First India-Jaipur Edition-3rd February 2023

For the first time ever, the Supreme Court will celebrate its anniversary tomorrow. The 73rd anniversary will be graced by CJ of Singapore, Justice Sundaresh Menon, as chief guest.

Apex Court to hear two petitions challenging the “ban” on the BBC documentary ‘India: The Modi Question’ today. A bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and MM Sundresh will hear the matter.

Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed a PIL which sought to ban candidates from contesting elections on two seats. The top court said it was Parliament’s job to look into the matter.

SIGNS MOU

Ministry of Cooperation on Thursday signed a MoU with the Ministry of Electronics and IT, NABARD and CSC e-Governance Services India Limited to enable Primary Agri Credit Societies (PACS) to provide services offered by Common Service Centers.

ADANI SAGA REACHES PARL FROM MARKET

All Oppn parties seek Parliament debate JPC on Adani stock rout, force adjournments in LS & RS

Moni Sharma

New Delhi: The Opposition parties on Thursday sought a debate in Parliament and a probe by a joint committee into the fraud-allegation-triggered rout in Adani group company stocks, forcing adjournment of proceedings in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha in the pre-lunch session.

The Congress, Shiv Sena, the Left, AAP and other Oppn parties tried to raise in both Houses issue of allegations levelled by a US short seller against Adani group, subsequent mayhem on the company stocks but were disallowed by chair.

LS MPs rushed to the Well of House raising slogans, sought a probe into business practices of big giant. Whereas, 9 MPs including Kharge, Shiv Sena’s Priyanka Chaturvedi and AAP’s Sanjay, gave notices in RS under rule 267. P5

READ Crucial

AYODHYA GETS RARE

SHALIGRAMS FOR RAM

TEMPLE FROM NEPAL

a press conference

OM BIRLA ASKS MEMBERS NOT TO MAKE UNSUBSTANTIATED CLAIMS

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla asked members not to make unsubstantiated claims and said Question Hour was an important part of Parliamentary proceedings which should not be disrupted. As the slogan shouting continued, the Speaker adjourned the Lower House proceedings till 2 pm.

Adani speaks for 1st time since turmoil as stock fall continues

Keeping public interest in mind, we want a thorough probe into the Adani issue either by a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) or a Supreme Court-monitored panel. There should also be dayto-day reporting of the investigation on the issue.

—Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress President

PM MODI HOLDS MEETING WITH UNION MINISTERS

DHANKHAR REJECTS NOTICES, SAYS THEY WERE NOT IN ORDER

Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar rejected all the notices, saying they were not in order. This infuriated the opposition MPs who rose in their places to protest. Dhankhar called for order in House but MPs continued to raise their demands, it also included constitution of a JPC to probe entire fiasco.

SCENT OF TERROR!

Teacher arrested for twin blasts in J&K, had Pak handlers: Cops

Ayodhya: The construction work of a grand temple in Ayodhya, the city of Ram, is in full swing and along with it, idols of Ram and Sita are to be incarnated and carved out of special stones known as Shaligram stone, which is brought from Nepal.

INDUS WATER TREATY:

INDIA ISSUES NOTICE

TO PAK FOR TALKS

New Delhi: India’s Indus Commissioner issued a notice to Pakistani counterpart to notify a date for interstate bilateral negotiations to rectify an ongoing material breach of Indus Water treaty, MEA said on Thursday.

First India Bureau Jammu: A government school teacher-turned Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist was arrested for allegedly carrying out multiple blasts, including one in a bus carrying Vaishno Devi pilgrims, Director General of Jammu and Kashmir Police Dilbag Singh said on Thursday.

The arrest of Arif, a resident of Reasi dis-

3 CRPF JAWANS INJURED IN IED BLAST IN CHAIBASA

FORMER BJP WORKER’S SON MURDERED IN BROAD DAYLIGHT IN CHITTORGARH

Chittorgarh: Son of former BJP booth president Bapulal

trict, follows investigations in the recent twin blast case at Narwal in Jammu. An Improvised Explosive Device (IED) planted inside a perfume bottle was recovered from his possession, Singh told reporters here.

The Jammu and Kashmir police chief said this was the first time that such type of bomb was recovered in the Union Territory.

Chaibasa: As many as three CRPF jawans were injured after Naxals triggered an IED blast in Jharkhand’s Chaibasa area on Thursday, said a police officer.

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with Union Ministers to discuss government strategy in Parliament on Thursday. Among the ministers who were present at the meeting include Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, Anurag Thakur, Nirmala Sitharaman, Pralhad Joshi, Piyush Goyal, Nitin Gadkari and Kiren Rijiju.

IN A FIRST, “PERFUME IED” RECOVERED FROM LeT TERRORIST...

In a first, Jammu Police recovered a perfume improvised explosive device (IED) from a terrorist associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba who was involved in the twin blasts that took place in Narwal on January 21.

First India Bureau New Delhi/Mumbai:

Embattled billionaire Gautam Adani on Thursday spoke publicly for the first time since his ports-to-energy conglomerate publicly battled a short seller’s accusation of stock manipulation and accounting fraud, saying the abrupt move to withdraw a fully-subscribed share sale at his flagship firm was due to market volatility. Adani Enterprises Ltd (AEL) closed at ` 1,564.70 on the BSE on Thursday, less than half the price at which shares were offered to investors in the follow-on public offer (FPO) that closed on January 31.

‘After a fully subscribed follow-on public offering (of Adani Enterprises Ltd), Wednesday’s decision of its withdrawal would have surprised many,” he said.

JOHNSON, BROTHER OF UK EX-PM, RESIGNS AS DIRECTOR OF ADANI LINKED COMPANY

J o Johnson, the former Conservative minister and brother of former UK PM Boris Johnson, has resigned as a director of a London-based firm with ties to the embattled Adani Group. Johnson joined Elara Capital, a self-styled “leading investment bank” for Indian companies looking to raise money overseas, in June last year.

RBI ASKS BANKS ABOUT ADANI GROUP EXPOSURE

T he RBI has sought details about lenders’ exposures to the Adani Group, banking sources said, a day after the conglomerate withdrew the on public offer (FPO) of its flagship firm Adani Enterprises amid the steep fall in its stock prices.

The fundamentals of our company are strong. Our balance sheet is healthy and assets, robust. Our EBITDA levels and cash flows have been very strong and we have an impeccable track record of fulfilling our debt obligations. We will continue to focus on long term value creation and growth will be managed by internal accruals.

—Gautam Adani, Chairman Adani Group

Kappan walks out of jail after 2 years, says false allegations against me

First India Bureau Lucknow: Kerala journalist Siddique Kappan, 43, was released from Lucknow jail on Thursday morning, 28 months after he was arrested by UP police under UAPA while on his way to cover Hathras gang rape case in Oct 2020. He was granted bail in the PMLA case by the High Court on December 23 and documentation for his release was completed on Wednesday.

SC HAD GRANTED

HIM BAIL EARLIER

On September 9, 2022, SC granted bail to Kappan but he was not released as ED case under PMLA was pending.

BJP to fight Meghalaya polls under “M-POWER”

Party will contest all 60 Meghalaya seats, 20 seats in Nagaland

Journalist Siddique Kappan with his wife, son as he was released from Lucknow jail on Thursday.

My release is a “halfbaked justice” and “justice delayed”. Those who were arrested with me and falsely framed in the case are still in jail. Only I have come out and also the driver who was with me. How can we say justice is served just because of my release? I will continue the fight for it.

—Siddique Kappan

The speech of the Leader of the Opposition was only a bundle of lies, says CM Gehlot

Naresh Sharma and Aishwary Pradhan

Jaipur: During the ongoing Budget session of Rajasthan assembly, on Thursday, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot replied to the Governor’s address in the House.

Stressing that his government has made ‘historic achievements’, Gehlot targetted the opposition and said that the ‘the speech of the Lead-

Our government has jailed those involved in the paper leak episode. Their buildings have been demolished, the government is taking strict action.

—Ashok Gehlot, Chief Minister

er of the Opposition was only a bundle of lies.’ “I’ll send you a pointby-point answer. Leader of opposition talks only in emotions. There

should be peace and brotherhood in the country. Which democracy do you talk about?

Your party has not given ticket to a single Muslim in Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, nor did your party give ticket to any Muslim in Uttar Pradesh. You only talk falsely about democracy. You shouldn’t comment on a scheme without thinking about it.

New Delhi (FIB): BJP will contest on all 60 seats of Meghalaya Assembly and fight Nagaland elections in an alliance with State’s ruling Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party, contesting on 20 of 60 seats. BJP secretary and its NE co-incharge Rituraj Sinha said on Thursday that party will fight the Meghalaya polls under campaign tagline of “MPower” (Modi power), asserting that people of State have trust in PM Modi. They believe Modi is only person who can ensure a corruption-free govt. P5

CM GEHLOT WILL PRESENT STATE’S BUDGET ON FEB 10

C

hief Minister Ashok

Gehlot will present the State’s Budget for 2023-24 on February 10. This will be the fifth and final Budget of Gehlot’s current tenure. The House will not meet on February 11 and 12. It will reconvene for a debate on the Budget on February 13-15. The government will reply to the debate on February 16, according to the report. Gehlot, who also holds the finance portfolio, has said several times that the upcoming Budget would focus on the youth and the women.

RJD MP Manoj Jha in presence of LoP Mallikarjun Kharge and other like-minded Opposition parties leaders addressing

at a lawn near Vijay Chowk, in New Delhi on Thursday.

J&K DGP Dilbag Singh addresses media regarding the arrested of the terrorist in Jammu on Thursday. (Top) Arif in police custody.

MLA RESIGNATIONS: PRIVILEGE NOTICE AGAINST LODHA, 5 CONG MLAS

OPP BJP REVERSES CONG MOVE

BJP submits proposal against Dhariwal, Joshi, Ramlal Jat, Lodha, Mahendra Chaudhary, Rafiq Khan

Naresh Sharma & Aishwary Pradhan

Jaipur: Opposition

BJP legislators on Thursday submitted a breach of privilege proposal to the Rajasthan Assembly secretary against five Congress leaders and an independent MLA for pressurising 81 other Congress MLAs to resign ahead of a CLP meeting called to determine Ashok Gehlot’s successor as Chief Minister.

While submitting the proposal to the Assembly secretary Mahaveer Prasad Sharma, the Opposition leaders demanded a discussion on the issue in the House.

“Six members of the BJP have submitted a proposal of breach of privilege against the six Congress leaders who mounted pressure on 81 other Congress members to resign. We have given a proposal to the

Assembly secretary demanding a discussion on it in the House,” Deputy Leader of Opposition Rajendra Rathore said. He said that a breach of privilege pro-

BUDGET SESSION

posal has been submitted mentioning the rules of Assembly procedure and conduct of business. A delegation of six BJP leaders has submitted the pro-

posal against three cabinet ministers, including Shanti Dhariwal, Mahesh Joshi, and Ramlal Jat. The others include CM’s advisor and independent MLA Sanyam Lodha, Deputy Chief Whip Mahendra Chaudhary, and Chair-

man-Rajasthan State Commission for Minorities, Rafiq Khan. No decision has yet been taken on the motion of breach of privilege of Independent MLA Sanyam Lodha. Joshi now has to decide on this issue.

