First India-Jaipur Edition- 17th May 2023

EDUCATIONIST MANOJ SONI SWORN IN AS UPSC CHAIRMAN

New Delhi: Eminent educationist Manoj Soni on Tuesday took oath as the chairman of the UPSC. Soni, was administered the oath of office and secrecy as chairman, UPSC by Smita Nagaraj.

NITIN GADKARI RECEIVES THREAT CALL AT RESIDENCE, PROBE ON

New Delhi: The Delhi Police Tuesday said that a probe is underway after Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways Nitin Gadkari received a threat call at his Delhi residence Monday evening.

GOVT APPOINTS RAVNEET AS CCI CHAIRPERSON FOR 5 YEARS

New Delhi: The government has appointed Ravneet Kaur as chairperson of antitrust body Competition Commission of India (CCI), according to an official order. She will replace CCI Member Sangeeta Verma.

I instagram.com/thefirstindia

PM Modi gifts new lifelines to people

Govt has prioritised recruitment process, made it faster, transparent and unbiased, says PM Modi as he distributes over 71,000 job letters

First India Bureau New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that in the last 9 years, the government has spent about ` 34 lakh crore on capital expenditure and on basic facilities. In this year’s Budget too, ` 10 lakh crore was allocated for capital expenditure, Modi said at the ‘Rozgar Mela’, where he distributed about 71,000 appointment letters to newly inducted recruits in various govt depts and organisations.

PERSPECTIVE P4

RAJENDRA CHHABRA DELVES INTO RECENT MAMMOTH IAS TRANSFERS

READ Crucial

C-17 GLOBEMASTER

STUCK AT LEH RUNWAY, FLIGHTS CANCELLED

Ladakh: Almost all flights to and from the Leh airport were cancelled today as a transport aircraft belonging to the IAF remains stuck on its lone runway due to a technical issue. The C-17 Globemaster is facing serviceability issues.

2 HIZBUL TERRORISTS

WHO KILLED MIRWAIZ

HELD AFTER 33 YEARS

Srinagar: 33 years after the killing of top Kashmiri separatist, Mirwaiz Moulvi

Mohammad Farooq, police on Tuesday arrested two Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists in the case.

J&K’s intelligence chief said terrorists on run were arrested by the SIA and CBI.

HEARINGS IN HYBRID MODE DURING SUPREME COURT SUMMER BREAK

New Delhi: CJI DY

Chandrachud on Tuesday said the vacation benches will conduct hearing through hybrid mode to enable lawyers to appear from various destinations. SC is closing for summer break from May 22 to July 2 and only vacation benches will conduct hearing to deal urgent matters.

ED RAIDS CHENNAI OFFICE OF THE LYCA

PRODUCTIONS

Chennai: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) sleuths on Tuesday conducted searches at the premises of production company LYCA — the makers of Ponniyin Selvan. Search underway at eight locations including T Nagar, Adyar and Karapakkam.

INDIA’S NEW

Earlier it was difficult to apply for a government job, one had to stand in line for hours to get the form. Today the whole process from applying to results is online. Now no interview is required for Group C&D posts. This has ended the possibilities of corruption and nepotism. —Narendra Modi, Prime Minister

WHO WILL BE THE NEXT KARNATAKA CM?

NO CONSENSUS, INCONCLUSIVE MEETS...

Sonia, Rahul meet Kharge; discuss govt formation in Karnataka

PM NARENDRA MODI WILL VISIT JAPAN, PAPUA NEW GUINEA AND AUSTRALIA

FROM MAY 19 TO 24, THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (MEA) ANNOUNCED ON TUESDAY.

CM okays `224.30 crore for repair of highways and roads

A total of over 924 road works, including 24 works of the State highways to be done

Naresh Sharma

Jaipur: The Rajasthan government has approved a financial proposal of `224.30 crore for the repair of various state highways and roads in major districts and rural areas.

DK Shivakumar calls on Mallikarjun Kharge in New Delhi on Tuesday. Siddaramaiah holds talks with Mallikarjun Kharge in Delhi on Tuesday.

Moni Sharma

New Delhi: Amid a race for the Karnataka Chief Minister’s post, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday met party president Mallikarjun Kharge and is reported to have held discussions over government formation in the southern state for over 1 hour 30 minutes. Congress General Secretary Randeep Surjewala, who is in charge of the party’s affairs in Karnataka, was also present at the meeting. During the day, Karnataka Congress president DK Shi-

I rebuilt the party after the defeat, why doesn’t anyone other than Siddaramaiah get a chance, the reason for the defeat in 2019 was Siddaramaiah.

CONGRESS SPLIT IN 3 CAMPS, SONIA TO TAKE FINAL CALL

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has approved a proposal to this effect. Under this, a total of 924 road works, including 24 works of state highways, 33 works of main district roads and 867 of rural roads, will be

done, according to an official statement.

The work will repair the roads damaged due to digging for laying pipelines in the last two monsoons. The road system in the state will

be strengthened and the general public will be able to travel smoothly. An announcement in this regard was made by the Chief Minister in the budget for the year 2023-24.

RHB clinches

—Sources

—DK Shivakumar, KPCC President Congress president has met all the stakeholders. Now the final decision will be taken by him in consultation with Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi. The announcement can be made in Bengaluru itself.

Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar are said to be the top contenders for CM post, and sources say Sonia will take the final call. But as is almost typical of Congress, party is split into 3 camps — the high command, Sidda and DK.

Sources say Congress is trying to convince Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar to share the Chief Minister’s seat with both leaders getting two and half years each, however, Shivakumar is reportedly not happy with such a formula.

vakumar, one of the two contenders to the post, arrived in Delhi. Just before leaving for Delhi, he told media

outside his residence that high command’s decision will be final and also said that he will be going alone to

the national capital. Former Karnataka CM Siddaramiah is also in New Delhi to meet top party leaders. P5

EMERGENCE OF EL NINO PATTERN

7 killed in cracker factory explosion in West Bengal

First India Bureau

Kolkata: Seven people were killed after an explosion in an illegal firecracker factory in West Bengal’s East Midnapore district on Tuesday, police said.

The blast occurred in the factory in East Midnapore’s Egra. Plumes of grey smoke were seen from the spot following the explosion. Locals rushed to help

Let’s brave longer summers, delayed monsoons

First India Bureau New Delhi: India’s monsoon rains, the lifeblood of the country’s economy, are likely to be delayed in 2023 and are forecast to hit the Kerala coast in the southwest on June 4, the state-run weather office said on Tuesday.

The monsoon, the lifeblood of the coun-

try’s $3 trillion economy, delivers nearly 70 percent of the rain that India needs to water farms and recharge reservoirs and aquifers. Nearly half of India’s farmland, without any

irrigation cover, depends on annual JuneSeptember rains to grow a number of crops. IMD stated that onset of monsoon in Kerala will lead to the end of summer season.

2 GG Awards in Malaysia

Shivendra Parmar

People gather at bomb-making factory after explosion in WB’s East Midnapore on Tuesday.

the people affected by the blast. The injured were taken to a nearby hospital.

Jaipur: The Rajasthan Housing Board has been awarded ‘The Golden Globe Awards for Excellence and Leadership’ for ‘Best Environment Friendly Projects’ and ‘Best Innovative Project of the Year’ by the jury of the World HRD Council on Tuesday morning in Malaysia. More on P8

8-yr-old girl resists rape bid, strangled to death

The body of the girl was found in an cattle shed on Monday

First India Bureau

Bhilwara: An eightyear-old girl was allegedly strangled to death by a boy for resisting his rape attempt in Bhilwara district, police said on Tuesday.

According to the complaint lodged by the girl’s mother, the accused allegedly tried to rape her daughter and strangled her to death when she resisted, po-

A case of murder, kidnapping and attempt to rape has been registered in connection with the incident. Efforts are on to arrest 17-year-old accused. —Police

lice said. The body was handed over to relatives after postmortem.

This year, places such as Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Uttarakhand received 18 per cent excess rainfall in the pre-monsoon season so far. —IMD

With over 4 days delay, southwest monsoon onset

depts and organisations during Rozgar Mela via VC, in Delhi on Tuesday.

Dr Jitendra Singh joins ‘Rozgar Mela’ virtually from National Media Centre in New Delhi on Tuesday.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot lends an ear to the employees from Electricity Department at Chief Minister’s Residence on Tuesday.

Congress divided in two factions led by different leaders: Rathore

Aishwary Pradhan

Jaipur: Leader of opposition Rajendra Rathore on Tuesday supported dissident Congress leader Sachin Pilot’s demand to reconstitute the Rajasthan Public Service Commission and compensation to the candidates for cancellation of papers.

At the same time, Rathore questioned the silence of Pilot over the allegations of the former Vasundhara Raje government when he was deputy chief minister in the Gehlot government.

“RPSC should not only be disbanded but the entire matter of paper leak and corruption should be inquired by a judicial commission. Compensation should also be given to the candidates for cancellation of papers due to paper leak incidents,” the BJP leader told reporters at

NCST summons CS & DGP over torture to Kirodi during protest

Dr Rituraj Sharma

Jaipur: CS Usha Sharma and DGP Umesh Mishra have been summoned by the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes over the complaint of mentally and physically harassing MP Kirodi Lal Meena on March 4 and 10. The summons have been issued to both officers and directed them to give personal appearance on complaint of illegal detention. The officials will have to be present before the commission member Anant Nayak on May 24 at 12:30 pm. The commission has also asked to bring relevant documents for investigation.

Notably, MP Kirodi Lal Meena had accused the Jaipur police in his complaint to the Commission with allegations of mental, physical torture, illegal detention on March 4 and 10.

Meanwhile, the CS and DGP have been warned of action for not appearing before the commission without any valid reason

lll Governor Mishra interacted with the migrants from Sikkim and called upon them to cooperate in the development of Rajasthan

Shekhawat calls Raj govt ‘most corrupt’

Rajeev Gaur

Jodhpur: Union minister Gajendra Singh

Shekhawat on Tuesday termed the Congress-led Rajasthan government the “most corrupt ever” and said it was for the first time that ministers were accusing their own government of indulging in corrupt practices.

