupation of Indian Territory without firing a shot

India and China share about 3,500 km long border which is not fully delineated and has been a consistent cause of conflict. Both nations have fought a war in 1962, had border skirmishes in Sikkim in 1967, Sumdorong Chu Valley 1987, Daulat Beg Oldie 2013, Doklam in 2017, and Galwan in Ladakh in 2020. Now just two-and-a-half years after Galwan, the Indian and Chinese troops faced off at the Yangtse area near Tawang in the eastern sector of their disputed border. These conflicts have been de-escalated but the questions still remain are how long will such skirmishes continue and what may possibly be the end result? Border dispute remains a major irritant and a potential source of conflict between the two neighbours.

PROBABLE ATTRIBUTES AND TAWANG CLASH

On differing perceptions on Line of Actual Control (LAC), in June 2020, Indian and Chinese troops got engaged in a brawl in Galwan Valley that left twenty Indian soldiers dead while causing an unspecified number of Chinese casualties. This border dispute marked an implacable

decline in India-China ties. A series of meetings between military leaders and some diplomatic efforts resulted in de-escalation in Ladakh region but the LAC still remained focus of developmental and defence activities and uneasiness on both sides of border continued. India joining the Quad navies for an advanced Malabar naval exercise in Sea of Japan in Nov 2022, ‘Yudh Abhyas 2022’ Indian and US Army’s within 100 km of the LAC has all been perceived by Chinese as crossing of diplomatic and military red line. Some other issues like ascertaining authority by Xi Jinping on assuming third term and need to divert attention from protests in China over governmental anti covid policies and emerging discontentment may have contributed to this Chinese provocative action.

All these factors along with the fact that the Chinese side attempted to take control of the 17,000-ft (5,180-meter) peak dominating the whole region triggered the clash between Indian and Chinese soldiers in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh on December 9, 2022. Chinese troops carried out an incursion across the LAC in Yangtse area of Tawang sector in Arunachal Pradesh, and the Indian Army countered this attempt by Chinese to change the status quo on the LAC in which both side soldiers had reportedly suffered some injuries in the clash.

India and China share about 3,500 km long border which is not fully delineated and has been a consistent cause of conflict. Both nations have fought a war in 1962, had border skirmishes in Sikkim in 1967, Sumdorong Chu Valley 1987, Daulat Beg Oldie 2013, Doklam in 2017, and Galwan in Ladakh in 2020

The entire border between India and China is disputed but the flash point has remained in Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh where the stakes are clearly higher. India claims some 45,000 square kilometers of territory in Aksai Chin in the western sector of the border, which China occupied in the 1962 war, while Beijing claims an area of around 90,000 square kilometers, roughly coinciding with the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, in the eastern sector. China’s interest in Arunachal is primarily to gain leverage in a future settlement of the border and use it as a bargaining chip for an eventual ‘swap’ and the recognition by India of the occupation by China of Aksai Chin.”

India hopes to become a

primary power in its region, finally de-hyphenating from Pakistan, and able to compete with China in South Asia but this may be true as long as Indian military is strong enough to not allow a repeat of 1962 in the Himalayas. Despite ongoing Ukraine war entering a crucial and dangerous mode Modi’s statement that the ‘Era of War is Over’ is a belief that China will not go to war with an India. India by defining Pakistan as visible enemy and Terrorism as invisible enemy, leaving out China from the firing line may be deemed to be acceptance of China’s occupation of Indian Territory without firing a shot.

THE PATH AHEAD FOR MILITARY PLATFORMS

Need for more regular, systematic and progressive mutual talks through military platforms to help build mutual trust and arrive at common grounds and mutually acceptable solutions to normalise bilateral relations.

The diplomatic channels need to be more vigorous and arrive at mutually agreeable formula for lasting peace, a well defined demarcation and clarity on the LAC is crucial in this effort.

The United States and Russia have consistently figured in Sino Indian relations. India will have to formulate a firm policy where the proximity with US and Russia will have to be kept off the Sino India bilateral relations. The UNSC, G - 20, Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), BRICS and Indo Pacific Initiative are some platforms where rising Indian clout has to be used to its maximum advantage.

Despite frequent border clashes and Aatmnirbhar Bharat, the Sino Indian trade is on rise and the latest data shows 34% rise in mutual trade and with disadvantage to India. A balanced trade and economic relationship might lay a solid foundation for future relations, given the size of both economies..

COVID CURBS FACE RAHUL’S YATRA

China’s Covid-19 surge has sent alarm bells ringing across several countries, including India. Experts have forecast 10 lakh Covid-19 deaths in China. These numbers would be multiple times higher than in Wuhan, from where the virus was said to have spread, which reported 3,869 deaths between December 2019 and April 2020. These numbers were disputed as the average number of deaths over a week in the same period was said to have been 284. China, it is widely believed, under-reported Wuhan deaths. Although there is no mechanism available to verify the actual casualties that may take place in this fresh wave, the numbers being esti-

China’s Covid-19 surge has sent alarm bells ringing across several countries, including India. Experts have forecast 10 lakh Covid-19 deaths in China. These numbers would be multiple times higher than in Wuhan, from where the virus was said to have spread, which reported 3,869 deaths between December 2019 and April 2020

mated are frighteningly high. With no travel restrictions in China and no compulsion on pre-flight testing, a cautious India has put the Covid-19 protocol back in place. There are not going to be any restrictions but people, especially those with co-morbidities and senior citizens, have been advised to

adhere to Covid-19 appropriate behaviour like wearing masks, avoiding crowded places and using sanitiser. The rest of the guidelines are for state governments to ensure testing and tracking of cases and vaccination.

Nothing in India can be without political ramification. The Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has written to Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi asking the latter to suspend his Bharat Jodo Yatra or strictly follow Covid-19 guidelines and allow only vaccinated people to participate. The Congress has hit back at the BJP. Gehlot said that the BJP is scared of BJY’s popularity. MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said the BJY was not to Mandaviya’s liking.

As-

declaring the boundary row with Maharashtra as settled has not gone down well with Maharashtra. The dispute is over the merger of Belagavi and two other villages with Maharashtra as decided by the State Reorganisation Act, 1956, which Karnataka has refused to accept as it does not want to lose control of the territory. Then Maharashtra refused to accept the Mahajan Commission report rejecting the state’s claim over Belagavi (then Belgaum). In 2004 Maharashtra filed a petition in the Supreme Court claiming territorial control of Belgaum which was renamed Belagavi by Karnataka and made its second capital.

Both the states have the BJP in power yet they are unable to resolve it through dialogue. In an attempt to defuse the situation, Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently advised both chief ministers of the two states to wait for the Supreme Court’s verdict. With Assembly elections approaching, Karnataka can’t let go of regional sentiments for political gains.

SPIRITUAL SPEAK

TOP TWEETS

China’s recent U-turn on its zeroCovid strategy has led to a sharp increase in Covid infections and deaths in the communist nation.

l Vol 2 l Issue No.113

l RNI TITLE NO. DELENG/2021/19840

Printed and published by Anita Hada Sangwan on behalf of First Express Publishers. Printed at Impressions Printing and Packaging Limited, C-21, 22 Sector-59, Noida-201301. Published at G-20, 3rd Floor, 309, Preet Vihar, New Delhi-110092. Phone 011-49846474.

Editor-In-Chief: Dr Jagdeesh Chandra Editor: Anita Hada Sangwan responsible for selection of news under the PRB Act

Bible

Narendra Modi @narendramodi

Best wishes to Andhra Pradesh CM Shri @ysjagan Garu on his birthday. May he be blessed with a long and healthy life.

Anurag Thakur @ianuragthakur

he Karnataka

Tsembly resolution

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHOR ARE PERSONAL

COL RAJESH BHUKAR

The author is a Post Graduate in International Studies, Alumni of Defense Services Staff College, Wellington and College of Combat, Mhow

‘

GOVT KEEPING AN EYE ON INFLATION’

Inflation in India is purely extraneous due to prices of fuel, fertiliser, says Sitharaman in Rajya Sabha

New Delhi (ANI): Amid the continuing debate over soaring inflation, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that the govt is keeping an eye on it.

Replying to the debate on the Supplementary Demands for Grants in the Rajya Sabha, Sitharaman said that inflation in India is purely "extraneous" nowadays because of fuel and fertiliser prices. India's retail inflation based on consumer price index remained above the Reserve Bank's tolerance level of 6% since January this year. It declined to 5.88% in November, making it the first time in 2022 to fall within RBI's band.