QUESTION HOUR

PROBE REVDAR FOREST EXTENSION SCHEME BUDGET, DEMANDS JAGSIRAM

Will women heads get free smartphones? Govt asked

First India Bureau

Jaipur: BJP MLA Kali-

charan Saraf raised the issue providing smartphones to Chiranjeevi Mahila Mukhiya free of cost in the Vidhan Sabha on Thursday. In the last budget, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot had announced to give smartphones to 1.33 crore women heads, but not a single phone has been given to date. Saraf

questioned if the scheme was cancelled and if not then when would the smartphones be distributed to women.

Responding on behalf of the government, Education Minister BD Kalla said that the government had announced the scheme in the last budget. “The process of giving smartphones to women is going on. The plan got delayed due to a shortage of semiconductor chips in the international market,” he said.

DOTASRA: NOT GETTING PM NOD FOR ERCP MATTER OF SHAME FOR BJP MPs

Jaipur: PCC Chief Govind Singh Dotasara on Thursday said that it is a matter of shame for 25 MPs of the BJP that they could not encourage the Prime Minister to declare ERCP as a national project. “A report was sent by Vasundhara Raje to the central government. The people of BJP and RSS are doing drama on this issue. BJP has nothing against the govt to oppose,” said Govind Singh Dotasara.

HIGHLIGHTS

 Satirical comments were heard in the assembly when a discussion was held on the deceased dog of Rajendra Rathore. Chandana while expressing grief on the dog’s demise said, “I have heard of the passing of your pet dog. I offer my condolences.”

 The MLAs questioned the poor-quality of food being provided in the state assembly. Both BJP and Congress MLAs had already complained to the speaker about the poor-quality food.

Gang wars increasing in State, CM busy in saving his chair: Poonia

First India Bureau

Jaipur: State BJP president Satish Poonia on Thursday once again attacked the Congress government over the law and order situation in the State. While discussing on this issue in State assembly, Satish Poonia said that incidents of gangwar are increasing day by day in Rajasthan.

“People are insecure in Rajasthan due to rule of Gehlot government. There is jungle raj in state. Rajasthan was

known as a peaceful state, but Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot remained busy only in saving his chair for four years, due

to which the law and order situation deteriorated in Rajasthan. The incidents of gang war are increasing. The public is

neither safe at home nor safe outside,” said Satish Poonia while speaking to reporters outside state assembly.

DATTATREYA HOSABALE IN JAIPUR

CO-OP GANGS LOOTING INNOCENT PEOPLE IN STATE: RAJENDRA RATHORE

Jaipur: During the discussion on the adjournment motion in the House, Deputy Leader of Opposition Rajendra Rathore said that organised gangs in the State are trying to cheat innocent farmers and middle class people by promising attractive returns to them by forming credit co-operative societies and other companies and looting their hard earned money. Rathore said, “In the third week of this January, a Nexa Evergreen company located in Sikar district absconded with about Rs 780 crore from more than 20 thousand people. The office of this company is registered in Piplani of Sikar district.

“An FIR was registered against the company, but the unfortunately no action was taken against the company operating in that district,” Rathore said.

‘Govt to bring policy for local employment’

First India Bureau

Jaipur: The Rajasthan Government is now bringing a policy on the lines of States like Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Punjab, to give priority to the local unemployed youth in the industrial areas of the state. Minister of State for Skill, Planning and Entrepreneurship, Ashok Chandna said in the state assemblyon Thursday that the government intends to

Diya reiterates demand for Pratap Circuit

Ashish Choudhary Rajsamand: Rajsamand MP Diya Kumari on Thursday took part in the proceedings of Lok Sabha and once again reiterated her demand to develop Pratap Circuit in the Mewar region.

“Tourism circuits are being developed by the central government at various places. On the same lines, a Pratap Circuit should be developed to boost tourism and spread the sacrifice of the warriors of Mewar,” said MP Diya Kumari.

Minister Ashok Chandna

give priority in employment to the local people and is working in this direction on bringing a policy soon.

MLA Jagsiram demanded an inquiry in the matter of approved budget for forest extension scheme in Revdar assembly constituency. Minister Hemaram Chaudhary said that he would get the officer investigated as suggested by Jagsiram. Speaker CP Joshi said that why only NABARD- 3 answers were given and 1 and 2 were skipped. The minister admitted that he did not have information about it. Gulabchand Kataria said that it was a pity that the minister did not even read while answering.

MLA QUESTIONS ESTABLISHMENT OF CO-OPS IN ‘EIGHT MONTHS’

MLA GYANCHAND SEEKS INFO ON STOLEN VEHICLES FROM 2019-22

I n a matter related to establishment of cooperatives in Vallabhnagar Vidhan Sabha, MLA Preeti Singh Shaktawat questioned as to how the work would be done in two years with just eight months left with the government. Minister Anjana replied saying that the announcement was made by the government and not by the party.

I n a matter related to cases of stolen vehicles in Jaitaran Vidhan Sabha, Gyanchand Parakh sought information about various cases from January 2019 to December 2022. Minister Shanti Dhariwal replied that if stolen vehicles go to other states, it is difficult to find the vehicles and nab the thieves. Vehicles from Rajasthan reach Tamil Nadu.

NO ENCROACHMENTS FOUND NEAR

GAMBHIRI RIVER: SHANTI DHARIWAL

UDH Minister Shanti Dhariwal on Thursday said that a three-member committee has been formed to ensure that no encroachment takes place in the catchment area of the Gambhiri River. Dhariwal while replying to a query in the state assembly during question hour said that presently there is no encroachment on the land falling in the catchment area of Gambhiri river. “The report of the committee stated that no encroachment has been found in the land of Gambhiri River,” Dhariwal informed.

BJP’s ‘privilege’ move puts Congress undre pressure

First India Bureau

Jaipur: The BJP has ‘weaponised’ the ‘breach of privilege’ issue and as a result, it seems that it has scored a ‘political goal’ on the Congress party. Interestingly, Congress is now under pressure due to the planning of BJP’s think tank!

Earlier, Deputy Leaer of Opposition, Rajendra Rathore alone was bringing the proposal, but later it was decided that the party would collectively

‘Those who’ve eaten beef can return to Hinduism’



All members of the ‘Hindu society’ are part of Sangh family.

We can’t close our doors on those who have converted to other religions

Jaipur (ANI): Even those who have eaten beef can also be converted back to Hinduism, and it can’t be closed off to them, the General Secretary of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Dattatreya Hosabale said on Wednesday.

Addressing an event here in Jaipur, the RSS leader said, “The term ‘Hindu’ has already entered our Constitution and country. It is a fact of history. Hindu is an

identity and a culture to which people belong.”

“While MS Golwalkar didn’t get into the exact

definition of Hindu, Veer Savarkar has said in his writings that those who consider the

land till the Sindhu river as their land are Hindus,” he added. Citing MS Golwalkar,

Hosabale further said that we can’t close our doors on those who have converted to other religions.

“Golwalkar ji even said that those who have converted to other religions can also be converted back to Hinduism. It might happen that they would have eaten beef under some kind of pressure, but still, we can’t close our doors on them. They can still be brought back into Hinduism.”

BJP has ‘weaponised’ ‘breach of privilege’ against Congress.

open a front.

BJP knows that leaders within Congress opposes those who had held a meeting on 25th September at Dhariwal’s residence. That is why the resolution was

brought against Dhariwal and Mahesh Joshi. Both these ministers were given show cause notices by AICC.

Now, Pilot camp MLAs have said in hushed words that they will not support the resolution on breach of privilege against those who called a separate meeting from CLP on 25th September. BJP think tank realised this internal dissatisfaction of Congress and that is the reason BJP has started worked on a new strategy.

Ramdev’s remark on ‘Muslims’ stokes row

Mukesh Mathrani

Barmer: Yoga guru

Ramdev has given a controversial statement in Barmer. Comparing Hindu-Muslim and Christianity, Swami Ramdev said that Muslims turned up as terrorists or criminals but they definitely offer Namaj. They understand the meaning of Islam is only to offer Namaz and this is what they are taught. On Thursday Swami Ram-

dev was in Barmer to attend a religious event. While addressing the event, Swami Ramdev started comparing religions. He said, “After getting up, Muslims used to offer Namaz. But it should be asked to the Muslim that what their religion says. Just read Namaz for five minutes and after that do whatever comes to their mind. Whether it is to kidnap Hindu girls or do any sin they want to do.”

Dattatreya Hosabale Vasundhara Raje, Dattatreya Hosabale and others in Jaipur.

Satish Poonia being welcomed by Tamil Nadu BJP leaders at Chennai airport on Thursday.

Deputy Leader of Opposition Rajendra Rathore, Aminesh Maharshi, Ashok Lahoti, Anita Bhadel, Ramlal Sharma, Vasudev Devnani, and Jogeshwar Garg submit a proposal of breach of privilege to Assembly Principal Secretary in Jaipur on Thursday.

Raj Police launches ‘Operation Vajra’ to nab wanted criminals

Police to find out income of history-sheeters and tip-off the information to tax dept for raids

First India Bureau

Jaipur: The Rajasthan Police has initiated a campaign titled ‘Operation Vajra’ to tighten its noose against historysheeters and proclaimed offenders of the state. The concerned SPs will seek details of movable and immovable properties and illegal construction of noted criminals in Rajasthan. The campaign was initiated following the directions of Director General of Police (DGP) Umesh Mishra.

DGP Umesh Mishra said that notorious

Governor Mishra stresses on need to develop tribal areas

SIX, INCLUDING HRITHIK BOXER’S SISTER, HELD IN G-CLUB FIRING CASE

gangsters like Rohit Godara and his aide Hrithik Boxer were demanding ransom from traders by committing

NEWS DIGEST

THE THEN RSSDC GM SENT ON REMAND UNTIL FEBRUARY 6

Jaipur: In a case related to corruption in Rajasthan State Skill Development Corporation, the then General Manager Ravi Meena, has been sent on remand until February 6. He was presented before Judge Upendra Sharma in the ACB Court. Investigating Officer Pushpendra Singh Rathore asked for remand. Meena was arrested by the ACB on Wednesday in the case. The ACB exposed the case on Sept 11, 2021.

HEARING IN DIVYA MITTAL BRIBERY CASE DEFERRED

Ajmer: The hearing on the voice sample test of the then Additional SP of SOG, Divya Mittal will now be heard in the court on February 8. Divya Mittal is in jail in the bribery case of Rs 2 crore. On Thursday, the request letter presented by the ACB was debated on behalf of both the parties in the court, where no decision came out. The court has now fixed the next hearing on February 8.

KHATU SHYAM JI TEMPLE NOT OPENING ON FEB 4, INFORM POLICE, TEMPLE TRUST

Sikar: The police and officials of Khatu Shyam Ji temple trust on Thursday appealed to people not to pay attention to fake social media posts claiming the re-opening of Khatu shyam Ji temple on February 4. During a presser, ASP Ratanlal Sharma said that a news is doing rounds on social media that temple will be reopened soon. “As soon as the civil work is completed, the temple doors will be reopened. A public notice will be issued two days before the opening of the temple,” ASP added.