Shekhawat, who was here to distribute appointment letters to the newly-appointed candidates in the fifth series of the ‘Rozgar Mela’, alleged, “It is for the first time that ministers are accusing their cabinet colleagues of corrup-

tion.” He also hit out at the state government’s

‘Mehangai Rahat’ camps for making people queue up in scorching heat in the name of relief. Referring to free electricity supply up to 100 units, the minister said the state government has been giving 50 units free which can be easily increased to 100 or 2,000 units without asking people to queue up at these camps. He also alleged that Rajasthan has the highest prices of fuel, which was Rs 10 higher for both petrol and diesel than the prices in neighbouring states.

Satyanarayan Sharma

Jaipur: A truck trailer fell off a bridge and caught fire here on Tuesday, leaving the driver dead, police said. The incident occurred near Bodio Ki Dhani located on Ring Road of Shivdaspura police station area when the truck was going towards Ajmer road.

the party office here.

Hitting back at Pilot on his allegation of the former government, Rathore asked why Pilot was silent and did not raise the issue when he was the deputy chief minister for 19 months.

Rathore said that Congress is divided in two factions led by different leaders and the minister of the government has levelled corruption charges on his own government during Pilot’s rally in Jaipur yesterday.

RPSC should not only be disbanded but the entire matter of paper leak & corruption should be inquired by a judicial commission. Compensation should also be given to the candidates for cancellation of papers due to paper leak. Congress is divided in two factions led by different leaders & the minister of the govt has levelled corruption charges on his own govt during Pilot’s rally in Jaipur. —Rajendra

Raj facing power crisis due to failure of State govt: Power Min

Jaipur (PTI): Union Minister of State for Power Krishan Pal Singh on Tuesday said that the people of Rajasthan are facing a power crisis due to the failure of the state government.

He said that there is no shortage of electricity in the country as in the neighbouring state Haryana, 24 hours electricity is being made available in the villages and cities.

“The production of electricity in the country is double its consumption. There is no shortage of electricity.

The centre is ready to provide as much electricity as Rajasthan wants, but due to the failure of the state government, the people of Rajasthan are facing a power crisis,” the minister told reporters

Record created for maximum interest-free co-op crop loan

Nirmal Tiwari

Jaipur: For the first time in the history of the state, a record has been created for maximum interest-free cooperative crop loan disbursement in a financial year in Rajasthan.

Interest-free cooperative crop loans worth Rs 19,740 crore were distributed to 29.71 lakh farmers in the state in the financial year 2022-23. Cooperative Minister Udai

Lal Anjana said that cooperative crop loans worth Rs 180 cr were distributed to 98 320 new farmers in Kharif season & Rs 367 cr to 2 lakh 19 thousand 249 new farmers in Rabi season

here.

He was here to take part in an ‘unemployment fair’ under which 71,000 appointment letters in different government departments were given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi through video conferencing.

“In the neighbouring state of Haryana, 24hour electricity is available in villages and cities. Then why is crisis in Rajasthan only? That is because the management of your government is not good,” the minister said.

Gaushalas to come up in 1,500 gram panchayats of the State

Kashiram Choudhary

Jaipur: The Gram Gaushala Yojana announced by Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot in January is progressing at a fast pace. Gaushalas will be opened in 1500gram panchayats of the state. In rural areas, farmers often complain that their crops are destroyed by stray animals. Now the state gov-

ernment has made plans to open Nandishala for Nandis and Gaushala for cows across the state. In the first phase, gaushalas will be

FOUNDATION DAY OF SIKKIM AT RAJ BHAVAN

First India Bureau

Jaipur: Governor Kalraj Mishra interacted at Raj Bhavan with the people living here on the foundation day of Sikkim. He said that Sikkim is the cleanest, pollution free and the country’s first organic state. “We must take inspiration from Sikkim for environmental protection. The living conditions, food and habits of the people of this state formed in 1975 is

important,” he said. He said that cultural diversity is important.

“This initiative has

been taken in Raj Bhavan with a view to promote harmony under the ‘Ek Bharat

Shreshtha Bharat’ programme.Mishra interacted with the migrants from Sikkim.

opened in 1500 gram panchayats of the state. The Gopalan dept has intensified the exercise for this. The tender process has been started for Gaushalas in rural areas in six districts. These are Ajmer, Barmer, Dausa, Jodhpur, Hanumangarh and Udaipur. Gram Panchayat Samiti, Village Service Cooperative Society, & NGOs are being selected.

The trailer driver identified as Tarun, aged around 35, got trapped in the cabin during the accident. The flames engulfed the entire trailer and it burst into flames. Tarun was burnt alive and his charred body was found in the cabin after flames were doused.

NEWS DIGEST

4 YOUTH DROWN IN SEPARATE MISHAPS IN BARMER, BIKANER

Barmer/Bikaner: Two brothers drowned in Barmer district. Incident has been reported from the Mandali police station area on Tuesday noon. In order to save his brother, the other jumped into the tank. On getting informed police reached at the spot and recovered the bodies. A case has been lodged and matter is being investigated. In a similar incident, two youths drowned in a field in Bikaner.

CHHABRA CALLS FOR HUNGER STRIKE OVER SURATGARH DIST

Suratgarh: National Prez of Liquor Ban Movement Pooja Chhabra has called for a hunger strike until Suratgarh is made a district. Chhabra said that until Suratgarh becomes a dist, she would not eat food. She said this during a meeting organized by District Banao Samiti on Tuesday.

Will do all to ensure Congress remains united: Pratap Singh

First India Bureau

Jaipur: People made a beeline to congratulate Minister Pratap Singh Khachariyawas on his birthday on Tuesday.

Many ministers and legislators wished him.

On the occasion, Khachariyawas pledged to do everything possible to ensure that Congress remains united.

On the infight of Congress, Khachariyawas said that CM Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot are

our own. “This is not the time for rhetoric, it is for solidarity. Senior lead-

ers should avoid making statements against one other,” he said.

‘Sikkim cleanest, pollution free & organic state’

Rathore, LoP

Rajendra Rathore, Ram Lal Sharma, Jogeshwar Garg & Laxmikant Bhardwaj in a press conference at BJP HQs, in Jaipur on Tuesday.

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat lighting lamp at Rozgar Mela in Jodhpur on Tuesday.

Driver charred to death as trailer falls off bridge and catches fire

Pratap Singh Khachariyawas and supporters celebrating his birthday in Jaipur on Tuesday. —PHOTO BY SANTOSH SHARMA

Governor Kalraj Mishra interacting with migrants from Sikkim at Raj Bhavan in Jaipur on Tuesday.

KERALA STORY!

Rajsamand MP Diya Kumari along with Jaipur City BJP Mahila Morcha members watched the film, ‘The Kerala Story’ at the cinema hall located in the Pink square mall in Jaipur on Tuesday. State President of BJP Mahila Morcha, Dr. Alka Mundra, and Jaipur city President, Anuradha Maheshwari, along with other women members were also present.

BJP leaders Kali Charan Saraf, Nimbaram, Babulal, Ramcharan Bohra, Suman Sharma, Anuradha Maheshwari and others watched ‘The Kerala Story’ at Raj Mandir in Jaipur on Tuesday.

—PHOTO BY SANTOSH SHARMA

MAMMOTH IAS TRANSFER LIST SURPRISES ALL IN RAJASTHAN, INCLUDING BUREAUCRACY!

The transfers of Karan Singh, Pratibha Singh, Harimohan Meena, Ghanshyam and MP Meena was due for a long time. Moreover, bureaucratic circles are trying to find the logic behind bringing Rajesh Kumar Meena (IRS) and Prateek Jhajharia (Postal Service) in the State government. Hemant Gera, Praveen Gupta and Krishna Kunal are posted on the same chair for a long time and it was believed that they would be changed now, but they have been left untouched

Amit Shah @AmitShah

The entire bureaucracy is pleasantly surprised by the appointment of Mahesh Chandra Sharma as Secretary LSG, Meghraj Singh as Registrar Cooperatives, Bharti Dixit as Ajmer Collector, and Sandesh Nayak as MD, RSMM. Similarly, discussions are also happening on the shifting of Vishram Meena as Commissioner, Jaipur Municipal Corporation, Jitendra Soni as Alwar Collector, Shakti Singh Rathore as MD-RFC, Nakate S Madan from MD, RIICO, and Anshdeep as Collector Ajmer.

MAHESH C SHARMA

Mahesh Chandra Sharma is a promotee IAS from RAS and it has happened for the first time that the reins of the post of Secretary, LSG have been handed to a promotee officer. He has merely served as Collector of Bundi district once for a period of 8 months and has served as SA to BJP government ministers twice. He has left several claimants behind for this post.

MEGHRAJ SINGH RATNU

Even the responsibility of Registrar Cooperatives has been handed to a promotee IAS — Meghraj Singh Ratnu — while keeping at bay several young bureaucrats. For the past 10 months, he had an additional charge of the position which has now been converted to a permanent position. Ratnu enjoys the reputation of a low-profile and a result oriented officer.

Heartfelt wishes to the people of Sikkim on their statehood day. Sikkim is a gem in northeastern India with its hardworking people contributing profusely to the nation’s culture and economy. May the state continue to prosper in the years to come.

BHARTI DIXIT

Bharti Dixit has been given a major jump and appointed as Collector of Ajmer. This is his second appointment as Collector. Now she is just ‘next door’ to her husband Ashish Modi ( Collector-Bhilwara).

SANDESH NAYAK

Sandesh Nayak has now become a ‘power centre’ after being given the additional charge of MD of RSMM in addition to his appointment as Director, Mines. Those in the know-how of bureaucracy are terming it as illogical and wrong. Notably, this is the sixth change of MD, RSMM in the current government.

VISHRAM MEENA

Vishram Meena has ‘links’ till higher-ups in the current dis-

Jagat Prakash Nadda @JPNadda

WORD IS THAT CS

USHA SHARMA

WOULD RETIRE ON JUNE 30 AND WITH THE APPOINTMENT OF NEW CS, ANOTHER IAS TRANSFER LIST WOULD BE RELEASED

pensation and he was thus posted on the ‘high seat’ in the Jaipur Municipal Corporation. However, he had to face the brunt of Ram Prasad suicide. While serving as Alwar Collector, he had cracked whip against land-mafia, but in turn, he had

Best wishes to the people of Sikkim on the occasion of their Statehood Day. Sikkim is well known for its rich culture, biodiversity, and has made notable contributions in the field of sustainable development. I wish that the state continues on its path of growth and that its people are healthy and prosperous.

to lose his position. He has returned to the same NHM as Mission Director from where, ten months back, he left for the Alwar Collectorate. Soni could have spent more time in the field, having served as Collector in four districts.

