First India-Jaipur Edition- 12th May 2023

PATNAIK RULES OUT JOINING ‘3RD FRONT’ AFTER MEETING MODI

New Delhi: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik after meeting PM Modi made it clear on Thursday that he is not going to join the third front or a common political platform of non-BJP parties.

BSE SENSEX 61,904.52 35.68 | NSE NIFTY 18,297.00 18.10

P6

MANIPUR POLICE COMMANDO KILLED AND 4 COPS INJURED

Imphal: At least one Manipur police commando was killed and five others sustained injuries in a shootout between security forces and suspected Kuki militants in Bishnupur district on Thursday.

FINLAND PM FILES DIVORCE AS SHE PREPARES TO LEAVE OFFICE

Helsinki: Finland’s outgoing Prime Minister Sanna Marin has filed for divorce jointly with her husband of three years Markus Raikkonen, she shared the news on Instagram.

‘MAHA’ TOP COURT VERDICT ON SENA V/S SENA

SIVAGNANAM SWORN IN AS CALCUTTA HIGH COURT CHIEF JUSTICE

Kolkata: Justice TS

Sivagnanam on Thursday took oath as new Chief Justice of Calcutta High Court. The oath was administered by Governor CV Ananda Bose. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was also present at the swearing-in ceremony.

THIRD BLAST NEAR

GOLDEN TEMPLE IN

A WEEK, 5 ARRESTED

Amritsar: Five people have been arrested by Punjab police following an explosion near the Golden Temple in Amritsar. On Thursday midnight, 3rd explosion had happened in five days. “Amritsar lowintensity explosion cases solved,” DGP Police said.

DEFAMATION CASE

FILED AGAINST FORMER

CJI RANJAN GOGOI

Guwahati: A `1 crore defamation case and a petition seeking an injunction to restrain his autobiography has been filed against Rajya Sabha MP and former CJI Ranjan Gogoi by Assam Public Works (APW) president Aabhijeet Sharma at a local Court here.

CELEBRATING 25TH YEAR OF NATIONAL TECHNOLOGY DAY

FOR UDDHAV

SHINDE KEEPS HIS JOB, MORAL VICTORY

Maharashtra Governor ‘erred’ but can’t reinstate MVA government as Uddhav resigned without taking floor test, says Supreme Court

Moni Sharma

New Delhi/Mumbai:

The Supreme Court on Thursday said it cannot reinstate the Maha Vikas Aghadi government in Maharashtra since the then Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray had resigned voluntarily without taking the floor test. However, the top court strongly censured the then Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari, for taking decisions that helped Shinde’s faction, saying he had “erred” in concluding that Thackeray had lost the support of majority of MLAs.

“We cannot quash his resignation and hence MVA cannot be put back in the seat of government,” the Supreme Court said in a significant verdict on the political crisis in the state last year triggered by rebellion by several Shiv Sena MLAs led by Eknath Shinde.

Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari did not have any objective material and the exercise of discretion of the governor in this case was not in accordance with the law, top court further added. More on P5

SC decision makes it clear that governor’s decision to invite Shinde to form the govt was correct. This means that govt here is constitutional. Uddhav quitideology for power, has no right to speak on morality. Uddhav had not resigned on moral grounds but due to fear after people who were with him left him.

—Eknath Shinde, Maharashtra CM

Pakistan Supreme Court declares Imran Khan’s arrest as illegal

First India Bureau

Islamabad: In a major relief for Imran Khan, Pakistan SC on Thursday declared the former PM’s arrest “illegal” and ordered his immediate release after he was produced before a bench on its orders. The bench, comprising CJ of Pakistan Umar Ata

Imran Khan at Supreme Court, in Islamabad on Thursday.

Whatever I did at that point of time was absolutely right and if someone resigned then, I can’t stop them. Now, I am free from all this and keeping myself away from political matters. I am not a student of law, so if Supreme Court is saying something in this regard then it is their job to analyse such matters.

—Bhagat Singh Koshyari, Former Governor of Maharashtra

Thisdecade is India’s ‘Techade’!

PM Narendra Modi launches projects worth `5,800 crore

First India Bureau

Overall, the SC in its decision has passed strictures on those who are power hungry. The SC has also said that the way the governor has acted was wrong along with appt of (chief) whip. Despite so many strictures of SC, if any morality is left with the CM and deputy CM, they should resign as I did and face polls.

—Uddhav Thackeray, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief

THE BIG BENCH...

The decision was delivered by a five-judge bench led by CJI Chandrachud who clustered 8 petitions on face-off. Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi argued for Uddhav’s team while Harish Salve, Neeraj Kaul, and Mahesh Jethmalani represented Eknath Shinde’s camp.

COURT UNLOCKS DISQUALIFICATION

PROCEEDINGS

The top court refused to disqualify the 16 rebel Shiv Sena MLAs, including CM Eknath Shinde, harashtra speaker to decide on their petitions within a reasonThackeray faction had sought disqualification of the MLAs under the anti-defection law of the

BLACK DAY!

Bandial and 2 others, expressed anger at the way Khan was taken into custody from premises of Islamabad HC. He said that HC should hear the case on Friday.

“You will have to accept whatever the HC decides,” judge added. Court also said that police has to prove security to Imran. Turn to P7

VP Dhankhar sweeps world leaders with his simplicity!

Aditi Nagar

New Delhi: The world was there, world was watching, most powerful men and ladies from across the globe congregated for a historic and once in a lifetime State function - the coronation of King Charles III. Even as UK and commonwealth, along with all other nations of world, bore witness to the ceremony, the most populous, vibrant and powerful nation - India - was represented by a man of

The most populous, vibrant and powerful nation - India - was represented by a man of high stature but a simple and humble demeanour - Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar at the coronation of King Charles III

high stature but a simple and humble demeanour - Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. In fact, all eyes were on him since time he landed in London to attend the coronation representing India, as he not only represented over 1.4 billion people, but the culture and essence that is India. And

surely enough, ‘global powerplayers’ were swooped by simplicity and candour of individual, who has, all-through his life, garnered praise and admiration from people from all walks of life. To Dhankhar, even his harshest critics have started saying, “Bravo Mr VP!”

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said on Thursday that technology is a tool for giving momentum to the country’s growth trajectory. He stressed that technology is essential for economic growth, achieving sustainable development goals and building an inclusive ecosystem.

The PM inaugurated National Technology Week 2023, School to Startupand Igniting Young Minds to Innovate at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi. On this occasion, Modi has laid the foundation stone for

PM MODI’S U.S. VISIT ‘HISTORIC’, GOOD FOR WORLD: SANDHU

Washington: PM Modi’s visit to the US will show that the partnership between the two nations is people-centric, people-driven, and is good for the world at large, a top Indian diplomat said, as India’s Ambassador to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu called the visit “historic.”

various projects worth 5,800 crore. He said, India is moving forward in the field of science and technology with new thinking and a holistic approach. He said, a strong foundation has been laid in the field of science and technology sector in 9 years. P5

This is a glorious day in the history of the country as on this day, Indian scientists had made the country proud by conducting Pokhran nuclear tests. India has set clear goals for year 2047 and efforts should be made to make the country developed and self-reliant.

—Narendra Modi, Prime Minister

‘Thari-Mhari’ does not work in party culture, says Gehlot

 CM Ashok Gehlot inaugurates statue of former Congress leader Pandit Nawal Kishore Sharma

 CM Gehlot also inaugurates, lays foundation stone of projects worth `211 crore in JMC Heritage

Naresh Sharma and Bharat Dixit

Jaipur: Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Thursday said that those who create factions can never become successful and never be loyal to the party. The statement came on a day Pilot launched a 125-km-long Jan Sangharsh Yatra from Ajmer to Jaipur to raise the issue of corruption and the leaking of question papers for state government recruitment exams.

“In a democracy, those who take everyone along become successful and those who create factions can never become successful. Those indulging in factionalism (Thari-Mhari karte hai) can never

In my entire life, I have worked to uphold the party’s principles and policies with “allegiance, honesty, and commitment” and have worked to “lengthen the line instead of shortening it”.

—Ashok Gehlot, Chief Minister

become successful. They are never loyal to the party. Loyalty is very important. I have always tried in my life to take everyone along,” Gehlot said after inaugurating a statue of former Congress leader Pandit Nawal Kishore Sharma in Jaipur.

Referring to his past differences with UDH Minister Shanti Dhariwal, Gehlot said he had

offered him a ministerial post when he became the CM in 1998. “I tried in life to take everyone along. Dhariwal ji was against me. I myself offered ministerial post to Dhariwal ji. Be it anyone’s man, I selected everyone at that time with a thought that he is a person from Congress, party high command and Sonia Gandhi,” Gehlot said. P8

The five-judge Constitution Bench of Supreme Court headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud hearing the case on the Maharashtra political crisis in New Delhi on Thursday.

PM Narendra Modi, Rajnath Singh and Dr Jitendra Singh duirng inauguration, foundation stone laying event in Delhi on Thursday.

Wrestlers Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Mallik, Sangeeta Phogat, Vinesh Phogat and Satyawart Kadian wearing black ribbons marking ‘Black Day’ during protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi on Thursday. Minor wrestler, who has accused WFI chief of sexual harassment, has given a statement before a magistrate under Section 164.

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar interacts with King Charles III in presence of his wife, Camilla, during reception in London on May 5.

CM Ashok Gehlot addressing during inauguration of statue of late Pandit Nawal Kishore Sharma in Jaipur on Thursday.

—PHOTO BY SUNIL SHARMA

Rajasthan welcomed over 10 cr tourists in 2022

Nirmal Tiwari

Jaipur: Having suffered huge losses due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the tourism industry of Rajasthan is now booming with recording a high number of tourist arrivals.

More than 10.87

crore tourists visited the desert

state in the year 2022. The highest footfall to the state was of domestic tourists, official sources in the tourism department said.

Of the total 10.87 tourists, 10.83 crore were domestic and 3.96 lakh were foreigners, according to official sources. This is the highest number of tourist arrivals in the state after the corona pandemic.

In the year 2021, only 2.20

crore tourists visited Rajasthan. Increase of more than 8 crore in the number of tourists in one year is a big achievement of the Gehlot government. As the result of the hard work of Team Rajasthan Tourism-- Minister Vishvendra Singh, Principal Secretary Gayatri Rathore and Director Rashmi Sharma, the state is being recognised as a safe destination.