CISF TO CELEBRATE 23 YRS AT JAIPUR AIRPORT TODAY

Jaipur: On the completion of 23 years of induction of CISF at the Jaipur Airport, a special event will be held at the airport on Thursday. Flag hoisting and cultural events will be held at 9 am. Principal Home Secretary Anand Kumar will be the chief guest of the ceremony.

Commandant Narpat Singh will talk about the achievements of CISF for the year. Demos will be done by CISF Dog Squad and BDDS.

MOTHER,SON DIE AS CAR COLLIDES WITH BUS IN BKN

Bikaner: A woman and her son were killed and three others injured in a collision between a private bus and a car in Bikaner district on Thursday. The collision occurred near Kitasar when their car collided with the bus. A woman and her son died on the spot whereas wife, son and daughter were injured, Dungargarh SHO Ashok Bishnoi said. He said that the injured have been referred to PBM Hosp in Bikaner.

criminal incidents with the aim of spreading panic among the common people. So, a reward of Rs 1 lakh has

been announced on the arrest of Suresh Dhaka, Rohit Godara, Hrithik Boxer and Bhupendra Saran.

Maru Mahotsav starts with flying colours in Jaisalmer’s Pokhran

First India Bureau Pokhran: The world famous ‘Maru Mahotsav’ kicked off with a grand procession in the city on Thursday. Cabinet Minister Saleh Mohammad and District Collector Tina Dabi flagged off the procession after offering pooja at the Mahadev temple.

A unique confluence of folk art and culture of Rajasthan was witnessed in the Shobha

‘Agni-Pariksha’ for Bhaskar A

Sawant as ‘head’ of 3 discoms

Vikas Sharma

Jaipur: It seems that a ‘Agni-Pariksha’ is going on of Chief Energy Secretary Bhaskar A. Sawant! Management of “Power” is a big challenge for Sawant as the power sector is struggling with Coal Purchase Crisis. In RVUNL, there is no “decision-maker” on any post from top to bottom. Sawant himself as Principal Energy

Secy is handling entire management of RVUNL.

The concern is that the term of the “head” of all three discoms is going to be completed soon.

If the trend continues like before, then the discoms will also become headless. However, in this crisis, the ‘young brigade’ of RVPNL CMD Ashutosh AT Pednekar and IAS Artika Shukla are getting support of Sawant. But the “experts” of the energy sector are not considering the situation “perfect”, because the next two months important in terms of revenue.

I n the firing incident at G Club under Jawahar Circle Police Station, member of notorious Lawrence Bishnoi gang, Rithik Boxer, openly challenged Jaipur Police through a post on social media. The gangster wrote a post on social media and said, ‘Om, if we wanted too, we could have shot someone in the club. let’s start the new war by shooting now’. Following the post, the cyber cell of Jaipur Police Commissionerate is trying to trace out the location of the miscreant. AdCP (Crime) Ajay Pal Lamba informed that Hrithik Boxer is using fake SIM cards and using VPN to hide his original location while sharing posts on social media.

Choudhary

Kashiram

Jaipur: Governor Kalraj Mishra on Thursday reviewed the development schemes of scheduled areas in Raj Bhavan. During the meeting, the governor directed the officials that there is a need to work for the development of people of tribal areas to eradicate pov-

erty and bring them into the mainstream.

“There are immense possibilities of tourism in tribal areas. If tourist places are developed and adequate publicity is done, then it will give a boost to tourism in these areas. It is necessary to raise the social, economic, and educational levels of the people of tribal areas. For

Civil Aviation Minister

Jyotiraditya M Scindia showing green flag to a flight service connecting Jaipur and Jodhpur virtually. The flight connecting two major cities of Rajasthan will be operated by IndigGo airlines four days a week.

Junior assistant in ACB net for taking `2K bribe

Yatra. The areas from where the procession passed, people showered flowers and welcomed them wholeheartedly. There, the Cabinet Minister Saleh Mohammad and District Collector Tina Dabi started the program auspiciously by flying the balloons. During this, tug of war, matka race, turban tying and others were held. Saleh Mohammad and Dabi distributed prizes to the winners.

Accused Pankaj Gautam

Arif Mansoori

Jhalawar: The AntiCorruption Bureau (ACB) on Thursday arrested a junior assistant while accepting a bribe of Rs 2500 in Jhalawar. ACB sleuths informed that the junior assistant Pankaj Gautam was posted in Dahikheda Gram Panchayat of Jhalawar district.

“The junior assistant was demanding a bribe to issue a land deed of a house of the complainant’s brother. After being harassed, the complainant filed the report.

Churu, Chittor coldest, dry weather in parts of State

Jaipur (PTI): Churu and Chittorgarh were the coldest places in Rajasthan in the 24 hours ending at 8.30 am on Thursday, a Met office spokesperson said. The minimum temperature in Churu was at 3°C while Chittorgarh recorded 3.1°C. The weather remained dry in the state and no large changes were witnessed in any division, official said. Karauli recorded a

minimum temperature of 3.5°C, followed by, 6.3°C in Sirohi, 6.4°C in Phalodi, and 6.6°C in Bikaner and 6.8 °C in Pilani. The minimum and maximum temperatures in Jaipur were recorded at 8.4°C and 23°C, respectively.

this, efforts should be made in a coordinated manner at the level of various departments,” said Governor Mishra. Divisional Commissioner of Udaipur and Commissioner of Tribal Regional Development Department, Rajendra Bhatt also presented the financial progress of the tribal sub-plan area in the meeting.

I-T dept raids at 5 real estate groups in Jaipur

Jaipur (FIB): The Income-Tax department on Thursday raided five leading real estate groups of Jaipur. The I-T sleuths carried out search and seizure operations at 38 different locations of the real estate groups, who reportedly transacting in cash in land dealings.

Sources informed that after verification of a tip-off, 40 teams of the Investigation Wing raided the premises of real

A cop guarding the premises during the raid pn Thursday.

estate groups. The raids were carried out at the premises of leading builders including Mangalam Group, Sanjeevani, R-Tech, Jugal Derewala and Haridatta. In Jaipur, 36 premises were raided.

Bagru ATM loot accused held hours later in Dausa, `7 Lakh recovered

First India Bureau

Dausa: Three accused who uprooted an ATM in Bagru on Thursday morning were arrested in Sikandra of Dausa district hours later, police said. Police said that the three accused, Lokendra Singh Rajput (27), Ganesh Chaudhary (28), Hitesh Saini (20), who were taking away Bank of Baro-

da’s ATM machine from Bagru police station area at 3 am on Thursday, were arrested in Sikandra.

He said that there is an estimate of about Rs 7 lakh cash in the ATM. He said that in the preliminary interrogation of the accused, they accepted involvement in ATM robbery in Dausa and Alwar. About 20 cases of vehicle theft and other thefts have been registered against the arrested accused Ganesh Chowdhary in the past.

Concerned SPs will look for the illegal construction of noted criminals in ‘Operation Vajra’. —FILE PHOTO

Three accused in police custody.

Saleh Mohammad and Tina Dabi with the title winner of Mr and Ms Pokhran, Bharat Bohra and Niyati Sharma on Thursday.

Guv Kalraj Mishra with NCC Cadets, who participated in RD Parade, during the ‘At Home’ on Thursday.

INDIA - A NEW GLOBAL VOICE EMERGING LINK BETWEEN GROUP 7 AND THE BRICS

IN-DEPTH BIG CHARGES, LITTLE PROOF: KAPPAN FINALLY LEAVES PRISON

While G-7 will continue to fight for unity and relevance, Russia, China, and their supporters will invest in various economic, political and even military infrastructures, in the hope of creating a permanent and sustainable counterbalance to Western dominance. India is f ast emerging as most important voice on the global fora expected to be helping bridging gaps between the west dominated G-7 and EU and South Global Economies represented through G-20, SCO and the BRICS

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

While the Group-7 countries (Canada, France, Germany Italy, Japan, the UK and the US) established in 1975 is a group of powerful industrialised Western nations who exert influence across the world, the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) formed in 2009 is a group of globally most important emerging market economies wanting to have a much larger say in global affairs as well as foster global development with special emphasis on the Global South. The former (including the EU) has a population of 987 million with a GDP of US$34 trillion while the latter has a population of 3 billion with a GDP of US$23.5 trillion. While the US led G-7 mainly focusses on rule based international order, security and strategies against China and Russia, the BRICS is a multi-ethnic coalition of nations, committed to uphold international law and the central role of the United Nations in the international system and trying to address the economic challenges of the Global South.

The G -7 and the BRICS have competing views on the international order in which the former believes that they are world’s norm-setters influencing other countries policies. Therefore, the rule

BRITAIN FACING PUBLIC UNREST

based international order, from the G-7 perspective, is centred around the US exercising control over the sovereignty of many countries. No wonder the US led NATO sees more assertive China and Russia presenting systemic challenge to their rule based international order. On the other hand, BRICS and countries in the Global South are committed to international law enshrined in the UN - promoting economic and social development as well as advancing international peace and security through international treaties and conventions. Clearly the BRICS and G-7 represent two distinctive global governance propositions and differ on their vision of economic development and globalisation.

The G-7’s launch of the Build Back Better World (B3W) initiative as an alternative to China’s Belts and Road Initiative (BRI) reeks of power politics instead of a genuine desire to help the Global South. The failure to get Russia isolated on Ukraine war in the back-toback meetings of BRICS and G-7 in 2022 have been big setbacks for the US. The G-7 continues to pursue unilateralism and global hegemony and the BRICS is emerging as a real challenge to the West. However, the BRICS potential to challenge the US led global order is undermined by the internal makeup of the group, lack ideological homogeneity and capacity to develop a collective foreign policy. Presence of Indian PM Narendra Modi and South African President Cyr-

ngland is facing its worst unrest in over a decade with an estimated 500,000 teachers, civil servants, nurses and train drivers walking out of their offices on Wednesday demanding salary hike.

Teachers formed the biggest group among strikers with about 300,000 of them staging a protest march forcing schools across England to remain shut. With drivers boycotting work, train services were paralysed. The situation is likely to worsen as workers’ unions threaten more action.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has firmly refused to give in to the demand stating that pay rise will lead to inflation. He was especially critical of teachers. “I am clear that our

THE FORMER (INCLUDING THE EU) HAS A POPULATION OF 987 MILLION WITH A GDP OF US$34 TRILLION WHILE THE LATTER HAS A POPULATION OF 3 BILLION WITH A GDP OF US$23.5 TRILLION

il Ramaphosa, two prominent BRICS leaders as guests of German Chancellor Olaf Scholtz at the G-7 Summit is an indicator of BRICS prominence in global affairs. Despite the lack of internal cohesion, the BRICS still represents both a developmental and geopolitical challenge to the US led G-7 as China has been able present a non-capitalist market-oriented development alternative to the West and India’s voice is being heard globally more than ever before.