SPIRITUAL

SPEAK

Whatever action is performed by a great man, common men follow in his footsteps, and whatever standards he sets by exemplary acts, all the world pursues.

Bhagavad Gita

SHAKTI SINGH RATHORE

As MD of RFC, Shakti Singh Rathore had given good results in the past two years and keeping in mind his capabilities, he could have been given a better role in Devasthan or he could have been appointed as Collector of any district.

NAKATE S MADAN

Nakate S Madan, who, in the past, has served as Collector of Barmer, Sri Ganganagar, Bhilwara and Alwar, has also served as ED in RIICO and was handling the responsibility of MD proficiently. It is said that he had the faith and trust of his ‘boss’ and thus his transfer has become a puzzle.

ANSHDEEP

Meanwhile, word around Anshdeep - serving as Ajmer Collector till now - is that he had miffed several local politicians with his behaviour and work culture.

OTHER TRANSFERS

The transfers of Karan Singh, Pratibha Singh, Harimohan Meena, Ghanshyam and MP Meena was due for a long time. Moreover, bureaucratic circles are trying to find the logic behind bringing Rajesh Kumar Meena (IRS) and Prateek Jhajharia (Postal Service) in the State government.

Hemant Gera, Praveen Gupta and Krishna Kunal are posted on the same chair for a long time and it was believed that they would be changed now, but they have been left untouched. Word is that CS Usha Sharma would retire on June 30 and with the appointment of new CS, another IAS transfer list would be released.

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHOR ARE PERSONAL

RAJENDRA CHHABRA

The writer is a senior journalist

Mahesh Chandra Sharma

Vishram Meena

Meghraj Singh Ratnu

Shakti Singh Rathore

Bharti Dixit

Nakate S Madan

Sandesh Nayak

Anshdeep

“Will file defamation case against channels which are...”: DK Shivakumar

New Delhi (ANI): As Congress deliberates on who should be the CM of Karnataka, party state chief DK Shivakumar, one of the frontrunners for the post on Tuesday said that he would file a defamation case against the media channels which are making false claims over his resignation.

“If any channel is reporting that I am resigning from the post, I will file a defamation case against them... Some of them are reporting that I will resign...My mother is my

party, I built this party.

My high command, my MLAs, my party are there,” Karnataka Congress chief told media. Other claimants are also emerging as supporters of G Parameshwara staged protest and said he was ready to take up the responsibility if the party high command asked him to run the government.

“If the high command wants, I am ready to take up the responsibility,” the former Deputy CM told reporters while demanding that a Dalit should become CM.

“Will not backstab, blackmail...”

Shivakumar before flying to Delhi

DK Shivakumar

Shivakumar on Tuesday arrived at the office of his brother and Congress leader DK Suresh. Despite Congress’ clear mandate in Karnataka, suspense over

the chief minister continues as senior leaders DK Shivakumar, who is the Karnataka Congress’ president, and former CM Siddaramaiah are in the race.

‘Talibanisation’ has started in K’taka, claims BJP state chief

Bengaluru (ANI): Congress Karnataka president DK Shivakumar, one of the frontrunners for the post of CM of the southern State on Tuesday made it clear that he would not resort to “backstabbing or blackmail” regardless of the party’s decision. In an exclusive interview with ANI, DK Shivakumar said, “If

ONE OF 12 JYOTIRLINGAS OF LORD SHIVA

Muslim men attempt to enter Trimbakeshwar; tension arises

Nashik (ANI): A group of people from the Muslim community allegedly tried to enter the famous Trimbakeshwar temple in Maharashtra’s Nashik to offer ‘chaddar’ (scarf). Several videos of the incident that reportedly took place on Saturday have been doing the rounds on social media. The group was stopped by the security guards outside the temple, a temple trust official said.

As per temple management, only Hindus are allowed to enter the temple — one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.

In a video clip, five to six people can be seen trying to enter the temple carrying green scarves. They were, however, not allowed to enter the temple premises.

The Temple Trust has also written to Nashik Commission of Police

demanding action against the group for trying to enter the temple.

Nashik Inspector General BG Shekhar said that the situation is under control and that there is peace in and around in Trimbakeshwar temple.

Narwekar hails EC decision on 'Shiv Sena' name, symbol

Mumbai (PTI): Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar on Tuesday said the Election Commission’s decision to allot the ‘Shiv Sena’ name and its symbol to the faction led by CM Eknath Shinde is a “prospective” decision and not restropective.

Narwekar also said the decision on disqualification of 16 MLAs including CM Shinde will start from the point of which faction was representing the actual Shiv Sena in July 2022.

He said that after the Supreme Court’s May 11 verdict, he will have to first recognise in the House which faction of the Shiv Sena is the political party before going ahead with any other decision.

SHINDE APPEALS FOR PEACE AFTER INCIDENT

Mumbai (ANI): After a group of people allegedly attempted to enter the Trimbakeshwar temple in Nashik and tried to offer a ‘chaddar’, Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde on Tuesday appealed for peace calling on people to “cooperate”. “It’s the responsibility of the administration to maintain law and order but people must also cooperate. People from every community must come forward and maintain peace,” Shinde said.

MAHA DEPUTY CM FADNAVIS ORDERS SIT PROBE INTO TEMPLE

Nashik (ANI): Maharashtra deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday ordered a special investigation team to probe the recent incident in which a group of people allegedly attempted to enter the Trimbakeshwar temple in Nashik and tried to offer a ‘chaddar’. “Deputy CM of Maharashtra Devendra Fandanvis has ordered to constitute a special investigation team led by an ADG-level officer to probe the incident,” according to a statement issued by the Deputy CM’s office. “An FIR has been filed and an SIT under the additional director general of police will investigate the matter,” Fadnavis said adding strict action will be taken against those found responsible.

the party wants they can give me the responsibility....... Ours is a united house, our number is 135. I don’t want to divide anyone here. Whether they like me or not, I am a responsible man. I will not backstab and I will not blackmail.”

The Congress won 135 seats in the recently held election to the 224-member Karnataka assembly.

Bengaluru (PTI):

Karnataka BJP chief Nalin Kumar Kateel on Tuesday alleged ‘Talibanisation’ has started in the state after the victory of the Congress in the Assembly polls and those indulging in “anti-national activities” are “rising up” to destroy peace. The Lok Sabha MP Dakshina Kannada met family members of

Cong ignored N-E for 60 years; region developing under PM Modi: Sonowal

Guwahati (ANI): Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Tuesday alleged that Congress “ignored” the Northeast for 60 years whereas, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the region has become the “focal point of development”.

“The Congress government ignored the Northeast for 60 years. Today Prime Minister Modi has embraced the Northeast with open arms and now it has become the focal point of attention and development,” the Union Minister stated while addressing the National Rozgar Mela in which PM Modi distributed 71,000 appointment letters to the recruits. Sonowal, who was earlier the chief minister of the northeastern state of Assam before being elevated as a Union Minister in 2021, said that the northeast is rising again in the national arena due to the “spe-

Verdict reserved in case against RaGa

Ranchi (ANI): The Jharkhand High Court on Tuesday reserved the order in a defamation case against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi

The arguments were concluded in the court of Justice Ambujnath. The court has also instructed both sides to file the synopsis of the arguments. The defamation case was filed by a local BJP leader after Rahul Gandhi allegedly made objectionable remarks against BJP leader Amit Shah at a Congress party gathering in Chaibasa in 2018.

RAHUL TO VISIT USA ON MAY 31 FOR 10 DAYS

Sarbananda Sonowal

cial support” by PM Modi’s government at the Centre.

“In the past 9 years, Northeast has risen again, whether it is Sikkim or Tripura, Mizoram or Meghalaya, Nagaland or Manipur or whether it is Assam or Arunachal Pradesh, every state has become successful in finding its individuality. All this is because of the special support and recognition of Northeast by Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” he said.

Krishnappa, a BJP worker who was hacked to death, while his wife and son were grievously injured in the attack after they protested against bursting of crackers outside their house in Bengaluru Rural district’s Hoskote on Sunday. One person has been arrested, and a hunt is on to catch hold of others involved in the attack.

Won’t allow love jihad & conversions, says MP CM

Bhopal (ANI): Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj

Singh Chouhan on Tuesday said the state government took the issue of ‘love jihad’, ‘religious conversion’ and promotion of ‘terrorist activities’ seriously and will not allow such practices. He made the remark while talking to the reporters about the recent action of Madhya Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) against members associated with the radical Islamic organisation Hizb-ut-Tahrir (HuT) in the state capital Bhopal on Tuesday. “We are getting into the depth of the facts that have come to the fore in connection with the HuT members,” CM Chouhan further said.

IN THE COURTYARD STOPPED SCREENING OF ‘TKS’ DUE TO POOR COLLECTIONS: TN

2 JUDGES TO BE ELEVATED TO THE SUPREME COURT

At a Congress meeting in 2018, Rahul Gandhi allegedly said, “A murder accused can become a party president only in the BJP. It’s not possible in the Congress.”

UNION MINISTER ATTACKS OPPN

The lower court issued a notice to Rahul Gandhi in the matter. This was challenged in the High Court to quash the notice issued by the lower court.

New Delhi (ANI): Congress leader and former Wayanad MP Rahul Gandhi will visit the USA on May 31 for a 10-days, said sources on Tuesday. On June 4, Rahul Gandhi will hold a rally of about 5,000 NRIs in New York’s Madison Square Garden, added the sources. Apart from this, he will go to Washington and California for a panel discussion and speech at Stanford University. He will also meet politicians and entrepreneurs.

Corrupt leaders can’t defeat BJP: Anurag Thakur

lll Union Information and Broadcasting Minister asserts that the BJP would again win over 300 seats in the next general elections

Shimla (PTI): Corrupt politicians without leadership qualities, policies, and right intentions will not be able to defeat the BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections as people want to see Narendra Modi become the prime minister again, Union Minister Anurag Thakur said on Tuesday.

Thakur was responding to West Bengal CM and TMC supremo

Mamata Banerjee’s remarks that her party will support the Con-

gress where it is strong in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

It was the first time that Banerjee cleared the air on TMC’s stand on a possible strategy for Opposition unity in the electoral battle ahead.

