First India-Jaipur Edition-21st March 2023

ROYAL BENGAL TIGER ‘KILLS’ ELDERLY WOMAN IN ODISHA

Bhubaneswar: A 70-year old woman was eaten by a suspected Royal Bengal Tiger (RBT) in Jalmadei village, located in the fringe of Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary in Nuapada dist on Sunday night. Sanamti Barik had gone to fetch firewood from forest.

ED GRILLS BRS LEADER KAVITHA FOR OVER 10 HOURS

New Delhi: BRS leader K Kavitha was quizzed by the ED for more than 10 hours on Monday in a Delhi excise policy-linked money laundering case and has been called again on March 21, officials said.

JAPAN BRINGS NEW $75 BN INDO-PACIFIC PLAN

PM Narendra Modi held bilateral talks with his Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida

Moni Sharma

New Delhi: PM Narendra Modi on Monday held wide-ranging talks with his Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida to expand India-Japan partnership for a peaceful, stable and prosperous post-Covid world.

Kishida arrived in Delhi on Monday on a twoday visit. He visited Rajghat, paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi. Japanese PM will ramp up bilateral ties in a range of areas & explore convergence between India’s presidency of G20, Japan’s presidency of G7 to address global problems.

Japan’s PM Fumio Kishida announced new plan for an open and free Indo-Pacific, promising billions of dollars in investment to help economies across region in everything from industry to disaster prevention. He pledged $75 bn to IndoPacific by 2030 through pvt investments & yen loans, and the ramping up of aid through official governmental assistance and grants. P6

India indispensable: Japan PM hails India as 2 nations unveil Indo-Pacific plan to counter China

We discussed boosting IndiaJapan ties in sectors like defence, healthcare, technology, and other issues. We also discussed ways to increase competitiveness in logistics, food processing, MSME, textiles and more.

MHA SUGGESTS CBI INQUIRY AGAINST HARSH MANDER’S NGO

New Delhi: Ministry of Home Affairs has recommended a CBI inquiry into Aman Biradari, an organisation run by so-called activist Harsh Mander for FCRA violations. Harsh was part of the controversial NAC headed by then-UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi.

Cops: Amritpal still at large; his uncle & driver surrender

 Father and uncle claim that Amritpal Singh has been arrested  Internet, SMS services suspended by Punjab govt till today

 Amritpal, aides on NIA’s radar after recovery of the illegal arms

First India Bureau

BIGGER INDIAN FLAG PLACED, BRITISH DY HIGH COMMISSIONER SUMMONED

PM Narendra Modi meets his Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida, at Hyderabad House, Delhi on Monday.

—Narendra Modi, Prime Minister

LANGUAGE AND BULLET TRAIN

INDIA, JAPAN SIGN 2 DOCS ON COOPERATION ON JAPANESE

A t a special briefing by Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra said, “There were two documents signed on the sidelines- Renewal of MOC (Memorandum of Cooperation) in the Japanese language, essentially focussing on higher level language learning and second agreement was Exchange of notes on JICA loan for 300 bn on Mumbai-Ahmedabad highspeed railway project.”

A sealed cover: Supreme Court again repeats ‘no’, this time over OROP case

First India Bureau

New Delhi: SC on Monday directed Centre to clear all One Rank One Pension (OROP) arrears totalling ` 28,000 crore for ex-servicemen by Feb 28, 2024, saying govt is duty-bound to comply with its 2022 judgement. A bench headed by CJI DY Chandrachud also took note of Centre’s sealed cover report giving details on OROP dues to retired military personnel, saying it wanted to “put an end to this sealed cover procedure”.

OTHER TOP RAJ STORIES

A single-judge bench of Rajasthan HC on Monday quashed FIR against the RSS regional pracharak Nimbaram who was named as an accused in a bribery case by ACB. P10

A revenue department official, Omprakash Meghwal, was arrested by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) for allegedly taking a bribe of `2.25 lakh in Nagaur district on Monday, officials said. P9

A man was abducted from Ajmer district and his nose cut off allegedly by the family members of his wife who did not approve of their marriage, police said on Monday. P3

PEE-GATE: WOMAN VICTIM MOVES SC

A 72-year-old woman, at the Centre of headlines after a co-passenger allegedly urinated on her on board a New York-Delhi Air India flight last Nov, has moved the SC seeking a direction to the DGCA and airlines to frame SOPs to deal with such incidents.

PM MODI THANKS

JAPANESE PM FOR G-7 SUMMIT INVITE

PM Modi received formal invitation of Japanese PM Kishida to the G7 summit in Japan. PM Modi also emphasised importance of leading 2 significant summits, G20 and G7, by respective countries. Modi thanked Kishida.

3 FIRs AGAINST KHERA TRANSFERRED TO Lko

The SC on Monday clubbed three FIRs lodged against Congress leader Pawan Khera for allegedly making objectionable remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and transferred them to the Hazratganj police station in Uttar Pradesh’s Lucknow.

FIX HC JUDGES’ APPT ISSUES: PARL PANEL

A Parliamentary panel has asked the government to “fix all bottlenecks” responsible for delays in the appointment of high court judges, saying the vacancies must be filled with the same zeal as shown in the appointment of Supreme Court judges.

G Club firing accused Hrithik held from Nepal

Satyanarayan Sharma

Jaipur: In a major breakthrough, Jaipur police have caught a wanted criminal and Lawrence Bishnoi gang member Hrithik Boxer , who carries a cash reward of `1L on head, from Nepal border. He had claimed responsibility for firing on a club here for demanding extorting money from its owner on 28 Jan on behalf of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. He has been charged over a dozen

cases related to firing, extortion against him.

Jaipur Police Commissioner Anand Kumar Srivastava said Hrithik has been allegedly involved in threatening businessmen with dire consequences and extorting money in diff dists. P3

It gives me great pleasure to be able to unveil my new vision on the soil of India which is our indispensable partner in realising Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP).

—Fumio Kishida, Japan PM

Chandigarh: Search op by Punjab Police to arrest Khalistani leader Amritpal Singh continued for 3rd day across State. He has now been declared a fugitive.

Amritpal Singh’s driver Harpreet and uncle Harijeet have surrendered before police in Mehatpur and sources said they were taken to police station. During the day, Tarsem Singh, Amritpal’s father said, “It is impossible to abscond when he being

DOCS CANED BY COPS!

Doctors hold protest against Right To Health Bill in Jaipur

India summoned British deputy high commissioner and demanded an explanation over complete “absence of security” after videos of pulling down of the Indian flag at Indian mission in London. MEA said India finds “unacceptable” indifference of UK govt to security of Indian diplomatic premises, personnel in UK. Meanwhile, Indian High Commission placed a bigger tricolour after vandalism by Amritpal supporters.

chased by huge force. I suspect that my son he has been arrested.” NIA may probe Amritpal, 7

of his aides over charge of possessing illegal arms - Arms Act cases included in NIA Act. P6

Xi Jinping meets ‘dear friend’ Putin in Moscow

First India Bureau

Moscow: Chinese President Xi Jinping met his “dear friend” Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Monday, seeking both to deepen economic ties with an ally he sees as a useful counterweight to West & to promote Beijing’s role as a potential peacemaker in Ukraine.

Xi was the first leader to meet the Russian president since the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for him on Friday over the deportation of Ukrainian

children to Russia during its year-old invasion of Ukraine.

Xi Jinping said that he was sure that people in Russians would support President Putin in presidential elections that are due in 2024.

IT IS A MATTER OF PRIDE FOR US TO HONOR GUV GULAB CHAND KATARIA, SAYS GEHLOT

 The battle of ideology goes on, but personal relations have their own place, Gehlot stresses

 Notably, while CM Gehlot was addressing the Assembly, Kataria was smiling at Gehlot’s words

Naresh Sharma, Yogesh Sharma, Aishwary Pradhan

Jaipur: Assam Governor Gulab Chand Kataria said that such a democracy should be built in the country in which all people participate. The longer House runs, the better we will be able to keep the public’s point, Kataria said while addressing a sem-

inar on “Role of Legislature in promoting effective, meaningful democracy” organized under the aegis of Rajasthan branch of Commonwealth Parliamentary Association in the State Assembly on Monday.