The G -7 knows that global green transition and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) targets cannot be achieved without India. For its ambitions, India needs G-7 investment, technology, and green finance. The last G-7 summit took place under the shadows of the Ukraine war, which has threatened economic recovery and the many issues in Indo-Pacific Region still remains unresolved and the leaders reiterated the “importance of maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific”, and reminded China to “abstain from

England is facing its worst unrest in over a decade with an estimated 500,000 teachers, civil servants, nurses and train drivers walking out of their offices on Wednesday demanding salary hike

children’s education is precious and they deserve to be in school today being taught,” he said. The government has put the military on standby.

The Conservative Party government is facing a tough time with elections due in 2025. Major unions are on strike and the inflation is at

threats, coercion, intimidation measures or use of force”. Narendra Modi, along with the leaders of Argentina, Indonesia, Senegal, and South Africa, also attended some of the sessions.

India now has very strong economic and strategic ties G-7 and EU and the Indian economy is likely to be one of the fastest growing economies in the post-pandemic phase, partnership with India is attractive for the West. Modi rightly focused on strengths of the Indian economy, its ambitious climate targets and performance, and contribution to global food security. The G-7 relations with Russia are bad, and tensions with China have grown. In these circumstances, strengthening partnership with New Delhi is useful for the G-7. Indeed, the BRICS is fast emerging as a direct competitor to the G-7 and the possible entry of Argentina and Iran may turn BRICS into a geopolitical, entity. While G-7 will continue to fight for unity and relevance, Russia, China, and their supporters will invest in various economic, political and even military infrastructures, in the hope of creating a permanent and sustainable counterbalance to Western dominance. India is fast emerging as most important voice on the global fora expected to be helping bridging gaps between the west dominated G-7 and EU and South Global Economies represented through G-20, SCO and the BRICS.

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHOR ARE PERSONAL

more than 10 percent, highest in four decades.

As the government has failed to address the situation, people have genuine reason to be dissatisfied and angry. And that should be reason enough for Rishi Sunak to worry about the strike’s political consequences. The Labour Party, reports say, is ahead of Conservatives by 25 percentage points in polls. The margin was 39 percent in the Labour Party’s favour in October last year.

In an opinion poll last month people stated their preference for Keir Starmer, the Labour Party leader, over Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and 55 percent thought the “Conservatives had done a poor job”. Countdown may have begun for Rishi Sunak.

Being a journalist is no crime, said Siddique Kappan after his release from Lucknow jail after over two years of incarceration. The journalist from Kerala was arrested by the Special Task Force of UP Police while on his way to Hathras to cover the rape and murder of a Dalit girl. He was first booked under the UAPA and then the Enforcement Directorate joined the investigations alleging wider conspiracy. The UP STF alleged Kappan to be the “mastermind” of the Popular Front of India, a Muslim outfit which was outlawed by the Union Home Ministry in 2022. The STF also claimed that Kappan’s motive was to create unrest. He was granted bail by the Supreme Court which did not find sufficient evidence against him. The ED had accused him of fraudulent transactions of over Rs 1 crore but could not prove it in the Allahabad High Court. Kappan was thus arrested for not committing any crime, prompting the courts to grant him bail.

SPIRITUAL SPEAK

For as woman came from man, so also man is born of woman. But everything comes from God. Bible

TOP TWEETS

#Budget2023 displays our commitment towards building better infra and a sports culture in the country; PM @narendramodi has ensured our sportspersons are supported from the playfield to the podium.

Sharing pictures of the work progress of 2G bio ethanol refinery being set up by @ BPCLimited in Bargarh. Steady progress is being made towards the completion of the bio-refinery. Once commissioned, the refinery will bring a new dawn of development in Western Odisha.

COL RAJESH BHUKAR

No decision on implementation of UCC as of now: Kiren Rijiju

BUDGET SESSION

New Delhi (ANI): The Centre has not taken any decision as of now on the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code in the country, Union Law Minister Kiren Rijiju informed the Rajya Sabha on Thursday.

The Minister was responding to a query regarding “whether Government has any plan to pass the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill”. “As per the information received from the Law Commission, the matter related to the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) may be taken up by the 22nd Law Commission for its consideration. Therefore, no decision on the implementation of a uniform civil code has been taken as of now,” said Rijiju. He further responded that the government had requested the 21st Law Commission of India to undertake an examination of various issues relating to UCC and to make recommendations thereon.

However, the term of the 21st Law Commission ended on August 31, 2018, informed the Law Minister.

IN

“`22.76 CR SPENT ON PM’S FOREIGN TRIPS SINCE 2019”

New Delhi: PM Narendra Modi has undertaken 21 trips abroad since 2019 and over Rs 22.76 crore was spent on these visits, the govt said on Thursday. The President undertook eight trips abroad and an amount of over Rs 6.24 crore was spent on these trips since 2019, MoS (External Affairs)

V Muraleedharan said in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha.

THE COURTYARD

SC JUNKS PLEA SEEKING TO BAR CANDIDATES FROM CONTESTING FROM MORE THAN 1 SEAT

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed a plea that had sought to restrict a candidate from contesting the election for the same office from more than one constituency simultaneously, saying it is a matter of “legislative policy”. A bench observed that candidates may contest elections from different seats due to a variety of reasons and it is Parliament’s will as to whether the course of democracy would be furthered by granting such a choice.

CORRUPTION EATING THROUGH THE COUNTRY: ALLAHABAD HIGH COURT

Prayagraj: The Allahabad High Court, rejecting the anticipatory bail application of one Devendra Kumar Hangal, has observed corruption is a menace which is eating the vitals of the country. The applicant allegedly indulged in a conspiracy with the officers of the Noida Development Authority funnelled several crores of rupees from the public fund released for the construction of a cricket stadium with a pavilion building at Integrated sports complex at Noida. It is alleged that Hangal through his private limited company conspired with Yadav Singh, who was the engineer-in-chief of NOIDA authority, Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority.

TERROR FUNDING: HC ASKS NIA TO REPLY TO HURRIYAT LEADER’S BAIL PLEA

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Thursday sought response of the National Investigation Agency on a plea by separatist leader Nayeem Ahmad Khan seeking bail in a terror-funding case involving 26/11 Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed. A bench of Justice Siddharth Mridul and Justice Talwant Singh issued notice to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and asked it to file reply to the petition challenging a trial court’s order denying bail to the accused.

PERIYA TWIN MURDER CASE: TRIAL STARTS AT CBI COURT IN KOCHI

Kochi: Trial proceedings in Periya Twin Murder

Case have begun on Thursday at the court of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Witness examination of the first witness Sreekumar at the CBI Court has been started today. Two Youth Congress activists, Kripesh, 19, and Sharath Lal (Joshy), 24, were hacked to death allegedly by CPI(M) activist at Periya in Kasaragod district while returning from an event on February 17, 2019. Kripesh died at the Kasaragod district hospital, while Sharath Lal succumbed to injuries on his way to a medical facility in Mangaluru, Karnataka.

FinMin Sitharaman to brief BJP MPs today

INDIA’S HAJ QUOTA FOR 2023

FIXED AT 1,75,025, SAYS GOVT

New Delhi: India’s Haj quota for this year has been fixed at 1,75,025 as per bilateral agreement with Saudi Arabia. In a written reply in Lok Sabha, Minority Affairs Minister Smriti Irani said the ministry had a number of sessions on Haj management with stakeholders, including Haj Committees of the states and UTs, wherein requests for restoration of Haj quota were received.

“GoI SPENT `27K LAKH ON CULTURAL SITES IN 2021-22”

New Delhi: The Centre has spent Rs 26,957.32 lakh on conservation, preservation and maintenance of monuments and sites of national importance in 2021-22. Union Culture Minister G Kishan Reddy, in a written response to a query, also shared data on the revenue generated through entry fee at monuments and sites at 143 locations in India in last three years.

HC COLLEGIUMS IN BREACH OF SIX-MONTH ADVANCE TIMELINE IN SENDING NAMES TO FILL ANTICIPATED VACANCIES: GOVT

Various high court collegiums are in “breach” of the six-month advance timeline in sending recommendations to fill several anticipated vacancies, the government informed Parliament on Thursday. In three separate written replies to questions in the Rajya Sabha, Law Minister Kiren Rijiju also asserted that the government can seek a reconsideration of the names recommended by the Supreme Court collegium. Responding to a question on the “breach” of the six-month timeline, Rijiju said as on January 30, “recommendations in respect of 236 vacancies (191 existing and 45 anticipated vacancies during next six months) are yet to be received from High Court collegiums, which are in breach of the six months’ advance timeline for making recommendations for anticipated vacancies”.

Andhra: TDP leader shot at while asleep

Palnadu (ANI): A Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader on Thursday sustained injuries after he was allegedly shot at by unknown persons in Andhra Pradesh’s Palnadu district.

TDP Mandal level leader, Venna Balakoti Reddy was sleeping at his residence in Alavala village in Rompicherla Mandal, when the assailants fired two rounds at him at midnight. Balakoti Reddy was rushed to Narasaraopet Government Hospital and he is under treatment.

New Delhi (ANI): Union Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman who presented the Narendra Modi government’s last full budget ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, will hold a briefing for the BJP MPs both of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha on Friday, sources said. She will explain the budget to the MPs in the meeting. The briefing will be held at 9 am at the Balayogi Auditorium in Parliament Library Building in the national capital, all MPs have been informed. This briefing comes at a time when the party has asked all its members of Parliament to go to the respective constituencies and tell the common man what does budget means and how it has been brought out, keeping the interest of every stratum

Azad meets Shah; protests held in parts of Jammu & Kashmir

Jammu (PTI): Democratic Azad Party (DAP) chairman Ghulam Nabi Azad has sought intervention of Union Home Minister Amit Shah against the ongoing land eviction drive in J&K, where aggrieved people continued their protests at different places on Thursday. The National Conference and Aam Aadmi Party also demanded an immediate end to the drive, while J&K BJP requested the Lt Governor-led administration to restrict the campaign to politicians, police of-

ficers and bureaucrats who have “misused” their power in the past to grab the land. Azad called upon Home Minister Shah in New Delhi on Wednesday and apprised him about “serious unrest and uncertainty” pre-

DIPLOMATIC DIALOGUES!

IN BJP’S MEGA BUDGET REACH OUT, UNION MINISTERS TO TRAVEL PAN INDIA

ON FEB 4, 5

New Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will launch a mega budget Reach Out on February 4 and 5 across India to bring to the fore what the budget means for each and every citizen, cutting across age, caste, creed and profession. Union ministers will travel across the country for this budget reach out programme. “During this reach out programme, union ministers will hold a press conference on the budget and at the same time interact with people across the strata, including prominent citizens and intellectuals,” top sources said. Earlier in the morning on Thursday, BJP national president JP Nadda held a meeting with the ministers to fine-tune the details of the programme.