Interacting with media persons on the side-

Corrupt

lines of an event here, Thakur, the Information and Broadcasting and Youth and Sports Minister, ridiculed the talks of Opposition parties coming together to defeat the BJP, saying such “Thugbandhans” have always failed.

Even if Opposition leaders come on the

same platform, they will play “musical chairs” with everyone eyeing the PM post, he said.

Asserting that the BJP would again win over 300 seats in the next general elections, he said Modi has been working tirelessly for the people of the country for the last 22 years.

New Delhi: Tamil Nadu govt told the Supreme Court on Tuesday the government did not impose any shadow ban on the film ‘The Kerala Story’ and the theatres stopped screening the film due to poor audience response. The development came as the apex court issued a notice to Tamil Nadu based on the plea of filmmakers, who alleged that the government has imposed a de facto ban on the movie.

New Delhi: The Supreme Court Collegium, headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud, on Thursday, recommended to the Centre two names, one of them a senior advocate, for elevation as judges to the top court. Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra, currently the Chief Justice of Andhra Pradesh High Court, and senior advocate KV Viswanathan’s name has been recommended by the Collegium.

COURT SENDS SUSPENDED IAS OFFICER

RANJAN TO JUDICIAL REMAND TILL MAY 25

Ranchi: Suspended Jharkhand cadre IAS Chhavi Ranjan, who was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in an alleged land scam case, has been sent to judicial remand till May 25. A special PMLA court in Ranchi on Tuesday sent Ranjan to custody. Ranjan was arrested by the ED in a case related to illegally grabbing and selling land in Ranchi on May 6. Following his arrest, the Jharkhand government suspended Ranjan from his position as Director of the Social Welfare Department, Jharkhand.

SC ADJOURNS NAWAB MALIK’S PLEA FOR JULY

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday adjourned for July the hearing of a petition filed by former Maharashtra Minister Nawab Malik, who is in jail since February 23, 2022, in a money laundering case. A Supreme Court bench stated the High Court will be at liberty to take up the matter in the meantime.

Malik approached the Supreme Court aggrieved with the Bombay High Court adjourning his bail application to June 6.

APEX COURT TO HEAR GUJ JUDICIAL OFFICERS PLEA

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday agreed to hear in July a plea of several Gujarat judicial officers whose promotions were stayed by it. A bench headed by Supreme Court Justice MR Shah, now retired, on May 12 had stayed the promotion of 68 Gujarat lower judicial officers, including Surat Chief Judicial Magistrate Harish Hasmukhbhai Varma who had convicted Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in a defamation case.

politicians without leadership qualities, policies, and right intentions will not be able to defeat the BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections as people want to see Narendra Modi become the prime minister again. —Anurag Thakur, Union minister

Rahul Gandhi

LAND-FOR-JOBS SCAM

CBI raids RJD leaders’ locations

9 locations linked to RJD leaders—

MLA Kiran Devi & ex-MLA Arun

Yadav searched

Patna (ANI): The CBI on Tuesday conducted searches at nine locations in Bihar’s Patna and Arrah linked to RJD leaders- MLA Kiran Devi and former MLA Arun Yadav in connection with the alleged land-for-jobs scam.

The CBI also conducted searches at the premises of Rajya Sabha MP Prem Chand Gupta at Noida, Delhi and Gurugram in the same alleged land-for-jobs scam.

In its chargesheet filed earlier in connection with the alleged land-for-job scam the CBI had stated that ir-

regular appointments of candidates were made in Central Railways, violating the laid down norms and procedures of Indian Railways for recruitment.

As a quid-pro-quo, the candidates directly or through their immediate relatives/family members, sold land to the family members of

Journalist booked for sharing information with Pakistan

New Delhi (PTI):

Woman conductor helps woman deliver baby on KSRTC bus

Lalu Prasad Yadav (then Union Railway Minister) at highly discounted rates up to one-fourth to one-fifth of the prevailing market rates.

The CBI further stated that investigation has revealed that Lalu Yadav during the period 2007-08, when he was Railways Minister, with the intent to acquire the

land parcels situated in Vill- Mahuabagh, Patna and Vill-Kunjwa, Patna which were located adjacent to the land parcels already owned by his family members; entered into a criminal conspiracy with his wife Rabri Devi, daughter Misha Bharati and several officers of Central Railways.

HARD WORK BEARS FRUIT, LITERALLY!

AIXL recruits pilots, cabin crew to meet growing demand

Mumbai (ANI): Air India Express Limited (AIXL), the low-cost carrier subsidiary of Air India, successfully concluded a roadshow aimed at recruiting pilots (commanders and first officers) in Mumbai. The event, held on Monday witnessed a significant turnout of pilots, bolstering the airline’s effort to meet the growing demands of its operations. The recruitment drive in Mumbai follows similar roadshows held in Delhi on May 10 and 11 and in Bengaluru on May 12 and 13.

The CBI has registered an FIR against a freelance journalist for allegedly collecting sensitive information related to the Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Army, and sharing them with intelligence agencies of foreign countries, officials said on Tuesday.

Following the FIR, the agency conducted searches on premises linked to Vivek Raghuvanshi, listed as India correspondent of a US-based portal on defence and strategic affairs on its website, and peo-

WHO lauds India for reduction in newborn deaths

ANI

Cape Town: India, which has taken proactive steps to reduce neonatal mortality, is likely to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal targets in this key area by 2030, a top WHO official has said, citing data on annual rate of reduction for newborn deaths in India. “India has taken important steps to improve the quality of care during labour and childbirth, leading to reductions in maternal deaths,” Dr Anshu Banerjee, Director, Dept of Maternal, Newborn, WHO.

CONTROVERSIAL COP RABHA KILLED IN ASSAM ROAD MISHAP

Journalist Vivek Raghuvanshi

ple close to him at 12 locations in Jaipur and the National Capital Region (NCR), they said. The agency has booked Raghuvanshi under Section 3 (spying) of the Official Secrets Act read with Section 120-B (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

Chikmagalur (ANI): A woman gave birth to a baby on a moving bus with the assistance of a woman conductor of Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) at the Bangalore-Chikmagalur route.

The incident occurred on Monday and both the mother and the infant are doing well.

At around 1.25 PM, near Udayapura Agriculture College, the pregnant woman began experiencing labour pains. The woman conductor identified as S Vasanthamm asked the driver to stop the bus and asked the passengers to deboard. She aided the woman to deliver the baby on the bus.

Further, since the lady was financially weak, the crew of the bus collected Rs 1500

from the passengers of the bus and handed over the same for the emergency expenditure of the lady.

Later the lady was shifted to Shanthagrama Hospital by ambulance and was provided necessary treatment.

G Sathyvathi Managing Director, Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), also appreciated the timely intervention of the woman conductor.

164 ‘positive indigenisation list’ items indigenised: Def Ministry

New Delhi (PTI): A total of 164 equipment and items identified under the import restrictions as part of the ‘positive indigenisation list’ has been indigenised by December 2022, the Defence Ministry said on Tuesday.

The Ministry put the annual import substitution values of the items at Rs 814 crore. The Defence Ministry has issued four lists so far comprising components and subsystems which were to to be procured from domestic industry af -

ter a ban on their import kicks in under a staggered time-line spanning till December 2028.

The first list was brought out in December 2021, second one in March 2022, third in Au-

CRUCIAL READ

FIRING IN UTTAR PRADESH COURT COMPLEX, 2 UNDERTRIALS INJURED

gust 2022 and fourth one with 928 items was issued on May 14. The aim of the positive indigenisation list (PLI) is to minimise imports by the defence public sector undertakings (DPSUs).

CBI MAKES FRESH ARREST IN DELHI EXCISE POLICY CASE

New Delhi (PTI): People will be now able to block and track their lost or stolen mobile phones across India via the Sanchar Saathi portal launched by the Department of Telecom on Tuesday.

Union Telecom Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Tuesday that through Sanchar Saathi Portal, people will be able to block, track and check the genuineness of a used device before buying them.

FOR A HEALTHY CAUSE

Nagaon: A woman sub-inspector of Assam Police, who was embroiled in several controversies, was killed when her car collided head-on with a container truck in Nagaon district on early Tuesday. Junmoni Rabha, popularly known as ‘Lady Singham’ or ‘Dabang cop’ after Hindi police movies, was alone in her private car and not in uniform. The accident occurred at Sarubhugia village under Jakhalabandha police station of Kaliabor Sub-Division. The container truck which was coming from Uttar Pradesh was seized by the police, but the driver fled from the spot after the accident. Nagaon SP reached the spot to take stock of the situation.

Get fit in 3 months or retire: Assam top cop

lll

The Assam police had last week drawn a list of over 650 personnel who were habitual drinkers or obese who were found unfit for field duties

New Delhi (Agencies): The Assam Police will professionally record the Body Mass Index (BMI) of all its personnel, including IPS officers, in a drive to eventually get rid of “deadwood” from the police force. Cops will be given three months to work on their fitness, after which BMIs will be recorded.

“We plan to give three months time to all Assam Police personnel including IPS & APS of-

ficers till August 15th and then start BMI assessment in the next fifteen days,” Director

General of Police (DGP) GP Singh tweeted on Tuesday. All those who are in

the obese category (BMI 30+) would be offered another three months to reduce weight and would be offered Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS) after that. Those who have genuine medical grounds like hypothyroidism will be exempt, GP Singh said, adding that he would be the first to have the BMI taken, on August 16. The Assam police employ around 70,000 personnel.

Jaunpur: Two undertrials, accused in the murder of wrestler Badal Yadav, were attacked in broad daylight in a Jaunpur court on Tuesday when attackers opened fire on them. The undertrials, Surya Prakash and Mithilesh Giri, were seriously injured in the incident and have been admitted to a local hospital and have now been referred to Varanasi for advanced treatment. Soon after the attack, the lawyers present in the court premises caught hold of the attackers and thrashed them before handing them over to the police.

MAN KILLS WIFE, DAUGHTER BEFORE COMMITTING SUICIDE; SON SURVIVES

New Delhi: A 43-year-old maintenance supervisor in DMRC, who was under heavy financial burden, allegedly murdered his wife and six-year-old daughter with a knife before taking his own life by hanging in the Shahdara area here. The man also attempted to kill his 13-year-old son, who is fighting for his life in a hospital. The deceased were identified as Sushil, his wife Anuradha (43) and their daughter. The family resided in Shahdara’s Jyoti Colony. As per preliminary investigation from the documents received at the spot, Sushil had mortgaged jewellery, taken loans and was under financial burden.