BJP to hold protest on 2008 blast anniv

Rathore reaches Delhi to attend 2008 blast hearing in SC today

Aditi Nagar

BJP’s Madan Dilawar refutes all allegations

First India Bureau

Aishwary Pradhan

Jaipur: Former BJP

State President Arun Chaturvedi and JMC

Greater Mayor Dr Somya along with Deputy Mayor Puneet Karnawat, Municipal Corporation Ward Councillors and Divisional Presidents held a meeting at the state office regarding the 15th anniversary of the se-

rial bomb blast that took place on May 13, 2008 in Jaipur city.

Chaturvedi said that BJP always works on the policy of zero tolerance against terrorism, Naxalism and terrorists. “Ever since the Modi government at the Centre came to power, incidents like bomb blasts have completely stopped in the country. Our priorities have

been to connect the fight against terror in the country with the common people, and to end the existence of terrorist forces,” he said.

The party will hold sit-in demonstrations in all 250 wards of Jaipur from 12 noon to 1 pm and then recite Hanuman Chalisa in local temples in connection with the 15th anniversary on 13 May.

New Delhi: Leader of Opposition Rajendra Singh Rathore on Thursday said that the 15th anniversary of Jaipur Serial bomb blast is on May 13 and hearing on an SLP filed by the BJP will be heard in the Supreme Court today (Friday).

On May 3, advocate Maninder Singh, Shiv Mangal, and Hemant Nahta had demanded an early hearing in the court. It will be heard on May 12.

Rathore alongwith his son Parakram Singh reached Delhi on Wednesday to attend the

hearing in the SLP of victim Rajeshwari Devi. He held legal discussion with the advocates. In the bomb blast case, the Raj HC had acquitted the accused, imposing serious objections on the investigation agency and prosecution of the

state government.

“The government did not take any action against the erring officials. The government is doing this to harvest votes. BJP will continue to fight for justice to the victim’s family,” said Rathore.

Jaipur: BJP State Chief spokesperson MLA Ramlal Sharma and MLA Madan Dilawar addressed a press conference at the state office on Thursday regarding the false case of murder and criminal conspiracy filed against BJP State General Secretary Madan Dilawar.

Dilawar accused the Congress government of filing illegitimate and false cases to harass the BJP workers. He is accused of giving a life threat to AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge.

“How can a case be filed against a crime which has not been committed? This case has

been registered by the Congress Secretary at the behest of CM Gehlot and GS Dotasra. Such cases show how the prosecuting officers act foolishly by indulging in corruption,” he said. Referring to the earlier incident, Dilawar said that in response to Kharge’s remark against PM Modi, he had merely said that Kharge is an old man of 80 years, and wished him a long life.

10 villas

sealed by JDA, illegal construction razed, land freed

First India Bureau

Jaipur: A total of 10 illegal villas in Anshika Vihar were sealed by the JDA. The JDA gave notice to remove the construction. The villas were sealed on September 8, 2022 but the builders went to the JDA Appellate Tribunal again and the seal was opened on the orders but illegal construction was not removed. The JDA’s enforcement squad sealed the villas again.

Another illegal construction was demolished in Padmavati Colony I in Nirman Nagar area. Besides, a government land worth Rs 63 crore was freed of encroachment.

DEFENCE VISITS

Odisha minor, a 20-yr-old girl gangraped in separate incidents

National Lok Adalat to begin on May 13

Kamal Kant

Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari shakes hand with officers at Air Force Station in Jaisalmer on Thursday. (Inset) Lt Gen Raju, Commander of Sapta Shakti Command, interacts with kids during his visit to Alwar Military Station on Thursday.

INVEST RAJ 2022 REVIEW MEET

First India Bureau Jaipur: A minor from Odisha was allegedly gangraped by four men in Jaipur. The victim had come to Jaipur with her grandfather. An acquaintance held the two hostage in a flat where an accused raped the girl and threatened the grandfather with killing him if he reported the matter. The victim’s grandfather lodged a report at Pratap Nagar police station against four named people. The police have started an investigation by registering a report under the POCSO Act.

The accused was an acquaintance and came to pick them up at the railway station on May 5 and took them to an apart-

MINOR RAPED, FILMED IN HOTEL, FIR FILED

Jaipur: A 15-year-old minor girl was allegedly raped by her neighbour at a hotel situated in the Brahmpuri area, police said. Police informed the accused, identified as Chitu Burman, kidnapped the girl on the pretext to take her around and then raped her. “The accused and the victim are neighbours in the Jagatpura area. The accused raped the girl, filmed her obscene videos. An FIR has been filed,” police said.

ment in Pratap Nagar. The granddaughter was raped there. The next day she was forcibly taken to a temple and married to a boy named Sanjay. They were then told to go back to their village. After this, the grandfather went to

Over 50% projects implemented: ACS Veenu Gupta

ACS Gupta instructed officers to remain in touch with investors and provide them with all necessary help

mentation

ACS Veenu Gupta emphasised the importance of establishing enterprises for the allround development of the state. She urged officials to help industries so that they don’t have to face any difficulty in getting information related to setting up their enterprise or obtaining NOCs from various departments.

JPR WOMAN ACCUSED FATHER-IN-LAW OF RAPE

Jaipur: A woman was allegedly raped by her fatherin-law in the Karni Vihar area, police said. Police informed the accused used to rape, and sexually exploit his daughter-in-law since after her marriage. “As per the FIR, the accused even gave emergency contraceptive pills to women for aborting the foetus. The case has been registered in Karni Vihar Police Station and the matter is being probed,” police said.

the police.

In another incident, a 20-year-old girl was gangraped in Jaipur. The matter was reported at Gandhi Nagar police station. The victim filed a report against two acquaintances.

Jaipur: The second National Lok Adalat of the year 2023 will be organised on Saturday by the Rajasthan State Legal Services Authority (RALSA).

This Lok Adalat will be inaugurated on May 13 in the High Court (New Building) Complex, Jaipur bench under the chairmanship of Acting Chief Justice MM Srivastava.

RALSA Member Secretary Pramil Kumar Mathur said that present and former HC Justices, Advocate General, office bearers of Bar Association and other advocates will also be present on this occasion.

KHARGE DEATH THREAT CASE

Rajendra Rathore holds discussion with Hemant Nahata and other lawyers over 2008 Jaipur blast case, in New Delhi on Thursday.

BJP leaders Arun Chaturvedi, Dr Somya, Kulwant Singh, Puneet Karnawat, and Rakhi Rathore interact with media in Jaipur on Thursday.

Veenu Gupta, Shiv Prasad Nakate, Om Kasera, Mahendra Kumar Parakh and others during the Invest Rajasthan Summit review meeting in Jaipur on Thursday.

MLAs Ramlal Sharma and Madan Dilawar in Jaipur.

TEAMS NAB FIVE ACROSS STATE

SI held for seeking `50K, ASI nabbed with ` 35K

First India Bureau

Sirohi/Udaipur: ACB

Sirohi arrested sub-inspector of Kotwali police station, Jagdish Rana, for taking a bribe of Rs 2,000. He had demanded a total of Rs 50,000 from the complainant in a case related to social boycott. Rana had earlier taken Rs 8,000.

In another incident, the Udaipur team arrested the Assistant Sub Inspector of Govardhan Vilas police station. Manohar Lal was arrested for taking a bribe of Rs 35,000.

Additional Director General of Anti-Corruption Bureau Mr. Hemant Priyadarshi (Addl. Charge Director General) said that ACB Special Unit of Udaipur got a complaint that the ASI demanded bribes in lieu of imposing an FR in a case registered against the complain-

CISF stops IPL cheer leaders at airport for lacking IDs

First India Bureau

Jaipur: Five cheerleaders were stopped during security check by CISF at Jaipur airport for lack of proper ID.

The IDs of cheerleaders associated with Rajasthan Royals were scheduled to board Kolkata bound Indigo flight, which takes off at 7.55 am.

CISF personnel found their IDs doubtful and asked for some other IDs but they could not give it following which they were stopped.

The issue was later resolved after their tickets were booked with another flight which leaves at 10.40 am. The cheerleaders were going for the IPL match between Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders.

ACB FIR names Kunjilal Meena, Manish Goyal and HM Meena

UDH: What secrets does Hairmohan Meena hold?

JMC Greater ARO held by ACB with `25,000 bribe

ant’s brother and father. The ASI demanded money through a broker,

Shivlal. The ACB verified the complaint and arrested the accused.

First India Bureau Jaipur: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Thursday arrested an Assistant Revenue Office (ARO) of Jaipur Municipal Corporation (Greater) while accepting a bribe of Rs 25,000. Police informed the ARO, identified as Deep Chand Saini, was demanding a monthly bribe of Rs 1 lakh from complainant for not removing boards and hoardings from his coaching centre and to return his seized hoardings. “The complainant negotiated with Deep Chand Saini, following which he agreed to take Rs 25,000,” police said.

Navin Sharma Jaipur: Three people, including a senior IAS officer, have been booked for allegedly taking a bribe over the issuance of a land conversion certificate, according to Rajasthan ACB.

The FIR was registered against Principal Secy in the Urban Development and Housing Department Kunji Lal Meena, joint secretary Manish Goyal and clerk Harimohan Meena under the Prevention of Corruption Act on Wednesday.

According to ACB, the case was lodged after a person was arrested while taking a Rs 12-lakh bribe on their behalf in Udaipur on Monday for issuing a NOC for land conversion. Interestingly, even though administrative officials have been named as accused in the FIR.

Rajendra Chhabra

Jaipur: Harimohan

Meena, the babu in UDH whose name has come up in the Udaipur bribe case, has an interesting story. Serving as the Assistant Section Officer in UDH, Meena is an employee of the Secretariat Service. Meena has been posted in the UDH for the past thirteen years and files of lands worth crores of rupees, belonging to JDA and UIT, is handled by him. The officials of Secretariat Service also get transferred on regular basis by the DoP from one department to another. But Harimohan Meena has not been transferred even once in the past thirteen years. And thus, this ‘junior’ babu, who has served in just one section since, has a mastery in getting a file marked as ‘positive’ or ‘negative’ in the initial stage. Word is that the file related to the Udaipur bribe case was also ‘dealt’ by this offi-

Dotasra inaugurates Social Media office at PCC HQs

Yogesh Sharma

Jaipur: State office of Social Media and Digital Platform Department of Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee was inaugurated by Govind Singh Dotasra, President of Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee at the state Congress headquarters on Thursday. State president of the Social Media and Digital Platforms Department Sumit Bhagasara took charge on

Insect found in food at Ajmer Central varsity

Govind Singh Dotasra inaugurating the office at PCC HQs on Thursday. Sumit Bhagasara and others are also seen.

the occasion.

Before the inauguration of the office, a joint meeting of the state executive and district heads of the social me-

AT JAIPUR AIRPORT

dia and digital platform department was held. Bhagasara presented the action plan of the department for the next two months.