On the other hand, wholesale price based inflation (WPI) fell to 21-month low last month. Later, the Rajya Sabha returned Supplementary Demands for Grants to Lok Sabha, thus completing the process of authorising the govt to spend an additional Rs 3.25 lakh crore in FY2022-23. Sitharaman also stressed that the supplementary demand for grants is essentially for food security, fertiliser requirements and providing support to Indian economy.

CENTRAL AUDITOR FLAGS DELAYS IN STRENGTHENING SECURITY OF NAVY

Shah: 71 multi-state cooperative societies under liquidation

‘115 DAILY WAGERS, 63 HOUSEWIVES DIED BY SUICIDE EVERY DAY IN 2021’

A s many as 115 daily wage earner and 63 housewives ended their lives every day in India in 2021, which saw a total of 1,64,033 suicides in the country, the Lok Sabha was informed Tuesday. Sharing data from NCRB, Union MoS for Home Nityanand Rai said a total of 42,004 daily wage earners and 23,179 housewives committed suicide last year. Altogether, 20,231 self-employed people, 15,870 salaried people, 13,714 unemployed, 13,089 students, and 12,055 involved in business, committed suicide last year, he said in a written reply.

Ayodhya Airport design will ‘reflect idea and spirit of Ram Temple’, promises AAI

ENSURE ‘AVIRAL-NIRMAL’ GANGA

BEFORE KUMBH 2025: CM YOGI

Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday asked officials to make Maa Ganga “aviralnirmal” (free flowing and clean) before the Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj. “The process of setting up STPs should be accelerated... More efforts should be made for urban solid waste management to ensure uninterrupted and clean water of all rivers,,” he said.

Yogi said the ‘Namami Gange Project’, under the guidance of the prime minister, has seen very satisfactory results.

issue.

New Delhi (PTI) :Around 71 multi-state cooperative societies are under liquidation this year so far, with the maximum number of them located in Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Delhi and Odisha, Parliament was informed on Wednesday.

According to the data placed by Cooperation Minister Amit Shah in his written reply to the Rajya Sabha, five multistate cooperative banks were also under liquidation till December 15, 2022. Out of 71 multi-cooperative societies that are under liquidation, 15 of them are located in Rajasthan, followed by 13 in Maharashtra, 11 each in Delhi and Odisha, the data showed.

In a separate reply on

PUNJAB POLICE ASKS CHANNI TO APPEAR ON JAN 12

the performance of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS), Shah said 48,907 PACS were in profit, while 24,243 of them were in loss as of March 2020.

COURTYARD

New Delhi (ANI): The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Wednesday carried out searches at multiple locations in gangster-terror nexus cases and seized large quantities of illicit weapons and ammunition from the premises of gangsters.

Mansa (Punjab): The Punjab Police on Wednesday summoned former Punjab CM, Charanjit Singh Channi asking him to appear before the CJM court on January 12, in connection with a case registered against him during the Punjab polls.

New Delhi (ANI): The Airports Authority of India (AAI) on Wednesday said that the design of the Ayodhya airport would be based on the idea and spirit of the Ram Mandir, invoking a sense of spirituality. The roof of the terminal is proposed to be adorned with Shikharas, of varying heights to convey a sense of grandeur to the structure. Along with the varying shikharas, the terminal will have decorative columns displaying im-

portant events from the story of Ramayana pictorially. The glass facade of the terminal will be designed to recreate a sense of being in the very palace of Ayodhya. The building will shine aesthetically and functionally, displaying a perfect mix of local architecture with a modern architectural note.

The building also incorporates environmentally responsive systems that reduce the consumption of energy and improve overall ef-

ficiency using skylights, solar power systems, and efficient rainwater harvesting, among others.

‘PM Modi has envisioned Ayodhya to be developed as a spiritual centre and Global Tourism Hub where the values and ethos will be matched by futuristic infrastructure, for benefit of tourists and pilgrims. Development of the airport in Ayodhya will be an important step towards contributing to his vision,” the AAI said.

“Today, the dolphins are back in Ganga... Effective efforts have been made to stop dirty water from flowing into Gangaji at Jajmau and Sisamau in Kanpur, which have become selfie points,” he said.

`700 CR FOR ROADS TO DEL FROM CENTRE

New Delhi (PTI): The Centre has decided to provide Delhi with Rs 700 cr out of a fund for construction, repair, maintenance and beautification of roads in the national capital, officials said on Wednesday. The decision was taken during a meeting between Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways Nitin Gadkari and Delhi Lt Governor V K Saxena, according to a statement issued by the Raj Niwas. Gadkari also directed the NHAI to bear the cost of repair, refurbishing and beautification of all its roads in the city, as also the cost in upgradation of the road between Mahipalpur (IGI Airport) and Dhaula Kuan, an official statement said.

EASING UP SECURITY CHECKS

The anti-terror agency conducted these searches at two locations in Haryana's Sirsa to dismantle and disrupt the emerging nexus between terrorists, gangsters and weapon suppliers based in India and abroad.

During the searches, four illicit weapons (one Rifle, one Gun, two Pistols), over a hundred pieces of ammunition of different calibres, a number of blank and fired cartridges and sharp-edged weapons have been seized, the NIA said.

Taking out laptops, phones at airports to end soon

New Delhi (ANI): According to reports, passengers may soon be able to pass through airport security checks without having to lay out laptops, phones and chargers in separate trays, easing the congestion that has made news this month.

Reportedly, the organisation which looks after the aviation security, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), is set to launch a mandate within a

BCAS

month that will lead to the adoption of modern equipment which will

be used to screen bags without taking out the electronic devices.

Several airports in the US and Europe already use such baggage

scanners, which do not require passengers to remove their electronic

devices or jackets.

According to sources, the Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad will first witness the installation of these machines and they will reach other airports within a year This step was taken after some of the country’s busiest airports experienced a chaos due to a surge in travel, this resulted in the deployment of more staff and security equipment.

This came soon after his visit to assassinated Punjabi singer and Congress leader Siddhu Moose Wala’s parents on Tuesday evening in Mansa. “The case was registered on the complaint of AAP. It’s a false case,” Channi added.

DELHI HC NOTICE TO CENTRE OBJECTING ‘TAM’ BY PVT

BODIES

New Delhi: The Delhi HC on Wednesday issued notice to the Centre and others on a PIL stating TV Audience Measurement (TAM) Services are being carried out by an array of private bodies, thus carrying out overriding activities of Constitutionally mandated duties of BIS as prescribed in BIS Act 2016.

The plea stated that due to the non-implementation of the BIS Act, 2016 and alleged illegal creations of so-called trend-setting ‘TAM services’ bodies/institutions mushroomed to siphoning off govt funds.

EXECUTE PRODUCTION

New Delhi: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday assured Delhi High Court that it will not execute the production warrant issued by the trial court for Anubrata Mondal till the matter is pending here.

The trial court on Monday issued a production warrant for TMC leader Anubrata Mondal in Delhi in connection with the West Bengal cattle smuggling money laundering case. TMC leader Anubrata Mandal on Tuesday moved Delhi High Court challenging the issuance of a Production warrant by Rouse Avenue Court in the ED case related to the West Bengal Cattle Smuggling matter. Mondal is currently lodged in Asansol jail in connection with a CBI case.

NAINITAL COURT REJECTS PETITION FOR CBI PROBE

Dehradun: The Nainital High Court, on Wednesday, rejected the petition related to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) investigation in the Ankita Bhandari murder case. A single bench of senior judge Sanjay Kumar Mishra, Uttarakhand High Court, dismissed the petition seeking a CBI investigation in the Ankita Bhandari murder case.

The single judge bench said that the SIT team is doing satisfactory work in the Ankita Bhandari murder case.

UP COURT ISSUES NBW AGAINST JAYA PRADA

Rampur (PTI): A special court here has issued an arrest warrant against former MP Jaya Prada in two cases related to violation of model code of conduct during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. “The MP/MLA court has fixed January 9 for the next hearing in the case and issued NBW on Tuesday following the continued absence of Jaya Prada from hearing in the case,” government advocate Amarnath Tiwari said. The two FIRs were lodged on April 18 and 19, 2019.

is set to launch new security mandate soon.

In a separate reply on the PACS Amit Shah said 48,907 PACS were in profit, while 24,243 of them were in loss as of March 2020.