Assam Governor Gulab Chand Kataria said that he will serve people of Assam and Rajasthan by staying within ambit

of his post & will maintain honor and dignity of Rajasthan. “It is not correct right now, to talk about what is hap-

pening in Parl. Kataria

ji has come for 1st time, so I will not say any such thing that would bother,” CM said. P10

I will increase the honor of Rajasthan. Whatever happens in the house, we get to hear problems of every constituency. Participating in a meaningful debate gives info about every field.

—Gulab Chand Kataria, Assam Governor

I have been appealing to PM Modi for 4 years and used to ask for the promotion of Kataria. Now he has been made Governor of Assam. Thanks to PM Modi ji for listening to me. I hope Kataria ji will convey my words to the PM.

—Ashok Gehlot, CM

Police personnel flag march at Heritage street near the Golden Temple, in Amritsar on Monday.

Doctors protesting against State govt’s Right to health bill were thrashed by police personnel when they tried to gherao the Assembly in Jaipur on Monday. In the scuffle, clothes of many protesters got torn and many were left bleeding. Full Report on P3 —PHOTO BY SUNIL SHARMA

‘Aam Panna’ talks! PM Modi visits the Buddha Jayanti Park with Fumio Kishida on Monday.

Chinese President Xi Jinping meets Russian President Vladimir Putin to deepen ties in Moscow on Monday.

Assam Governor Gulab Chand Kataria being felicitated by Speaker Dr CP Joshi in presence of CM Ashok Gehlot, Shanti Dhariwal, Rajendra Rathore, Sanyam Lodha and others in Rajasthan Assembly on Monday.

UPROAR IN ASSEMBLY OVER CROP DAMAGE

GOVT CITES DATA, OPPN STAGES WALKOUT

Meghwal says, girdawari orders issued on Jan 29, 30 for 33% crop damage in Kota and Udaipur; on March 8, directions were issued for special girdawari; report shows 8,293 farmers were

Naresh Sharma, Yogesh Sharma & Aishwary Pradhan

Jaipur: BJP MLAs created uproar in the house over the issue of damage to crops due to rainfall and hailstorms and staged a walk out.

Cornering the State Government over the issue, Deputy Leader of Opposition Rajendra Rathore said claims have not been released to the farmers till date.

He expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s reply following which the Opposition staged a walkout.

In his reply, Disaster Management and Relief Minister Govind Ram Meghwal informed the house that girdawari is being conducted to assess losses to crops due to the rainfall and the farmers will be provided relief under SDRF norms.

He said that the issue will be taken up with the Chief Minister for a special package to farmers.

Meghwal said that directions have been issued for the payment of agricultural input subsidy to eligible farmers affected by damage due to frost, cold waves and hailstorms in the month of December-January.

Assistance will be provided to the farmers affected by crop failure in the months of January to March as per the SDRF norms.

ASSEMBLY PASSES RAJ MUNICIPALITY (AMENDMENT) BILL BY VOICE VOTE

Local Self-Government Department Minister Shanti

Dhariwal said that under the Rajasthan Municipalities (Amendment) Bill, 2023, the State Government will now be able to investigate and remove municipal members who are disqualified for election. Replying to the debate on the Bill, Dhariwal informed that at present there is a provision to remove the disqualified member through an election petition. This petition should also be filed within a period of one month from the date of the election. He said that the member cannot be removed after the time of the petition is over and those members remain in office for five years. Dhariwal said that the Rajasthan Municipalities (Amendment) Bill, 2023 gives the state government the powers to investigate and remove disqualified members. For this, a new clause has been added to sub-section (1) by amending Section 39 of the Act- 2009. After the reply, the House passed the bill by voice vote.

BABA AMTE DIVYANG UNIV TO BE BUILT IN JAMDOLI: JULLY

Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Tikaram Jully said in the Vidhan Sabha on Monday said that Baba Amte Divyang University will be built in Jamdoli, Jaipur for higher education and research for Divyangjan at a cost of Rs 72 crore. The House passed the Bill. The minister said that this would be the first university in the state and the third in the country for the differently-abled. “Divyangjans will get better opportunities for higher studies and research. It will provide education, training and research and make them self-reliant,” he said.

BHAYA: ENQUIRY ON IN SIKAR DAIRY IRREGULARITIES

Gopalan Minister Pramod

Jain Bhaya informed the House on Monday that chargesheets have been issued to the personnel concerned after a preliminary investigation on the complaint regarding financial irregularities in Sikar Dairy. He said that at present, the enquiry is going on and strict action will be taken against the guilty personnel on the basis of the findings of the inquiry. The minister said that tender in Dairy has been done as per the provisions of the RTTP Act. Bhaya was replying to the call attention motion by MLA Mahadeo Singh.

affected in Kota QUESTION HOUR

REPORT CROP DAMAGE WITHIN 72 HRS TO CLAIM ‘PM FASAL BIMA’: AGRI MIN

I t is necessary to inform the company concerned or the nearest agriculture officer within 72 hours to claim the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana in case of crop damage due to unseasonal rain, hailstorm and water-logging in the State, agriculture minister Lalchand Kataria said. The Minister said in the house that the state government is determined to prepare the Girdawari report to assess the loss of farmers, get compensation from the Natural Disaster Relief Fund, crop insurance from the Prime Minister’s Crop Insurance scheme and relief from other heads. The Agriculture Minister said that in case of damage to crops insured under Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, it is necessary for the farmer to inform the insurance company, the local officials of the agriculture department, revenue department, Raj Kisan Suvidha App and the company’s helpline numbers within 72 hours.

RATHORE, DHARIWAL SPAR OVER FIR AGAINST RSS PRACHARAK NIMBARAM

Deputy Leader of Opposition Rajendra Rathore raised the matter of quashing of FIR against RSS pracharak Nimbaram during the debate on the Rajasthan Municipalities (Amendment) Bill. He questioned the intention of the State Government regarding the case by ACB against Nimbaram and said that the High Court has given clean chit to Nimbaram. Minister Shanti Dhariwal replied and said that it will not be good if talk about him is done in the house. “Don’t take that matter any further.

You know the truth and we also know it,” he said. Rathore said that the minister is not bigger than the High Court. “Have some shame now,” he said. He said that the High Court has outrightly cleared all the charges against RSS Pracharak Nimbaram. “The High Court’s judgment shows that the police machinery was misused against a person who has devoted his entire life to society,” he said. BJP MLA Madan Dilawar said that the Congress had attempted defamation and character assassination of Nimbaram by implicating him in an act like corruption.

RAJ MSME BILL PASSED; ‘WILL BENEFIT SOCIO ECONOMICALLY’

MIN ASKED FOR DEADLINE TO ADD NAMES IN FOOD SCHEME

NO VEHICLE SCRAPPING DONE DUE TO ZERO SCRAPPING CENTRES IN STATE: MIN OLA

M inister of State for Transport Brijendra

Ola said that there is no registered vehicle scrapping facility center in the state therefore no scrapping of vehicles is done in the state.

Ola was replying to supplementary questions during Question Hour. He said that according to the order issued by NGT on October 8, 2018, there are 131 cities in India in which the condition of air pollution is worrying. It includes 5 cities of Rajasthan namely Alwar, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur and Kota. He informed that action is being taken to ban or phase out 15 years old diesel commercial vehicles in these cities.

MIN: ACTION BEING TAKEN AGAINST ILLEGAL LIQUOR

Excise Minister Parsadilal Meena assured the House on Monday that immediate action is taken by the department on complaints of illegal sale of liquor in the state. He urged the members to inform if they receive any complaint in this regard and action will be taken soon. The Excise Minister was replying to the supplementary questions. Earlier, to a question asked by MLA Ramnivas Gawriya, the Minister said that liquor is not being sold in Nagaur district from any place other than the allotted liquor shops.

2L DHANIS TO GET ELECTRICITY IN 2 YEARS: MIN BHATI

M inister of State for Energy Bhanwar Singh Bhati assured the house on Monday that 2 lakh dhanis deprived of electricity would be electrifi ed in the next two years by spending Rs 1,000 crore. He informed that this announcement was made by the Chief Minister on March 17, 2023 while replying to the Finance and Appropriation Bill. MoS Bhawan Singh Bhati said that electrifi cation work was halted due to some schemes being stopped by the Central Government.