UNION BUDGET IS BENEFICIAL FOR U’KHAND: DHAMI K’TAKA CM SLAMS OPPN FOR RAPPING UNION BUDGET

Dehradun: Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami on Thursday said the Union Budget has several provisions which are especially beneficial for a Himalayan state like Uttarakhand whose economy is based primarily on tourism. “The budget lays the foundations of a strong India and pave the way for its emergence as a global leader,” Dhami said at a press conference here.

Bengaluru: Karnataka CM Basavaraj Bommai has slammed the Opposition parties for criticising the Union Budget 2023-24 presented by Finance Minister in the Parliament. In a specially convened press conference, the CM stated that the opposition parties in the state are disappointed despite the central government announcing Rs 5,300 crore for the Upper Bhadra project.

HRY BUDGET SESSION FROM FEB 20

Budget session of the Haryana Assembly will begin here from February 20, CM Manohar Lal Khattar said on Thursday. It has been proposed to hold the session in two parts, the chief minister said. “The budget session will begin from February 20,” Khattar told reporters here after a Cabinet meeting.

ODISHA BUDGET SESSION ON FEB 21

The Budget session of the Odisha Assembly will commence on February 21, an official notification said on Thursday. The session will commence with the customary address by the Governor on the opening day.

Ex-Meghalaya Speaker

Danggo joins BJP

ENCROACHED GOVT LAND RETRIEVED

Jammu: Over 14.5 hectares of land were retrieved during a day-long anti-encroachment drive on Thursday. The administration retrieved around 200 kanal kahcharai land in Thalwal village and a chunk of prime state land was retrieved from Dungian village.

vailing among the public at large in Jammu and Kashmir due to the eviction drive launched by the administration to remove encroachments on state land including Roshni and Kacharai, the DAP said in a statement here.

Shillong (Agencies): Shifting of loyalty continued in Meghalaya ahead of the February 27 assembly elections, as former Assembly Speaker and candidate of ruling National People’s Party (NPP), Martin M Danggo joined the BJP.

According to the candidates’ list, announced by the BJP in New Delhi on Thursday, Danggo will contest the assembly elections from Ranikor assembly constituency in South West Khasi Hills district.

The NPP sources said

that they would soon decide on whether to field a candidate from Ranikor constituency Danggo resigned from the NPP as he was reportedly ‘financially neglected’ by the NPP, the accusation denied by the ruling party headed by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma.

Proceedings of Rajya Sabha underway during the Budget Session of Parliament, in New Delhi on Thursday.

(Clockwise from top) President Droupadi Murmu during a meeting with a Zambian delegation led by Zambian National Assembly Speaker Nelly Butete Kashumba Mutti, at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi; Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar with Zambian Speaker Mutti & Lok Sabha Speaker with his Zambian counterpart Nelly Butete Kashumba Mutti, in New Delhi on Thursday. —PHOTOS BY ANI

Former Meghalaya Speaker Martin Danggo joining BJP.

Govt agencies not looking at terror acts through prism of religion: DGP

‘INTENTION OF SPONSORS OF TERRORISM HAS NOT CHANGED’

TO GENERATE ILLEGAL FUNDS

Excise Policy was made by top AAP leaders’

Jammu (PTI): Law enforcement agencies do not look at terror acts through the prism of religion, Jammu and Kashmir DGP Dilbag Singh said on Thursday, asserting that strict action will be taken against those found involved in such acts. He said the recent terror attacks in Jammu region at the behest of handlers from across the border were aimed at reviving terrorism and harming the communal harmony and brotherhood in the Union territory.

“We work in accordance with law of the land and do not see (any terror-related incident) through the prism of religion. An accused is dealt with on the basis of the crime and not religion,” Singh told reporters here.

He was replying to a question on reported remarks of Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif that worshippers were not killed during prayers even in India following a deadly bomb attack inside a mosque in Peshawar recently.

“Our government policy is very clear that terrorism has no religion and strict action

CRUCIAL READ

CBI REGISTERS PRELIMINARY ENQUIRY AGAINST POLICE COMM

DELHI MAN HELD, JUVENILE DETAINED FOR MURDER

New Delhi (PTI): The CBI has registered a preliminary enquiry against Jalandhar Police Commissioner Kuldeep Singh Chahal for alleged corruption and misconduct during his tenure as the SSP, officials said on Thursday. The CBI has launched an enquiry on a reference from Punjab Governor & Chandigarh Administrator Banwarilal.

New Delhi (PTI): A 25-year-old man was arrested and a juvenile apprehended for allegedly killing an acquaintance who could not pay for a sound system he had rented from the accused in north Delhi’s Sabzi Mandi area, police said on Thursday. The alleged crime took place around on January 29 around 11 PM.

ASSAM POLICE SEIZES DRUGS WORTH `7 CRORE; THREE HELD

Guwahati: In two separate operations, police have seized contraband worth Rs 6-7 crore from the Karbi Anglong district of Assam, officials said on Thursday. A senior police officer of the district informed that they received specific inputs and conducted the operations on Wednesday. A total of three persons were held on the charges of drug peddlin John Das, a sub-divisional police officer of Bokajan, said that police set up a checkpoint at the Laharijan area of the district and intercepted a vehicle. “Upon searching the vehicle, security personnel recovered 306 grams of narcotic substances from soup cases hidden inside it.

INDIAN-AMERICAN LAWMAKERS AS MEMBERS OF KEY US HOUSE PANELS

4 BOOKED IN GUJ FOR FRAUD IN CONSTRUCTION OF TOILETS

should be taken against them (terrorists). Some people are trying to manipulate the situation and mislead the public, but we are sure that people have learnt a lot and will not be misled,” he said.

The top cop said the neighbouring country is the birthplace of terrorism.

“They have been raising terror groups and

shedding innocent blood, and stand exposed,” he said. Singh said terrorism sponsored from across the border has been going on for a long time in Jammu and Kashmir, and innocent people are targeted by gruesome and cowardly acts.

“Jammu province witnessed a series of terror attacks (in the past one year),” he said.

Jammu (PTI): Referring to the recent arrest of a government teacher-turnedaterrorist who was working at the behest of his handlers, DGP said a terrorist cannot hide himself for ever and has to face the law. Asked whether there is a possibility of more terrorists in government departments, the officer said anyone found involved in such acts will be dealt with as per the law. “A new dimension was given to terrorism in J-K under which terror modules are created and assigned particular tasks,” DGP said. He added that the intention of sponsors of terrorism has not changed & one has to remain alert to tackle the new challenges & foil their designs.

New Delhi (ANI): The Enforcement Directorate (ED) in its chargesheet stated that the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) investigation done so far has revealed that, the Delhi Excise Policy, 2021-22 was created by the top leaders of the AAP to continuously generate and channel illegal funds for themselves.

ED further states that the extent of involvement and abatement of the criminal activities by the leaders of the AAP covered in the subject, Prosecution Complaint further substantiates their design and scheme of the scam.

The policy promoted cartel formations through back door awarding an exorbitant wholesale profit margin of 12 per cent and a huge retail profit margin of 185 per cent and incentivized other illegal activities on account of criminal conspiracy by the top leaders of AAP to extract kick-

Ebacks from the businesses, stated the ED.

ED revealed that it is disclosed by C Arvind, DANICS, Secretary to Manish Sisodia, in his statement dated December 7, 2022, the draft GoM report was given to him in the mid of March 2021 when C Arvind was called by Manish Sisodia to the residence of Arvind Kejriwal, CM (where Satyender Jain was also pre-

sent). The conspiracy of the GoM to give wholesale business to private entities and fix a 12 per cent margin (to get a 6 per cent kickback out from the same) is clear from the statement of C. Arvind wherein he disclosed that there was neither any discussion in the GoM meetings about giving wholesale to private entities nor fixing 12 per cent profit margin for them.

CRPF sets up camp in Maoist stronghold after 17 years

New Delhi: The 165 Battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the Chhattisgarh police have set up a Forward Operating Base (FOB) at Bedre in Sukma district, a highly Maoist-affected area of the state, after 17 years, said a CRPF official.

While the FOB will effectively help in reopening the old trade route connecting Imli Bazar in Jagargunda with the district headquarters Bijapur and Dantewa-

da, it will also close the transit corridor used by the Maoists to travel between West and South

ATS arrest another accused in GPSSB paper leak case

Gujarat (ANI): Gujarat

Anti-Terrorist Squad arrested one more accused, Sarojkumar Seemanchal Malu of Odisha on Thursday in the Gujarat Panchayat Junior clerk paper leak case.

The ATS confirmed that in total 17 accused have been arrested in the paper leak case. The Gujarat Panchayat Service Selection Board (GPSSB) recruitment exam that was being held for the position of Junior clerk on Sunday was cancelled.

Earlier with the ar-

rest of Jeet Naik, Gujarat ATS Superintendent of Police Sunil Joshi announced that all the accused had been arrested in the Panchayat Junior clerk recruitment paper leak case with the total number of accused arrested being 15.

Jeet Naik, the accused who was held on Monday belonged to Hyderabad & was in charge of printing the question paper, said the ATS.

Bastar, an official said. A FOB was established in Kunder, located at a distance of 5 km from

the FOBs at Bedre, Silger & 10 km from Jagargunda FOB.

As per data, till the emergence of the Maoist threat in 2006, the Jagargunda area used to be a trading centre for tamarind & other forest produce.

The CRPF said that with this camp, the administration would be able to decisively restore the trade route and pave the way for the economic development of area.

7 NAXALS APPREHENDED BY CRPF

New Delhi (Agencies):

3 Indian-Americans have been named to top positions in the US. Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal was named Ranking Member of the powerful House Judiciary Committee’s panel on Immigration. With the elevation, Jayapal will now be the first immigrant to serve in a leadership role for the subcommittee.

Palanpur (Agencies): A criminal complaint has been filed against four persons alleging that they siphoned off Rs 8.76 lakh of public money given for building toilets but have not constructed a single toilet. The amount was released for the construction of toilets under the Swachh Bharat Mission.

ICG CELEBRATES 47TH RAISING DAY

Indian Coast Guard personnel during a demonstration, on the occasion of the 47th Raising Day of Indian Coast Guard, off Mangaluru coast, on Thursday. The President of India, Prime Minister and Defence Minister congratulated the Indian Coast Guard. —PHOTOS BY PTI

Respite from cold, rainfall not expected for a week

The temp may be around 9-10 degrees in the morning and 24-25 degrees in the evening. This situation is expected to persist for 2-4 days

New Delhi (ANI): People will get a respite from the cold, as the temperature is expected to rise in the Delhi-NCR region, however, rainfall is not expected in the next one week, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said in a statement on Thursday.

As per IMD, currently, the Western Disturbance is affecting the Himalayan region, due to which some light rain and snowfall is expected in the Himala-

yan region especially Jammu & Kashmir in the next two days. The Western Distur-

bance also affects other places, so temperature may also increase in North West India in the

The overall weather will remain pleasant, and winds are expected to blow at around 30 km per hour

coming two-three days.

Especially in the DelhiNCR region, the temperature is expected to

rise by 9-10 degrees in the next two-three days. The temperature may be around 9-10 degrees in the morning and 24-25 degrees in the evening. This situation is expected to persist for 2-4 days. In the meantime, the maximum temperature can touch 24 degrees.