Ajmer (FIB) : Central University of Rajasthan, is back in news afterstudents found worms in the breakfast served at the mega mess of the university on Thursday. Students posted the video of worms on social media. This has raised questions on quality of beingfood served.

The students posted video on social media, after the university denied to address their issue.

Cargo terminal likely to start this month

 Authorities at Jpr Airport have tied up with private company, Bangalore Airport Terminal Services Pvt Ltd, to handle cargo services

Kashiram Choudhary

Jaipur: The Jaipur Airport Administration is going to start cargo services here soon. A separate cargo terminal has been made for this. The cargo terminal can be started this month itself. Initially, domestic cargo services will be introduced, followed by the facility for movement of the international cargo.

Meanwhile, prepara-

tions are on to start Terminal-1 with Haj flights from May 21. A new

cargo terminal has also been prepared near Terminal-1. It is likely

that this will also start this month. The airport administration has taken necessary permission from the Airport Economic Regulatory Authority of India.

The airport administration has tied up with a private company, Bangalore Airport Terminal Services Pvt Ltd, to handle cargo services here. The Airport Economic Regulatory Authority has also fixed the fares for cargo movement.

cial. It can be questioned as to why hasn’t Meena transferred and how did he become successful in staying put at one place.

It is also being said that DoP may release his promotion order of section officer, from assistant section officer anytime. But even after promotion, his ‘chair’ will be in the UDh department and in the same section, such is the belief of secretariat employees. Interestingly, according to sources, the ACB would have arrested Harimohan Meena on May 8th, but due to a dramatic development, he was able to flee. On that day, ACB’s team reached the main gate of Secretariat at 5 PM and the officials

Another hangs self in Kota, 7th suicide in ‘23

Kota (PTI): A 15-year-old NEET aspirant from UP was found hanging from the ceiling fan in his hostel room in Kota Thursday, police said, in the second suspected suicide case in four days in the coaching hub. Dhanesh Kumar Sharma, a resident of Khurja town in Bulandshahr district, was found dead by his hostel warden in Landmark City in Kunhari area. The Class 11 student was preparing for the NEET-UG at a coach-

Police team investigating at the hostel in Kota on Thursday.

ing centre, police said.

Kunhari SHO Ganga Sahay Sharma said the body is at a mortuary and will be sent for postmortem examination after his parents arrive.

called Harimohan while posing as a villager and called him to the main gate. As soon as he reached, he was nabbed and his mobile was sought. As he handed the mobile, Harimohan told the team ‘ I am coming back’, and went inside the Secretariat.

After a while, he returned with a few leaders of the employees union. These leaders demanded a receipt of Harimohan’s mobile phone from ACB officials and after receiving the receipt, the employee union leaders engaged in a heated argument, got him freed from ACB sleuths and took him back into the Secretariat.

Corona Update: Two more die of Covid-19 in Raj

Jaipur (FIB): 2 more persons died of Corona in the state, the health department bulletin reported on Thursday. With this, the total deaths increased to 9,726. The deaths were reported one each from Jaipur and Ajmer. The number of new cases, however, dropped to 67 in health dept’s bulletin on Thursday. The number of active patients was recorded at 715 and cumulative positive increased to 13,26,064.

GURJARS HAIL CM GEHLOT!

The delegation of Gurjar Employees Officer Welfare Council met CM Ashok Gehlot on Thursday at CMR and expressed gratitude on behalf of employees of Gurjar community who got into govt services as a result of 5% quota for Extremely Backward Classes. Gaurav Bajad, Ramphool Gurjar, Rajendra Singh Tanwar and others were present on the occasion.

ASI Manohar Lal and broker Shivlal in ACB custody SI Jagdish Rana, Sirohi PATWARI IN ACB NET FOR TAKING `30K

FARM TO FOREIGN

A MINE OF WISDOM, A TREASURE TROVE OF IDEAS!

PM Modi’s innovative and unique ideas from time to time always trigger a chain of events that transform the states and the lives of people for the better. Let’s sneak into the realm of NaMo’s intuitive suggestions that proved to be gamechanging and helped the narrators of this stories to take on their respective challenges head-on.

FOOT PATROLLING

Ibecame the CM of UP in March 2017 and found this opportunity to work for the people of the state. The greatest challenge I faced while working in Uttar Pradesh was the dominance of the Mafia Raj. Girls were unsafe and there were riots very frequently and I shared these pressing concerns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi as well.

PM Modi then suggested a very unique concept that he said would instill trust and faith in the minds

of people and that was “Foot patrolling of Police”. This will help the public and the police to come closer and interact with each amicably. He said that these friendly conversations would change the perception of people. The biggest challenge here was to make the Mafia fear the system and this could be made a reality by working on Modiji’s suggestion. I immediately implemented Foot Patrolling in UP and the results are there for everyone to see today. The law and order situation in the state has ameliorated and it is better than ever before.

Modiji idea changed the landscape of Surat’s textile industry! We had planned an exhibition in Surat and we had invited Narendra Modi to inaugurate the event. Surat is famous for its fabric industry and this exhibition was going to be a big event. Narendra Modi arrived for the event, he inaugurated the exhibition and it was during his address to the guests that he took everyone by surprise. Infact, his suggestion resonated so profoundly with all of us that our minds had already started ticking with the actions that we were to take!

Farm to Fibre to Fabric to Factory to Fashion to Foreign- this wonderful concept that he gave us that day changed the landscape of the fashion scene in our country.

This was another famous Local to Global strategy in the field of fashion that was proposed by Modiji that day. The aim was to connect farmers to foreign currency. This entailed enormous value-creation in the sense that the fabric started to give employment to so many workers in our factories. After designing, these clothes were exported and they brought in foreign currency. Every stakeholder had something to profit from in this process. Surat’s economy, south Gujarat’s economy, and the country’s economy gained enormously from this.

It was Modiji’s first visit to Tripura after assuming office as PM. During this visit, he took time out to meet some 15 to 16 party workers. While interacting, he said to the karyakartas “Well, let me suggest something to you. You can consider my suggestion and implement this. Chalk out a list of villages where BJP is not in power. Now choose any one such village

and go there.” Now this was December 2014 and many of the public welfare schemes that exist now had not been introduced back then. The Garib Kalyan Yojana was yet to be implemented. But what had started was ‘Swachh Bharat Mission.’ Modiji continued “Visit this village early in the morning and carry your tiffin with you. Once you are there, conduct a cleanliness drive. Let people know about Swachh Bharat and feel the difference. And not just this, carry a Fact Sheet that details out all that BJP has accomplished in the last 6 months. This record of our government’s work should reach the masses.” Now this is about how Modiji shares innovative ideas with the

party workers, expects them to work hard and encourages transparency with the people. But more than that, his thrust is on the importance of listening to people. He emphasized to the party workers “Always lend people an ear. After hearing them out attentively, invite them and gather them for a meeting in the evening. Assure them that you are there to help them and resolve their issues. And most importantly, after you have done the rounds, get together and have your tiffin together.” The word that Modiji uses for this is ‘Sahbhoj’ which means eating together. He asked the party workers to return only after accomplishing all of this during their visit to the villages.

How successful and replete with wisdom his advice always is, it is for everyone to see! In 2014, such meetings were conducted in a place like Tripura and with a small team of party workers.

These teams conducted “Tiffin Baithaks” in small groups of people and under Modiji’s guidance results were there to see in 3 years. There was remarkable transformation in the way BJP was perceived in Tripura. The entire state had already been hit by a massive Modi wave!

Once a huge public rally had been organised in Assam’s Guwahati. A gentleman was addressing the rally and Modiji, who was with me on the stage observed that there was a tree which was laden with flowers in the ground where the event was being conducted. He asked me “Which tree is that?” I replied “Sir, it is Krishnasura. This tree grows only in Assam.” So do you know what he said? He said “Plant this tree all over Assam. Let the entire state bloom and look beautiful. And the spectre that will be created through the beauty of this tree and its flowers, people from all over the world will come to witness it. This will be a boon for Assam tourism.” This random but extremely sharp insight by Modiji altered the tourism landscape in Assam. Immediately after, we decided to work on war-footing on the suggestions given by Modiji. Under his guidance, we prepared a plan to promote flowers, fruits and medicinal plants and planted 10 crore trees to promote biodiversity in Assam.

The blooming, beautiful Krishnasura and the Assam tourism industry

YOGI ADITYANATH Chief Minister, Uttar Pradesh

NATIONAL TECHNOLOGY DAY CELEBRATIONS

‘Will give befitting reply to every step against India’s self-respect’

New Delhi (PTI): India’s nuclear tests in 1998 sent a message to the world that it may be a peace-loving nation but will not tolerate any step taken against its self-respect, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said here on Thursday.

Addressing the National Technology Day celebrations here, Singh said India had learnt lessons from history after external aggressors ravaged the centre of learning at Nalanda and culture icon at Somnath.

“We have learnt our lessons from history and resolved that we

POLICE REGISTER CASE AGAINST BHARATPE EX-MD

New Delhi: EOW of Delhi police has registered a case against former Bharat pe MD Ashneer Grover, his wife and others “for using company funds inappropriately on the basis of various forged documents”. “The EOW on Wednesday registered a FIR against former BharatPe managing director Ashneer Grover, his wife Madhuri Jain Grover, and family members including Deepak Gupta, Suresh Jain, and Shwetank Jain,” a Delhi Police official said.

SC: CONTROL OF LAND, POLICE IS WITH CENTRE

New Delhi: In a major win for the AAP govt, the Supreme Court on Thursday in a unanimous verdict ruled that the Delhi govt has legislative and executive powers over services except for public order, police and land. Asserting that an elected govt needs to have control over the administration, a five-judge constitution bench, headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, said the Union territory of Delhi has “sui generis (unique) character” and refused to agree with the 2019 judgement.

HIGH COURT SEEKS VIRTUAL PRESENCE OF MANISH SISODIA

New Delhi: Delhi’s Tihar jail superintendent was on Thursday directed by the high court to allow video calls between former deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia and his ailing wife for an hour every alternate day. Sisodia is in judicial custody in the Delhi excise policy case. The high court said the interim direction shall remain in force till the time it decides Sisodia’s regular and interim bail pleas. Justice DK Sharma said the court will try to decide the petitions as soon as possible.