F

ood and Civil Supplies Minister Pratap Singh Khachariyawas on Monday said that several families have been left out of the food security scheme. He said he would request the Chief Minister to give the benefit of the scheme to the families which are left out and all the MLAs should go to the CM under the leadership of the assembly speaker. The speaker asked him to give a reply related to Phalodi constituency instead of talking other things. He directed the Minister to inform by when the names will be added to the scheme.

Seats doubled in 8 Vet colleges sans Govt nod, stayed by HC

Kashiram Choudhary

Jaipur: In a case of out of turn favour, the Veterinary University Bikaner issued orders on February 15 to increase the seats in eight Animal Husbandry Diploma Institutes. Interestingly, the seats can only be increased after the approval of the State Government. However, the High Court has stayed the counselling in all the institutes.

It said that on February 14, a letter from the Principal Secretary to the Governor mentioned

Ajmer man dies of Covid; 15 new cases recorded

First India Bureau

Industries Minister Shakuntala Rawat said in the Vidhan Sabha on Monday that the state government is providing opportunity to every section, including youths, women, Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. She said that the introduction of the Rajasthan MSME Act-2023 bill will change the economic and social scenario of the state. The Rajasthan Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (Facilitation of Establishment and Enforcement) (Amendment) Bill, 2023 was passed.

PREZ NOD RECEIVED FOR INTRODUCING BILL TO AMEND RAJ BOVINE ACT: MIN

Animal Husbandry Minister Lalchand Kataria said that the presidential accord for introducing the bill to amend Rajasthan Bovine Animals (Prohibition of Slaughter and Regulation of Temporary Migration or Export) has been received. He said that after approval from the Chief Minister, this amendment bill will be introduced in the house. Through this, he said, the process is underway to allow male calves of indigenous species to be exported outside the state at the age of two years and more than two years for agriculture and breeding purposes.

given to form a committee to give recognition to three new institutions.

Subsequently, the committee inspected eight colleges in five districts in just three days and submitted its report. The university immediately recognised these colleges and included them in the counselling.

Jaipur: The State recorded one more Covid-19 death on Monday.

increasing the seats from 50 to 100 in the institutes. It also said that university administration must form a committee and submit its report in three days.

Besides, orders were

To increase the seats, the organisation deposits a fee of Rs 1 lakh to the State Government.

Later, a State Government-led committee, including one member from the organisation, inspects the institution.

Earlier, two deaths were reported on Sunday. According to the health bulletin, one patient was reported dead in Ajmer on Monday. 15 new cases were also recorded from various areas of the state, taking the active cases tally to 130. So far, 9,660 people have died due to the deadly disease in the state. The bulletin mentioned the state’s infection tally at 13,15,793 with 13 patients currently under treatment.

CHIEF SECRETARIES OF RAJ, UP, MP MEET

‘Tri-State’ efforts to stop illegal mining



Officials shared views on joint campaigns to prevent illegal mining and instructions were given to check CCTV footage along with manual checking

Dr Rituraj Sharma

Jaipur: A high-level meeting regarding the prevention of illegal mining in the National Chambal Sanctuary was held on Monday through video conferencing. A discussion was held between Rajasthan Chief Secretary

Usha Sharma, Madhya Pradesh Chief Secretary Iqbal Singh Bains and Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary Durga Shankar Mishra re-

garding inter-state coordination to stop illegal mining in the Chambal region.

In the meeting, discussions were held to establish coordination between the depart-

Doc gets into Limca Records for maximum leopard rescues

Nirmal Tiwari

ments concerned (Forest, Mineral, Police and District Administration) of the three states and to exchange information related to illegal mining to stop it.

Sharma said that all effective steps have been taken to stop illegal mining in Rajasthan and the district administrations of the districts concerned are alert. She said that action is being taken against the people and organisations involved in illegal mining.

Jaipur: Senior veterinarian, Forest Department, Dr Arvind Mathur’s name has been registered in the Limca Book of Records for rescuing a maximum number of leopards in the country. The nominations for the record of 2021 were released by the Limca Book of Records.

By the year 2021, on records, Dr Mathur had rescued a total of 59 leopards, while off re-

cords the number is 67 leopards rescues. He had rescued leopards in 14 districts to date. Dr Mathur has performed

rescue operations at all the inaccessible places including jungle, houses, dhore, rocky areas and others.

Deputy LoP Rajendra Rathore, others during assembly walkout on Monday.

CS Usha Sharma, DGP Umesh Mishra and other officials hold virtual meeting with Chief Secretaries of UP and MP on Monday.

RIGHT TO HEALTH BILL PROTEST: CLASH BETWEEN DOCS & POLICE, MANY INJURED

l More than 2,400 private hosp owners across the state took to the streets l Resident doctors and other bodies have also called the boycott today

Vikas Sharma

Jaipur: Doctors protesting against the state government’s Right to health bill were thrashed by the police in Jaipur on Monday.

Initially, police tried to stop the doctors who tried to gherao the assembly but when they did not stop, police lathi-charged them. In the scuffle, clothes of many protesters got torn and many were left bleeding. It is alleged that the police misbe-

haved with the women doctors.

More than 2400 private hospital owners across the state took to the streets. First, doctors and hospital administrators gathered in the auditorium of Jaipur Medical Association at the SMS Hospital in Jaipur. Then the doctors left SMS Hospital around noon and went to Trimurti Circle via JLN Marg, Narayan Singh Circle and reached Statue Circle in front of Central Park.

Police stopped everyone near Statue Circle around 1 pm. There was a scuffle between the doctor and the police. All the doctors sat on dharna at the Statue Circle where after a

while, a clash erupted. The Joint Action Committee, which was supporting the bill until a few days ago, came back to oppose the bill. The committee was formed by the doctors’

G-Club firing: Cops to grill Hrithik in Jpr

He has been held in past for connections with firing cases

Satyanarayan Sharma

Jaipur: Jaipur police have caught a wanted criminal and Lawrence Bishnoi gang member Hrithik Boxer, who carries a cash reward of `1 lakh on head, from Nepal border. A case was lodged against him in connection with the firing at G-club in Jaipur

and demanding extortion money of ` 5 crore from club owner in January. He had claimed responsibility through Facebook.

Following a tip-off that he was hiding in Nepal, two teams were engaged in working on the input. After it was verified that he was in Ne-

pal and would enter India, the teams were sent to the border. He crossed the border from Birgunj (Nepal)- Raxaul (India) on March 18 and as soon as he crossed border, he was caught, he said. Hrithik has been arrested in the past in connection with firing and extorting cases. He demanded `2 crore from a businessman Inder Hisaria in Hanumangarh in 2021. He was awarded imprisonment of 5 years.

Rains continue to lash parts of Raj, hailstorm damage standing crops

Jaipur (PTI): Rainfall triggered by a western disturbance continued in parts of Rajasthan on Monday and Mahaveerji in Karauli district recorded a maximum of 7 cm rain, the weather department said.

Boli in Sawai Madhopur, Parbatsar in Nagaur, Raipur in Pali recorded 4 cm while Tonk received 3 cm of rain during a period of 24 hours ending at 8.30 am Monday.

Bundi: A unique demonstration by the farmers was witnessed at the Keshavraipatan subdivision office on Monday. The angry farmers sat on a dharna at the door of the office of subdivision officer Narendra Meena for not meeting them. When the Tehsildar reached to collect the memorandum in the absence of the Sub-Divisional Officer, the crowd refused to hand over the memorandum to him. After this, the irate farmers sat on dharna for three hours and hung the memorandum around the neck of cows and buffalo in the office.

—Mayank Jain

Encroachment worth `200 cr removed: JDA

The patients may face problems today as resident doctors came out in support of the protest of private doctors and announced an indefinite shutdown in protest against RTH and the alleged assault on doctors. Jaipur Association of Resident Doctors announced a complete work boycott from 8 am on Tuesday.

Abhishek Shrivastava

union.

Dr Vijay Kapoor, Secretary of Private Hospital and Nursing Society, said, “The policemen suddenly pulled them down. After lathicharge, there was a

Rohit Joshi case: Next hearing in HC on March 28

First India Bureau

New Delhi: There has been a long debate in the Delhi High court in the rape case against Rohit Joshi on Monday. The High Court could not agree with the arguments presented by the victim for the cancellation of bail granted to the accused. Now the next hearing in the matter will be held on March 28.