However, rainfall is not expected in the next one week. The overall weather will remain pleasant, and winds are expected to blow at around 30 km per hour.

J&K Director Gen of Police Dilbag Singh addresses the press conference over the arrest of terrorist named Arif for allegedly carrying out the recent twin blast in Narwal area, in Jammu on Thursday. (Inset) Visuals of perfume IED which was recovered from the terrorist. —PHOTOS BY ANI

‘Delhi

‘An accused is dealt with on the basis of the crime and not religion’

Three CRPF personnel, were injured in an IED explosion planted by Maoists in Jharkhand being airlifted for treatment on Thursday.

—PHOTO BY ANI

Ex-BJP worker ’s son shot dead in Chittorgarh

First India Bureau

Chittorgarh: Son of former BJP booth president Bapulal Anjana, Bunty alias Vikas Anjana, 28, was murdered in broad daylight on Thursday. Three miscreants surrounded him and fired eight bul-

lets into his chest. He died on the spot. The matter is of Nimbahera in Chittorgarh.

CCTV footage of the incident shows the three miscreants firing 10 to 12 rounds at Bunty.

Eight bullets hit Bunty and then the miscreants fled. After a while,

SHELTER FOR STRAY

Gehlot approves gaushala in every gram panchayat

Kashiram Choudhary

Jaipur: In order to provide shelter to the stray cows in rural areas, CM Ashok Gehlot has approved the Gram Panchayat Gaushala Jan Sahayata Yojana. Gaushalas will be constructed in gram panchayats as per the budget announcement. In first phase, gaushalas will be constructed in 1500 gram panchayats.

An amount of Rs one crore each will be used for setting up gaushalas in areas where there are NGOs. Fundraising for the project will be done through Cow Protection and Promotion Fund 2016. Gehlot has given approval to open 1500 gaushalas in the first phase. Panchayat Samiti level Gopalan Samiti will be constituted for the implementation of the scheme.

The committee will issue all kinds of administrative and financial approval for opening cowsheds at the Gram Panchayat level. The quality of construction works done here will be checked and evaluated by the committee.

The committee will also make arrangements to send the stray cattle to the gram panchayat gaushala with the help of villagers.

In case there is more than one application for opening cowshed in gram panchayats, the institution will be selected on the basis of evaluation and standard marks. Gram panchayats which do not have cowsheds, will be on priority. Gaushalas will also have space for administrative building, cattle shelter, vet-

Traffic cops’ guerrilla style of working claims woman’s life

First India Bureau

Bunty’s friends came and took him to the hospital with the help of cyber police but he died on the way.

After the news of the death of his only son reached BJP leader Bapulal, he went to Anjana Hospital. He was accompanied by former minis-

ter Srichand Kriplani, former MLA Ashok Navlakha, BJP city board president Nitin Chaturvedi. They refused to accept the body until the killers were arrested. Around 100 to 150 supporters and family members sat outside the hospital. Bunty was

married and has a oneyear-old daughter. Nimbahera Deputy Ashish Kumar said that a police team has been formed to nab the accused. “Borders in the vicinity have been blocked and the miscreants will soon be arrested,” he said.

Jaipur: Traffic police’s guerrilla style of issuing challans took the life of Jhunjhunu resident Neelam Chowdhary in Mansarovar on Thursday. Seeing the woman riding a scooty without a helmet, the cop ran to

catch her. Panicked, the woman suddenly applied brakes, due to which her sister sitting behind fell down and was run over by the truck coming from behind. Although the relatives of the woman claim that both the scooty riders were wearing helmets.

GRAM PANCHAYAT GAUSHALA YOJANA

1500 gaushalas will be opened by the state government in the first phase in the 2nd financial year

200 gaushalas will be opened by March

1300 gaushalas will be opened in the next financial year

l The gram panchayat concerned or selected NGO will have to keep 200 cows in the gaushala

l Five bighas i.e. 8,000 square metres of land would be meant for gaushalas

l Cows will be looked after in the gaushalas for the next 20 years

l Pucca construction will be done by gram panchayat sanstha

l Registration of new gaushalas will be mandatory under Rajasthan Gaushala Registration Act 1960

l The institution will be selected by the District Gopalan Committee through open tender

erinary facility. Fodder storehouse, underground water tank, water sports, tubewell and fodder station facilities will also have to be worked upon besides water drainage and electricity. The state government will release a maximum grant of Rs 90 lakh for each gaushala. The institute’s contribution towards the total cost will be Rs 10 lakh.

Paper leak case: Kirodi hits back at CM Gehlot

First India Bureau

Jaipur: The sit-in continues for the CBI inquiry into the paper leak case of MP Kirodi Lal Meena and other demands. Meena reached the Jaipur protest site on Thursday after the proceedings of the Parliament. He hit back at CM Ashok Gehlot’s statement and took a jibe stating that one who calls himself a Gandhian has an objection with the sit-in protest with the students demanding a CBI inquiry into the paper leak cases. In

the insistence of saving the paper leak mafia, the CM also wants to take away the democratic right to protest. He said that he had submitted strong evidence against Board President DP Jarauli, but the govt has only dismissed him, while SOG officer gave evidence against Mohan Poswal, but no action has been taken yet.

Body of Bunty alias Vikas Anjana lying at the spot.

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

CM GEHLOT’s REPLY ON GUV’s SPEECH Govt employees can’t be left at share market’s mercy: CM

Referring to

country and abroad

Naresh Sharma

Jaipur: Replying to the discussion on the Governor’s address in the State Assembly, CM Ashok Gehlot on Thursday said that the employees of the government cannot be left at the mercy of the share market where funds of the National Pension Scheme (NPS) are invested.

He said that the Centre is not giving us funds deposited in the NPS. If they will not give then the State government will move to the Supreme Court.

Referring to the Adani Group’s recent share price downfall in the share market, Gehlot said that there is turmoil in the country and abroad and the entire share market has fallen, including the shares of LIC and SBI that have given loans.

“Employees are our brothers and we cannot

OPS will have to be implemented - Today or Tomorrow. The Centre isn’t giving us our money deposited in the NPS. It is our money. If they will not give then we will move to the SC. —Ashok Gehlot, CM

leave them at the mercy of the share market. Shares of Adani Saab have fallen and there is turmoil in the entire country and abroad. All

shares that have given loans have fallen, including SBI and LIC,” Gehlot said.

Gehlot said that the entire NPS fund is be-

Randhawa issues notice to Mins for not attending meet

Yogesh Sharma

Jaipur: Rajasthan

Congress State Incharge Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa on Thursday, issued notices to ministers for not attending the meeting regarding Haath Se Haath Jodo Campaign.

According to the sources, Sukhjinder Randhawa was angry over absence of ministers, following which, he issued notices. Sources informed that a meeting of prominent leaders of Jaipur division was called on January 28 regarding the ‘Haath se Haath Jodo’ drive. However, MLAs & ministers from Jaipur division didn’t attend the meet. The State in-charge

have issued show cause notices and sought their reply. If the replies are not found satisfactory then action will be taken against them. PCC Chief GS Dotasara speaking on the issue said that Ministers and MLAs didn’t attend the meeting as they considered themselves bigger than the

Congress. Ministers Lalchand Kataria, Rajendra Yadav, Dr Mahesh Joshi, Rajendra Gudha, Parsadi Lal Meena and Murari Lal Meena were absent in Jaipur division’s meeting of the drive.

In the meanwhile, State PCC appointed 243 ‘Mandal Adhyaksh’ on Thursday.

ing pumped into the share market and this argument was given by the state government when it implemented the Old Pension Scheme

GEHLOT TARGETS UNION MINISTER

Jaipur: Chief Minister Gehlot also targeted the Union Minister hailing from Jodhpur and said, “Nothing can be expected from him. He is lying about ‘Sanjeevani’. His people are still in jail, his family members have become accused. He himself has become accused. PM has given him such a huge portfolio and accordingly, work should be done to give relief to the people.”

(OPS) in the state. He demanded Prime Minister Narendra Modi to answer why he wants NPS to remain implemented. Chiranjeevi scheme is proving to be a boon for the people of the state,” he said.

Targeting BJP’s Jan Aakrosh Rally, Gehlot

Savitribai Phule is nation’s first female teacher:Vaibhav

Bhawani Singh Shekhawat

Jaitaran: RCA Chairman Vaibhav Gehlot attended the inauguration of Mali (Saini) Samaj Sansthan building as chief guest in the city on Thursday. Addressing the inaugural ceremony of the building, Vaibhav Gehlot said that Mahatma Jyotiba Phule and Mata Savitribai Phule are worshiped by the entire society and are our esteemed guide. Ma-

hatma Jyotiba Phule talked about the upliftment of not only Mali society but of all communities. Mata Savitribai Phule is the first female teacher of our nation and she ignited the flame of women’s education at a time when no importance was given to it. Thus, both are very important in our lives, he added. Vaibhav also unveiled statues of Mahatma Jyotiba Phule and Savitribai Phule.

KATARIA ATTACKS GOVT. OVER PROSECUTION SANCTION OF CORRUPT OFFICIALS

Jaipur: LoP Gulab Chand Kataria on Thursday raised the issue of corruption in State Assembly during Governor’s address. BJP leader GC Kataria said that prosecution sanction of various senior officials are pending despite charges of corruption are already against them. “The government is trying to save officials like Neeraj K. Pawan and Nirmala Meena. Officials like Lakshman Gaur, Manish Agarwal, Inder Singh Rao, Himmat Abhilash were arrested, but nothing happened. The ACB took action, but what was the result?” questioned Gulab Chand Kataria. Kataria cornered the government on various issues and targeted the government for a large number of vacant posts of teachers in school education. He also raised questions over paper leaks of recruitment examinations in the State and demanded catching the big sharks instead of arresting middlemen.

said, “There was no anger anywhere in your public protest. There was neither Jan nor Aakrosh in your rallies, then what was the reason for these so called rallies? Today our government is giving pension to one crore people. We presented a separate budget for the farm-

ers and today the farmer is happy. .”

Speaking about paper leaks, Gehlot reminded BJP that during their times, papers were leaked 13 times. “Our innovations are being discussed across the country. If children start sitting on dharnas, when

will they study? Has CBI ever investigated paper leak cases? Incidents of paper leak have happened in many states of the country. How many states have given CBI an inquiry into paper leak episode?,” CM said.

“Corona management of the state government was excellent. Rajasthan ranks second in GDP in the country.

The Centre presented the general budget on Wednesday, wherein, govt reduced budget of everything. The budget of agriculture, MNREGA, medical, tourism sector has been reduced. People are happy with State govt’s work. All of you should talk to PM about ERCP. Health sector is our govt’s priority and we are confident that our government will repeat in Rajasthan as Opposition is not in a position to compete,” Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said.

Govt’s major announcement for EWS category; to give vacant flats on rent

Abhishek Shrivastava

Jaipur: The State government on Thursday made two big announcements for the people of Economically Weaker Sections (EWS). Now, vacant multi-storey apartments under the Affordable Housing Schemes in Jaipur and other cities will be given on rent to people falling under EWS. The decision was taken during a meeting chaired by UDH Principal Secretary Kunjilal Meena. The vacant houses will be allotted to eligible families on ‘first come first serve’ basis and interested people can contact the concerned municipal body , development authority and urban development trust.