New Delhi: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Tuesday made a fresh arrest in connection with the Delhi excise policy case. The accused, identified as Charanpreet Singh, was produced before a special court which remanded him to two days CBI custody. The CBI is likely to confront him with Arvind Kumar Singh who was arrested on Monday and is in CBI custody. The CBI has filed two chargesheets in the matter so far and is inching towards filing a second supplementary chargesheet in the matter. Notably, former Deputy CM of Delhi Manish Sisodia and others are in judicial custody in this case.

Export policy after concerns on India-made drugs: Sources

New Delhi: Following reports of substandard Indian drugs causing health concerns, and even deaths, in countries like the US, The Gambia, and Uzbekistan, the health ministry is seriously considering putting in place a new system for drug exports, top official sources said. Samples of all Indiamade drugs will be tested for quality before shipping out, they said.

The Union Health Ministry and the De-

partment of Pharmaceuticals are deliberating this new policy, sources said. Suggestions were sought from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) regarding this. Medicines will be test-

ed at the regional or central drug testing lab before sending them abroad. So far, drug manufacturers used to directly export to foreign countries after obtaining export licences, without any quality check.

Last month, the top medical watchdog in the US raised concerns over the likelihood of a highly drug-resistant bacteria, linked to eye drops made by an Indian company, gaining a foothold in the US.

A farmer collects the harvested strawberries into a basket at a field in Gasoo-Hazratbal on the outskirts of Srinagar, on Tuesday.

Now track, block lost mobiles via ‘Sanchar Saathi’

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. —FILE PHOTO

Lady conductor Vasanthamma (L) holds the newborn.

The CBI raided multiple locations in Bihar, Delhi linked to RJD leaders.

RUSSIA LAUNCHES ‘EXCEPTIONAL’ DRONE, MISSILE ATTACK ON KYIV

Russia ‘destroys’

$1.1billion US air defence system in major attack on Kyiv

Kyiv (AP): Ukrainian air defenses thwarted an intense Russian air attack on Kyiv early Tuesday, shooting down all 18 missiles aimed at the capital with the help of Western-supplied weapons, officials said.

Loud explosions boomed over Kyiv as the nighttime attack combined Russian missiles launched from the air, sea and land in an apparent attempt to overwhelm Ukraine’s air defenses. No casualties were reported as Western-supplied weapons helped fend off the assault. Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov cheered the display of defensive prowess, calling it in a tweet “another unbelievable success.”

Kyiv (Reuters): Ukraine said on Tuesday it had shot down six Russian hypersonic Kinzhal missiles in a single night, thwarting a superweapon Moscow had previously touted as all but unstoppable. It was the first time Ukraine had claimed to have struck an entire volley of multiple hypersonic missiles, and if confirmed would be a demonstration of the effectiveness of newly deployed Western air defences. Air raid sirens blared across nearly all of Ukraine early on Tuesday and were heard over Kyiv and its region for more than three hours.

CRUCIAL READ

VODAFONE ANNOUNCES LAYOFFS, PLANS TO CUT 11000 JOBS AND REALLOCATE RESOURCES

New Delhi: Vodafone, the British telecom giant, has announced that it will be reducing its global workforce by 11,000 employees over the next 3 years. The decision comes as the company’s share price hit a two-decade low and it seeks to restructure its business to improve its competitive edge and enhance customer experience. The mass layoffs are part of the company’s broader cost savings plan. The new CEO, Margherita Della Valle, has described her vision for a leaner and simpler organisation, with increased commercial agility and resource allocation.

AMAZON LAYOFFS CONTINUE AS COMPANY FIRES 500 EMPLOYEES ACROSS VERTICALS

New Delhi: The world’s largest online retailer Amazon has laid off approximately 500 employees across various verticals in India, said sources. This latest round of layoffs is one of many that CEO Andy Jassy announced in March, affecting approximately 9,000 employees. People who are familiar with the situation stated that the process is ongoing and that employees from the Web Services, Human Resources, and Support departments are being laid off. Some of the affected employees, according to sources, are employed by Amazon’s global teams based in India.

INDIAN BANKER SHOT DEAD WITH AK-47 BY OFF-DUTY

New Delhi: A 39-year-old Indian money lender was shot dead by an off-duty police constable in Uganda’s capital city of Kampala with a stolen AK-47 assault rifle over a 2.1 million shillings (Rs 46,000) loan. According to media reports, 30-yearold Ivan Wabwire opened fire at Uttam Bhandari on May 12. He has been arrested. The incident was recorded on a CCTV installed in the room where the accused shot dead the victim. Chilling footage of the incident has been going viral on social media. The video showed how Wabwire fired multiple rounds of bullets at Bhandari from close range, news agency PTI reported.

Cyclone damages over 230 houses in Mizoram, 41 killed in Myanmar

Scientists warned that storms are getting powerful as world gets warmer

New Delhi (Agencies): Rescuers evacuated about 1,000 people trapped by seawater 3.6 meters (12 feet) deep along western Myanmar’s coast after a powerful cyclone injured hundreds and cut off communications. Six deaths were reported, but the true impact was not yet clear in one of Asia’s least developed countries.

Strong winds injured over 700 of about 20,000 people who were sheltering in sturdier buildings on the highlands of Sittwe township, such as monasteries, pagodas and schools, according to a leader of the Rakhine Youths Philanthropic Association in Sittwe. He asked not to be named due to fear of reprisals from the authorities in the military-run country.

Khan’s bail extended in two cases till June 8

Islamabad (PTI): A Pakistan high court on Tuesday extended bails of former prime minister Imran Khan in two cases pertaining to inciting violence and sedition until June 8.

A single bench of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) heard the pleas in cases pertaining to allegations against top officers of state institutions and the manhandling of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Mohsin Ranjha by Khan’s supporters.

Chief Justice Aamer Farooq after hearing

Khan’s brilliant final over helps LSG beat MI by 5 runs

the arguments by the lawyers extended Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief’s bail till June 8. The extension was given after the court also granted the former prime minister exemption from court appearance for the day.

5th Asian Youth Athletics C’ships: Javelin thrower

Arjun wins silver

Rudy ‘demanded oral sex while on phone to Trump’

Washington (Agencies): Rudy Giuliani has been accused of making an employee perform oral sex on him while he was on the phone to Donald Trump. Noelle Dunphy, 43, who is suing for $10 million in damages and unpaid wages, claimed the former New York mayor subjected her to “wide-ranging sexual assault and harassment”. She claimed he went on “alcoholdrenched rants” that included “sexist, racist” & made her work environment “unbearable”.

MAJOR POWER CUTS AFTER CYCLONE HITS FUEL SUPPLY

Dhaka (Agencies):

Bangladesh faced its worst power cuts in over seven months as a deadly storm forced the closure of both its floating liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals, less than a month after a scorching heatwave caused widespread outages in the country. Cyclone Mocha, one of the strongest storms to hit the region in years, made landfall in Myanmar, south of Bangladesh, at the weekend. Millions of citizens have been hit by frequent power cuts in recent months, as erratic weather patterns and high global energy prices have made fuel supply to power plants unreliable.

EXTENSIVE FLOODING DAMAGE IN SOMALIA, SAYS UNITED NATION

Mogadishu (AP): Floods caused by the annual rains have left “a trail of destruction” across Somalia, a United Nations spokesman said, citing inundated homes and farmland as well as the shutdown of health facilities. “As per estimates by our partners, more than 460,000 people have been impacted, including nearly 219,000 men, women and children who have been displaced due to this (flooding),” Stephane Dujarric said in a statement. At least 5, including 3 children, have been killed in the flooding, Moalim of the Somalia National Disaster Management Agency said.

At least 6 die in New Zealand hostel fire

New Zealand (Agencies): At least six people have died and 30 people are missing after a fire broke out overnight at a four-storey hostel in New Zealand’s capital. Emergency services were called to the Loafers Lodge hostel in the Newtown area of Wellington at about 1.30pm BST on Monday (12.30am local time).

Firefighters found six bodies inside the charred building, but a roof collapse on the top floor prevented them from searching all of the

92-room hostel, emergency services said.

Prime Minister Chris Hipkins said he understands there are likely to be more casualties.

Djokovic surges into 17th straight Rome quarterfinal

New Delhi: Novak

Marcus Stoinis’ unbeaten 89 powers Lucknow to 177 against Mumbai Indians

Lucknow (ANI): Lucknow Super Giants defeated Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL) match held at Bharat Ratna Shri

Atal Bihari Vajpayee

Ekana Cricket Stadium, in Lucknow on Tuesday.

Marcus Stonis’ 89 (47)* powered Lucknow Super Giants to 177/3 in 20 overs against Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL) match here. MI started the game on a strong note as Jason Behren-

STOINIS’S INNING

dorff provided the visitors with an ideal start by picking up two wickets in two balls in the third over. He dismissed the out-of-form batter

Deepak Hooda on 5(7).

Prerak Mankad became his second victim as the young batter tried to place the ball in the offside region but there was a faint outside edge. Mankad walked back towards the dugout with a golden duck in his account with the catch taken by Ishan Kishan.

89*

New Delhi (ANI): Javelin thrower Arjun of Modern Public School Shalimar Bagh (MPS) brought laurels to the country and school by winning the silver medal in the boy’s Javelin Throw at the 5th Asian Youth Athletics Championships held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Arjun, who is only 16 years old and currently in Class 12, threw the Javelin to a distance of 66.99m. This is not the first time that Arjun has made the school proud. He won a silver medal in the last Asian Youth Athletic Championship as well, which was held in Kuwait in 2022.

Djokovic continued the quest for his record-extending 39th ATP Masters 1000 crown on Tuesday when he moved past Cameron Norrie 6-3, 6-4 at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia.

The Serbian suffocated Norrie with his deep aggressive hitting on the Italian clay. He also moved well, sliding freely into shots to pull the Briton around and reach the quarter-finals in Rome for the 17th consecutive year.

WORLD NUMBER 6 ELENA RYBAKINA ADVANCES TO QUARTERFINALS

Rome (IANS): World No. 6 Elena Rybakina advanced to her first Italian open quarterfinal after defeating Marketa Vondrousova 6-3, 6-3, here. The reigning Wimbledon champion will face either two-time defending champion Iga Swiatek or No.24 Donna Vekic in the quarterfinals on Wednesday.