AGRI HELPLINE OF NO HELP TO FARMERS

Several other places also received below 3 cm rain during this period, according to the MeT department.

A weather depart-

ment official said that the impact of the western disturbance will continue in areas of Jaipur, Kota, Ajmer and Bharatpur divisions.

The helpline number issued by Agriculture Minister Lalchand Kataria to help farmers hit by crop damage is not working. Several famers dialled for help but complained that even after waiting for an hour all they could hear was, “Please wait as our customer service executives are busy.” The state government has claimed to provide benefits to the farmers. Instructions were given to file a complaint in 72 hours under Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana.

Poonia takes stock of fields damaged by rain

First India Bureau Jaipur: Rajasthan BJP

president Satish Poonia on Monday met farmers in Amer assembly constituency whose crops have suffered damage due to the recent rains and hailstorm, and demanded that the state government compensate them.

Rains triggered by Western Disturbance have lashed several parts of the state in the last three days.

on

Crops have been completely destroyed by the hailstorm, and the farmers have suffered huge losses. The state govt should assess the

damage to the crops and give compensation to the farmers as soon as possible, he said after visiting farms in Amer constituency.

Delhi bound flights diverted to Jaipur

First India Bureau

Japiur: A total of 185 passengers had a harrowing experience as their Indigo flight 6E2401 from Bangalore to Delhi could not land in the national capital on time due to bad weather in Delhi. The flight left from

Bangalore at 2 pm on Monday but had to be diverted to Jaipur and

will leave after getting clearance from Delhi airport ATC.

Due to bad weather condition at Delhi airport, 9 flights were diverted from Delhi to Jaipur International Airport. 3 international and 6 domestic flights were diverted.

Maximum 7 flights of Indigo airline were diverted due to the bad weather conditions.

stampede. We fell down. If the government does not listen to us, we will protest.” Another doctor said that the secretary was at the forefront of the protest.

Jaipur: The enforcement wing of Jaipur Development Authority on Monday carried out an anti-encroachment drive in Vidhyadhar Nagar area of Jaipur. The estimated market value of the land is around Rs 200 crore, Chief Controller- Enforcement (JDA) Raghuveer Saini said.

The 7-8 bigha of land was illegally occupied by nine marble-granite

dealers, seven scrap dealers, tea vendors and others. “The occupants were issued notices on March 10 as a result of which some of the occupants removed their encroachment while the action to remove the other encroachment started early morning today with the help of JCB machines,” he said. The land is located in zone 2, adjacent to AEN office in Vidhyadhar Nagar.

Man abducted by in-laws in Ajmer; nose chopped off, five accused held

Shubham Jain and Narpat Joya

Ajmer/Nagaur: A man was abducted from Ajmer district and his nose cut off allegedly by the family members of his wife who did not approve of their marriage, police said on Monday. The victim filed a police complaint on Monday, alleging that he was abducted by the brother and other relatives of

his wife on March 18 and taken to a village in Nagaur district, where they cut off his nose, said Station House Officer, Gegal, Ajmer Sunil Kumar. Some of the accused were detained and are being questioned in connection with the matter, Kumar said. Taking joint action in this matter, Ajmer and Nagaur police station have caught the father and four brothers of the girl.

COUPLE ABDUCTED IN CHOMU, PROBE ON

Jaipur: A newly married couple was abducted by nearly a dozen persons from the woman’s family in the Harmada area of Jaipur.Prithviraj Bawaria and Pooja Yogi had a love affair and they got married on February 10. They were abducted on March 19. The incident of abduction was captured in a CCTV. The police have registered a case against the accused.

—Manoj Saini

Satish Poonia met farmers in Amer assembly constituency in Jaipur

Police blocking doctors protesting against the State government’s Right to Health Bill at the Statue Circle in Jaipur on Monday. —PHOTO BY SUNIL SHARMA

BUNDI: CROP DAMAGE MEMO HANGED IN CATTLE’S NECK

WORK BOYCOTT

Action was taken by the JDA to vacate the land near Malhotra Colony in Vidyadhar Nagar on Monday.

NaMo

THE PM WITH A HUMAN TOUCH!

Lessons in Transformational Leadership from PM Modi

When BJP formed the government for the first time in Gujarat Corporation, after the win, all the councillors were invited as part of a national session in Lucknow. All the karyakartas were there and I was also a part of it. Honourable Narendra bhai was present as well as he was handling the corporation when it came first to Gujarat.

Arrangement for accommodation of the participants had been made in a tent. We had received intimation from the national leadership that if anybody wanted to stay in a hotel, he or she was free to do so. There were obvious chal-

YOU READ PART 34 ON MARCH 15, 2023

Narendra bhai’s vision has always been useful for future generations

Narendra bhai said me, “Suresh, a BJP karyakarta who wants to go ahead in the Sangathan must know how to survive on ‘bhuna sing chana’ for days and he must find comfort in sleeping on the floor. Only then, can a karyakarta hope to go up ladder within Sangathan.” Narendra bhai later on took me out for chaat, we visited places together, and today, I reminisce my time with him. He would share his vision how Sangathan should be, how it should function and his vision has always been very useful for future generations.

There is never a trace of anger in Narendra bhai’s demeanour Narendra bhai is not at all that strict, or intimidating as he might sometimes appear to be. I get to meet ministers day in and day out, and out of all of these, the most ‘low profile’ minister that I have come across is Narendra bhai. He has an air of peaceful equanimity around him and his aura is that of supreme calm, and there is never a trace of anger in his demeanour. He listens to people very intently, hears them out with patience and always takes a very balanced and grounded stance in all his decisions.

bhai launched the Sujalam Sufalam project for people in North Gujarat for whom even a drop of water was priceless. Water was the greatest challenge in the area in those days so much so that people from certain areas often had to get water from their neighbouring villages. In Sujalam Sufalam Jal Abhiyan, Narendra bhai gave North Gujarat a gift for which generations to come would be thankful to him. When water was allowed to let flow in the villages after the completion of the project, people who had never seen water in their areas and had suffered so much on account of its scarcity, started getting water at 100 ft rather than at 1000 ft. The villages got ponds and greenery in lands that had been parched since decades.

So when I visited Northern Gujarat after 2 years, the tune and tone of the people had changed. They had started saying that Modiji has achieved the unachievable in North Gujarat. While I had completely forgotten about the incident I just mentioned, he had not. He remembered very clearly the opinion of people I shared with him two years back and said to me “Now do you hear the opinion of people?” I said, “Of course, Narendra bhai! You have given them a new life.”

Once it so happened, the rates of electricity went up by a paisa or two in North Gujarat, and people would look for me to complain of government policies. They would say “Modiji has been unfair to farmers.” So I went to him and reiterated what I had been hearing. Let me tell you here, Narendra bhai is not at all that strict, or intimidating as he might sometimes appear to be. I get to meet ministers day in and day out, and out of all of these, the most ‘low profile’ minister that I have come across is Narendra bhai. He has an air of peaceful equanimity around him and his aura is that of supreme calm, and there is never a trace of anger in his demeanour. He listens to people very intently, hears them out with patience and always takes a very balanced and grounded stance in all his deci-

So he kept looking at me and listening to what I had to say and when he saw me standing there even after I had finished, he asked me why I was still there. I said “Sahab, what difference will it make to the government? Why don’t we reduce the rates of electricity there?”

He said with a smile

“Don’t worry! You may go!” and I left. That’s the time when Narendra

Another idea that transformed the life of the poor has been the Garib Kalyan Mela which is organised every year. This is Narendra bhai’s brainchild. When Modiji witnessed how the middlemen were eating into the schemes meant for the poor and that several pro-poor welfare schemes were not even reaching their intended audience, he conceptualized the Garib Kalyan Mela. I remember, Manojbhai Makwana was a councillor and he wanted to organize a program for around 100 beneficiaries. He expressed his desire to invite Saheb to this programme. Saheb said to me, “Please go and meet Ramanlal Vohra.” When I went to meet the minister, Vohraji said that Narendra bhai has expressed his desire to organize this program on a larger scale. Later on I realized what he meant! More than 10,000 beneficiaries were invited from all over Ahmedabad to this program organized in Maninagar. It took about a month’s time to plan for this event. When it happened, these many people availed the benefits of government welfare scheme face-to-face and here in Maninagar was the genesis of Garib Kalyan Mela!