Nisith Pramanik and Jyotiraditya Scindia are also seen.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman while replying to the discussion on The Appropriation (No.5) Bill, 2022 and The Appropriation (No.4) Bill, 2022 in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. RS returned these Bills authorising payment of certain sums from and out of the Consolidated Fund of India for the current financial year. —SCREENGRAB FROM SANSAD TV

New Delhi: Amid the Opposition's offensive against the government over the India-China border tensions, Congress leader Sonia Gandhi today chaired a meeting of all party MPs in Parliament to discuss the strategy for the remainder of the Winter Session. The Congress Parliamentary Party meeting was held at Parliament's Central Hall with party president Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of the Congress in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury and all party MPs in attendance. Earlier Cong leader, Shashi Tharoor said that the Centre must address the issues on the LAC with China and provide answers to people. Stating that the govt is accountable to the people, Tharoor said that the opposition are asking for a discussion on this

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and CPP chairperson Sonia Gandhi during the meeting on Wednesday.

SONIA GANDHI HOLDS KEY MEET TO DISCUSS INDIA-CHINA LAC ROW

Catholic Bishops' president Andrews Thazhath met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday regarding Pope Francis invitation to India. Giving the detail about the meeting, Andrews Thazhath said, "The discussion was regarding inviting the pope to India. PM Modi told me that during his visit to Vatican City last year he has already invited him."

—PHOTO BY ANI

CATHOLIC BISHOPS’ PREZ MEETS PM MODI ON INVITING POPE TO INDIA

New Delhi: An approval accorded by Cabinet Committee on Security in Feb 2009 to enhance the security of all coastal and offshore naval assets within three years in the aftermath of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks was "diluted" due to delays in creating the enabling framework, CAG has said. It said Fast Interception Crafts (FICs) were inducted into the Sagar Prahari Bal (SPB) with a delay of 13 to 61 months, adding the infrastructure was not available. The report was tabled in Parliament on Tuesday.

‘WON’T

WARRANT AGAINST ANUBRATA MONDAL TILL JAN 9’

NIA seizes huge ammunition during multiple searches in Haryana

Amit Shah, speaking in the Lok Sabha on the issue of drug abuse in the country, shot down TMC MP Saugata Roy, who tried to interrupt his speech. “Dada, if you want to give a speech, I will sit down. You can speak. Being such a senior MP, such interruptions are unbecoming of your position and seniority,” Amit Shah said.

An illustration of the airport under construction in Ayodhya.

TMC MP SAUGATA INTERRUPTS

SHAH IN LS

Four cases of BF.7, variant of concern in China, found in India

Ahmedabad (PTI): Four cases of BF.7 variant of Omicron, which is responsible for the surge in Covid-19 cases in China, have been found in India, sources in the Union Health Ministry told media. While two have been detected in Gujarat, one case has been traced to Odisha. The two new cases of BF.7 have been detected in Gujarat’s Vadodara and Ahmedabad.

A 61-year-old NRI woman living in Sabhanpura area of Vadodara has tested positive for the BF.7 variant of Covid-19. According to Vadodara Municipal Commissioner Banchhanidhi Pani, the NRI woman came from the United States to Vadodara in November and after a week, she tested positive for Covid-19. The woman’s sample was sent for genome sequencing, the results of which confirmed that she has tested positive for the BF.7 variant.

The civic chief said the woman was inoculated with three doses of the Pfizer vaccine. The woman was kept in home isolation and did not report any major symptoms. The condition of the woman is normal.Besides the NRI woman, a man living in the Gota area of Ahmedabad has also tested positive for BF.7.

BENGALURU AIRPORT TO SCREEN AIR PASSENGERS

Bengaluru: Karnataka is preparing to send COVID-19 test samples for genome sequencing, step up the booster dose programme and will soon start screening passengers at the Bengaluru airport following an alert by the union government over a spike in coronavirus cases in other countries, the government said on Wednesday.

“In the wake of new variants being found in other countries, the Union Health Ministry has directed states to send samples of all new Covid cases for genomic sequencing, and we have already

taken measures to implement the same,” said Health and Medical Education Minister Dr K Sudhakar. Speaking to the media in Belagavi, Dr Sudhakar said that some countries including China and Japan are witnessing a sudden spurt in cases. China’s rate of hospitalisation has been particularly alarming.

X-MAS VIBES IN CITY OF JOY

No rise in cases but we must be vigilant: Ex-AIIMS chief Dr Randeep Guleria

New Delhi: Cases are not rising anywhere but we must be vigilant, said the former chief of AIIMS, Dr Randeep Guleria, amid an alarming surge in cases being reported in China. Dr Guleria, however, assured that the Covid situation in India is much better compared to China because of a hugely successful vaccine drive.

“India’s situation is much better compared to that of China because our vaccination strategy has been very successful. Most of the people in the high-risk group have taken booster doses and natural infection has happened,” he said.

2 FROM GUJARAT +VE WITH NEW COVID VARIANT, CURED AT HOME

Ahmedabad : Two people who had contracted the strain of the coronavirus causing a surge in COVID-19 cases in China had been detected in Gujarat over two months ago and recovered at home, without needing hospitalisation, officials said on Wednesday. “The patients were infected with BF 7 and BF 12 form of Omicron variant were reported in Oct-Nov 2022. These two patients were treated in home isolation. They have fully recovered now,” a health dept official said, requesting not to be named. One of the patients, a 61-year-old woman in Vadodara, had arrived from the US on September 11, and tested positive for COVID-19 on September 18, the official said, adding she had taken three doses of the Pfizer vaccination and was in home isolation. The close contacts had tested negative for COVID-19, the official said on Wednesday while talking to media.

BSF soldiers stand tall amid dense fog

Amritsar (ANI): Border Security Force (BSF) troops stationed at the Attari-Wagah border in Amritsar, Punjab, were standing tall and patrolling regardless of the dense fog, zero visibility, and frigid winter days. As visibility dropped below 10 metres due to fog, ANI learned that troops at the AttariWagah border in Amritsar, became more vigilant.

Troops of the Border Security Force were observed patrolling the India-Pakistan border through a dense fog. However, the increasing fog did not appear to dampen the soldiers’ spirits.

According to Nitika, Sub-Inspector of BSF, they are constantly vigilant in perilous circumstances so that millions of Indians can sleep soundly.

Union Min Bharati Pravin Pawar speaks on Tribal Empowerment

First India Bureau

New Delhi: The Union Minister of Sate for Health and Family Welfare Bharati Pravin Pawar addressed the media on Tribal Empowerment in New Delhi. She spoke about various initiatives of the Government taken for the upliftment of tribal population and the progress made in empowering tribal population.

Addressing the media, she said, “The allocation for STC funds has been increased from Rs.

Truth will prevail: KCR’s daughter on liquor policy

Hyderabad(PTI) :

Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) MLC and Telangana CM K Chandrashekar Rao’s daughter K Kavitha, who the ED mentioned in the Delhi Excise Policy charge sheet accusing her of holding 65 per cent stake in a liquor company, hit out at the BJP on Wednesday saying “truth with prevail”.

Kalvakuntla Kavitha tweeted, “Rajagopal Anna.. Don’t rush!! Even if my name is mentioned 28 times or 28000 times a lie is not true. #TruthWillPrevail.” This came after BJP leader Komatireddy Raj Gopal Reddy tweeted tagging a news article with the caption.

19,437 cr in 2014-15 to Rs. 87,585 cr. in 2022-23 and the allocation for Ministry of Tribal affairs has also been increased from Rs. 3832 cr. in 2014-15 to Rs. 8407 cr. in 2022-23. She said that this is a very commendable step for the development of trib-

THE 22-YARDS’

al area in all directions”.

Bharati Pravin Pawar also said that on the CBSE pattern in Eklavya Model Residential schools more than 1 lakh students are enrolled and are getting education along with sports facilities.

She further said that various scholarship schemes such as for pre and post Matric scholarship schemes, National Overseas scholarship scheme are ensuring that tribal students are getting regular quality education.

SRINAGAR RECORDS -4.2 DEGREES, 40-DAY INTENSE COLD SPELL BEGINS

Srinagar: The weather office has predicted mostly cloudy weather with chances of light snow at isolated places from December 26 over north and northwestern parts of the Kashmir valley.Interior parts of Dal Lake in Srinagar were frozen on the night of Tuesday with the

weather office predicting continued dry and cold weather as Kashmir’s harshest 40-day winter period ‘Chillai Kalan’ begins on Wednesday.The meteorological (MeT) department said the Chillai Kalan will start on a dry note. “Dry weather is expected till Dec 25 evening,” MeT said.