Officials informed that these houses will be given to ‘homeless families’ of economically weaker income group whose annual income is up to Rs. 3 lakh. The monthly rent will be between Rs 200 to 300. “If the allottee stays in the same house for 10 years, he can get the ownership by depositing the re-

maining amount of the cost of the house. At places where vacant houses are available, basic facilities like road, electricity, water etc. have been made available by the concerned urban civic body. The allottee will have to pay the water and electricity bill as per the consumption,” said an official.

3-day G20 Employment Working Group Meet begins in Jodhpur

are taking part

Rajeev Gaur

Jodhpur : Saying that unemployment rate in the country is not increasing, a central government official on Thursday claimed that the number of people in the organised sector is increasing in the country.

Arti Ahuja Secretary of Ministry of Labour and Employment said that as per the survey report of the ministry of statistics and programme implementation, the unemployment

rate is not increasing.

“The figure of unemployment comes from the Ministry of Statistics and Program Implementation according to which the unemployment rate is not increasing,” she said at a press conference on the first

day of G20 EWG Meet.

Replying to a question regarding the unemployment rate in the country and the impact of the working group meeting on that, Ahuja said that the number of people in the organised sector is increasing.

“If we look at the data, the enrollment in organised sector is increasing. The data which we publish every month indicates that number of people joining ESIC & EPFO is increasing mo.

This means that more and more people are join-

ing the organised workforce,” she said.

A panel discussion on exploring strategies for global skills & qualifications harmonization, & developing a framework for common skill taxonomies was held on the first day on Thursday.

The Chairmanship of G-20 is a matter of prosperity for India. It is not just a government programme, but has become a public festival. It is a good platform to take Jodhpur’s culture, food, costumes and possibilities of Marwar Tourism to the world stage.

—Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister

Define success by the achievement of the outcomes that are important to you and happiness will be in your grasp.

Gaj Singh, Suryakanta Vyas and others during the three-day long G20 Employment Group Meeting being held at the Ummaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur on Thursday.

Delegates interact during a special session at the G20 Employement Working Group Meeting being held at the Ummaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur on Thursday.

Delegates from 19 nations, EU, 9 guest countries & int’l orgs

the Adani Group’s recent share price downfall in the share market, Gehlot says that there is turmoil in the

and the entire share market has fallen, including the shares of LIC and SBI that have given loans

CM Ashok Gehlot replies on the Governor’s address on govt’s behalf in the Assembly on Thursday. Also seen are Shanti Dhariwal, Mahendra Chaudhary, Bhajan Lal Jatavm Tikaram Jully & others.

Vaibhav Gehlot being welcomed by Dilip Chowdhary, Ramdev Solanki, & others from Mali community during the inaugural ceremony of the new Mali Samaj Sansthan building in Jaitaran.

Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa

GROWING WINGS

MRIDULA SHARMA cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

You were born with potential. You were born with goodness and trust. You were born with ideals and dreams. You were born with greatness. You are not meant for crawling, so don’t. You have wings. Learn to use them and fly, believes Harshita Singh a dazzling model from Jaipur. The beauty shared her journey of how even after facing many hardships she continues to grow. Talking about the same she expressed, “I am a graduate of the journalism field and

planned. After the lockdown, I lost weight and the first thing that came to my mind was to try for the elite I remembered how impactful it was for me in 2018 when I saw elite’s auditions for the first time so in 2021 I gave my first auditions, and since then started working in Jaipur a freelance model. I was also living my dream life while I was also fighting battles related to health behind the scene, but I kept moving forward and now being the only earning member of the family I feel like the struggle was all part of the story. Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it. The diva further added, “Because Gaurav Gaur sir, I am becoming the independent confident woman that I always aspired to be.”

“EVERYTHING HAS BEAUTY, BUT NOT EVERYONE SEES IT,” EXPRESSED RAVISHING HARSHITA SINGH WHO IS ALSO ONE OF THE FINALISTS OF ELITE MISS RAJASTHAN DURING THE CHIT-CHAT SESSION WITH THE CITY FIRST!

YOUR DAY

Aries

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

You care about you lover but somehow hesitate in expressing that care. Don’t make friends for money and status rather make friends who will stick with you forever. On social front, you may have to spend some extra money in buying gifts for someone for some specific occasion.

Gemini

MAY 21 - JUNE 21

You are a pro in your field and none can beat you. You give tough competition to people. Many people get inspired by you. You will get special treatment from your dear ones. Take stand where you need to, don’t run in the same direction where everybody else is going.

Leo

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

You make sure to make things work your way. Never demotivate someone even if someone is not capable of doing something. You are most wanted by your friends. You can have romantic affair in office and a serious one. You will invest money in clothes and accessories today.

Libra

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 22

Scrumptious food is what you are craving for today. You always maintain cordial relationship with everyone. You workout daily to keep yourself fit. You may start a side business to earn extra money. You are not a jealous kind and you feel happy for others.

Sagittarius

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 22

Spend time talking with likeminded people as it will make you feel good for now. Boisterous behaviour is what everyone needs right now, do whatever you can do to cheer everyone up. You will feel financially comfortable and infant you are in position to invest money in some new venture.

Aquarius

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

You need a break from day to tensions and the way to cope up with stress is to meditate. You must create an environment of understanding at home. You will succeed in any sort of examination if you put your heart and soul to it. Promotion can be expected even if other are not.

Sachdeva

Taurus

APRIL 21 - MAY 20

You love to live close to your family. Best day to buy gold and silver or any precious metal for investment sake. You are a child at heart and never let this child die. You have a big heart and you always help someone if you can. Video gathering is possible as you miss your social circle.

Cancer

JUNE 22 - JULY 23

Visit a doctor if you have any doubts about your health. Don’t attack stress even if you don’t have any. Let go of things that are not in your control. You want to have your own house and you will work hard to make your dream come true. Health remains satisfactory.

Virgo

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

Your spouse is someone who can do anything for your happiness. You are opportunist and this will make you successful one day. There may be delays in property possession and it won’t effect you. You are happy spending whole day at home. Help your mothers at home today.

Scorpio

OCTOBER 23 - NOVEMBER 22

You will feel amorous towards your wife. This is the best time try something new with life give yourself a new purpose. Work on your limitations, there can be no better time than this. You have more opposite sex friends than the same and you may be judged sometimes.

Capricorn

DECEMBER 23 - JANUARY 20

You are very generous by nature and also you are the backbone of your family. Today is a favourable day for business. You may postpone your study plans. You are very fortunate to have a great friend circle. Be careful of the words that come out of your mouth.

Pisces

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

Your spouse may make you spend more than you expected. Fantastic day for investing money in stock market as you can make fortune. You need help on academic front and you should not shy away from asking. You miss your parents a lot and somewhere fear to loose them.

BEAUTIFUL JOURNEY OF TRANSFORMATION

Adverse situations are inevitable parts of our life. We cannot escape them or deny their existence. However, as we go through the hardships of life and emerge as better versions of ourselves, we become stronger and more capable than before. Like a caterpillar goes through a metamorphosis before embracing its magnificence, and emerging as a beautiful butterfly, we should go through the journey of transformation to reach our potential.

The process of transformation is essential for our amelioration. The process is strenuous, and people find it extremely stressful to complete this onerous journey. But we need to remember, this is a part of the growth process, which needs to be embraced more profoundly than success itself.

TRANSFORMATIONS

TAKE PLACE OUTSIDE

OUR COMFORT ZONE; THIS IS WHERE WE GROW AND SUCCEED

Life is full of unexpected challenges and disappointments. We can’t avoid these difficulties. We must learn to accept them as a part of the journey of life. Although this process isn’t easy, with hard work and perseverance, we can overcome our limitations and succeed in life.

VICTIM MINDSET: OUR WORST FOE

Sometimes we unknowingly slip into a victim mindset. Destructive self-talk like- Why is this happening to me? I have never done anything wrong. There are so many people out there who are so happy, but only I am suffering. If any of these

thoughts are encroaching on your mind it’s high time to get alert. These thoughts that encourage a victim mindset, are poisonous to our minds and soul.

As wise human beings, we should have a high opinion of ourselves. Sometimes our self-esteem is adversely affected by difficult situations that we encounter in life. We should never forget that the only purpose of these situations is to make us wiser and stronger.

The way we respond to the adverse situation in our life decides our mindset. If we are not getting wiser and stronger even in adverse situations, it is a red flag, indicating that we need to change our mindset from a victim mindset to a growth mindset. Lessons are repeated until learned. Changing one’s mindset from a victim mindset to a growth

mindset is an important part of one’s life. In the course of time, our mindset determines the quality of our Self-esteem emerges from within. It has nothing to do with external forces. Difficult situations in our life are inevitable, the best part is - they help us to grow

SELF-ESTEEM: YOU MAY BE THE ONLY

oping our self-esteem include our routine, the kind of people we surround ourselves with, the kind of books we read, the kind of thoughts we entertain, and also the way we respond to each and everything around us. The things we are watching and listening to, and our exposure to social media play a pivotal role in building our

NEVER EVER FORGET YOUR WORTH

Be ready to witness the most bedazzling miracle once you have the courage to embrace who you really are. To stop believing in yourself is like tying yourself up. High selfesteem enables us to win over the adversities of life. It also enables us to imbibe other strong characteristics in our personality. It helps to imbibe

Horoscope by Saurabbh

ESHITA SINGH cityfirst@firtsindia.co.in

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

Deepika Padukone is currently enjoying the glorious success of her recently released film, Pathaan. She reunited with Shah Rukh Khan and John Abraham for the actioner. Directed by Siddharth Anand, the film proved to be the biggest hit at the box office. Amid enjoying the thunderous success, Deepika was seen wishing her sister Anisha Padukone on her birthday with an adorable message. She took to Instagram on Wednesday night and dropped a heartwarming post for Anisha. The gorgeous actress posted a quote on her handle that read, "If you have nothing

in life but a loving sister, you are richer than you know." Along with the quote picture, Deepika wrote, "Happy Birthday" and tagged her sister. After Deepika wished her sister Anisha, fans were also seen showering love on Anisha.

WEDDING VENUE?

Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani, who impressed the audience with their magical chemistry in Shershaah, are all set to take their relationship to next level.

Swift's Fiasco

Taylor Lautner recently recalled the infamous 2009 MTV VMAs when his then-girlfriend Taylor Swift was interrupted by Kanye West on stage. Taylor Lautner’s wife Taylor Dome, who also goes by the name Taylor Lautner now, asked the Twilight actor, which moment he would like to go back to if he could,

Tech cap on

nanya Panday is set to headline a yet-untitled cyber-thriller that will be directed by filmmaker Vikramaditya Motwane. “When Vikramaditya Motwane approached me with this story, I just knew I had to be part of it. As a filmmaker, he has been on my wish list for as long as I can remember, and I feel really lucky to be working with him so early in my career,” Panday said. Producer Nikhil Dwivedi said, “When Vikram shared the script with me, it was one of the most interesting materials I had laid my hands on in recent times and I decided within a few hours to participate in this. Ananya is a commendable artiste, and someone to watch out for in times to come. I am excited that

on their podcast titled The Squeeze. This clip, as reported by Eonline was shared on TikTok on February 1.