Earlier middlemen would often loot the poor by handing over `500 while making them sign for `5,000. Narendra bhai put an end to this exploitation by getting rid of the middlemen and taking the schemes to the poor, rather than the poor struggling to avail the benefits.

The narrator recounts instances where Modi, through his master leadership style, vision, compassion and immense perseverance on the ground, championed the cause of the needy and won their hearts!

HAI TO MUMKIN HAI…’

UNTOLD STORIES OF PM MODI - PART 35

Treasury benches protest over Rahul’s UK remarks, LS adjourned

BUDGET SESSION

First India Bureau

New Delhi: The Lok

Sabha was on Monday adjourned for the day till Tuesday after noisy protests by treasury benches over Rahul Gandhi’s remarks on democracy.

As soon as the House convened at 2 p.m., BJP MPs started shouting slogans against Gandhi, saying “Rahul Gandhi Shame! Shame!” and “Rahul Gandhi Maafi

Maango”, The Congress MPs initially shouted slogans seeking the JPC probe in Adani issue, however in a change of strategy, neither did they enter the well of the House nor did they indulge in noisy protests.

Hasina offers India to use Chattogram, Sylhet ports

Dhaka (PTI): Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has offered India to utilise the country’s ports in Chattogram and Sylhet, asserting that it would boost connectivity and enhance people-to-people contacts in the region.

The Chhattogram port is an important seaport in Bangladesh, which is strategically located due to its proximity to India’s NorthEastern states.

“India can use our Chattogram and Sylhet ports if they want,” Dhaka Tribune newspaper quoted Prime Minister Hasina as saying when Ram Madhav of India Foundation called on her at her official residence Ganabhaban on Sunday.

PM Hasina said this move would increase regional connectivity and enhance people-topeople contacts.

Rahul, Kharge arrive in poll-bound Karnataka

Belagavi (Agencies):

Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi arrived in Karnataka on Monday to address a public rally of youths organised in Belagavi city.

Karnataka Congress chief DK Shivakumar and Leader of the Opposition in Karnataka Assembly Siddaramaiah welcomed Rahul Gandhi at the Sambra Airport.

AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge, who accompanied Rahul Gandhi, was also extended a warm welcome.

K’TAKA ELECTIONS WILL SEND OUT A MESSAGE TO THE NATION: KHARGE

New Delhi (ANI): The tussle between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Opposition MPs continued for the sixth day leading to the 10th adjournment of the Rajya Sabha on Monday since the second leg of the Budget Session of Parliament began. Proceedings of the Upper House got disrupted soon after papers were laid on the table as both the treasury and Opposition benches created a ruckus on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s democracy in India remarks in London and over Adani issue. Minutes after the Rajya Sabha Chairman read that he has received “14 notices under Rule 267, and that nine among those have been received from the Congress”, the ruckus started.

New Delhi (PTI): Several Opposition parties on Monday accused the government of stalling Parliament and finding ways to divert attention from the Opposition demand for a Joint Parliamentary Committee probe (JPC) into the Adani issue. Leaders of Opposition parties, including those from the Congress, DMK, RJD, CPI-M, CPI, NCP, JDU, AAP, and Shiv Sena, met in the chamber of Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge in Parliament House complex in the morning and coordinated their strategy on the demand for a JPC into the Adani issue. They later addressed the media after the first adjournment of both the Houses.

People watching exploits of BJP govt, will reply when time comes: Priyanka

New Delhi (PTI): Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Monday attacked the Centre over Delhi Police’s notice to Rahul Gandhi and said people of country are watching all the exploits of “the BJP govt” and will reply when the time comes.

Her attack came after Rahul on Sunday faced a Delhi police team that reached his residence to inquire about his “women are still being sexually assaulted”

statement made during the Bharat Jodo Yatra. She said, “The people of country are watching all the exploits of “the corrupt BJP government” and will give reply when time comes.”

No assurance on MSP law in meet with Tomar

New Delhi (Agencies):

A meeting between the farmer leaders and Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh

Tomar ended without any assurance on legal guarantee on the minimum support price (MSP) as thousands of farmers gathered at Ramlila Maidan for the Kisan Mahapanchayat on Monday.

A 15-member SKM delegation met with minister Narendra Singh Tomar at Krishi Bhawan in the afternoon and submitted a de-

mand charter, a farmer leader Darshan Pal told media persons.

After the meeting, the farmers’ delegation claimed that the Union minister told the farmers’ union, “hum sarkar chalate hain, aap andolan chalao”.

New Delhi: Congress MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on Monday, said that PM Narendra Modi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had colluded to tarnish Rahul Gandhi’s image. He said: “Mamata Banerjee is speaking at the Prime Minister’s behest. They have a mutual understanding of tarnishing Rahul Gandhi’s and the Congress’ image.”

The Belagavi city is decked up with posters, welcoming cut-outs and banners for the grand welcome of Rahul Gandhi. The party sources claimed that more than 1 lakh youths are participating in the convention.

The visit of Rahul Gandhi assumes significance as there are 18 assembly seats in Belagavi district and Congress had won only five of them in the last assembly elections.

Belagavi: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said on Monday that the upcoming Karnataka polls are very crucial as it will send out a message to the entire nation. He addressed the ‘Yuva Kranti Samavesha’, a youth convention. Stating that the Congress used to register victory in 15 to 16 constituencies out of the 18 in Belagavi, Kharge said that considering the present scenario, the party will sweep all the seats in the district this time. “The state has never wirnessed corruption at this scale as it is seeing now. Why did Amit Shah not order a probe into the allegations levelled by contractors’ associations? The police have been sent to Rahul Gandhi’s residence for his statement made in Kashmir 46 days back. In Karnataka, even after proofs are provided, no probe is ordered,” Kharge said.

The Congress, which is confident of returning to power, wants to increase its tally in Belagavi districts by winning seats in two dig-

its. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had held a 10.8 kilometer roadshow in Belagavi and addressed a huge public rally already.

TDP chief condemns attack on party MLAs

Amaravati (ANI): The former CM and TDP National chief N Chandrababu Naidu, on Monday strongly condemned the attack on the party MLAs inside the Assembly in the morning, said a press release.

Never in the history of Andhra Pradesh has an MLA been attacked inside the House and today is the darkest day in the Assembly’s history, Naidu said in a press release here. The former chief minister is of the opinion that

the attack on a Dalit MLA, Swamy, is preplanned and with en-

RSS chief advises farmers to adopt cow-based farming

Meerut: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat has advised farmers to adopt cow-based farming.

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader was speaking at a farmers’ conference organised by the Bharatiya Kisan Sangh in Hastinapur.

“Cow-based farming does not disturb the cycle of nature. Our farmers are worried. All their demands cannot be met, so the cost of cultivation has

MINISTER’S MANTRA

to be reduced. This is possible only with cowbased farming,” Bhagwat said.

Exhorting the farmers to shun the use of chemicals, he added, “Our land has been ploughed for thousands of years. Yet, it is still

fertile. We have seen the loss of agricultural production by increasing it indiscriminately.

“Chemicals being used in farming are entering our bodies and making us sick.”

Bhagwat said the government might change the policies but the farmers will have to do the work to save agriculture and nature.

During his visit, the RSS chief also stopped by the ancient historical sites from the “Mahabharata” period in Hastinapur.

World has resolved to recover together, says Yadav

Union Minister says that universal social security in the world is an important issue

First India Bureau

New Delhi: Union Minister for Labour and Employment Bhupender Yadav has said the world has resolved to recover together and to make the recovery a human centric process.

While addressing L20 inception meeting being

held in Amritsar virtually he said we need to collectively ensure that our workers are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in this dynamic environment.

Yadav said universal social security and its portability across the world is an important issue that we must focus on. He said particularly the informal sector must be brought under the ambit of social security. There has to be sus-

tainable mix of social insurance and social assistance schemes for social security, he added.

Keeping in line with vision of ‘Nari shakti’ or ‘Women Power’ of Prime Minister, Yadav said women’s participation in labour force has to be enhanced which would in turn lead to creation of equitable, inclusive and developed society.

He said G20’s theme of ‘VasudhaivaKutumbakam’ signifies the concept of one earth,

one family and one future. He saidPrime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of making G20 decisive and action oriented inspires and propels us to achieve concrete outcome for G20 meetings.