ED SUMMONS MAHARASHTRA

NCP PRESIDENT

Mumbai: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned Maharashtra NCP president and MLA Jayant Patil for questioning in a money laundering case linked to alleged financial irregularities in the now bankrupt financial services firm IL&FS, official sources said on Thursday. The 61-year-old MLA from Islampur seat of Maharashtra has been asked to depose before the federal agency here on Friday. Patil is also the state president of NCP and is a 7-term legislator.

will not allow such history to be repeated,” Singh said at the function that also celebrated the 25th anniversary of the 1998 Pokhran -II nuclear tests.

“India’s nuclear tests conveyed a message to the world that we may be a peace loving nation but we will not see a Nalanda burn again. We will not tolerate our cultural icon like Somnath be ravaged again,” the defence minister said.

“We will give a befitting reply to every step taken against our selfrespect,” Rajnath Singh said.

BJP COUNTERS UDDHAV THACKERAY

NATION’s JOURNEY REFLECTS IN IT’S SOCIETY, SAYS PM

Bhuj (Kutch): PM Narendra Modi on Thursday said the journey of any nation is reflected in the journey of its society. PM Modi made the comments in a video message to a gathering at Nakhatrana, located around 50 km from Bhuj in Kutch district, on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of Akhil Bharatiya Kutch Kadva Patidar Samaj. He said atrocities were committed by foreign invaders on India’s society for hundreds of years. But, ancestors of the land did not allow their identity to be erased & their faith to be fragmented.

PUT MORALITY IN BOX FOR CM’S POST, SAYS FADNAVIS

Eknath Shinde will not resign, Fadnavis asserted after Apex Court’s decision

remarks came at a press conference after Mr Thackeray called for Mr Shinde’s resignation like he did during the rebellion. “Thackeray didn’t resign on moral grounds but due to fear over people deserting him,” he said.

Nearly 50% voter turn out for UP Municipal Poll 2023 in final phase

Lucknow (PTI): Voting for the second and final phase of the Uttar Pradesh urban local body elections began early on Thursday morning for 38 districts across 8 divisions, namely Aligarh, Ayodhya, Azamgarh, Bareilly, Basti, Chitrakoot, Kanpur and Mirzapur.

In the first leg, the polling was conducted on May 4, and voters from 37 districts – UP has total 75 districts—across 9 divisions (Agra, Devipatan, Gorakhpur, Jhansi, Moradabad, Lucknow, Prayagraj, Saharanpur and Varanasi) ex-

SHINDE MUST RESIGN, JUST LIKE ME: UDDHAV

Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde had “murdered” democracy for coming to power and should step down, his predecessor Uddhav Thackeray said on Thursday, following the decision of the Supreme Court in the ace-off. “Eknath Shinde won after murdering democracy. If he and his deputy (Devendra Fadnavis) have any ethics, then they should resign,” Thackeray said, addressing a news conference after the Supreme Court’s verdict with Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar by his side.

SAME-SEX CASE: SUPREME

New Delhi: Former JDU prez RCP Singh joined the BJP here today in the presence of Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan and accused Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, once his mentor, of compromising with crime and corruption in his pursuit of chair. Once a close confidant of Nitish Kumar, RCP Singh had a fallout with him last year as he was seen by his party to be veering closer to the BJP as the differences between the two grew leading to the subsequent severance in their ties.

Ministry of Ayush inks MoU with ICMR

New Delhi (ANI): The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the AYUSH ministry have signed an agreement for collaboration and cooperation for research in the field of integrated medicine. Integrated medicine refers to using alternative medicine systems such as ayurveda, yoga, naturopathy, unani, siddha and homeopathy with orthodox systems as part of a treatment plan.

The Memorandum of

ICMR in New

Understanding (MoU) will combine traditional knowledge with modern research and boost ayurveda’s identity on the basis of scientific evidence, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said.

According to an official statement, the agreement envisages cooperation and collaboration between the ministry and ICMR for exploring areas of convergence & synergy for integrated health research & strengthening research.

ercised their right to vote. The polling in the second phase will be held from 7 am to 5 pm, similar to the first. The counting of votes will be held on Saturday.

CRUCIAL READ

COURT RESERVES VERDICT

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thurday reserved its verdict on a batch of pleas seeking legal validation for same-sex marriage.

A five-judge Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud reserved its judgment after a 10-day hearing in the matter. The bench, also comprising Justices SK Kaul, SR Bhat, Hima Kohli and PS Narasimha, heard the rejoinder arguments advanced by senior advocates, including AM Singhvi, Raju Ramachandran, KV Viswanathan, Anand Grover and Saurabh Kirpal, who represented the petitioners.

ADANI ENTERPRISES BOARD TO CONSIDER FUNDRAISING

New Delhi: The board of Adani Enterprises Ltd will meet on Saturday to consider and approve a fund-raising proposal, the company said in an exchange filing on Wednesday. The Adani Enterprises board will consider raising funds by issuing equity shares or any other eligible securities, including but not limited to a private placement, a qualified institutions placement or a preferential issue, the company said in a statement.

2

AIRCRAFT LESSORS MOVE NCLAT AGAINST GO FIRST’S INSOLVENCY

New Delhi: Two more aircraft lessors — GY Aviation and SFV Aircraft Holding — on Thursday moved appellate tribunal NCLAT against the order passed by the NCLT allowing Go First’s voluntary plea to initiate insolvency proceedings. SMBC Aviation Capital, which is one of world’s largest aircraft leasing companies, already moved NCLAT on Wednesday, hours after NCLT admitted Go First’s plea to initiate insolvency

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, and Science & Technology Minister Jitendra Singh at the inauguration and laying the foundation stone of various projects at National Technology Day 2023, in New Delhi on Thursday.

PM Narendra Modi meets Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik, in New Delhi on Thursday. Meanwhile, Patnaik also made it clear the BJD will fight the 2024 Lok Sabha and state assembly elections on its own and won’t join any political front.

Delhi on

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla visited Sai Baba Temple in Shirdi on Thursday. He prayed for the progress of the country and the welfare of the countrymen. (Inset) Birla at the 17th Convocation of Pravara Institute of Medical Sciences, Shirdi on Thursday.

Nitish's party's Ex-President RCP Singh joins BJP

Eknath Shinde with Devendra Fadnavis interacts with the media after the Supreme Court verdict on the state’s political crisis, in Mumbai on Thursday.

—PHOTO BY ANI

A lady arrives on wheelchari to cast her vote in Basti on Thursday.

Envoys of US, Qatar, Monaco present credentials to President Murmu

New Delhi (PTI): Shortly after presenting his credentials to President Droupadi Murmu, US Ambassador Eric Garcetti on Thursday said he would focus on raising the bilateral partnership to "new heights" with both sides working together on "defining issues" of the time.

The US embassy in India was without an ambassador since January 2021 after then envoy Kenneth Juster's resignation following a change of guard at the White House.

BRIEF in

INDIA RECORDS

"It was an honour to present my credentials to the president and it is

an honour to be back in India at such an exciting and historic time in

It was an honour to present my credentials to the president and it is an honour to be back in India at such an exciting and historic time in the US-India relationship. I look forward to working with the Indian people.

Eric Garcetti, US Ambassador

the US-India relationship," Garcetti said.

"I look forward to

working with the Indian people to raise our partnership to new

KERALA DOCTOR MURDER CASE

heights," Garcetti said. In a tweet, the ambassador said he is excited

about working towards deepening the US-India ties. Garcetti, considered a close aide of Biden, received the confirmation to the post from the US Senate in March.

The former Los Angeles mayor was nominated to the high-profile post of the ambassador to India over 2 years ago.

Garcetti is known as a committed public servant, educator and diplomat. He was confirmed in a bipartisan vote as the 25th United States Ambassador to India on March 15.

VISIT TO INDIA

The US embassy said US Ambassador Eric Garcetti will make his first official trip next week to Ahmedabad and Mumbai. Eric Garcetti's presentation of credentials came a day after the White House announced that the United States President Joe Biden will host Prime Minister Narendra Modi for an official state visit to the US, which will include a state dinner on June 22. It said Modi's visit will affirm the deep and close partnership between the US and India.

1,690

NEW COVID CASES IN 24 HRS

New Delhi: sIndia recorded 1,690 fresh Covid infections in a day, while the number of active cases has come down to 19,613 from 21,406 a day earlier, as per Union Health Ministry data on Thursday. The country’s tally of COVID-19 cases now stands at 4.49 crore (4,49,76,599). The death count climbed to 5,31,736 with 12 fatalities which include those reconciled by Kerala, the data updated at 8 am stated.

UP: 833 ARRESTED FOR RELIGIOUS CONVERSION

Lucknow: A total of 833 persons have been arrested in 427 cases registered in the past two years under the Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2020 that is now back in focus with the release of the movie ‘The Kerala Story’ that highlights the same issue. As per government spokesperson, at least 427 cases related to conversion were reported in the state between January 1, 2021, and April 30, 2023, in which 833 arrests were made.

TEENAGE COUPLE KILLED, BODIES HUNG FROM TREE

Unnao: A teenage couple was allegedly killed by the girls’ relatives and the bodies hung from a tree in a village here to make it look like suicide, police said on Thursday. Police booked seven people, including the girl’s father, for kidnapping, murder and under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. Four of them have been arrested. Police said a day before the bodies were found, the girl’s father had lodged a complaint.

Doctors continue protest, demand workplace safety

Thiruvananthapuram ( ANI): The Kerala doctors continued their protest on Thursday over the incident of a woman doctor’s death by stabbing while on duty by a patient.

Hospitals across the state have seen doctors only attending emergency services. Indian Medical Association (IMA) said they would continue their strike till 8 am on Friday. They will decide their future course of action after wide consultation among the doctor community in the state.

Medical students from different colleges staged a mass protest in front of the Secretariat in Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram district on Thursday.

CM CALLS FOR HIGH-LEVEL MEETING OVER PROTECTION OF HEALTH WORKERS

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has called an urgent high-level meeting over the protection of health workers after a woman doctor was stabbed to death by her patient, sources said. Kerala has become the first state in the country to have a drone surveillance system in all police districts in the state. Vijayan distributed the drones to all police districts and the drone pilot licences to the specially trained drone pilots, at a function held today. He also launched indigenously developed anti-drone software on the occasion.

Terror funding case: NIA raids 11 locations in J-K

New Delhi (ANI): The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Thursday conducted searches at 11 locations in Jammu and Kashmir in the case of terror funding by Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir-an unlawful association under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

FAKE CURRENCY CASE: NIA RAIDS 6 PLACES IN MUM

New Delhi (ANI): The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has recovered several incriminating materials during searches at half a dozen locations in Mumbai in the 2021 Naupada case relating to the seizure of high-quality fake Indian currency notes (FICN), the agency said on Thursday.