25 KG HEROIN SEIZED AT PUNJAB BORDER FROM PAK SMUGGLERS

New Delhi: Border Security Force (BSF) troops recovered 25 kilograms of heroin after a brief encounter with Pakistani smugglers at the international border in the Fazilka district of Punjab on Wednesday. A senior BSF officer informed that at about 1.50 am, BSF troops deployed at the

border observed some suspicious movement of smugglers on both sides of border fencing in the area falling near Village Gatti Ajaib Singh in Fazilka district. In prompt action, BSF troops immediately fired at the Pakistani smugglers ahead of the border fence. The smugglers managed to escape.

NCPCR: BYJU’S THREATENING KIDS, PARENTS

IPL 2023 mini auction on December 23

New Delhi (ANI): The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) clarified the rules related to the ‘Impact Player’ which will be added from the IPL 2023 season. The clarification of rules comes just a couple of days ahead of the IPL 2023 auction which takes place in Kochi on Friday. The BCCI clarified to all 10 franchise via a note that ‘Impact Player’ can only be an Indian player and not a foreigner, unless there are less than ‘4 overseas stars’ in the Playing XI.

“Only an overseas player who is part of 4 substitutes named in the team sheet can be used

as an Impact Player. If a team introduces an overseas player as an Impact Player in a match, in no circumstance can a 5th overseas player take the field,” the BCCI note quoted by Cricbuzz website stated. The note explained how the ‘Impact Player’ can be used.

“The Captain will nominate the Impact Player. The Impact Player can be introduced (i) before the start of the innings; or (ii) after completion of an over; or (iii) in case of a batter, at the fall of the wicket or the batter retiring at any time during the over.

KL RAHUL SUFFERS HAND INJURY AHEAD OF 2ND TEST AGAINST BANGLADESH

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi

NAZAM SETHI TO TAKE CHARGE OF PCB AS RAMIZ SACKED OVER

JHARKHAND GOVT WITHDRAWS ORDER TO DECLARE SHIKHAR JI A TOURIST PLACE

Media also reported about the Jharkhand Chief

Hemant Soren’s decision on keeping Sammed Shikhar’s identity intact as a pilgrimage site. Acharya Vidyasagar announced on Paras TV that the Jharkhand government will not develop Sammed Shikhar as a tourism site, It will remain a holy site for Jains.

BF.7 is the sub-variant of deadly Omicron variant of Corona Virus. —FILE PHOTO

BSF personnel patrolling on the International Border fence as visibility continues to reduce due to increasing fog at the Attari Wagah border, on Wednesday. —PHOTO BY ANI

IPL Auctioneer Hugh Edmeades fainted during the last session of auction in February, 2022. —FILE PHOTO

TEAM PERFORMANCE

Lahore: Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Ramiz Raja was sacked from the role on Wednesday. The move from the PCB comes a day after Pakistan suffered a humiliating 3-0 loss in a Test series at home. Ramiz Raja, the proceedings of the PCB during 2 T20 World Cups and a 50-over Women’s World Cup. Pak PM Shehbaz Sherif, who is also the patron of the board, cleared the appointment of Sethi as the new chairman of the PCB.

Dhaka: KL Rahul, India’s stand-in captain for the Test series in Bangladesh, suffered an injury on his hand while batting in the nets on the eve of the second Test match in Mirpur, Dhaka. India lead the series 1-0 and Rahul is expected to lead the visitors as Rohit

Sharma was earlier ruled out of second Test as well as he is recuperating from a thumb injury.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during the inauguration of the Christmas festival, at Allen park, in Kolkata on Wednesday. —PHOTO BY ANI

Ranchi: The Jain community, which has been agitating for the last several days to save its holy site Sammed Shikhar, has achieved great success. The Jharkhand government has announced that now the Sammed Shikhar at Girdih district will not be made a tourist destination. This good news has been announced by Vidyasagar, the biggest spiritual guru of the Digambar Jain community.

Minister

GUJARAT CM IN DELHI, MEETS PM MODI

PM Narendra Modi with Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel during a meeting, in New Delhi on Wednesday. —PHOTO BY PTI

BRIEFS

Govt serious about taming inflation: RBI Guv

Mumbai (PTI): RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das said there is a “very coordinated approach” between the Union govt &the central bank to fight inflation. Das said the government is “equally serious” about taming inflation.

New Delhi: Gold price rose `192 to `55,261 per 10 grams in the national capital on Wednesday amid gains in precious metal prices internationally, according to HDFC Securities. In the previous trade, the yellow metal had closed at `55,069 per 10 grams. Silver also jumped `433 to `69,962 per kilogram. In the international market, gold was trading higher at $1,815 per ounce while silver was up at $23.94 per ounce. —PTI

ONLY 8 COAL MINES

The remarks came weeks after the RBI wrote a note to the government explaining the reasons for missing the upper end of the tolerance band on inflation set for it for nine consecutive months, which is a first since the onset of the flexible inflation targeting framework in 2016.

“I must say that to check inflation, there has been a very coordinated approach between the central bank and the central government,” Das said, listing out the measures taken by the two. He said the RBI actions included one on the rates, stance of the monetary policy and liquidity measures, while the government undertook several supply

side measures like cutting down taxes on petrol or diesel, reducing duties on imported food items.

Stating that the “government also is equally serious about controlling inflation”, the bureaucratturned-central bank governor said, “everyone is interested in bringing down inflation and I am sure the government also will be equally keen that inflation is brought down”.

CREDIT GROWTH FAR AWAY FROM BEING CONSIDERED AS ‘EXUBERANT’, SAYS DAS

Mumbai (PTI): The present credit growth is far away from being considered as “exuberant” and there is no “big gap” between the credit growth and deposit accretion when looked at the absolute numbers, RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das said on Wednesday. “I think the credit growth at the current point is certainly far far away from exuberance or something like that. It is definitely very, very steady. We are monitoring it very very carefully,” Das said. When one compares the credit growth and deposit growth, it seems like a wide gap because of the base effects, Das said, adding that the credit growth is going up after two years of being depressed, while deposit growth number has come off a relatively higher growth during the pandemic years. “Just as the credit growth looks very high because of the low base effect of the previous years, the deposit growth is also pretty low because of the base effects of the previous years,” he said.

pvt cryptos to grow can precipitate next financial crisis’

Mumbai (PTI): Pressing for the prohibition of instruments like Bitcoin, Reserve Bank Governor Shaktikanta Das on Wednesday warned that the next financial crisis can be triggered by pri vate crypto currencies, if such speculative instruments are allowed to grow.

Das has been staunch ly opposed to such instruments and the RBI has gone till the Supreme Court with its contention.

“Cryptocurrencies… have huge inherent risks from macroeconomic and financial stability (perspective) and

we have been pointing it out,” he said.

The RBI governor added that the developments over the last one year, which include the latest crash of cryptocurrency exchange FTX, which is termed as one of the biggest financial frauds in the history of the US, illustrate the threat posed by such instruments. “After all these, I don’t think we need to say anything more about our stand,” Das said, adding that private cryptocurrencies’ valuation has shrunk from $190 billion to $140 billion.

New Delhi: Out of 99 coal mines that were put on the block in the fourth round of the auction, just eight blocks have been auctioned successfully, Parliament was informed on Wednesday. Development of new mines are required towards Atmanirbhar Bharat to reduce import dependence. Coal demand of 1500 million tonne per annum (MTPA) is projected by the year 2030, Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Coal and Mines Pralhad Joshi said. —PTI

ELIN ELECTRONICS IPO SUBSCRIBED 95% ON DAY 2

OTHER STORIES

LOW DEMAND, RISE IN RAW MATERIAL PRICES KEY PROBLEMS OF MSMEs: SURVEY

New Delhi: The decline in demand and rise in raw material prices due to high transportation costs are the major problems faced by micro, small and medium enterprises in the last 27 months, according to a survey. The report by Bhartiya Yuva Shakti Trust (BYST) also said that though markets have stabilised, about 57% of the units that participated in the survey are struggling to get new orders for their merchandise. While the impact of COVID-19 has been slowly receding, the economic situation is yet to completely stabilise due to multiple factors, according to the report. —PTI

VIACOM18 GETS PARIS OLYMPICS BROADCAST RIGHTS FOR INDIA

New Delhi: The IPO of electronics manufacturing services company Elin Electronics was subscribed 95% on the second day of subscription on Wednesday. The IPO received bids for 1,34,54,580 shares against 1,42,09,386 shares on offer, as per NSE data. The category meant for non-institutional investors was subscribed 1.29 times, RIIs received 1.33 times subscription and Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIBs) portion 1%. The IPO has a fresh issue of up to `175 crore and an offer for sale of up to `300 crore, aggregating up to `475 crore. —PTI

New Delhi: Viacom18 Media has secured exclusive media rights to broadcast the next Olympic Games, which will be held in Paris in 2024, in India and the subcontinent region. It has also received non-exclusive rights to the Winter Youth Olympic Games Gangwon 2024, said a joint statement. ”Through the agreement, Viacom18 will provide multi-platform coverage of the Games, and ensure freeto-air television coverage within the region,” it said. —PTI

OFFICE LEASING SET TO GROW 10-15% IN FY23, NEXT FISCAL: REPORT

Mumbai: In spite of ebbing growth momentum, commercial leasing activity is likely to grow at a healthy 1015% this fiscal and the next, a report said on Wednesday. At this growth rate, commercial leasing space will touch 28-30 million sq ft (msf) this fiscal and grow further to 31-33 msf. It added that even at this rate of growth, demand will be below the pre-pandemic high of 42 msf in fiscal 2020, but within sniffing distance of fiscal 2019 level of 34 msf. —PTI

ENGAGING E-COMMERCE PLAYERS TO PUSH SALES OF GOODS PRODUCED BY TRIBALS: PRADHAN

New Delhi: The government is taking steps to enhance production and marketing of forest produce of tribal communities and engaging with e-commerce players like Amazon and Flipkart to push their sales, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said on Wednesday.