Yadav said over the years, the G20 and L20 meetings have attempted to address the issues of labour market challenges through a variety of policy initiatives that have been widely agreed upon.

Shocked to see our MLA Dola Swamy being attacked in the assembly by YSRCP MLAs. Today is a Black day for Andhra Pradesh because such a shameful incident has never happened in the hallowed halls of the assembly before.

couragement from CM Jagan Mohan Reddy, as per the press release.

Terming the ongoing session of the Assembly as a Kourava Sabha, Naidu said, “Jagan has gone totally mad with the latest results of the elections to the Legislative Council.”

Earlier on Monday, the YSR Congress and TDP MLAs got into a brawl in the Andhra Pradesh assembly on Monday during a protest by the latter against the government order imposing the ban on roadshows and rallies on the roads.

IN THE COURTYARD

SC JUNKS PIL SEEKING REGISTRATION OF LIVE-IN RELATIONSHIPS WITH CENTRE

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday junked a PIL seeking framing of norms for registration of every live-in relationship with Central govt, saying it is a “hare-brained” idea. A bench told the counsel, representing the petitioner, “What does the Centre have to do with registration of live-in relationships? What kind of hare-brained idea is this?” The bench asked the petitioner’s counsel if she wanted to foster the security for these people or she does not want them to get into live-in relationships.

NO ONE CAN PEEP INTO CITIZENS

LIVES: KERALA HC

Kochi: No person, be it the media or govt agencies, has the right to peep into the private lives of citizens without a valid reason, the Kerala High Court held recently. It also observed that certain media personalities’ “so-called crusade for truth and justice” or personal vendetta cannot be excuses for impinging the right to privacy of the general public. It said that it was “disheartening” to see that some news channels “are in the habit of publishing sleaze more than news.”

NON-CITIZENS CAN’T BE DENIED INFO UNDER RTI ACT: HC

New Delhi: Non-citizens are not barred from seeking information from public authorities under the RTI Act and it will be inherently contradictory to hold that such a right is available only to the citizens, the Delhi High Court has said. The court stated that creating an absolute bar on the disclosure of information to non-citizens would be contrary to the purpose and object of the RTI Act itself, and the same cannot be read into the legislation.

SHRADDHA CASE: PROSECUTION COMPLETES ARGUMENTS ON CHARGES AGAINST AAFTAB

New Delhi: The Delhi Police on Monday completed its arguments on charges against Aaftab Amin Poonawala accused of killing his live-in partner Shraddha Walkar and chopping her body into pieces. Additional Sessions Judge Manisha Khurana Kakkar posted the matter for further proceedings on March 25. Special Public Prosecutors (SPP) Amit Prasad and Madhukar Pandey appeared for Delhi Police. The Delhi Police had filed a 6,629-page charge sheet against Aaftab Amin Poonawala on January 24.

N Chandrababu Naidu @ncbn

Dimple Sharma

Proceedings of Lok Sabha underway during the Budget Session of Parliament, in New Delhi on Monday. —PHOTO BY ANI

Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi being welcomed by DK Shivakumar at Belagavi Airport on Monday. KC Venugopal also seen.

FACE-OFF CONTINUES, RS ADJOURNED 10th TIME IN 6 SITTINGS AMID RUCKUS

OPPOSITION BLAMES GOVERNMENT FOR IMPASSE IN THE PARLIAMENT

“DEAL BETWEEN PM & DIDI TO TARNISH RAHUL’S IMAGE”

Bhupender Yadav

Mohan Bhagwat

Narendra S Tomar

Chandrababu Naidu

Priyanka Gandhi

Sheikh Hasina

CRACKDOWN ON AMRITPAL SINGH

ISI ROLE , FOREIGN FUNDING SUSPECTED: IGP SUKHCHAIN

Hunt continues for fugitive hardliner

Amritpal Singh on third consecutive day in Punjab and neighbouring states

Chandigarh (ANI):

Punjab IGP Sukhchain

Singh Gill on Monday said they have a very strong suspicion of an ISI angle and foreign funding in ‘Waris Punjab De’ as 114 people have been arrested so far while the hunt for fugitive Amritpal Singh is still underway.

“We have a very strong suspicion of an ISI angle, based on the facts and circumstances that have come to light so far. We also have a very strong suspicion of foreign funding. Going by the circumstances, it seems that ISI is involved and there is foreign funding as well,” IGP said in a press briefing. He said that a total of 114 people have been arrested so far since the crackdown has launched.

“So far, 114 elements, who attempted to disturb peace and harmony, have been arrested. A total of 78 of them were arrested on the first day, 34 on day two and the re-

FORMER SIKKIM

BJP PRESIDENT DB CHAUHAN RESIGNS

Gangtok: Former Sikkim

BJP chief DB Chauhan on Monday resigned from the party’s primary membership. “I worked in the party in different capacities for the last 10 years in which I tried to serve our state through the party platform. I am thankful to all the party workers, leaders and well-wishers who supported me and the party. I now realise that my service is no more required in the party,” said Chauhan in his resignation letter addressed to top party leadership. “I wish all the party functionaries a good time ahead, God bless all,” he said in his letter.

“Take up with host nations security of Indian missions”

PUNJAB DGP WILL INFORM, ONCE AMRITPAL IS HELD, SAYS

TWITTER HANDLE OF SANGRUR MP SIMRANJIT MANN SUSPENDED

New Delhi (Agencies):

Amid massive search operation against Khalistani sympathiser Amritpal Singh, the Punjab government has suspended Twitter handles of 75 people till further orders. Twitter handle of Shiromani Akali Dal MP Simranjit Singh Mann’s handle has also been suspended. The Sangrur MP recently expressed apprehension that Amritpal Singh could be executed in a extrajudicial manner by Punjab police. The other Twitter handles belonged to the supporters of the radical leader.

mainder were arrested last night,” he said.

He said that NSA (National Security Act) has been invoked against the five people (being

CRUCIAL READ

SIKHS HOLD PROTEST OUTSIDE

BRITISH HIGH COMMISSION IN DELHI

New Delhi (PTI): Several people belonging to the Sikh community gathered outside the British High Commission here on Monday to protest pro-Khalistan separatists pulling down the Indian flag at the Indian High Commission in London a day earlier. Carrying the tricolour and placards, protesters raised the slogan “Bharat humara swabhiman hai (India is our pride)” and said that they will not tolerate any insult to the national flag. The tricolour atop the Indian High Commission in London was grabbed at by a group of protesters waving separatist Khalistani flags on Sunday.

MERCEDES SUV AMRITPAL FLED IN BELONGS TO DRUG BOSS: SOURCES

New Delhi (Agencies): Khalistan supporter Amritpal Singh, the focus of a massive manhunt in Punjab since Saturday, stashed a large number weapons, ran deaddiction centres to indoctrinate young Sikh men and used a Mercedes SUV gifted by a drug boss, according to top govt sources. Hundreds of paramilitary personnel have spread out in Punjab and internet has been banned in the search for Amritpal Singh, who fled away in the Mercedes SUV on Saturday.

sent to Dibrugarh) who were arrested. Besides, he said after four close aides of the pro-Khalistan leader Amritpal, who were detained and

FOUR WOMEN LABOURERS KILLED IN BRICK-KILN EXPLOSION IN PATNA

Patna: Four women labourers were killed in an explosion that occurred in a brick-kiln here on Monday. Local police and fire brigade have launched a rescue operation at Lucky brick-kiln located in Byapur village under Maner police station. According to sources, the explosion was so intense that a wall came crashing down trapping the women labourers inside the kiln. The deceased have been identified as Suganti Devi, Ghurni Devi, Sheela Devi all residents of Jharkhand and Sita Devi (Gaya Bihar).

TSPSC PAPER LEAK: SIT SERVES NOTICE TO CONG LEADER OVER

ALLEGATIONS

Hyderabad: Telangana Police’s Special Investigation Team probing the question paper leak in TSPSC has issued a notice to state Congress chief A Revanth Reddy, asking him to share whatever information he has about the case. The SIT, which has stepped up the probe with the questioning of nine accused, is also issuing notices to those making allegations relating to the case. Revanth Reddy, however, said he has not yet received the SIT notice. He said he was not afraid of SIT notice and would share whatever evidence he has if a judicial probe is ordered in the case.