The Central anti-terror agency carried out searches in Budgam and Baramulla districts of J&K. The move comes days after the NIA on May 4 conducted searches at 16 places in Jammu & Kashmir.

DEEP

DEPRESSION

DOCTORS’ BODY SEEKS UNION HEALTH MIN’S ‘INTERVENTION’

Thiruvananthapuram: Doctors’ body FORDA wrote to Union health minister Mansukh Mandaviya and sought his ‘immediate intervention’ and ‘decisive action’ after a doctor was fatally stabbed in Kerala by a man while she was dressing his wound. This ‘brutal act of violence while on duty’ calls for immediate action to ensure justice and the safety of healthcare professionals, said Federation of Resident Doctors’ Association (FORDA).

Raipur (PTI): Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Thursday accused the Enforcement Directorate (ED) of trying to implicate him in the alleged liquor scam in the state. The ED has been acting as an agent of the BJP, he said at the Police Lines helipad in Raipur. “Our claim that the ED has been acting as an agent of the BJP has proved right. The way it has been threatening people to implicate them in false cases, they are now trying to implicate me in the alleged excise scam. Their main aim is to defame the Congress government,” he said.The BJP has failed to take on the Congress government, so it is mis using the ED”, he claimed.

President’s Rule must be imposed in Manipur: Cong

Manipur AICC in-charge Bhakta Charan Das with party’s secretary Vineet & others in a press conference in New Delhi on Thursday.

New Delhi (PTI): The Congress on Thursday alleged that the Manipur violence seemed “preplanned” and demanded immediate imposition of President’s Rule in the state to help restore peace and normalcy.

Congress spokesperson and the party’s incharge for Manipur, Bhakta Charan Das, also demanded compensation of Rs 20 lakh to the next of kin of those killed in the violence and Rs 5 lakh for those whose houses were destroyed.

The injured should be treated immediately and safe space needs to be created for people to

NSUI stages protest, demands notice to RaGa over DU hostel visit be withdrawn

New Delhi (PTI): Congress students’ wing members on Thursday protested outside the Delhi University’s PG men’s hostel, demanding withdrawal of a notice to Rahul Gandhi over his last week visit to the boarding facility.

Raising slogans, the National Students Union of India (NSUI) burnt an effigy of the hostel’s provost, KP Singh, who had sent the notice to the Congress leader on Wednes-

OVER BAY OF BENGAL

day following his “sudden” visit.

The notice said that

Cyclone Mocha to intensify into severe storm

lll

The IMD on Thursday issued rainfall alerts for northeastern states and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands in view of cyclonic storm ‘Mocha’

Yangon, Myanmar: Myanmar and Bangladesh deployed thousands of volunteers and ordered evacuations from low-lying areas on Thursday as the Bay of Bengal’s first cyclone of the year approached.

Cyclone Mocha is forecast to make landfall on Sunday along the Bangladesh-Myanmar border, according to the meteorological office, packing winds of up to 145 kilometres (90 miles) per hour. The cyclonic

storm Mocha, present over southeast Bay of Bengal, is likely to move

northwards from Thursday. The IMD said it will intensify into a

very severe cyclonic storm by Thursday midnight over central Bay of Bengal.

Tripura and Mizoram are expected to receive rainfall at most places on May 13 and May 14, as per the IMD notification issued on Thursday. Some isolated areas in the states may receive heavy rainfall. Nagaland, Manipur & south Assam are also likely to witness rains on May 14 with heavy rainfall in certain areas.

“such conduct from a leader of a national party who has Z-plus

3,583 PEOPLE

FLEE TO MIZORAM

AFTER

VIOLENCE

Aizawl: A total of 3,583 people from Manipur fled to Mizoram after ethnic violence broke out last week, officials said. These people were lodged at temporary relief camps across six districts of Mizoram, while many were also given shelter by their relatives, they said.

return to their homes and neighbourhoods, he told a press conference.

“The BJP government has utterly failed to control the situation (in Manipur),” Das said.

security is beyond dignity”.

Gandhi had visited the Post-Graduate (PG) Men’s Hostel on Friday, interacted with some students and had lunch with them.

The students’ union warned that if its demand is not met, its members will take to the streets.

NSUI national secretary Lokesh Chugh said that “any outsider can visit the PG men’s hostel to have lunch”.

Jaishankar to visit Sweden & Belgium

New Delhi (ANI): External Affairs Minister

S Jaishankar is embarking on a three-nation tour starting Thursday during which he will visit Bangladesh, Sweden and Belgium. Jaishanakar will visit Dhaka from May 11-12 to participate in the 6th edition of the Indian Ocean Conference. The Indian Ocean Conference will be attended by the President of Mauritius Prithvirajsing Roopun, Vice President of Maldives Faisal Na-

Tripura: Protests against kidnap & gang-rape of girl, one held

Agartala: Various organisations and student bodies in Tripura organised protests on Thursday against the kidnap and gang-rape of a college student here. The condition of the girl, who is undergoing treatment at the governmentrun Medical College Hospital, is stated to “very critical”.

EAM Dr S. Jaishankar

seem, PM of Bangladesh

Sheikh Hasina & several ministers from across the world. From Bangladesh, he will travel to Sweden. This will be his first visit as EAM to the Nordic country.

A police spokesman said that the prime accused of the crime Gautam Sharma was arrested late on Wednesday and the police are looking for the other accused. The 20-year-old college student was kidnapped on Monday afternoon when she was returning from her college in the outskirts of the city.

President Droupadi Murmu accepts credentials from Ambassador of the US Eric Garcetti at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on Thursday.

Prez Droupadi Murmu accepts credentials from Qatar Ambassador Mohammed Hassan at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, Thursday.

‘Probe agency trying to implicate me in alleged liquor scam’

Satellite image taken between 02:30 pm to 02:56 pm shows the location of Cyclone Mocha, in the Bay of Bengal, on Thursday.

After Doc’s death, Kerala to issue ordinance over safety in hospitals

Doctors participating in a protest organised by Indian Medical Association before the Secretariat in Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday. —PHOTOS BY PTI

Rahul Gandhi seen interacting with students while having lunch with them in Delhi University, in New Delhi, on May 5, 2023.

ISRAEL STRIKES ON GAZA

Rocket-fire continues

25 die as Israel, Gaza militants trade fire for third day

Gaza City: Israel and Gaza militants traded more heavy fire Thursday, the third day of the worst escalation of violence in months that has killed 25 people in the blockaded Palestinian enclave.

Air strikes by the Israeli army since Tuesday have killed fighters as well as civilians, including several children, said officials in the crowded coastal territory.

Militants in the Gaza Strip have fired more than 500 rockets at Israel, causing no casualties so far, the military said.

Of these, 368 rockets made it over the border

Don't make me run a lot: Dhoni to his teammates

Chennai: Chennai Su-

per Kings skipper MS

Dhoni said that his job this IPL season is to come down the order and provide the final flourish with the bat.

The former India skipper, who is believed to be playing his last season of IPL, has been batting down the order at times as low as No. 8, facing a few balls with an aim to hit a few maximums like he did on Wednesday. However, the World Cup-winning skipper was seen limping and struggled to run between the wickets.

“This is what my job is, I have told them this is what I am supposed to do, don’t make me run a lot and it has been working.

Imran to be kept in safe location in police protection

From Pg 1...

What we propose is that Islamabad police need to provide security, and Imran will provide a list of his immediate family members, lawyers that should meet him at police lines HQ, CJ said.

Though Imran is released from custody but he will be under protection of security forces in a safe location in the capital, Islamabad. He is to appear before Islamabad HC today, said Babar Awan, Khan’s legal team head.

During the day, Pakistan’s former Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, a close aide of ousted PM Imran Khan was arrested.

and 154 were intercepted by the Iron Dome missile defence system, while 110 fell inside Gaza, it said.

Early Thursday, shops in Gaza were shuttered and the streets were largely abandoned as Israeli military aircraft circled over the territory where several buildings lay in ruins.

The Islamic Jihad militant group told AFP

that rockets were fired again at Israel around 9:00 am (0600 GMT).

Islamic Jihad confirmed it has lost four military leaders in strikes in recent days, the most recent being Ali Ghali, commander of a rocket launch unit.

Another militant group, the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, said four of its fighters had been killed.

Finland PM Marin announces divorce with husband

New Delhi (Agencies): Helsinki: Finland’s outgoing Prime Minister Sanna Marin has filed for divorce jointly with her husband of three years Markus Raikkonen, they said on Instagram on Wednesday.

“We are grateful for the 19 years together and our beloved daughter. We will remain best

friends,” they said in separate Instagram stories. Marin and Raik-

Jaiswal, Chahal power Royals to 9-wicket win

Kolkata : Yashasvi Jaiswal hit an unbeaten 98 off 47 balls as Rajasthan Royals defeated Kolkata Knight Riders by 9 wickets at the Eden Gardens on Thursday and moved to third in the IPL 2023 points.

Jaiswal also broke the record for the fastest IPL fifty when he got to the milestone off just 13 balls. The record was previously jointly held by Pat Cummins and KL Rahul. The stunning Royals victory was scripted not just by Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sanju Samson (48 not out off 29 balls) who added an unbeaten

121 off 69 balls for the second wicket but also by Yuzvendra Chahal who picked 4 for 25 off his 4 overs, took over the Purple Cap and became the highest wicket-taker in IPL history.

Asia Road Racing C'ship: Honda India riders head to Malaysia

Sepang (Agencies):

Almost seven weeks since the first round in Thailand, the Honda Racing India team is all set to raise the stakes higher when the 2023 Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) reaches Malaysia for the second round of the season at Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia this weekend.

The solo Indian twowheeler racing team enters the upcoming round with a total of 9

Commenting on the upcoming round, P Rajagopi, Operating Officer - Premium Motorcycle Business, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter

ISSF WC Baku: Sarabjot, Divya Thadigol win mixed air pistol gold

India said, “The first round of 2023 ARRC witnessed our feisty riders Kavin Quintal and Mohsin Paramban delivering powerful performances on the international soil. Both our young guns scored points for the team.

11TH PLACE FINISH

Azerbaijan (PTI): The Indian duo of Divya Subbaraju Thadigol and Sarabjot Singh claimed the gold medal in the 10m air pistol mixed team competition at the ISSF Shooting World Cup on Thursday. In the gold medal contest, the Indians shot a total of 16 to prevail over Serbia’s Zorana Arunovic and Damir Mikec, who managed to aggregate 14.

konen, who until recently worked at a venture capital firm, share a

5-year-old daughter. They married in 2020 while Marin was in office dealing with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We have lived our youth together, entered adulthood together and grown into parents for our dear daughter together,” Marin wrote on Instagram.