Hyd hosts first-ever drag racing event

Hyderabad (Agencies): Hyderabad had its first ever drag racing speed fest night racing on the city outskirts.

08

runs guided LSG to 177 47 balls with 116.66 SR six and 4 boundries helped him score 89

The racing, considered as the world’s fastest sport and T20 of motorsports, was held at Narsingi on Telangana State Police Academy service road, Special Chief Secretary, Urban Development, Arvind

Kumar, revealed in a tweet on Tuesday. He promised more such events soon. India’s

first-ever drag racing strip is being built in Hyderabad. A 2-lane, one kilometer long drag

strip will be built. Out of this stretch, 400 metres will be used as the drag strip while the rest 600 metres will be used as a shutdown area for vehicles to slow down and come to a halt.

Hyderabad hosted the first-ever Formula E race in February. The 2023 Hyderabad E-Prix was held at picturesque Hussain Sagar Lake.

An aerial view of damage buildings & infrastructure in Myanmar.

A firefighter inspects damage caused by the attack. Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, has been targeted by Russia 8 times so far this month.

An image shows the firefighters dousing a blaze caused by the remains of a downed Russian missile in Kyiv on Tuesday.

Marcus Stoinis and Krunal Pandya cross for a run in IPL match against MI in Lucknow on Tuesday.

UGANDA COP

SHOT DOWN VOLLEY OF RUSSIAN HYPERSONIC MISSILES IN OVERNIGHT ATTACK, SAYS KYIV

The 2.8-km track was laid alongside Hussain Sagar Lake.

Envy and ignorance, are indeed brothers, we usually envy what we do not know and understand in detail.

—Dr

CM OKAYS HIKE IN HONORARIUM OF PART-TIME PRIESTS & TEMPLE REPAIR

Naresh Sharma

Jaipur: In a significant move, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has given his approval to increase the honorarium of part-time priests serving in state direct charge temples. This decision, coupled with a substantial financial provision of Rs 5.93 crore, aims to facilitate temple repairs, decoration, painting, and overall up gradation in a total of 593 temples under the State Devasthan Department.

The approved increase in honorarium is a testament to the Chief Minister’s commitment to recognising the vital role played by part-time priests in religious institutions.

The honorarium for these priests will rise from Rs 3,000 to Rs 5,000 per month, ensuring

l `5.93 cr funded to facilitate temple repairs, decoration, painting, and overall upgradation in a total of 593 temples under the State Devasthan Department

l Honorarium for the priests will rise from ` 3,000 to ` 5,000 per month, ensuring their financial well-being while they continue their sacred duties

Cong’s Co-incharges tour districts to gauge peoples’ pulse

their financial well-being while they continue their sacred duties in various temples. It is worth noting that the honorarium of part-time priests in self-sufficient temples had previously been raised to Rs 5,000 by the State Government.

BUDGET FOR TEMPLE REPAIR & FACELIFT

l Furthermore, the proposal includes a budget allocation of Rs. 5.93 crore, equating to a maximum of Rs. 1 lakh per temple, to undertake repair and upgradation works in 390 state direct charge temples and 203 state self-sufficient temples.

l These vital funds will facilitate necessary improvements, including dressing, painting, and repair works, to ensure the temples’ structural integrity and enhance the spiritual experience for devotees.

`

Jaipur: Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has approved a financial proposal of Rs 19 crore for the construction of 5 family court buildings in Jaipur. For the construction of the buildings of these family courts, the land has already been allotted in the Animal Husbandry Department at Gandhi Nagar in Jaipur. The Court’s building will be constructed by RSRDC and its construction area will be 6656.83 sqm. With this decision of CM Gehlot, there will be ease in redressal of complaints related to family matters. Along with this, the personnel and complainants working in the court will get better facilities and environment.

Jaipur: Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has approved a financial proposal of Rs 45.64 crore under the Urban Water Supply Scheme at Rawatsar tehsil in Hanumangarh district of the Rajasthan. Rawatsar Urban Water Supply Scheme has been designed keeping in mind the population of the year 2054. With this decision of the Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, the increased drinking water needs of the residents of the area will be met in the coming times. It is noteworthy to mention here that the announcement in this regard was made by the Chief Minister in the State Budget for the year 2023-24.

NEW

HOMOEOPATHIC DISPENSARIES AT 225 BLOCK HQs IN RAJ

Jaipur: Homoeopathic dispensaries will be opened at 225 block headquarters in Rajasthan to strengthen the health infrastructure of the State and provide treatment to the common people at the local level. The Rajasthan government has approved the proposal to open these dispensaries along with the creation of 450 new posts for the same, according to an official statement. According to the proposal, one Homoeopathy Medical Officer and one Junior Nurse or Compounder will be appointed in each dispensary. Rs 1.80 crore has been sanctioned for providing medicines and furniture in these dispensaries.

CONG LEADERS HIT OUT AT THOSE LEVELLING GRAFT CHARGES AGAINST GEHLOT GOVT

First India News

Jaipur: PHED Minister

Dr Mahesh Joshi on Tuesday, slammed Congress leaders who have mounted an attack on the Gehlot government, saying it was surprising and disappointing that some responsible people were making allegations of corruption against the government.

Congress MLA from Didwana, Chetan Dudi also hit out at those lashing out against the government. The two leaders came out in defence of the Ashok Gehlot government a day after Pilot and Sainik Kalyan Minister Rajendra Gudha levelled fresh corruption allegations during Pilot’s rally in Jaipur.

Without naming Gudha over remarks that

Those who have made allegations know it well that in matter of corruption, the CM has taken strong action by following policy of zero tolerance & ACB’s actions against the corrupt are indicative of this.

—Dr Mahesh Joshi, PHED Minister

Raj govt was going beyond “40% commission of Karnataka govt”, Joshi said, “Such leaders should have thought before accusing their own govt that they in a

Till date no leader in history has made such a demand. Strict actions that have been taken on paper leak in Rajasthan have not been taken in any other state. The youths know this fact very well.

—Chetan Dudi, Congress Leader

way levelling these allegations on themselves too.”

Dudi tweeted, “Don’t you (Pilot) know that RPSC is an independent constitutional body

which can never be dissolved? Even resignation of RPSC member is accepted by President. Why are you confusing the youth?.” Dudi also took a dig at Pilot over Union Min GS Shekhawat’s tweet after his rally where he shared a photo & video clipping of Pilot’s rally, & said, “A large group of Congress workers & leaders in Raj, ‘through whose hard work govt came’, today itself is calling its govt corrupt.”

Dudi wrote, “Raj’s biggest scam is Sanjeevani scam where lakhs of people’s houses were looted, but in rally, main accused’s name wasn’t taken & main accused tweeted in praise of Pilot after rally. This truth rally because friendship has been there since the time of Manesar.”

Jaipur: Congress coincharge Qazi Nizamuddin responded on Sachin Pilot’s ultimatum saying, “Last time we formed the govt together. Every state’s situation is different every time. Congress HQ is keeping a close watch on entire development. After formation of govt in Karnataka there will be discussion about Raj. Will meet everyone now & take feedback,” he said. Meanwhile, another co-incharge Virender Singh Rathore said, “We are all one family. Everyone will contest polls together & our govt will be formed. We will take feedback from Congress leaders and workers and after this we will prepare the report and send it to the high command.”

THE SUCCESS CONTINUES...

Jaipur: After the resounding victory in Karnataka, Congress has now started focusing on Rajasthan. Under this, to win Mission Rajasthan 2023, the AICC has finalised the district visits of 3 State co-in charges. Their district-wise programmes have begun from May 16. Local issues will be identified in this tour.

The ground reality of state govt’s programmes and their effects will also be examined and tested.

Along with this, assembly-wise feedback will also be taken. In this, antiincumbency against the MLA will also be examined and tested.

The opinion of workers and public

l Cong Co-incharge Qazi Mohd Nizamuddin will visit Churu, Bikaner, Hanumangarh, Sriganganagar, Sikar, Jhunjhunu, Nagaur, Bhilwara, Kota, Bundi and Sawai Madhopur.

l Amrrita Dhawan will see peoples’ pulse in Jaipur, Alwar, Dausa, Tonk, Ajmer, Dhaulpur, Bharatpur, Karauli. l Virender Singh Rathore will visit Baran, Jhalawar, Pratapgarh, Rajsamand, Banswara, Chittorgarh, Dungarpur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Barmer, Jodhpur, Jalore, Pali and Sirohi.

will be taken about the plans of Gehlot govt. A detailed report of how party is benefitted will also be prepared and given to AICC & Raj govt will also be told about it so that suggestions can be executed.

ACS Agarwal raps officer for tardy progress of JJM

Dr Agarwal told Meena to take two months’ leave and go to Mussoorie

Naresh Sharma

Jaipur: ACS Dr Subodh Aggarwal expressed displeasure during the meeting of the PHED Department on Tuesday over the working style of Chief Engineer, RK Meena and the tardy pace of Jal Jeevan Mission.

DrAgarwal told Meena to take two months’ leave and go to Mussoorie and said that he would also sponsor his holiday. Around half-adozen notices have been issued to Meena.

A miffed Agarwal said that notice also does not have any effect on Meena.

“I think you are the

Dr Subodh Agarwal chairs a review meeting of PHED Department in Jaipur on Tuesday. Also seen are Avichal Chaturvedi, Ram Prakash, RK Meena, Dalip Gaur, Dinesh Goyal, Rakesh Luhadiya, Neeraj Mathur and others.

I think you are the smartest officer in the Department, but your smartness will not work on me.

—Dr Subodh Agarwal, ACS, PHED

smartest officer in the Department, but your smartness will not work on me,” ACS, PHED, Dr Subodh Agarwal said.

JJM TO BE MONITORED BY THIRD PARTY Jaipur: The works done under Jal Jeevan Mission will be inspected by a third party. WSSO has handed over the work to a company, which will start taking samples in Jaipur this month. The company will prepare a report which will be handed over to ACS PHED, Dr Subodh Agarwal. There has been negligence in the work of the mission at many places in the State. Also, there were repeated complaints regarding poor work and corruption.

RHB bags ‘Golden Globe Awards’ in two categories in Malaysia

lll City Park was selected for the ‘Best Environment Friendly Projects’ & Coaching Hub for ‘Excellence in Innovation’ category

Shivendra Parmar

Jaipur: The echo and success stories of the Rajasthan Housing Board are now being heard outside the state and the country as well as in foreign countries.