AZAAN AT DC OFFICE: K’TAKA BJP MLA SAYS IT IS ‘SEDITION’

Shivamogga: BJP MLA and former Karnataka

Minister KS Eshwarappa on Monday trigerred a fresh controversy calling it an ‘act of sedition’, after a video of a Muslim youth performing ‘Azaan’ at the premises of the District

Commissioner’s office in Shivamogga district went viral on the social media.

Eshwarappa said that the youth, who performed Azaan is associated with the Socialist Democratic Party of India (SDPI). “I will write a letter in this re-

gard to the CM and Union Home Minister,” he added.

“They have announced that they will perform Azaan in the premises of the Vidhana Soudha. They are insulting Allah. They are violating the Supreme Court guidelines,” he said.

flown to Assam’s Dibrugarh, one more detainee, Harjeet Singh, also the uncle of the Khalistan sympathiser is en route to Dibrugarh.

TOPS to fund Neeraj Chopra’s training abroad

New Delhi (ANI): Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports Mission Olympic Cell has approved Olympic Gold Medallist Neeraj Chopra’s proposal to train at Gloria Sports Arena, Turkey for a period of 61 days. Neeraj, who under Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) funding, had trained at Gloria Sports Arena last year as well, will head to Turkey on April 1 and will remain there till May 31. The TOPS funding will cover Neeraj, his coach Klaus Bartonietz and his physiotherapist’s airfare, boarding and lodging.

ENERGY INDEPENDENCE BY 2047

MINISTER Chandigarh (ANI): Amid the crackdown against Amritpal Singh, Punjab Health Minister Balbir Singh, said that once the ‘Waris Punjab De’ chief is arrested, the Director General of Police will inform about it. Talking to the media on Monday, Balbir Singh hit out at the Centre, saying, “Why the Narcotics Dept is not controlling the drugs being sent to Punjab? Is the job of the central agencies only to target the opponents or to control gangsters too?”

On being asked if Amritpal has been arrested, the AAP minister said, “This is a matter related to security and if he is arrested, then the DGP will inform you”. The Punjab Minister appealed to the public to maintain peace and brotherhood. “There are some evil forces, and conspiracies are being hatched from inside and outside the country. But the police are doing good work and the atmosphere in the state won’t deteriorate,” he said.

Police are making all efforts to nab Waris Punjab De chief Amritpal Singh. Several rumours are being spread. Punjab Police is clearly stating that the arrest is yet to be made & w’re going across the state & everywhere else to arrest him.

—Sukhchain Singh Gill, Punjab IGP

New Delhi (PTI): Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Monday urged the government to take up the security of Indian missions with host countries to ensure that incidents like the one in the UK, where the tricolour flying atop the Indian High Commission was grabbed at by pro-Khalistani protestors, do not take place.

Tharoor said, “I am deeply disappointed when I see that a friendly govt does not take elementary police precaution to ensure that this kind of behaviour is not happening. Our govt should now go to all the host govts where there is such a possibility and tell them that they must take extra special precautions outside our missions.”

BY ANI

New Delhi (Agencies): The ruling BJP on Monday appealed to the Sikh bodies to “isolate” Khalistani supporters as the search for Amritpal Singh entered its third day. Manjinder Singh Sirsa, the party’s prominent Sikh leader, told reporters that everybody must condemn the London incident in which some Khalistani supporters pulled down the national flag from the Indian High Commission building in London. The foreign ministry summoned the senior most diplomat of UK in New Delhi late last evening and demanded an explanation for “absence of security” at the high commission premises. The UK government’s “indifference” to Indian diplomats and personnel was “unacceptable”, the statement read.

UGADI MILAN EVENT!

Sisodia’s judicial custody in CBI case extended till April 3

New Delhi: A Delhi court on Monday extended Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and former deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia’s judicial custody till April 3, by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with the now-scrapped excise policy case.

On March 17, the court extended Sisodia’s Enforcement Directorate (ED) custody in the same case till March 22. After the CBI arrested Sisodia on February 26, the ED also arrested him in the same case on March 9.

On March 6, Special Judge MK Nagpal of the Rouse Avenue Court sent Sisodia to 14 days of judicial custody in CBI case, which expired on Monday. He is lodged in the Tihar Jail.

EXCISE POLICY CASE: COURT SENDS BIZMAN PILLAI TO JUDICIAL CUSTODY

A Delhi court on Monday sent Hyderabad-based businessman Arun Ramchandra Pillai to judicial custody in connection with the 2021-22 Delhi excise policy case being probed by the Enforcement Directorate.

Last week, Special Judge MK Nagpal of the Rouse Avenue Courts had extended Pillai’s ED remand till Monday after noting that the probe agency has gathered some new details after confronting Pillai with Butchi Babu Gorantla, a Hyderabad-based chartered accountant, on March 15. The ED had earlier informed the court that Pillai needs to be confronted with Magunta Reddy, also an accused. On March 16, the agency’s request for prolonged remand was contested by Pillai’s lawyer.

US report lauds Modi’s Atmanirbhar Bharat push

PM Narendra Modi has already set a target to install 500 GW (gigawatt) of renewable energy capacity by 2030

New Delhi (PTI): India, the world’s fifth largest economy, can achieve energy independence through clean technology by 2047, a report by a top US research institute said, highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Atmanirbhar Bharat push that spans from a massive renew-

able capacity addition to electric mobility, saving billions of dollars in imports. Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, a US’ federally funded research and development centre, along with The India Energy and Climate Center (IECC) located at UC Berkeley’s Goldman School of Public Policy

published a report, ‘Pathways to Atmanirbhar Bharat’, that high-

lights the steps taken by India towards the adoption of clean energy.

India is 80-85 per cent dependent on imports to meet its oil and coal

needs. The price and supply volatility in global energy markets, as witnessed in recent years, strain India’s foreign exchange reserves, resulting in economywide inflation. However, recent dramatic declines in clean energy costs provide India an opportunity to lower energy imports through investment in renewable energy, battery storage, EVs, and green hydrogen, the report said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi attending the Ugadi Milan event at the residence of former Vice President, M Venkaiah Naidu, in New Delhi on Monday. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla also seen. —PHOTO BY ANI

Gangster Prince Singh killed in encounter in Bihar

Patna (Agencies): A notorious gangster, Prince Singh, was killed in an encounter in Sitamarhi.

The action comes after a series of kidnapping, extortion and murder cases have been reported from various parts of the state.

A team of Sitamarhi police shot at the gangster in a retaliatory firing at around 3.30 a.m.

The accused was involved in liquor smuggling also. Pankaj Sinha, the Inspector General of Police Tirhut range, confirmed the incident. According to police, Prince Singh was wanted in liquor smuggling cases in Muzaffarpur.

Two FIRs were registered in the Katra police station of the district. Besides, he was also involved in six other criminal cases as well.

Porn clip played on Patna junction TVs

Patna (Agencies): An FIR was lodged against a private firm for playing a pornographic video on the railway announcement TV screens on platforms of Patna junction on Monday.

Hundreds of passengers, including women, were shocked and stood red-faced for a while when they saw a porn film being screened on the TV screens installed across 10 platforms of the station.

The obscene clip was on display for about

three minutes. It was, however, stopped when several passengers complained about it.

According to Danapur RPF senior commandant Prakash Kumar Panda, Patna RPF immediately swung into action and lodged an FIR against the agency under various RPF Acts with the Patna RPF post on Sunday.

PM Narendra Modi at Buddha Jayanti Park with Japanese PM Fumio Kishida, in New Delhi.

PM Modi and Japanese PM Fumio Kishida enjoy a dish, in New Delhi on Monday. —PHOTOS BY ANI

Former Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia. —FILE PHOTO

Congress Lok Sabha MP Shashi Tharoor at the Parliament in New Delhi.