ICC RANKINGS

India slip to 3rd spot; Australia remain world No. 1 in ODIs

Dubai: India dropped to third position behind Pakistan and three points adrift off world number one Australia in the latest ICC ODI men’s Team rankings announced on Thursday.

Five-time world champions Australia improved their rating from 113 to 118 following the annual update, maintaining a slender lead over Pakistan (116 points) and India (115 points).

According to the ICC release, “Prior to the annual rankings update, Australia were at the top with

113 points with India behind them on decimal count.

“Pakistan were ranked third, with 112 points and briefly went to the top of the charts after their vic-

tory in the fourth ODI against New Zealand this month. Pakistan could have stayed at the top position had they managed to complete a 5-0 clean sweep against New Zealand.

Palestinians look for remains of people killed during an Israeli strike in southern Gaza Strip on Thursday.

MILAN INFERNO

A van transporting oxygen gas canisters exploded in a Milan street on Thursday, injuring one person and setting nearby cars and motorbikes ablaze, local officials said. The city’s mayor, Giuseppe Sala, ruled out any criminality and confirmed that no-one had died in the incident.

Rajasthan Royals’ KM Asif celebrates a wicket with teammates in a match against Kolkata Knight Riders during the Indian Premier League 2023, at Eden Gardens, in Kolkata on Thursday.

Yuzvendra Chahal

Yashasvi Jaiswal plays a shot during an IPL match between KKR and RR on Thursday.

More than 500 rockets have been fired from Gaza at Israel since Tuesday, the army said.

& Editor-in-Chief, First India

POSTAL REG NO. JPC/004/2022-24

CM inaugurates various works worth more than `211 crore

CM inaugurates Mahatma Gandhi Govt Basic Model School, Topkhana & Kishanpole Girls College

Gehlot visits the VR lab and smart class here and inquires about it from the teachers

Pilot

Former Dy CM Sachin Pilot began his 125-km foot march from Ajmer to Jaipur on Thursday

Shubham Jain

Ajmer: Former Dy CM

Naresh Sharma, Navin Sharma, Ziauddin Khan

Jaipur: CM Ashok Gehlot while addressing the foundation stone laying & inauguration ceremony organised at Jalupura in Jaipur said, “State govt has established new dimensions of development in last four years. Development works have been done in all areas of Raj without any discrimination. Today Rajasthan has made its mark as a development model in the entire country.” He laid the

foundation stone and inaugurated various development works worth more than Rs 211 crore.

He said that the hospital, school and college to be built in Kishanpole area will result in

State govt is continuously taking public welfare decisions. The satellite hospital to be built at a cost of Rs 20 crore in Kishanpole area will provide better health services to residents of the area.

unprecedented development of the area. CM also released a booklet based on various devel-

opment works done in the last 4 years in Kishanpole area. Gehlot laid the foundation stone of Satellite Hospital in Kishanpole area. “Rajasthan is the only state in country to have made a law giving RTH. In this sequence, state govt is continuously taking public welfare decisions. The satellite hospital to be built at a cost of Rs 20 crore in Kishanpole area will provide better medical services. In this 50-bed hospital, OPD, emergency, & other facilities will be built,” he said.

Sachin Pilot began a 125-km ‘Jan Sangharsh Yatra’ from Ajmer to Jaipur on Thursday. The yatra mounts further pressure on party leadership as it hopes to retain state in elections at the year end. “I am taking out this yatra to raise my voice, to hear your voice, and to become the voice of the people,” Pilot, said at the start of ‘Padyatra.’

“This is a river of fire, we have to swim across it,” he told his supporters while referring to scorching heat as ‘aag ka dariya.’ Pilot was welcomed by supporters when he reached Ajmer by train. He addressed a gathering on Jaipur highway. Former minister Rajendra Chaudhary and local leader Mahendra Ralawata were present.

The ‘Jan Sangharsh

CM UNVEILS STATUE OF LATE PT NAWAL K SHARMA & VISITS MEHANGAI RAHAT CAMP

Sharma will always be remembered for his social work: CM

Naresh Sharma & Bharat Dixit

Jaipur: CM Ashok Gehlot, on Thursday, paid tributes to freedom fighter and former Governor of Gujarat late Pt. Nawal Kishore Sharma at Ghat Ki Guni in Jaipur and unveiled Late Sharma’s statue. The CM said “Sharma will always be remembered for social service done by him as an active public representative. As the chairman of Rajasthan Golden Jubilee Celebrations Committee, he efficiently discharged important responsibility of writing the history of freedom fighters. The unveiling of his statue will inspire the younger generation for social service,” Gehlot said.

Earlier CM Ashok Gehlot garlanded the statue of Late Pt. Naval

Kishore Sharma and met his family. He named Govt Medical

College of Dausa after Late Sharma. CM met Nidhi, who brought lau-

BY SUNIL SHARMA

GOVT WORKING IN PUBLIC INTEREST UNDER CM’s GUIDANCE: MIN

U DH Minister Shanti Dhariwal in his address during the unveiling ceremony of the statue of Late Pandit Nawal Kishore Sharma hailed CM Ashok Gehlot saying, “ The State Government under Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot’s visionary leadership, is incessantly working towards public welfare.”

rels to state by winning power lifting competitions and encouraged her. The CM said more than 60 lakh families have been connected with the welfare schemes of the state government through the inflation relief camps.

In the meanwhile, Dr CP Joshi said that Pt. Sharma’s role has been imperative in taking the state forward.

BJP, RSS DON'T CARE ABOUT SUPREME COURT VERDICT: CM ASHOK GEHLOT

Jaipur (ANI): Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot lashed out at BJP and RSS over the SC verdict on Maharashtra political crisis and said, “BJP and RSS are fascists, they don’t care what the Supreme Court verdict is.” This comes after the SC on Thursday said that it could not disqualify the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra govt and rejected the submission to reinstate Uddhav Thackeray as CM because the latter had chosen to resign instead of facing a test of strength in Assembly. “They (BJP) toppled the government in MP, Maharashtra and Karnataka, our (Raj) govt survived otherwise, the same situation would have happened to us. People should save themselves from these people,” Gehlot furhter said.

‘CONG HAS RSS PHOBIA SO ITS LEADERS MAKE BASELESS REMARKS AGAINST RSS’

Jaipur: BJP State Prez CP Joshi hit back at CM Ashok Gehlot for calling BJP and RSS fascist saying that Gehlot has RSS phobia thus he makes such statements. “Congress has a phobia of RSS so its leaders keep making baseless allegations against the RSS,” he said in a statement. “Sangh workers always play their role in the society with devotion like a soldier without any discrimination while Congress is nothing more than a scattered organisation dedicated to one family,” he said, adding that honoring terrorists and cursing patriots is the reason for the downfall of Congress.

FORMER CM RAJE IN NAGAUR

Sachin Pilot holds a sword in his hand and announces the commencement of his ‘Jan Sangharsh’ Yatra to be held from Ajmer to Jaipur amid his supporters in Ajmer on Thursday.

CONGRESS HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH PILOT’S YATRA, ASSERTS GS DOTASRA

Jaipur: Rajasthan Congress on Thursday distanced itself from former deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot’s five-day march from Ajmer to Jaipur over corruption and other issues, saying it was his “personal yatra” and the party has nothing to do with it. PCC chief Govind Singh Dotasra said a Congress yatra is the one which has the party symbol, and photos of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and party leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. A Congress yatra is taken out when the AICC or the state units give any programme for it, Dotasra added. “This is his personal yatra. This is not a Congress organisation yatra,” he told reporters here. Asked whether it would benefit or damage the party just months ahead of the assembly polls in Rajasthan, Dotasra said it is for the party leadership to decide. “The party high command has to take a decision on it,” he added.

Yatra’ posters had Pilot’s picture with a clenched fist, & photos of leaders Sonia Gandhi, Indira Gandhi Jawaharlal Nehru, Ma-

hatma Gandhi, Bhimrao Ambedkar, and Bhagat Singh. Apart from corruption, yatra focuses on cases of paper leaks.

CS Usha Sharma holds talks with Sarpanch Sangh delegation

First India Bureau

Jaipur: Chief Secretary Usha Sharma on Thursday held talks with a delegation of Sarpanch Sangh in the Secretariat and heard their demands. The sarpanches who are staging protests since April 20 have boycotted public work and threatened

We will return to power with thumping majority: Raje

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“One spoke in Dholpur and the other in Ajmer, Polls are here and I am everyone’s target, aim is to harm me,” says Raje while targeting Gehlot & Pilot

Narpat Joya

Nagaur: Targeting CM Ashok Gehlot, former CM Vasundhara Raje said on Thursday that Gehlot has never got a majority since 2003, so he considers her as the biggest enemy. Addressing a meeting in Chhoti Khatu (Nagaur), Raje said that Gehlot’s intention to praise her (Raje) is malicious. In a verbal attack on all her opponents, she said that Rajasthan is hers’ and she

belongs to Rajasthan, no matter what anyone does, she will come back to power with thumping majority and then we will bring change again in Raj.

“Ashok Gehlot has never got a majority since 2003. That’s why he considers me as biggest enemy, he has deliberately said this to harm me. Otherwise, he has been using indecent and objectionable language against me for 20 years.” said Raje.

to ‘gherao’ Civil Lines on May 15. The sarpanchs have demanded a budget of Rs 4,000 crore among others. Secretary Naveen Jain, Manju Rajpal and other officials were also present at the meeting. Another round of talks will likely be held with the Sarpanch Sangh.

VP Dhankhar likely to visit Pushkar on May 14

First India Bureau

Ajmer: The preparations have started for Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s proposed visit to Pushkar on May 14. There is also an idol unveiling event in Merta of Nagaur district. All officials including District Collector are busy preparing for his tour. Helipad construction began near the Mela ground.

Life teaches us what is important in various ways and then what’s most important in a heart stopping moment.

—Dr Jagdeesh Chandra, CEO

CM Ashok Gehlot unveils the statute of freedom fighter and the former Governor of Gujarat Late Pt Nawal Kishore Sharma during a programme held at Ghat Ki Guni in Jaipur on Thursday. Also seen are Dr CP Joshi, Shanti Dhariwal, Dr BD Kalla, PL Meena, Dr Mahesh Joshi, Lalchand Kataria, Mamta Bhupesh, GS Dotasra, Brijkishore Sharma, Rafeek Khan, Praveen Chandra Chhabra and others.

CM Ashok Gehlot greets a beneficiary at the Mehangai Rahat Camp held at Ghat Ki Guni in Jaipur on Thursday.

Usha Sharma with a beneficiary during her visit to the Mehangai Rahat Camp held at Dabok village in Udaipur on Thursday.