He also said that the tribal community will be the major beneficiary of the emphasis of the NEP on the use of mother tongue or local language as the medium. Briefing about the steps being taken by the government for the welfare of tribals, the minister said that financial allocations under centrally sponsored schemes have been increased significantly. —PTI

‘Economy likely to grow at over 7% in FY23’

New Delhi (PTI): The Indian economy is likely to grow at over 7% in the current fiscal year, former Niti Aayog vice chairman Arvind Panagariya said on Wednesday, while observing that the growth rate should sustain next year too provided the forthcoming Budget does not have any negative surprises.

Panagariya further said recessionary fears have been around for a while but so far neither the US nor the EU has gone into recession. “From the viewpoint of India, in terms of head-

‘India has signed 13 FTAs so far’

New Delhi (PTI): India has signed 13 free trade agreements (FTAs) and six preferential pacts so far with its trading partners for ensuring greater market access for domestic goods and promoting exports, Union minister Anupriya Patel said on Wednesday.

The country has recently signed three such agreements with Mauritius, the UAE and Australia.

Further, India is also actively engaged in free trade agreements (FTAs) negotiations with some of its trading partners including the UK, European Union and Canada.

IN 1st HALF OF FINANCIAL YEAR 2022-23

New Delhi: The demand for finished steel in India is expected to grow 8% this year compared to 2021. Supported by the government’s infrastructure-led growth model, domestic finished steel demand has registered a double-digit growth of 11.9% in the first eight months of the current fiscal, ICRA said in a report on Wed. The demand is “poised to close the year with a growth of 8%...78% growth for FY 202223,” Icra said. —PTI

winds originating abroad, the worst is probably behind us,” he said.

The RBI revised down its growth estimate for FY23 to 6.8% from the earlier 7%.

“Overall, I still expect us to end the current fiscal year with a growth rate ex-

REVISED DOWN EARLIER IN DEC

z The RBI revised down its growth estimate for FY23 to 6.8% from 7%, while the World Bank revised upwards its forecast to 6.9%

ceeding 7%. Next year, the 7% growth rate should sustain assuming the forthcoming Budget does not have any negative surprises,” the economist said.

Panagariya said capital outflows induced by the hikes in policy rates by the

US Fed Reserve had placed the rupee under considerable pressure.

“Those flows have reversed with positive net portfolio inflows in November,” he said, adding that inflation in the US is also coming down.

But in the meantime, Panagariya said, the rupee has appreciated against currencies such as the Euro and Yen which may contribute to weakness in exports in the coming year.

Even prior to this episode, the rupee had been overvalued, he added.

MARKETS WILT FOR SECOND DAY AS COVID THREAT SPOOKS INVESTORS

Mumbai (PTI): Equity benchmarks Sensex and Nifty gave up early gains and ended lower by 1% on Wednesday amid a largely weak trend in Asian markets and sell-off in index majors Reliance Industries, ICICI Bank and HDFC twins.

The 30-share BSE benchmark Sensex tumbled 635.05 points or 1.03% to settle at 61,067.24.

The broader NSE Nifty declined 186.20 points or 1.01% to end at 18,199.10.

From the Sensex pack, IndusInd Bank, Bajaj Fin-

serv, Maruti, UltraTech Cement, Tata Motors, Axis Bank, State Bank of India (SBI) and Kotak Mahindra Bank were the major laggards.

Sun Pharma, HCL Technologies, Tata Consultancy Services, Tech Mahindra, Nestle, Wipro and Infosys ended in the green.

Auto components industry grows 34.8%

First India Bureau

New Delhi: India’s auto components industry witnessed a 34.8% growth to ` 2.65 lakh crore in firsthalf of 2022-23, riding on domestic demand, particularly from the passenger vehicles segment, the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India said on Wednesday.

During the period, exports of components grew by 8.6% to $10.1 billion (` 79.03 lakh crore), while imports climbed 17.2% to $10.1 billion (` 79.8 lakh crore), ACMA said.

“We’ve seen great growth come out of passenger cars and commercial vehicles...

The festive season was very positive for two-wheelers, and we hope that two-

wheelers will be back on the growth track, like they have been in the past,” ACMA President said.

He further said moderation in the supply-side is-

EXPORTS UP 8.6% TO $10.1 BILLION

RUPEE SLIPS 10 PAISE TO 82.80 AGAINST DOLLAR

Mumbai (PTI): The rupee declined 10 paise to settle at 82.80 (provisional) against the US dollar on Wednesday as a massive sell-off in domestic equities and risk aversion in global markets dented investor sentiment. At the interbank forex market, the local unit opened weak at 82.76 against the greenback and witnessed an intra-day high of 82.66 and a low of 82.83. It finally ended at 82.80, a decline of 10 paise.

Airtel launches 5G services in Ahd, Gandhinagar, Imphal

New Delhi: Telecom operator Bharti Airtel on Wednesday announced the launch of high-speed 5G services in Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar.

The company also announced the roll out of 5G services in Imphal.

sues, such as availability of semiconductors, high input raw-material costs and non-availability of containers, also helped in the growth.

In a statement anouncing that 5G services have gone live in Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar, the company said that the services are currently operational at SG Highway, Memnagar, Satellite, Navrangpura, Sabarmati, Motera, Chandkheda,

AUCTIONED IN 4TH ROUND: JOSHI

DOMESTIC DEMAND FOR FINISHED STEEL TO GROW 8 PERCENT

GOLD CLIMBS `192; SILVER PRICES SEE JUMP OF `433

‘Allowing

South Bopal, Gomtipur, Memco, Bapunagar in Ahmedabad and Koba, Raysan, Sargasan, Pethapur and other key locations in Gandhinagar town. Customers with 5G enabled devices will enjoy the high speed network at no extra cost until the roll out is more widespread.

Make forest dwellers aware of their rights: Prez to IFS officers

nomic and environmental impact,” she said.

Nature has given us bountiful presents and it is the duty of each one of us to be sensitive and responsible towards the environment, the president said.

New Delhi (PTI): Asserting that forests are essential for social, cultural, and economic development, President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday asked Indian Forest Service officers to play an effective role in protecting them from illegal activities.

Addressing probationers of the IFS, who had called on her at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, Murmu said India is giving special attention to the rights of forestdwelling communities.

“The symbiotic relationship of the forest dwellers including tribal communities, with the forests is now wide-

ly recognised and factored in our development choices. It is the responsibility of Indian Forest Service officers to make these communities aware of their rights and duties towards conservation and protection of bio-diversity,” she said.

Referring to incidents of large forest fires in various parts of India and the world, the president said, “We have a big challenge of

‘SCAM’

ED names south India political leaders for `100 crore kickbacks to AAP government

New Delhi (PTI): Several prominent people from south India had given kickbacks of around Rs 100 Cr to the AAP government here in exchange of favours and undue benefits to them in the liquor business, the ED has alleged in its charge sheet.

The ED said that businessman Sameer Mahendru and AAP’s communication in-charge Vijay Nair hatched a conspiracy with K Kavitha, MLC of Telangana, Magunta Srinivasulu Reddy (MSR), MP of Ongole (Andhra), his son Raghav Magunta, and Sarath Reddy, who are collectively called as South Group.