Without hesitating, Lautner responded that he would probably like to go back to the 2009 VMAs when he presented the award to his then-partner Taylor Swift and “was unaware that the whole Kanye (West) thing was not a skit.”

Reportedly, the duo will be tying the knot on February 6 in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. On Thursday morning, a paparazzo took to Instagram and shared details of Sidharth and Kiara's D-day. In the post, the paparazzo also revealed that the media will reach Suryagarh Palace on Friday to cover the pre-wedding festivities. The post read, "We are heading to Jaisalmer to cover #kiaraadvani and #sidharthmalhotra wedding. We will land tomorrow and then take a jeep to Jaisalmer. One team will have to wait at Jodh-

NEW RELEASE DATE

Fans are super excited ever since Karan Johar announced his upcoming directorial Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani. With this film, KJO will be breaking his hiatus of almost 7 years and will be returning to the director’s seat. On Thursday Alia took to her Instagram handle to share the new release date of the film. Alia Bhatt shared a poster of Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani and announced the new release date of the film. Now the Ranveer Singh starrer will be released on July 28, 2023.

In love with life

Vicky Kaushal, the supremely talented actor is happily married to the renowned Bollywood star Katrina Kaif.

In a recent interview with Lifestyle Asia, Vicky opened up about their love

The actor, who has earlier mentioned that marriage made him a better person, heaped praise on his lovely wife in his interview with Lifestyle Asia. "I think a person in love is always the best version of themselves and I guess that’s what is radiating out of me. I love my wife. I love my family. I’m in love with life. And I guess that is what comes out. I can only guess what makes them say these nice things about me but I’m grateful for these kind words. I’m as flawed as everybody else. But still, to be on the receiving end of such nice words, it’s humbling."

CONFIRMATION

Rita Ora just confirmed her marriage with filmmaker Taika Waititi after months of speculation. The pop singer recently confirmed the news in an interview with Jamie Theakston and Amanda Holden on Heart Radio Breakfast as she promoted her new single You Only Love Me.

In the aforementioned interview, Rita Ora was asked if she was indeed married to Waititi. As reported by PEOPLE, she responded by saying that she is

‘officially off the market’. “Yes. Here we are," she said. “They say everything happens for a reason. I am officially off the market, people!"

When asked if she planned on taking Waititi as her last name, the singer commented that although she has thought about it, she has also worked hard for her last name ‘Ora’. She then reflected that she does believe in sharing the journey with her husband, and concluded that she has not decided yet.

Her post...

Deepika Padukone Ananya Panday

Kiara Advani

Taylor Swift

Katrina Kaif

Alia Bhatt

Rita Ora

During the event

WAY TOWARDS HEALTH

CITY FIRST

Organised by Sanskriti Yuva Sanstha, WTP and AU Small Finance Bank the 14th edition of the AU Jaipur Marathon will be held on February 5. Organiser AU Jaipur

Marathon and President of Sanskriti Yuva Sanstha, Pt Suresh Mishra; Chairman and MD WTP, Anoop Bartaria and AU Small Finance Bank, Group Head Manoj Tibrewal informed that before the marathon on 5 February, there will be a 2-day bib expo from 3 and 4 February at the Maharaja college principal ground, Albert hall. Puneet

CHANNEL BHARAT EXPRESS LAUNCHED

Karnawat, Dy Mayor, Jaipur Greater said that AU Jaipur Marathon will reach every household with the message of cleanliness and inspire Jaipurites to love their city. AU Jaipur Marathon, CEO, Mukesh Mishra said that this year we are expected to have more than 80,000 participants across the world and over 5000 runners of the VGU group will be running wearing turbans, people between 50 to 75 years of age and who have undergone knee replacement by Dr BR Bagaria of Manipal Hospital will participate, there is a separate category for wheelchair runners.

B2B SESSION!

The FICCI Rajasthan State Council in partnership with Nexdigm SKP India organised a Virtual Interactive Session on ‘Post Budget Analysis of Union Budget 2023-24’. Experts from various fields analyzed the budget announcements and their impact on Doing Business in India. The session saw the participation of Co-Chair, FICCI Economist Forum and Chief Economist, CRISIL Ltd, DK Joshi; Chief Economist, YES Bank, Indranil Pan; MD & CEO, Sangam India Ltd SN Modani and Head, Taxation, AM/NS India, Anuprita Mehta. The session was moderated by MD, Direct tax, Regulatory Services and Transfer Pricing, Nexdigm SKP India, AK Viswanathan.

WEDDING BELLS!

A new Hindi news channel has entered the market. Bharat Express under the leadership of renowned journalist Upendra Rai was launched on 01 February at Hotel Andaz, New Delhi and was attended by political leaders and senior bureaucrats. Union Minister, I&B Anurag Thakur, Union Minister Jal Shakti Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, MoS, Road Transport & Highways and Civil Aviation Gen(Retd.) VK Singh MoS Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Sanjeev Baliyan, MoS, Home Affairs Nityanand Rai, former CEC Sunil Arora, CEO and Editor-in-Chief Bharat24 Jagdeesh Chandra and OSD to Haryana CM Amit Arya also reached to congratulate Upendra Rai. Many MPs also attended the event as did renowned poet Kumar Vishwas. The ‘prarthana’ as the event started by Saadyant and Kaushal, the son and daughter of Upendra Rai left everyone spellbound. Jagdeesh Chandra gave his best wishes for the new venture to Upendra Rai and also met the family members of Rai.

RENDITION OF CULTURE

CITY FIRST

The annual cultural program of St Xa vier’s College, Jaipur was organ ised on February 2-4, 2023. Zest hosts a variety of genres of games and com petitions including art, fashion, dance and music. Storytelling, journaling, and original plays provide a whole new experience for the story and audi ence alike. The indoor segment is wit nessing new age and online events like ‘LAN Gam ing’ and ‘Retro Run’. The ‘Mr and Miss Jest’ contest is expected to turn up the crowd on the

first day of the festival. While ‘Xavier’s Splitsvilla’ and ‘Zest Premier League test the mettle of participating students, ‘Battle of the Bands gets the music flowing through our veins. ‘War of DJs’ and ‘Shake It Up’ provide the students with

MEET & GREET!

Jagdeesh Chandra was greeted by Sant Prasad Rai and others including Pratyush, Dayashankar Rai, Divyanshi, Dr Deepak, Sneha Rai and Maitreyee during a courtesy meet on Thursday.

CELEBRATIONS!

their daily dose of entertainment. ‘Panache’, the fashion show, is the crème of the event at Zest.

The event was attended by various eminent personalities of the city such as Umesh Mishra, IPS, Director General of Police (Intelligence), Jaipur as Chief Guest; Annu Mahala, an acclaimed Bhavai dance artist; and Gulzar Hussain and Ghulam Goz, a renowned music duo.

The grand engagement ceremony of Vatsal, son of Yogyta and Prakash Chandra Sharma with Aakriti, daughter of Milan and Suresh Chauhan was organised at City Palace, Jaipur on Thursday. Various dignitaries

DURING THE DAY! A DAY TO REMEMBER!

The flagship show of Bharat24 and First India News, The JC Showan insightful and indepth analysis of the impact of Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatra by Jagdeesh Chandra was telecast live on Thursday at 2:30 pm from the stateof-art studio of Bharat24 at NOIDA. During his visit, Jagdeesh Chandra also greeted all the staff members whose birthdays fell in January 2023 and awarded Anchor Pooja for 6935368 views on her video in January and Anchors Surbhi (2.025 Million) and Mahima (2. 013) also for their fantastic SM presence.

Live Astrology Seminar was organised at Hotel Signet Park, in Jaipur on Wednesday, in which the famous celebrity astrologer Ajit Joshi participated. During the seminar, Astrologer Ajit shared life and careerrelated tips with all the people. He also shared the ways how we can get a new position in our life through astrology.

Under the auspices of the Bhavya Foundation, the International Friendship Conference and Hind Shiromani Samman Samaroh-2023 organised to help cancer victims, physically challenged and autistic warriors were concluded at Kalindi Auditorium, Jaipur, in which 200 talents who have achieved a special status in different fields of the country, abroad and in the state were honoured. Founder of Bhavya Foundation Shailendra Mathur and Director Dr Nisha Mathur shared that this program was inaugurated by Pratap Singh Khachariawas, Minister of Food and Civil Supplies and Manoj Mudgal, Councilor, Taxes of Banipark.

including Dr Mahesh Joshi, PHED Minister reached to bless the couple and wished them togetherness.

—PHOTOS BY MUKESH KIRADOO

Jagdeesh Chandra was accorded a warm floral welcome by Senior Editor Syed Umar and the Bharat24 team, Anu Shridhar, Amit Ojha, Shashikesh Ranjan, Prasoon Shukla, Amit Baliyan, Sandeep Mishra, Raj Kumar Pathak, Pratham Soni and Abhishek Rao

Jagdeesh Chandra awards Pooja Yadav, also seen are Amrita Garg, Aditi Nagar, Shikha Thakur, Mahima Kanwar, Amit Mishra, Pooja Yadav, Anu Shridhar, Syed Umar, Shashikesh Ranjan and Naushad Khan

The Birthday celebrations for the January birthday staff members

Jagdeesh Chandra awards Surabhi Tiwari, also seen are Anu Shridhar, Syed Umar and Shashikesh Ranjan

Jagdeesh Chandra awards Mahima Kanwar, also seen are Syed Umar, Amrita Garg and Pooja Yadav

—PHOTO BY MUKESH KIRADOO

—PHOTOS BY MUKESH KIRADOO

—PHOTO BY MUKESH KIRADOO

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Sunil Arora, Kumar Vishwas, Upendra Rai with a guest at the lamp lighting ceremony

Saadyant and Kaushal Rai

Anurag Thakur with Upendra Rai and Amit Arya

Jagdeesh Chandra with Reporter Komal Behl and Saadyaant

Jagdeesh Chandra with Upendra Rai and singer B Praak

Jagdeesh Chandra with Anchor Garima Singh

Jagdeesh Chandra with Pratyush, Dayashankar Rai, Divyanshi, Dr Deepak, Sant Prasad, Sneha Rai and Maitreyee

(L-R) Yogyta, Akriti, Vatsal and Prakash Chandra Sharma ML Sharma, Mahesh Joshi and Prakash Chandra Sharma

Aparna Joshi, Fr Rex Angelo, DGP Umesh Mishra, Aamir Khan, Kapil Chopra and Fr Raymond

Dharmendra Singh SP Dholpur and Gaurav Shrivastava IG Bharatpur range reached Dholpur to bless the groom Alok Singh, also seen is Shivendra Parmar, elder brother of the groom.

—PHOTOS BY SHAZID CHAUHAN