CM Ashok Gehlot addresses the inauguration & foundation stone laying ceremony of various development works at Kishanpole in Jaipur on Thursday. Also seen are Dr BD Kalla, Lalchand Kataria, Dr Subhash Garg, Rafeek Khan, Amin Kgazi, Ashk Ali Tak, Munesh Gurjar, Lokesh Sharma and others. —PHOTOS BY SANTOSH SHARMA

CM Ashok Gehlot during the foundation stone laying ceremony of devp projects at Kishanpole in Jaipur on Thursday. Also seen here is Amin Kagzi, Rafeek Khan, Munesh Gurjar and others.

—Ashok Gehlot, CM

Yatra is to raise my voice, hear yours and become voice of people, says

Vasundhara Raje pays floral tributes to the founder of Rajput Karni Sena and social worker Lokendra Singh Kalvi at his residence at Kalvi village in Nagaur district on Thursday. (R) Raje also consoles the women of the family as well as Bhawani Singh Kalvi and Pratap Singh Kalvi, the sons of late Lokendra Kalvi during her visit to latter’s residence at Kalvi village in Nagaur district on Thursday.

KISSED BY THE NEON LIGHTS

NEON GOWN IS A TREND THAT IS BOLD AND BRIGHT. CITY FIRST BRINGS YOU A POP OF NEON TO YOUR FASHION WARDROBE

designers have also opted to include chartreuse makeup highlights in their Neon fashion has been making a bold statement in the fashion industry since the 1980s. Its bright and electric colours have captured the attention of fashion enthusiasts and trendsetters alike. This bold and eye-catching trend has resurfaced in recent years and is currently dominating the runways and

Neon colours are vibrant and bold, making them perfect for summer and spring. From bright pinks to electric greens and yellows, neon hues make a statement like no other. This trend is all about standing out and being noticed, and neon colours do just that.

belt or a pair of neon shoes to your outfit for a subtle pop of colour. Or, you can go all out and wear a neon dress or jumpsuit for a head-to-toe neon look. Neon fashion is not just limited to clothing items; accessories are also a great way to incorporate this trend into your outfit. Neon earrings, bracelets, and necklaces can add a touch of neon to any outfit without going overboard. For those who want to go bold, a neon handbag or clutch is a perfect choice. Neon fashion can be intimidating for some, but it’s all about finding the right balance. If you’re unsure about going all-out neon, start small and add a pop of neon to your outfit. Remember to keep the rest of your outfit neutral to avoid clashing colours. Another tip is to mix and match different neon colours to create a fun and playful look.

IMPORTANCE OF SOFT SKILLS IN MEDICAL

HONING SOFT SKILLS CAN BE MORE REWARDING IN THE MEDICAL PROFESSION

The medical profession is considered to be the most noble profession. Every medical professional is required to remain updated with newer developments in patient management. For medical professionals, it is essential not only to have updated knowlwith patients and colleagues are equally important. Soft skills can broadly be understood as a collection of personal characteristics, habits, attitudes, and social poise that contribute to a person’s ability to work well with others.

Some of the soft skills, for example, are Empathy, Interpersonal Relationships, Communication, Teamwork, Leadership, Good manners, Working well with diversity, Optimism, Responsibility, Sense of humour, Integrity, Time management, Motivation etc. In the medical profession, these skills are essential for building strong relationships with patients and colleagues, establishing better therapeutic alliances, enhancing decision-making and problem-solving, promoting effective treatment and care, and ensuring positive outcomes.

EMPATHY is one of the most important soft skills in the medical profession. Medical professionals who can understand the emotional and physical needs of their patients are better able to provide effective care and support. Em -

ARIES

MAR 21 - APR 20

You will experience a change within yourself regarding what you want in a romantic partner. You will start thinking seriously and begin looking for your soul mate in earnest. Do not trust any complete stranger on money matters today as you are likely to bear considerable loss.

TAURUS

APR 21 - MAY 20

You are going to feel more dedicated today and you are going to finish off all the backlogs which may have accumulated today. Clearing this will give you a nice sense of accomplishment and this will be noticed by the people who matter to you. Finances will improve as your salary.

GEMINI

MAY 21 - JUNE 21

work effectively in teams to provide coordinated, comprehensive care to patients.

Teamwork involves working effectively with colleagues from a range of disciplines, such as doctors from other specialities, nurses, and paramedical staff to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.

Teamwork also provides an opportunity to utilize the skills and expertise of colleagues to develop more effective treatment plans and achieve better patient outcomes.

LEADERSHIP QUALITIES not only helps in building a good team but also enables medical professionals to get the work done rapidly and smoothly with the intent to achieve the most effective treatment outcome. Other important soft skills in the medical profession include

LIBRA

SEPT 24 - OCTOBER 22

You have great capacity to charm everyone. You are going to impress those around you with your wit and grace. You will win the admiration of everyone around you. Take advantage of this shining period to make new friends and mix with new people and new opportunities will open up in front of you.

SCORPIO

OCT 23 - NOVEMBER 22

A person who has been around you for a long time but whom you have never really noticed will now begin to play a pivotal role in your mind. It is not just a budding romance. Rather, it is a meeting of mind and spirit that is likely to leave you feeling overwhelmed. Take time to get used to the idea.

SAGITTARIUS

NOV 23 - DEC 22

solve complex problems and work effectively. Likewise, time management is another important soft skill that helps medical professionals to set their priorities, plan effectively and minimise the chances of error, usually made in haste. It also helps in keeping the stress at bay, when everything is already planned.

Thus soft skills are as much essential for success in the medical profession as knowledge of the subject and technical skills. Soft skills enable medical professionals to provide effective treatment and care to their patients. By developing and honing these skills, medical professionals can create a more positive patient experience, build strong teamwork, and achieve better results. Soft skills also enhance interpersonal and social relationships and self-confidence.

Your mind is very active today. You are full of ideas and inspiration. You will be constantly coming up with new plans which you will be able to plan and execute very easily. Your only problem today will be that you may feel overwhelmed by the flood of new ideas that will constantly fill your mind.

CANCER

JUNE 22 - JULY 23

Issues related to profession will get resolved. But no aggressive action, be it in words or in writing should not be taken till then. Those facing issues on personal front should make time for dear ones. Do take care of your health as you have been ignorant of it since long.

LEO

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

You are likely to be involved in detailed planning of a project and you are going to be very thorough about it. You are feeling very industrious and this will be reflected in your job. You are also going to earn acclaim for this. A spurt of creativity will mark every aspect of your day.

VIRGO

AUG 24 - SEP 23

You may be cracking one of the biggest joint venture deals today. But you must mention explicitly once again your mission and goals to your partner. You may devote the end of the day towards your intellectual pursuits or in perusal of an artistic passion.

pathy enables medical professionals to connect with patients on a deeper level, listen to their concerns, and offer support and guidance throughout the treatment process. By demonstrating empathy, medical professionals can win the trust of the patients and their caregivers to create a more positive patient experience which can have a significant impact on overall patient outcomes. It is particularly important for patients facing emotional problems.

EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION is another essential soft skill in the medical profession. Medical professionals must be able to communicate effectively with patients, colleagues, and other stakeholders to provide effective treat-

ment and care. Effec tive communication involves not only speaking clearly and articulately in the pa tient’s vernacular but also listening actively and atten tively. By communicating effective ly, medical profession als can not only build trust with patients and caregiv ers but also establish a better alli ance with coworkers, and ensure that important information is shared and understood.

TEAMWORK is also an important soft skill in the medical profession. Medical professionals must

YOUR DAY

Horoscope by Saurabbh Sachdeva

New horizons are opening up in front of you. A talent which you have always treated as a hobby may become something more and you may find yourself making a living doing what you love. New developments are expected in every front which would broaden your ideas.

CAPRICORN

DEC 23 - JAN 20

This day is all about change. You may come in contact with someone who will bring substantial changes in your life or put you in touch with other people who can cause the change. However, not all the changes are good for you. You will need to analyze whether the change will be good for you.

AQUARIUS

JAN 21 - FEB 19

You will be feeling very creative today. You appreciate all beautiful things and want to create something beautiful. The day is especially favourable for artists.You may suddenly start feeling deflated ﾖ a common occurrence after a surge of creativity and it may leave you feeling depressed.

PISCES

FEB20 - MARCH 20

You are going to be in an especially easygoing mood today. You may also play the role of an effective mediator in any dispute today. You are going to spread cheer and goodwill and you are also going to be the life and soul of any party that you attend in the evening.

Soft skills can broadly be understood as a collection of personal characteristics, habits, attitudes, and social poise that contribute to a person’s ability to work well with others.

20 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY

Shahid Kapoor and Mira Rajput are one of the most loved couples in town. They never fail to dish out major couple goals. Recently, Mira hosted a party for Shahid as he completed 20 years in the industry.

Shahid made his debut in 2003 with Ken Ghosh's film Ishq Vishk. Shahid won praise for his performances in the film. Since then, there has been no looking back for him. The pictures from Shahid and Mira's party were shared by the decor planners on Instagram. Mira thanked them for a beautiful set-up. The party decor was set up in shades of black and purple. The text on the wall read, "Celebrating 20 glorious years." It also featured a dapper frame of Shahid. The decor looked all things stylish.

Along with the pictures, Mira wrote, "Thank you @dohremico for always coming through and making this special day even more special."

Fun Banter! GO-GETTER!

Naga Chaitanya, who is currently promoting his upcoming film Custody, shared in an interview about what he likes in his exwife Samantha Ruth Prabhu. The actor complimented her and also revealed his favourite films of hers. He said she is a 'gogetter and hard worker'. The duo got divorced officially last

go get it.” Not just that, when he was asked to reveal his favourite films of Samantha's films, which he likes. The actor replied Oh Baby! and Family Man 2 are his favourite works of Samantha. In the same interview, Naga Chaitanya also opened up about his failed marriage with Samantha and called it an 'unfortunate phase'.

Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma are one of the coolest couples in town. Last night, the stylish duo hosted a dinner party for the entire team of Royal Challengers Bangalore at Kohli’s restaurant One8 amidst the Indian Premier League going on. Apart from their chic attires, what caught our attention was their fun banter with the paps. The Chakda Xpress actress looked like a vision in white flared pants and a white-coloured sleeveless top with stripes. Virat on the other hand looked dapper in a printed shirt that he paired over black pants. As the couple came out of the restaurant to pose for the paps, they started asking them to look in their direction. One of them mistakenly screamed ‘Anushka Sir’. To this, Virat had a hilarious reaction which even made his wife laugh. Virat jokingly said, ‘Virat mam bhi bol de’ and started smiling.