“Mahendru formed a cartel of retailer-wholesaler-manufacturer with Pernod Ricard, Benoy Babu, Vijay Nair,, Arun Pillai, K Kavitha,

New Delhi (PTI): The ED has claimed in its charge sheet that the Delhi Excise Policy, which caused a “total loss of Rs 2,873 crore” to govt exchequer, was a device created by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders, some of whom are part of Delhi government, to generate illegal funds.

Magunta Srinivasulu Reddy, his son Raghav, Sarath Reddy, Abhishek Boinpally and Buchi Babu,” it alleged.

not just conserving the forests but dealing with climate change”.

“Today we have new technologies and concepts of urban forestry, forest risk mitigation, data-driven forest management, and climatesmart forest economies.

DOLPHIN CENSUS BEGINS IN CHILIKA

You should innovate and come out with new methods for sustainable management of India’s forest resources.

“You must also play an effective role in protecting our forests from illegal activities which have a negative eco-

“Forests are the anchors for all life on earth. Their role varies from providing wildlife habitats and being livelihood sources, to promoting economic activities and serving as large carbon sinks. They are home to many endangered species of the world,” she said. The diverse range of forests found in India is rarely seen in other countries, Murmu said.

“Minor forest produce supports the livelihood of well over 27 crore people in our country. Forests have high medicinal value too. In India, only 15% of medicinal plants are cultivated while 85 per cent are collected from forests & other natural habitats,” she said.

Bhubaneswar (ANI): The annual census of dolphins inhabiting along brackish water bodies of Chilika lake began on Wednesday. The annual exercise started at 6 am and will continue till 2 pm. As per official sources, 18 teams comprising senior officials of the State Forest department and wildlife experts have been roped in to conduct the dolphin census at Chilika.

As many as three to six members have been deployed in each team. Local volunteers and members of the Motor Boat Association are also involved in the annual exercise which will be carried on for three days.

‘Many youth end up in gig economy, get no job security’

Alwar (PTI): Youth from across India come to Rajasthan to study and hope for good jobs, but many end up in the new "gig economy" which offers little security despite government efforts, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said Wednesday.

In his letter addressed to the people of Rajasthan as the Congress' Bharat Jodo Yatra entered Haryana, he also mentioned the rights of the tribals and expressed confidence that the Ashok Gehlot government would act swiftly to resolve these issues. The letter was posted on Twitter by Congress leader Jairam Ramesh.

The former Congress chief, who covered nearly 500 km in six districts of Rajasthan before entering Haryana, said youth come to Rajasthan hoping to study and get good jobs, in a possible reference to coaching hubs like Kota. "Despite govern-

SP MLA IRFAN SOLANKI SHIFTED FROM KANPUR JAIL TO PRISON IN MAHARAJGANJ

First India Bureau

New Delhi: Jailed Samajwadi Party MLA Irfan Solanki on Wednesday was shifted to the district prison in Maharajganj amid tight security. It is 400km away from Kanpur Nagar jail, where he was lodged for the past 3 weeks. The transfer has been made on administrative grounds, an official said.

Solanki holding a book in his hand immediately entered the police vehicle after he came out of the jail, an official said on the condition of anonymity.

The MLA’s wife Naseem Solanki and other family members were present at the spot. Solan-

of one Nazir Fatima in a land dispute case on November 8.

While in judicial custody, the Samajwadi Party MLA was booked in a case related to issuing certificates to a Bangladeshi family which were used to obtain Indian documents, including Aadhaar.

ki had surrendered earlier this month after being booked for rioting and arson at the house

The state government admitted the request and ordered Solanki’s transfer to Maharajganj jail on Tuesday, just a day after Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav visit the Kanpur Nagar jail to meet the jailed party MLA.

INDIAN DELEGATION IN SWITZERLAND

SCHEDULE

ment efforts, these hopes go unfulfilled too often. Many work in the new 'gig economy' for companies like Uber, Ola, Swiggy, Zomato & Amazon in jobs which offer little security.

"The process to give Adivasis their rights guaranteed in law needs to be much smoother. I am confident the Rajasthan government will act swiftly to resolve these problems," Gandhi said.

Praising the schemes and programmes of the Congress government in Rajasthan, Gandhi said the government's

initiatives are aimed at providing "each section of society with security, removing fear from hearts and minds and assuring a bright future for younger generation".

"We met people who were treated free of cost through the Chiranjeevi scheme when they were seriously ill. Children's aspirations are rising as they learn English at Mahatma Gandhi English medium schools.

For the first time, MGNREGA has been extended to urban areas with the Indira Gandhi Employment Guarantee Scheme," he said.

UP: 39 of 219 fake madrasas received state grant, says SIT

Lucknow (ANI): Cracking down on ‘fake madrasas’ in UP, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) submitted its report to the government citing 219 ‘fake madrasas’ in Azamgarh some of which had allegedly received state grants in the name of modernisation. During the probe, several districts of

Purvanchal, including Azamgarh & Mau, came under the scanner, the SIT said. The report was submitted on Monday.

Dr. Iftikhar Ahmed Javed, chairman of the Madrasa Education Council, informed that these madrasas were recognized during 20082010 when the Samajwadi Party was in power.

Adityanath, Bommai, Shinde to join Mandaviya, Irani, Vaishnaw at WEF Davos

lll

No official word yet on the participation of PM Modi, who first attended the event in 2018 & addressed it via VC in 2021 and 2022

New Delhi (PTI): Chief Ministers Yogi Adityanath, BS Bommai and Eknath Shinde as well as senior union ministers Mansukh Mandaviya, Ashwini Vaishnaw and Smriti Irani will be among over 100 Indians at the World Economic Forum annual meeting in Davos next month.

While the final schedule and list of attendees are still in the works for the annual congrega-

tion of the rich and powerful of the world, to be held from January 16-20, 2023, in the Swiss ski resort town, more than 50 heads of state and government are expected to be there.

There is no official word yet on the participation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who had first attended the annual event in 2018 and addressed it through video-confer-

encing in 2021 and 2022 when the Covid-19 restrictions forced the summit to be held on-

line. Nearly 100 business leaders from India are also expected to be present at the 2023 an -

nual meeting and those include Gautam Adani, Mukesh Ambani, Kumar Mangalam Birla, N Chandrasekaran, Nadir Godrej, Adar Poonawalla, Sajjan Jindal, Rajan and Sunil Mittal, Sanjiv Bajaj & Sudarshan Venu.

Besides, Chandrajit Banerjee, Shyam Sunder Bhartia, Hari S Bhartia, Amitabh Chaudhry, G V Prasad, Rajesh Gopinathan, C P

Gurnani, Pawan Munjal, Roshni Nadar Malhotra, Nandan Nilekani, Salil Parekh, Rishad Premji, Byju Raveendran and Vijay Shekhar Sharma are also expected to attend the meeting.

Others from India would include G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant, International Solar Alliance Director General Ajay Mathur, Art of Living Founder Sri Sri Ravishankar Venkatratnam,

Tamil Nadu minister Thangam Thennarasu, Finance Commission Chairman N K Singh, Telangana minister K T Rama Rao, AAP leader Raghav Chadha, and Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade Secretary Anurag Jain.

Adityanath has launched a massive outreach programme for global investors to invest in Uttar Pradesh.

President Droupadi Murmu being greeted by probationers of the Indian Forest Service (IFS) during a meeting at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on Wednesday.

n Murmu urged to protect forests from fires and other illegal activities which have a negative environmental, economic impact

Wide-ranging

reforms are underway for effective participatory management and improved access to more efficient market systems for major and minor produce.

—Droupadi Murmu, President of India

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi with senior party leaders Randeep Surjewala and Selja Kumari, activist Yogendra Yadav and others during the ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’, in Nuh district on Wednesday.

Yogi Adityanath, BS Bommai and Eknath Shinde.

Sameer K Kavitha

EXCISE SCAM CREATED BY AAP LEADERS TO GENERATE ILLEGAL FUNDS, SAYS ED

Family members (R) of jailed Samajwadi Party MLA Irfan Solanki (L) seen during his shifting from Kanpur District Jail to Maharajganj Jail, in Kanpur on Wednesday. —PHOTO BY ANI

YAAR MERI ZINDAGI

istry is true and strong between the two and wonderfully backed up by great acting, drama and dialogues. The dialogues in a mishmash of Urdu, Hindi and English were by Kadar Khan, need I say more?

urbani- so aptly named by our desi Clint Eastwood Feroz Khan- is a movie about sacrifice, but this is not the sacrifice of a lovelorn couple but between two close friends- Feroz and Vinod Khanna- a bromance which steals your heart. The chem-

When we watch the songs of Qurbani and what a collection! Still remixed, admired, watched and sung they are, from the iconic Nazia Hassan’s ‘Aap jaisa koi meri zindagi mein aaye – where a sultry sexy shimmering Zeenat crooned at the males across the nation to ‘Laila main Laila’ –these two songs have spawned generations of songs in Bollywood, remixes and memes. But they do overshadow some other melodious numbers like ‘Hum tumhe chahte hain aise’,

‘kya dekhte ho’, ‘baat ban jaaye’, which are a joy to listen to even today. Qurbani Qurbani- a title songs too was hugely popular.