In this episode, Rajasthan Housing Board has been awarded ‘The Golden Globe Awards for Excellence and Leadership’ for ‘Best Environment Friendly Projects’ and ‘Best Innovative Project of the

Year’ by the jury of the World HRD Council on Tuesday morning in Malaysia. Due to busy administrative schedule, the RHB Commissioner himself didn’t go and sent the engineers to Malaysia to receive the award.

Chief Engineer-I KC Meena, Additional Chief Engineers Sanjay Poonia and Amit Agarwal received the award on behalf of RHB in the presence of thousands of people during a

was selected for the ‘Best Environment Friendly Projects’ and the Coaching Hub at Pratap Nagar was selected for the ‘Excellence in Innovation’ category by the World HRD Congress.

RHB Commissioner Pawan Arora said that the constant number of awards in the Board’s bag indicates the commitment and faith of the common man towards RHB & that the series of awards will

continue. Arora congratulated the employees of the Board for all the honours & awards.

It is noteworthy that in last four years under RHB Commissioner Pawan Arora’s leadership, the RHB has received a total of 17 awards. These include World Book of Records in House Sales, SKOCH Award-2021, Award of Excellence, Honour by National Real Estate Devp Council, National Housing Award etc.

The several awards in RHB’s kitty indicate peoples’ faith and committement towards the Rajasthan Housing Board. RHB would continue this series of winning various awards in future as well. —Pawan Arora, RHB Commissioner

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot addresses a delegation of employees from Electricity Department, who called upon the CM at CMR on Tuesday. Members of the delegation expressed their gratitude to the Chief Minister for bringing the employees and officers of Power Corporations under the purview of OPS. Gehlot said that the OPS has been implemented for government employees from a humanitarian point of view. Bhanwar Singh Bhati, GS Dotasra and AK Gupta were also present.

`19 CR APPROVED FOR CONSTRUCTION OF 5 FAMILY COURT BUILDINGS

45.64 CRORE UNDER THE URBAN WATER SUPPLY SCHEME AT RAWATSAR

Yogesh Sharma

Amrrita Dhawan VS Rathore Qazi Nizamuddin CO-INCHARGES’ TOUR ITINERARY

RHB Engineers KC Meena, Sanjay Poonia and Amit Agarwal receive the ‘The Golden Globe Tigers Awards for Excellence and Leadership’ on RHB Commissioner Pawan Arora’s behalf during a programme held at Pullman Kuala Lumpur City Centre - Hotel & Residences in Malaysia on Tuesday.

In the realm of fashion, few garments hold the same mystique and captivating charm as the timeless evening gown. These exquisite creations embody elegance, sophistication and an undeniable sense of occasion.

With their flowing silhouettes, luxurious fabrics and meticulous craftsmanship, evening gowns continue to be the epitome of glamour, making an indelible impression at red-carpet events, galas and other

CITY FIRST BRINGS TO YOU THE SIGNIFICANCE OF EVENING GOWNS THAT EVOKE A SENSE OF GRACE AND POISE...

formal occasions. Evening gowns possess an ageless allure that transcends fleeting trends. Their sweeping lines and carefully tailored cuts flatter the female form, evoking a sense of grace and poise. Crafted from sumptuous fabrics such as silk, chiffon, satin, or velvet, these gowns drape the body with a whisper of luxury, imparting a regal aura to the wearer. The marriage of exceptional design and meticulous construction ensures that each gown exudes an air of opulence and refinement. The allure of an evening gown lies in the intricate details that enhance its beauty. From delicate beadwork

and sequins to intricate lace appliqués, designers meticulously craft these embellishments to add depth, texture, and visual interest. Additionally, elegant necklines, back cutouts, and illusion fabrics create captivating focal points, highlighting the wearer’s assets and adding an element of surprise.

Each detail is carefully considered, contributing to the overall enchantment of the gown.

While the timeless elegance of black and shades of white remains a perennial favourite, evening gowns have expanded their colour palette to include vibrant hues and soft pastels.

Jewel tones like sap-

SHUBHANSHI PATHAK cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

TOO BUSY TO BE FIT?

Try Netflix and Uphill

courses, and desserts you consume. We've all heard that "what gets measured gets better over time," and the same is true for your eating habits.

HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR SLEEP QUALITY DESPITE A BUSY SCHEDULE?

To put it another way, if you have time to charge your phone overnight, you should make time to refresh yourself as well. Sleep is one of the foundations of good health; strive for 7-8 hours of sleep per day. The best thing to do is to stick to the same sleep routine every day. But, be-

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be difficult, especially for those with demanding schedules. Finding time

when you're short on time.

WHAT CHANGES CAN YOU MAKE TO BECOME MORE ACTIVE DURING THE DAY?

Even if you have a busy schedule, making

of the phone calls while walking around, try to take the stairs whenever possible, and hey, if you're watching Netflix, watch it while walking on

you always have someone to go out with. Make a friend in the gym where you exercise, or in the park where you walk, or if you want to go deep, get a decent personal trainer.

WHAT MEASURES CAN YOU TAKE TO MAKE FITNESS A HABIT, EVEN IF YOUR LIFE IS HECTIC?

Fitness training should be scheduled just like any other crucial meeting with oneself. If you make it a priority to do it regularly for a month, you'll be able to do it for three

cause that's difficult (and boring), get in and out of bed at least six days a week. And never miss the afternoon snooze after lunch on Sundays—it's

WHO COULD YOU ENLIST AS A WORKOUT PARTNER

months, then continue for twelve, and eventually make it your lifestyle. Health cannot be purchased; it must be earned, and you can only do so if you do not cancel your appointment. To summarize, being busy does not have to be an excuse for neglecting your health. Even with a hectic schedule, it is feasible to maintain a healthy lifestyle with the right systems, structures, strategies, and prioritizing. That said, it's not simple, and we may make mistakes now and again - that's

HIGHLIGHTS

● Making small changes to your routine can help you be more active, such as taking the stairs or walking while on the phone or Netflix and Uphill

● Food tracking can be an effective way to improve eating habits by increasing awareness of food choices

● Prioritizing fitness and making it a habit through regular scheduling can lead to a healthier lifestyle, even with a busy schedule

fine. Because fitness is about getting our act together, feeling good about ourselves, and enjoying life to the fullest!

https://www.medindia.net/news/ lifestyleandwellness/too-busy-to-be-fittry-netflix-and-uphill-211407-1.htm

FACEOFTHEDAY

YOUR DAY

Horoscope by Saurabbh Sachdeva

ARIES

MAR 21 - APR 20

Limiting some items from your diet will have a positive effect on your health. There is much to achieve today and you will find yourself up to it. Academic front seems favourable. You are likely to buy something you have been longing for.

LEO

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

Financial front remains rosy and promises to bring in gains. Good professional guidance may become the key to further your career. A family member may make you proud with an achievement. Spending time with friends is possible. Some of you may decide to take your romance.

SAGITTARIUS

NOV 23 - DEC 22

TAURUS

APR 21 - MAY 20

Your bank balance is likely to swell and make you financially secure. Buying something expensive for the house is indicated. Responsibilities are likely to increase manifold. Those feeling lethargic and unwell may get back on the path to perfect health.

VIRGO

AUG 24 - SEP 23

Someone’s good advice will help in making the right decisions on the academic front. Things start looking up on the health front as you manage to remain regular in your workouts.Some of you can book tickets to someplace exotic.Overall health remains perfect.

CAPRICORN

DEC 23 - JAN 20

GEMINI

MAY 21 - JUNE 21

Family issues that are leading to disputes are likely to be resolved amicably. There is a chance of somebody taking you along for a function or a party. Keeping track of something or someone may prove an uphill task. Your standing in your circle is likely to get a boost.

LIBRA

SEPT 24 - OCTOBER 22

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

AQUARIUS

JAN 21 - FEB 19

CANCER

JUNE 22 - JULY 23

Problems faced on the financial front are likely to disappear.Something may keep you from realizing your full potential on the academic front. A practical solution may be found for a complex problem at work. Those in love will feel much closer now, than before.

SCORPIO

OCT 23 - NOVEMBER 22

Something new may be acquired for the home by homemakers. An initiative on the health front is likely to give rich dividends. Those involved in a project will be able to give a good account of themselves. You despise is likely to turn over a new leaf, so let bygones be bygones.

PISCES

FEB20 - MARCH 20

ADITI, Model

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

This is a positive day that proves special for some. Meditate to embark on a new spiritual journey. You will be able to regain lost ground on the academic front to come at par with the rest. Excellent showing at work will get you hand-picked for an important assignment.

Something being organised on the social front may get you totally involved. Expect immediate returns from the investments made by you. Workload is likely to increase on the professional front. This is a fine day on the financial front. Good understanding and mutual respect is likely to enhance.

Going the extra mile for someone will be greatly appreciated by all. Someone may not agree to your terms but that should not affect your productivity. You will get a chance to tap your potential on the professional front and impress those who matter.

DISHA UPS THE HOTNESS QUOTIENT

D

isha Patani is one of the fittest actresses in the industry. She often treats fans with her stunning videos from the gym and set major fitness goals.

Failing lie detector test

breathtaking picture with her fans. In the picture, Disha is up ping the hotness quotient in a black bikini. She is seen flaunting her hourglass figure while chill ing by the pool. The actress is beating the heat in the most glam orous way possible. Disha shared the picture on Instagram without any caption. Soon after she shared the picture, netizens went gaga over it. A lot of people were seen dropping fire emojis in the comments section.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

'Perceived as intelligent'

Megan Fox and Kourtney Kardashian have been friends for a while and another showcase of their camaraderie was the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit interview where the latter asked the former questions. Keep reading to know more details about the interview and the questions asked between the two celebrities. Kardashian started the questions by asking why Fox wanted to be interviewed by

her to which the latter re plied that she needed a sim ilar energy, instead of some fake Hollywood energy. The Poosh founder then re sponded that she would also pick the actress if given the chance. When Fox was asked about the importance of fe male friends, she re plied, "The way women have to walk through life is so different than how men have to walk through life."

DONNING HER TRANS FLAG!

Kim Petras has spoken up about being transgender, her thoughts on gender identity, and how she felt receiving her first Grammy award this year. Petras made history by becoming the first openly transgender woman to win a Grammy when she was honoured with the Best Pop Duo award for her viral song Unholy with Sam Smith. She says it was an "insane life moment" that was "so unexpected" and "completely incredible."

Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas are one of the hottest couples. Well, Priyanka was on a promotional spree to promote her movie Love Again. In a recent interview, she took a lie detector test where she first lied about Nick being a good actor but later admitted that he might need a lesson or two in acting. Further talking about Nick’s acting skills, the actress revealed that she thinks he is an excellent actor. When the interviewer said it was a lie, she corrected herself, “He is a phenomenal actor.” As she was pulled up for lying again, she admitted, “I keep lying about his acting.” Although the actress revealed that she did not give any acting lessons to Nick this time when they shot for Love Again. However, she admitted that if they ever get cast again in a film, she will teach him.

Trip to London!

J

Megan Fox

T

aylor Swift recently called out a member of the security team during the Philadelphia stop of her Eras Tour, as he was being aggressive with a fan. After the show was over, Taylor’s team reportedly talked to the fan and even gave her free tickets to another one of her Eras Tour shows. Kelly got on her friend’splain the situation in her own words. “I was the girl that Taylor talked to last night. Basically, the guard had been harassing our group all night, just to like...he just kept telling us not to touch the rail and like anytime we did anything he was on top of us. And

Taylor noticed that I was having fun and that he didn’t like it, and she didn’t like it, and then he basically, like, got escort-

On the afternoon of Monday, May 15, Justin Bieber was photographed walking out of a restaurant in London, England. He was accompanied by Hailey and her longtime friend Justine Skye. The two ladies were seen clicking a few pictures on Justine’s phone, as they waited for Justin to join them in the car.

ustin Bieber and Hailey Bieber flew across continents and reached London after having spent a few days in New York City.Going by the pictures shared on Just Jared, Justin Bieber was seen donning a light brown jacket over a striped blue and white shirt. He wore a pair of dark blue denim pants. The Peaches singer also held a cup of coffee in his hands. Hailey, on the other hand, was seen donning an oversized black leather jacket with dark blue denim pants. She wore her hair with a middle parting and accessorized the look with a pair of golden earrings.

TAYLOR SUPPORTED HER FAN

Kim Petras Taylor Swift

Hailey Bieber

Vicky Kaushal

Disha Patani

Priyanka Chopra

www.firstindia.co.in I https://firstindia.co.in/epapers/jaipur I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia

GREETINGS!

BIRTHDAY BASH!

Governor Kalraj Mishra was greeted by Indramani Maharaj, Guru of Jai Shri Narayan Pariwar at Raj Bhawan on Tuesday and discussed religion and spirituality. During the event, Guru Indramani Maharaj shared his plans for the upcoming Guru Purnima celebrations. He revealed that on this occasion, in the name of Dada Gurudev Shyamsundracharya Maharaj and Gurumata Amma, individuals who have made exceptional contributions, art, literature, will be honored. Governor Mishra expressed his admiration for Guru Indramani Maharaj and commended the significant work being carried out in the realm of religion and spirituality.

RISK AND CHALLENGES OF CERVICAL CANCER

Vinnie Soni, supermodel celebrated her birthday with much fervour and enthusiasm at PINT HOUSE, Jaipur on Tuesday, May 16. Jagdeesh Chandra reached to bless the birthday girl on the occasion and wished her huge success.

Various who’s who of the city including Gaurav

Gaur, director of Elite Miss Rajasthan along with various supermodels including Akanksha Bhalla, Shrishti Khatri, Shwe-

MY

CITY FIRST

ta Raje and friends and family reached to greet the beauty.

On the occasion, the diva said, “I am overwhelmed by the love

and blessings bestowed upon me. I want to express my gratitude to Jagdeesh Chandra sir for making my birthday so memorable. I am

blessed to celebrate my special day with Gaurav Gaur and my EMR fam, truly a great day it was.” cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

FM DEKHTA HAIN...

In a groundbreaking move to promote traffic safety and abide by traffic regulations, radio station ‘94.3 My FM’ has temporarily relocated its studio to Jaipur’s largest Rambagh Circle. This initiative aims to ensure strict adherence to traffic rules and minimize accidents for the welfare of all Jaipurites. The campaign, titled “My FM dekhta hain...,” will closely monitor the activities of individuals passing through the Rambagh Circle intersection.

The campaign was officially launched by Prahlad Singh Krishniya, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Traffic, Jaipur. The event witnessed the presence of Traffic Jaipur ADCP, Rajendra, TI- Praveen Kumar, ASIAbdul Salim, and Constable Prem Singh.

Applauding the efforts of My FM, Prahlad Singh Krishniya commended the campaign as a

NATWAR @ 94!

People from Bharatpur with K Natwar Singh on his 94th birthday

Colposcopy Workshop and CME on Cervical Cancer Prevention was organised by the Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Center, JNU on Tuesday. In this workshop, colposcopy specialist and trainer Dr. Priya Ganesh Kumar trained all the participants present during the special session about the diagnosis of cervi-

cal cancer, so that they can provide health benefits to women by treating them in an advanced way in their field of work. He said that this is a matter of great concern but doctors can save lives only if the disease is identified on time. Due to lack of awareness and timely screening, many women all over the world have to lose their lives from cervical cancer. And trainer Dr Pri-

ya Ganesh Kumar has examined thousands of doctors from the country and abroad for the prevention of cervical cancer. A lecture session on the risk and challenges of cervical cancer in women was also held, in which about 200 participants participated. MGH along with many renowned doctors and experts expressed their views.

Informative Seminar

The 94th birthday of Natwar Singh, the former Foreign Minister, was celebrated on Tuesday, May 16. During the special day, wishes poured in from various political leaders, family and friends. In a special conversation with First India, Singh shared his experiences and expressed his admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and achievements in foreign policy. On his 94th birthday, he also shared his insights on the recent victory in Karnataka and predicted that BJP would triumph in the upcoming 2024 elections.

commendable endeavor to raise public awareness about traffic rules. He emphasized the significance of wearing helmets and seat belts, highlighting that 80% of accidents could be prevented by following these simple safety measures.

DGP Krishnan also stressed the importance of adhering to zebra crossings, traffic signals,

In memory of the Hero!

avoiding honking, and refraining from driving on the wrong side of the road, as these seemingly small habits contribute to overall traffic safety.

Over the next five days, My FM’s popular RJs, including Karthik, Chhavi, Naini, Mohit, and Ishaan, will actively engage with the city residents from the Rambagh Circle itself.

CITY FIRST

The first Death Anniversary of Colonel Dharam Vir, Hero of the Battle of Laungewala 1971 Indo-Pak War was commemorated on Tuesday.

Colonel Dharam Vir was born at Village, Ghudani Kaian District, Ludhiana, Punjab and passed away on 16 May 2022 at his

To celebrate Mother’s Day, Shilpi Foundation organised an event at the Hotel The Grand Majestic in Bani Park recently. Food and Supplies Minister Pratap Singh Khachariyawas was present as the chief guest in the program while Dr Archana Sharma, President of the Social Welfare Board, health experts of Shalby Hospital, Dr Ritu Gupta, Dr Abhilasha Mann, Reshma Khan, Vijendra Doda, Lakshmi Ashok were present as special guests. Dr Manoj Mudrigal and former Mayor Jyoti Khandelwal were also present on the occasion. All the women including Archana Sharma, and Shilpi Agarwal celebrated Mother’s Day by cutting the cake.

CITY FIRST

residence in Gurgaon, at the age of 76 after a prolonged illness.

Remembering his father on this sombre occasion, Lt Col Gaurav

City First extends its warmest congratulations to Adhyatm Jagdhari for securing excellent marks in the CBSE 12th Board Examinations this year.

Bhakhri son of Col Dharm Vir talked about the account of the Battle of Laungewala and said, “The intimation as told by my father about the advance and intrusion of Pak forces towards Laungewala was initially not believed and none in the Army Hierarchy had imagined in wildest of dreams that such major offensive could be planned

On Tuesday, under the joint aegis of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Bal Sahitya Academy and Rajiv Gandhi Study Circle (RGSC), Prof. Second lecture ceremony was organised in memory of PC Vyas. Chief speaker Prof. in the program organised at Academy Complex located in Jhalana Dungri. Purushottam Agarwal addressed the people present in the auditorium on the topic “Today Nehru”. He said in his statement that to understand Nehru today, we must first understand today. Nehru told

by Pakistan. It was only after repetitive assurance given by my father, Capt Dharam Vir, that the cognizance was taken and further course of action was planned. The role played by then

the children in one of his articles in the children’s magazine that you may belong to any religious community, but your real identity is Indian.

The lecture was presided over by Prof. By BM Sharma. Pro. Dr. Kanika Sharma, daughter of PC Vyas expressed gratitude for organizing the programme. Rajasthan University Vice Chancellor Prof. in the program. Rajeev Jain, Vice Chancellor of Haridev Joshi Journalism University Prof. Sudhi Rajeev, Prof. PC Trivedi, Prof. DC Chudawat and other dignitaries were present. cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

Captain Dharam Vir was significantly leading to a decisive victory in the Battle, which also led to the subsequent epic surrender by Pak forces in the 1971 War”.

Colonel Dharam Vir’s role was depicted by Akshaye Khanna in the famous movie ‘BORDER’ which was based on the battle of Laungewala.

Jagdeesh Chandra extends his blessings, as Vinnie Soni cuts the birthday cake. Also seen are (L-R) Akanksha Bhalla, Shrishti Khatri, Rishika, Varunavi Singh and Devshree Hada Jagdeesh Chandra with Vinnie Soni

(L-R) Shweta Raje, Sheena Parashar, Rishika Chandani, Khushi Vijay, Tripti Arora, Vinnie Soni, Tripti Sharma, Soni Yadav, Himakshi Choudhary and Tanu Choudhary

Vinnie Soni and Gaurav Gaur

MY FM RJs and Traffic Police educated riders through slogan

MY FM RJ Chhavi, RJ Kartik and RJ Eshan with DCP Prahlad Singh and Traffic Police team during the event

Late Colonel Dharam Vir

Dr Sandeep Bakshi and Preeti Bakshi with others during the event

Satish Ray, PC Trivedi, Dr Purushottam Agarwal, Dr B M Sharma, Dr Rajeev Jain, Sudhi Rajeev, Ikram Rajasthani and DC Chudawat

Adhyatm Jagdhari

—PHOTOS