FALLING INTO CONTROVERSIES

Deepika Padukone is a star and there is no denying this fact. Most of her films have become blockbusters in the past but some of them like Pathaan and Padmaavat have also attracted several controversies in the past. In a recent interview, she opened up about her reaction to these controversies. Back

in 2016, her Padmaavat fell prey to controversies when the Hindu vigilantes lit the film set on fire, while an official from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) offered a bounty of $1.5 million for Padukone’s beheading. In January 2023 came the most recent controversy where Deepika was attacked for wearing a saffron bikini in the song Besharam Rang from Pathaan. Despite all this

chaos and all these topics making it to the headlines, Deepika Padukone never came to the forefront to say anything. Now, when she was asked about all this constant political backlash, the actress replied, “I don’t know if I’m supposed to feel something about it. But the truth is, I don’t feel anything about it.” Currently, Deepika Padukone is prepping for her upcoming film Fighter.

CRAZE FOR PUSHPA 2

Allu Arjun has become a force to reckon with across the country post the release of Pushpa: The Rise in 2021. The brands have been keen to get him on board as the national ambassador and there is a long que of producers wanting to collaborate with him. And the craze in the masses has resulted in the Sukumar directed Pushpa: The Rule becoming hotter than ever before. The non theatrical rights of the film across languages are being sold for record amounts as the film is heating up for a Summer 2024 release.

WORK-LIFE BALANCE

Diamond Ring

Actress Lily Collins is currently going through a tough time after her engagement ring and wedding band were stolen from a luxury hotel in West Hollywood, Los Angeles. The 34-year-old star who had been vacationing was shocked when she found out that her relaxing spa session turned into her worst nightmare. The Emily In Paris actress kept her rings and other valuables in storage but they were stolen and the theft is classified as "over $10,000”. As per the reports, the L.A.

County Sheriff's Department is currently looking into the whole matter but no arrests have been made so far. Reportedly, there was no sign of forced entry where Lily kept her things and this has led to the speculations that the robbery may have been an inside job. The actress’ ring was quite special as it was designed by her nowhusband, filmmaker Charlie McDowell, in collaboration with Irene Neuwirth Jewellery which was a true work of art.

riyanka Chopra spoke about craving for a work-life balance when she reached her mid-thirties. The actress remembered her mom telling her that this would happen to her someday but the star felt that work is her life and this is never going to happen. “It made me a kinder professional. It made me just someone who didn’t take myself as seriously… as when I did when I was under a lot of pressure.”

“Anything I say or don’t say, do or don’t do gets scrutinised. When I got married and now of course after having Malti, my priorities are so different. I want to work with people I like. I want to do movies that I really enjoy. I want to be surrounded by people who make me laugh. I want to make people laugh. I want to go back home. On time. I finish my job really quickly and then I’m home. That doesn’t mean I don’t love my job. That doesn’t mean I’m not going to do it with the same gusto that I did it with before. But, now, I know life is equally important,” she expresses.

Mira Rajput

Her story...

Samantha Ruth Prabhu

Lily Collins

Priyanka Chopra

Anushka Sharma

Poster of the fim...

Deepika Padukone

THE SCRUMPTIOUS DELIGHT

The Roadhouse Restro Bar launched its grand menu at the Holiday Inn City Centre in Jaipur on Thursday. The event was made even more enchanting by the golden vocals of an All-girl Manipur band. The scrumptious menu featured a variety of cui-

INAUGURATION!

that there used to be a water problem in Jai Ambe Nagar, on the demand of the local people, regional MLA Saraf got a new pipeline installed by PHED at a cost of Rs 39 lakh 40 thousand.

DURING THE DAY!

sines, including Italian, Mexican, Awadhi, and Mughlai. The pizzas, wraps, and kebab platters were particularly popular among the attendees. Many notable figures from the city, such as Nalin Mandiratta, the Regional General Manager of Holiday Inn, youth icon Rishee Miglani, and Usha Punis were in attendance, among other distinguished guests. cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

ONE DAY MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

CITY FIRST

Aone-day management development program was organised for more than 30 employees of Rajasthan Small Industries Corporation (RAJSICO) and Rajasthan Handloom Development Corporation (RHDC), two organisations of the state government, at Udyog Bhawan in Jaipur on Thursday. Rajiv Arora, Chairman, of RAJSICO and REPC was the chief guest of the training program on

the occasion. Managing Director, Rajsico and CMD, RHDC, Dr Manisha Arora and head trainer Professor Ramesh K. Arora participated in the programme.

On this occasion, Rajiv Arora said that just as a diamond or gem gets its lustre when cut, in the same way, this Management Development Program aims to bring out the hidden

qualities of all the participating workers of Rajsico and Handloom and put them to good use. According to Arora, training and development is the key to success. cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

A delegation of 45 students from IIT Bhubaneswar and other higher educational institutions of prominence from Odisha, reached MNIT Jaipur campus on Thursday.

The selected youth are participating in the ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat Yuva Sangam-2’ programme that being organised by the Government of India. They were accorded a grand welcome at MNIT Jaipur with Tilak, garlands, safa and with traditional Rajasthani folk song “Padharo Mahre Des” and dance.

Jagdeesh Chandra greeted Mohit Jajoo, CEO Shubhashish Homes, as he reached the former’s residence to seek blessings on the occasion of his birthday on Thursday. Garima Jajoo and baby Amiya were also present on the occasion.

Saurabh Prajapat welcomed Bollywood’s very own Hero number 1 Govinda along with his wife Sunita Ahuja at a wedding ceremony in Jaipur. Saurabh and Govinda share brotherhood relationship. He addresses Govinda as bhaiya and Sunita Ahuja as his bhabhi.

WHAT’S HAPPENING!

The 8th edition of the Ballet Exposé will be organised on 12 May at the Maharana Pratap Auditorium in Jaipur. The Ballet Exposé is themed ‘In conversation with Dance’ meaning how movement inspires creativity and communicates various emotions through our body. As many as 50 participants between the ages of 5 to 45 years will perform Ballet and Latin dance forms to Latin, Classical and Bollywood tunes. This was informed by the Founder of Stripes Dance Company, Adittee Somani Mansingka.

Dr Pankaj Singh, Director of NIMS University and Founder of the Pankaj Singh Foundation, launched the “Journalist Health Card” at the Pink City Press Club auditorium for the benefit of journalists’ health was inaugurated with the lighting of a lamp in front of the statue of Saraswati Mata by Dr Pankaj Singh. Senior journalist Praveen Chhabra, President of the Pink City Press Club, Ramendra S Solanki, and executive committee members were present. In his address, Dr Pankaj Singh stated that the health card scheme for journalists is indeed effective, and all members of the Pink City Press Club will benefit from it.

During the card launch, senior journalists PC Chhabra, Shyam Mathur, Veerendra Singh Rathore, Nirupama Aditya, Paras Jain and Asha Patel received their health cards.

The Inner Wheel Club of Jaipur East organised a program at JKK in Jaipur to honour the Founder of Neerja International, Dr Leela Bordia. The program was held to celebrate her achievement of receiving the prestigious Margarette Golding Award 2022-23. The chief guest and District Chairman of the club, Reena Agarwal; District Secretary, Nisha Khandpur; Club President, Tulika Goyal and Secretary, Geeta Bhargava presented the award. It is worth mentioning that Dr. Bordia has had a long-standing association with the Inner Wheel Club and through Neerja International, she has given Jaipur’s Blue Pottery a unique identity worldwide.

The real life-based film ‘Ab Dilli Door Nahin’ to release in cinema halls across the country on May 12. Success Guru AK Mishra is the mastermind of this film. The country’s famous institute Chanakya IAS Academy is the knowledge partner of this film. The story of the journey of struggling from poverty to becoming an IAS will inspire the youth.

Imran Zahid and Shruti Sodhi of Jharkhand played the lead roles in this film by Kamal Chandra. AK Mishra told in the auditorium of Chanakya IAS Academy Jaipur that - The film ‘Ab Dilli Door Nahi’ is an emotional-drama film, which is based on a motivational story. The film is produced by Vinay Bhardwaj and Sanjay Mawar of Shining Sun Studios. The story of this film is written by Dinesh Gautam and directed by Kamal Chandra.

Celebrating the power of self-expression and music, Ballantine’s Glassware

True Music comes to India.

It is a global platform that goes beyond genre or fame, it represents music communities and the people that make them thrive. In India, Ballantine’s Glassware

True Music is set to recognize young artists across trending music genres, empower them to find their voice in the music industry through mentorship and workshops, and give them a platform to unleash their true potential.

It has collaborated with Big Bang Music, a new age music label dedicated to finding superstars in the non-film music space, bridging the gap between pop culture and independent music.

Radhika Madan and Dimple Kapadia starrer web series

Saas Bahu and Flamingo have been released recently on the country’s big OTT platform Hotstar as Associate Casting Director of Jaipur resident Sameer Pahadia. Which was premiered recently at PVR Cinema, Juhu, Mumbai. Where stars like Dimple Kapadia, Vicky Kaushal, Sunny Kaushal, Deepak Dobriyal, and Homi Adajania, participated. Sameer Pahadia, Associate Casting Director of this film told that it is a crime-based web series. There is a lot to see in the film along with thriller, suspense, and romance.

Jaipur Marriott Hotel has appointed Gaurav Arora as General Manager recently. Gaurav, an IHM Jaipur alumnus, has gained an understanding of the hospitality industry and a passion for delivering guest experiences. His career began at Hyatt Regency Delhi, where he worked in F&B operations before moving to the Sales Marketing function at The Oberoi, New Delhi. Gaurav has spent eight years with Accor, which he joined in 2014 as director of sales and marketing.

—PHOTOS BY MUKESH KIRADOO

—PHOTO BY SHAZID CHAUHAN

(L-R) Doorva, Richa, Ratika, Yashika, Anurag, Rishee, Chef Ramesh and Ria (L-R) Sadhana Garg, Rishee Miglani, Nalin Mandiratta and Imit Arora (L-R) Neeta Joshi, Sadhana Garg, Tripti Pandey, Nalin Mandiratta, Imit Arora, Ria Oli, Sonal Sawansukha and Tarun Chandiramani

(L-R) Manpreet, Sadhana Garg, Richa, Ratika, Doorva, Yashika, Neha and Ria

Jagdeesh Chandra (L-R) Garima Jajoo, Mohit Jajoo and Amiya Jajoo

(L-R) Govinda Ahuja, Saurabh Prajapat and Sunita Ahuja (L-R) Manisha Arora, Rajiv Arora and Ramesh K Arora