Qurbani with its bold plot, great cinematography, tight

direction, sporty action scenes, excellent acting by both the stars- Feroz Khan and Vinod Khanna, not to mention the leashed violence and sexual overtones depicted in the film and the absolutely memorable fantastic music – made it a huge box office hit and saved Khan from doom.

Amjad Khan in the role of an inspector – impersonating as a bumbling character- leaves a mark. Zeenat Aman’s character leaves much wanting and she coasts the movie with her stunning looks, contemporary style and allure, never really plumbing the depths of acting like her male co-stars did. But Zeenat has been etched forever in the memory of India as the ultimate Laila with Qurbani!

THROWBACK THURSDAY IS BACK AFTER A LONG INTERVAL AND WE BRING YOU ONE OF THE MOST ENJOYABLE BLOCKBUSTERS YOU CAN WATCH EVEN TODAY- QURBANI. THE MUSIC WILL HAVE YOU SWINGING!

ANITA HADA anita.hada@firstindianews.com

MRIDULA SHARMA cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

Jingle bells, fairy lights, and bags filled with anticipation are the perfect way to usher in the Christmas season! December is here, and the air is already starting to feel festive. And what’s the better way to get into the holiday spirit than to visit one of India’s majestic cathedrals, which are decked up in holiday décor and are lit up like stars? You may also take advantage of the serene ambience by doing some meditation or singing along to Christmas carols! So, here is a list of a few secret churches you really must see during Christmas in India.

India is home to several ancient and revered churches. Let’s explore these top five churches with City First to visit during Christmas in In dia if you’re seeking a place to attend mid night mass as Christ mas approaches.

JOHN IN THE WILDERNESS CHURCH, DHARAMSHALA

A historic Anglican church called St. John in the Wilderness Church is located in McLeodganj, a beautiful valley about 8 kilometres from Dharamshala. The church is renowned for its magnificent design and neo-gothic architecture.

It is one of the nicest churches to visit during Christmas in India is without a doubt, St. John. St. John Wilderness Church, which is nestled in a stunning picturesque location, will undoubtedly provide you with a sense of serenity and calm, making it one of the ideal churches to visit during Christmas in India. Although it appears to be an ancient and abandoned structure from the outside, the interiors are well-kept and quite lively.

DON’T MISS THESE HOLY CHURCHES TO VISIT IN INDIA DURING CHRISTMAS

Goa. One of the nicest

about the interesting locations to visit in India as we enter 2022.

CHRIST CHURCH, SHIMLA

It is the most well-known landmark in Shimla and one of India's most obvious symbols of British rule. Anyone travelling to Shimla should visit this wonderful building, which is created in the Neo-Gothic architectural style. For additional information, please check out these 9 locations in India where you may see magnificent snowfall. The silhouette of the yellow structure in Shimla can be seen from miles away, and it is regularly filled with admirers of architecture. Shimla Christ Church features five stained glass windows that represent different Christian qualities, a front porch, and church bells in a neo-gothic form. It is open every day for services and is now the only venue of worship for Christians.

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION

CATHEDRAL, PONDICHERRY

In Puducherry, the Immaculate Conception Cathedral is a well-known monument. Any visitor to the Cathedral would be mesmerised by its architecture, drawn to its serene surroundings and compelled to stay by its gorgeous interiors. The history of the church is intriguing. Before being demolished by different groups, it had been successfully erected three times. But once it was completed for the fourth time, it rose to prominence as one of Pondicherry's most significant and stunning tourist destinations and one of the top places to go during Christmas in India. Check out the best road trip ideas for the new year to learn more.

PAUL CATHEDRAL, KOLKATA

This enormous colonial-era building in the centre of the city transports you back in time.

This is one of the first locations travellers want to see when they get to Kolkata. The Christmas season, when the cathedral, surrounding gardens, and nearby streets are all flooded with light and happiness, is when it is at its most beautiful.

It is the first Episcopalian church in Asia and was constructed largely to serve Calcutta's expanding Christian population.

The Indo-Gothic architecture of the building has a cascading white superstructure, a lofty spire, and vibrantly coloured windows. It features a spacious nave, a spectacular altar, a chancel, and sculptures and paintings that illustrate pivotal moments in Christian history.

Christmas is round the corner and what’s the better way to get into the holiday spirit than to visit one of India’s majestic cathedrals, which are decked up in holiday decor and can make you feel comfortable and at peace at the same time!

BASILICA OF BOM JESUS, GOA

India’s most distinctive example of baroque architecture is the Basilica of Bom Jesus Church in

churches to visit during Christmas in India is the Basilica of Bom Jesus. The beginning of Christianity in India corresponds with the construction of this church, which was started in 1594 and finished in 1605. The only church in Old Goa without the words “Holy Jesus” painted on the outside is this one. The Jesuit emblem, which stands for “Jesus, Saviour of Men,” is beautifully carved onto the triangular roof of the church as the initials “IHS,” which stands for “Jesus, Saviour of Men.” Check out the New Year Edition to learn

Anushka Sharma is one of the most versatile actresses in Bollywood. The actress has carved a niche for herself in the film industry. Since her debut, Anushka has

captivated her audience with her charm and acting skills.

She is one of those actresses who loves to keep her fans and followers updated. Whenever Anushka gets spotted by the paparazzi, her fans go crazy. Now, yet again, the actress made an appearance in the city as she arrived at an event in Mumbai.

Anushka looked stylish as ever as she donned an off-while silk jacket and paired it with wide-legged track pants.

The Sanju actress also posed for the shutterbugs and later was seen sitting in a fancy burgundy car as she waved at her fans.

GAUAHAR AND ZAID announce the pregnancy

Actor Gauahar Khan announced that she is expecting her first child with her husband, Zaid Darbar. She shared a colourful and animated video, seeking best wishes, prayers and blessings. The words in the video read, “One became two, when Z met G. And now the adventure continues, as we become three!” Gauahar captioned,

“Bismillah hir Rahmaan Nir Raheem. Need all your love and prayers.

Ma Sha Allah! @pixiedustdesign showering their best on us from our wedding to this beautiful new journey too.” Friends, family and fans flooded the video with hearts and comments.

Kishwer Merchantt commented, “I knew, I knew looking at your posts lately, so happy for u guys…”

Shehnaaz dances with Rupali at the wedding

Shehnaaz Gill has been an audience favourite since her entry into Bigg Boss 13 house as a contestant. The Punjabi singer and actress are loved by one and all for her innocence and bubbly personal ity. She is also regarded of the most fashionable actresses in the entertainment industry.

Honsla Rakh fame actress re cently attended the wedding of her manager Kaushal Joshi, where she was seen having lots of fun with nu merous celebs.

Bigg Boss 13 fame ac tress looks fabulous in a white saree with multi coloured floral embroi dery work. The actress had accessorized her look with a choker neckpiece and studs. She was seen dancing her heart out along with Vishal Aditya Singh and Anu pamaa lead Ru pali Ganguly.

Videos from the wedding are floating on social me dia, where she is seen enjoying herself at the wed ding.

highly-anticipated movie The Archies.

Suhana Khan took to her Instagram just a few moments ago to share a few pictures of the journal given to her by Shah Rukh Khan. The journal included acting notes and

advice that Shah Rukh Khan wrote over the years. The first picture shows the cover page of

the journal, with Suhana’s hand over it. The next picture gives a glimpse of the first page of the journal and the text reads, “This journal belongs to Suhana Khan. By Papa.” The next page reads, “On Acting.” The last picture shared by Suhana partially shows SRK’s hand-written notes from 2014. Sharing the pictures, Suhana wrote, “Tuesday inspiration.”

Rubina missing Bigg Boss’s voice

In the video shared by Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 10 fame, she is seen gorging on various delicacies of her hometown in Himachal

The actress is from Shimla and is presently enjoying a break from work at her home. She has been sharing pictures and videos of the beautiful view of the snowcapped mountains and her fashionable winter looks. She also shared pictures with her family. In her recent video, she is seen having the best cious food. The audio for the reel was the voice of Bigg Boss at different time frames. She shared

boss chahte hain…….” From her video, it seems like the actress is missing her stay in the Bigg Boss

tened to Bigg Boss’s voice throughout

Shilpa shared her daughter Samisha’s first reaction to touching snow and it is very adorable. In the video, Shilpa is seen wearing a grey and black sweater and black pants. She is playing in the snow with her son Viaan. Both of them are throwing snowballs at each other. Viaan asks Samisha to touch snow but she isn’t very keen to touch it. She is

looking cute in a brown fur jacket and beige tights and matching boots. Sharing the video, Shilpa wrote on Insta gram, “In the season of candy canes, wreaths, holly, and mistletoe. I like to take things a little slow… To fill your hearts with that warm and fuzzy glow. All you need is tons of laughter, oo dles of giggles… And, your little one getting her very first handful of snow. #holidayseason #snow #londondiaries.”

Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan’s daughter Suhana Khan is all set to foray into acting, and will soon make her Bollywood debut with Zoya Akhtar’s

Pradesh.

Anuksha Sharma

Spotted

Gauahar Khan and Zaid Darbar

Suhana Khan’s post...

Shehnaaz Gill during the wedding

Shehnaaz Gill

Shilpa Shetty Kundra

Shilpa’s post

Rubina Dilaik

CELEBRATIONS AND GREETINGS!

CITY FIRST

Anew book titled “Impact of patents on chemotherapy drugs in the treatment of cancer” has brought to the fore the concern relating to the affordability of chemotherapy drugs used in the treatment of cancer. The book, in two volumes, has been compiled and edited by Dr K.V. Swaminathan former Controller General (Patents, Designs & Trademarks) and past chairman of Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre (RGCI). Besides an overview of Cancer and IPR Issues, the book profiles major pharma

companies and chemotherapy drugs, patent status abroad and in India and areas of interest from India’s point of view.

“The book discusses an important yet not very widely understood complex area. Research is expensive. Cost of which has to be recovered in the form of the price of the drug. But that takes it beyond a vast majority of our people leading to a lot of acrimony and dispute. Dr Swaminathan has beautifully combined his knowledge of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) and cancer treatment methodologies”, said Rakesh Chopra, Chairman of RGCIRC while releasing the book.

CREATE A LIFE YOU ARE PROUD OF

She sees herself living a balanced, happy state of mind, body and soul.

She further added that she isn't sure if that's possible but she's gonna try harder to attain so.

AISHA GUPTA cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

25 years old Manali Gurnani, was born and raised in Jaipur, Rajasthan. She is a commerce postgraduate and worked in the corporate sector for 5 years. She loves reading, writing and dancing.

She learned acting from the Rangshila theatre group and is now a full-time actor. "I never want to get tagged as a struggling actor because I'm not struggling here I'm just aspiring to be an actor and now as I have done a few commercial projects I would consider myself an actor," says Manali.

Where do you see yourself after the next 20 years?

How did your journey begin?

She said it all started back in school, she was part of a school play in which the role of iconic Daya ben from Tarak Mehta Ka Ulta Chasma was portrayed her and the performance made everyone laugh. This boosted her confidence and since then she want ed to become an actor.

"I started preparing my mind, my bank balance and my parents for this field. My mind because I was low self-esteem girl in school my self-doubts were never ending hence had to prepare my mind first, My bank bal ance - I've been watch ing actor's interviews from the age of 12 years so I knew what is the main problem of ac tors survival in Mum bai money so I made sure my balance is strong enough to support my living

in this expensive city. And third my parents- I never wanted a career that my parents don't want me to go for hence from childhood I kept saying to every family member that I am the heroine of this family and since then everyone in my family knew I

FESTIVAL OF LOVE!

CITY FIRST

Ahead of Christmas, Neon by Hangout will organise a festival themed as Christmas Carnival from December 22

- 25 at Select Citywalk, Saket, New Delhi and Pavillion Mall, Ludhiana.

For the occasion, Shalini Vij, Director and Neon by Hang Out said

Talk to us about your achievements.

She got her first acting gig in Mumbai within a month of moving there and has done 7 ads out of which 3 have been released and one was with a big brand Lux inferno starring veteran actor Boman Irani, also the appreciation from friends and family is her biggest achievement.

“Santa Claus is coming to town, this popular Christmas song has kids growing up believing that Santas is making a list & will be bringing them

gifts, Neon by Hang Out brings those gifts, games, toys, candy & lots of fun activities, making Christmas a very special moment & ensuring smiles on the innocent faces of the children. We start planning our Christmas early to add a surprise element every year because we aim at making their Christmas very Merry. We try to aim at as many smiles as we can capture & that's our driving force."

CITY FIRST

Bajo Foods Private Limited, the parent company of India’s most loved Keto Brand – Lo! Foods, raised funding of $2 million for its two new first-of-their-kind product ranges in India - DiabeSmart and Protein Chef. Mount Judi Ventures is the lead anchor in this funding round, its first investment in the FMCG space. Strong investors participated in this fundraiser, including S Ramadorai (Former VC TCS) and KP Balaraj, founder of KPB Trust (Former co-founder of Sequoia Capital India and WestBridge Capital). With this funding, the FMCG start-

up expects to grow by 3.5 times in the next 18 months.

Bajo Foods plans to use the fundraising for brand building of its new product ranges and expanding its channels to Offline Retail, B2B and Hospitals.

Speaking about the fundraising, Sudarshan Gangrade, CEO of Bajo Foods, said, “India is referred to as the Diabetes Capital of the

World. This fundraising is for our two newly built innovative product ranges, DiabeSmart and Protein Chef. The investment will expand the reach to the targeted audience and accelerate our growth, helping us in our vision of positively impacting the health of Indians.”

On the funding, KP Balaraj, founder of KPB Trust, said, “The Diabetes and Protein market segments that Bajo Foods has built products for is extremely large. The company has built clearly differentiated products with a high Gross margin structure.”

FRAGRANCE OF ART!

CITY FIRST

Rang Mirage is an Art Camp/Exhibition that will collect the works of various talented artists all across India and allow the artists to showcase their work in the heart of Delhi. Rang Mirage “Rango ka Khel” as the name suggests is an illusion of colours on canvas, turned into impeccable different styles of paintings. The exhibition was organised by Shambhu Nath Gos wami and Adhvika Agarwal. Dr Anil Jain (MP) and Vasudeo Kamath (Emi nent Artist & Na tional President of Sanskar Bharati) were present as the special

guests. Manoj Agarwal (MD, Great Value Group This concept allows artists to participate and attend a 4 day Art Camp held in Delhi. The camp will take care of all amenities and accommodations, including paint, leisure, eateries and a whole lot of fun.

Organised by Adhvika Agarwal (Director), Shambhu Nath Goswami (Sr Artist/

of

Bharti. They present an impeccable, unique experience of art & music on December 18 in Sainik Farms. It will be an unforgettable sundowner to enjoy real creativity and appreciate Indian art and culture under one roof with 13 great artists from across India.

want to become an actor and they were fully convinced after seeing my efforts into this field" said Manali.

Manali Gurnani, an aspiring actor shares her journey with City First

—PHOTOS BY SHAZID CHAUHAN

Curator), Sponsored by Manoj Agarwal (MD, Great Value Group) in support

Sanskar

The grand wedding reception of Shreya Ginni, daughter of Senior journalist and writer Mrs and Mr Manoj Rajan Tripathi with Dr Prateek, son of Mrs and Mr Narayan Prasad Pandey was held at Dayal Bagh, Lucknow on Tuesday. Jagdeesh Chandra reached to bless the newlyweds and wished them a happy married life ahead. Various dignitaries and who’s who of the city were also present on the occasion.

Manali Gurnani

Vikram Sharmi

& Silvee Bakshi Vikram & Malini Dhawan

Dr DC Doval, Dr Sudhir Rawal, DS Negi, Rakesh Chopra, Dr Gauri Kapoor, Dr Vineet Talwar and Dr Dinesh Bhurani

Rajeev

Monica Kapoor

Neelam

Sudarshan Gangrade

Artist during the Art Camp

—PHOTOS BY SHAZID CHAUHAN

—PHOTOS BY SHAZID CHAUHAN

During the event

Jagdeesh Chandra greets the newlyweds Dr Prateek and Shreya. Also seen are Manoj Rajan Tripathi and Jitendra Kumar

Jagdeesh Chandra with IAS Jitendra Kumar and Avneesh Vidhyarthi

Jagdeesh Chandra with Mrityunjay Kumar, Abhishek Kaushik, Kapil Tyagi and Avneesh Vidyarthi