BJP SLAMS TAKING DOWN OF TRICOLOUR AT INDIAN HIGH COMMISSION IN LONDON

Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel conduct a flag march to maintain law and order after the arrest of associates of Waris Punjab De chief Amritpal Singh, in Jalandhar on Monday. —PHOTO BY ANI

business BRIEFS

PE/VC INVESTMENTS

NEARLY HALVE IN FEB 2023: REPORT

IN

FEBRUARY 2023

Domestic air passenger traffic rises

Mumbai (PTI): Investments by private equity and venture capital funds declined by 44% to $3.7 billion in February compared to the same period a year ago. The bets by the long-term investors were 13% lower when compared to the investments in the preceding month of January. The venture investing industry poured in $6.6 billion into companies in February 2022, while the same stood at $4.314 billion in January 2023. In volume terms, the deals dropped by 60% in February.

PSU BANKS’ GROSS

NPA DECLINES TO 5.53% IN APRIL-DEC

Mumbai (PTI): India’s domestic air passenger traffic grew 56.82% to 1.20 crore in February over the same month last year, as per the data released by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Monday.

All domestic carriers together had flown a total of 76.96 lakh passengers on local routes in February 2022.

The growth in traffic was led by market leader IndiGo, which flew 67.42 lakh passengers during the previous month, cornering 55.9% of the total domestic passenger traffic in February 2023.

Air India, AirAsia India, and Vistara, which in the process of merging with Air India, together trans-

New Delhi (PTI): The government has taken various reforms following which asset quality of public sector banks has improved significantly with gross NPA ratio declining from the peak of 14.6% in March 2018 to 5.53% in December 2022. All PSBs are in profit with aggregate profit being `66,543 crore in 2021-22, and that further increased to `70,167 crore in first nine months of current financial year, Minister of State for Finance Bhagwat K Karad told Lok Sabha.

‘STRONG CASE TO HIKE COAL PRICES, COULD HAPPEN SOON’

ported a total of 29.75 lakh domestic air passengers during the month under review.

The total market share of the three entities together was 24.6% during the reporting month, as per

AS PER US REPORT

India can achieve energy independence by 2047

New Delhi (PTI): India can achieve energy independence through clean technology by 2047, a report by a top US research institute said, highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Atmanirbhar Bharat push that spans from a massive renewable capacity addition to electric mobility, saving billions of dollars in imports.

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, a US’ federally funded research and development centre,

along with The India Energy and Climate Center (IECC) published a report, that highlights the steps taken by India towards the adoption of clean energy.

India is 80-85% dependent on imports to meet its oil and coal needs.

DGCA data.

Budget carrier SpiceJet, which is facing multiple headwinds, recorded the highest load factor at 91% in February 2023 while IndiGo delivered the top ontime performance at 88.8%

No direction on loading `2,000 notes in ATMs: FM

New Delhi (PTI): No instructions have been given to banks for filling or not filling `2,000 notes in ATMs as lenders make their own choice for loading of cash vending machines, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Monday. “No instructions have been given to banks for not filling ` 2,000 notes in ATMs. Banks make their own assessment of amount and denominational requirement for ATMs on the basis of past usage, seasonal trend, etc,” she said.

Sensex sheds 360 points, Nifty ends below 17K amid global rout

Kolkata (PTI): Coal India

Chairman Pramod Agrawal on Monday said there is a “strong case” for increasing coal prices, and the hike could be effected “very soon” as discussions are underway with stakeholders. He is confident the mining behemoth will achieve its production target of 1 billion tonnes by 2025-26. “There is a strong case for increasing coal prices, as that has not happened in the last five-odd years. This year, the wage negotiation has taken place as well, which will have an impact on CIL’s financial condition, especially for a few subsidiaries.”

WIND ENERGY GENERATION MAY

SURGE 4-5 TIMES

Mumbai (PTI): Benchmark Sensex declined by 360 points while the Nifty closed below the 17,000-level on Monday due to a selloff in financials, IT and capital goods shares amid a global rout in equities on lingering worries over the banking crisis.

The 30-share BSE Sensex declined by 360.95 points or 0.62% to close at 57,628.95 as 23 of its stocks ended in the red. The index tanked more than 900 points to touch a low of 57,084.91 before recovering some loss.

The broader Nifty of the NSE plunged by 111.65 points to close below the 17,000-level at 16,988.40.

RUPEE FALLS 4 PAISE TO CLOSE AT 82.63

AGAINST AMERICAN CURRENCY

on an average from across four key airports -- Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Bengaluru, data show. The overall cancellation rate of scheduled domestic airlines for February was 0.25%, it said.

Air India to temporarily reduce flights on some US routes: CEO Wilson

New Delhi (PTI): Air India will reduce the frequency of flights on certain US routes due to crew shortage issues for a temporary period, its chief Campbell Wilson said on Monday. Six weekly flights to the US, three each to Newark and San Francisco will be trimmed. In recent months, there have been instances of some long haul flights getting impacted due to crew shortage issues. Wilson said frequencies will be reduced on some US routes due to crew shortage issues. The six weekly flights -- three each to Newark and San Francisco -- will be reduced due to shortage of crew. This will be in place for the coming two to three months, Wilson said.

‘Indian carriers to report $1.6-1.8 bn consolidated loss’ New Delhi (PTI): Indian airlines are projected to record a consolidated loss of $1.6 to 1.8 billion in the next financial year, aviation consultancy CAPA India said on Monday. The full service carriers are expected to incur a loss of $1.1 to 1.2 billion. According to CAPA India, Indian airlines are estimated to have a net induction of 132 planes next fiscal and will take the total fleet of all carriers to around 816 aircraft. It also said that more than 100 planes are on the ground.

‘Claims of spike in poverty in India during Covid-19 patently false’

New York (PTI): Claims of a spike in poverty and inequality in India during the Covid-19 pandemic are patently false as such claims are based on uncomparable different surveys, according to a paper coauthored by eminent economist Arvind Panagariya.

The paper also noted that inequality fell in the country during Covid years, both in rural and urban areas as well as nationally. Panagariya, Columbia University Professor and former Vice Chairman of

Samsung to invest in smart mfg capabilities

Among Sensex shares, Bajaj Finserv fell the most by 4.08%. Bajaj Finance declined by 3.01%, Tata Steel by 2.2%, Wipro by 2.09%, Tata Motors by 1.96%, IndusInd Bank by 1.9%, SBI by 1.75%, Tech Mahindra by 1.66% and HCL Tech by 1.2%. TCS, Infosys, Power Grid, Maruti, Reliance, HDFC twins, L&T, M&M, NTPC and Ultratech Cement were also among the losers.

CROSSES 60K MARK

Mumbai (PTI): Positive policy moves by the new and renewable energy ministry can crank up the annual wind capacity addition by 6-8 gigawatt (GW) from fiscal 2026, around 4 times more than 1.6 GW of growth clocked in the past five fiscals, a report said on Monday. According to a Crisil analysis, the aggressive tariff bids in reverse auctions since fiscal 2018 has been one of the key drivers of the wind energy growth.

Mumbai (PTI): The rupee depreciated by 4 paise to 82.63 against the US dollar on Monday, tracking negative sentiments in the domestic as well as global equity markets. At the interbank foreign exchange, the domestic unit opened stronger at 82.48 against the dollar. During intra-day, it went as high as 82.45 and hit the lowest level of 82.71. It finally settled at 82.63 (provisional) against the American currency, registering a fall of 4 paise against its previous close.

Bengaluru (PTI): Korean electronics major Samsung will invest in setting up smart manufacturing capabilities at its mobile phone plant in Noida to make production more competitive, the company’s global head for mobile business said on Monday. “We will continue our investment to bring the optimised and or smart factory to the Noida facilities. We will continue our investment there. I believe that our investment for the smart factory will bring competitiveness in the production,” Samsung Electronics President and Head of Mobile eXperience Business T M Roh said.

Gold rallies `1,400 to touch life-time high

New Delhi (PTI): Gold price rallied `1,400 to touch a life-time high of ` 60,100 per 10 grams in the national capital on Monday amid strong global trends, according to HDFC Securities.

The precious metal had ended at ` 58,700 per 10 grams in the previous trade.

Silver also zoomed `1,860 to `69,340 per kilogramme.

“Spot gold prices in the Delhi markets traded at ` 60,100 per 10 grams, up ` 1,400 per 10 grams,”

Saumil Gandhi, Senior Analyst - Commodities at

MAJOR HIGHLIGHTS

z Spot gold prices in the Delhi markets traded at `60,100 per 10 grams, up `1,400 per 10 grams

z Silver also zoomed `1,860 to `69,340/kg

z In the overseas markets, gold and silver were trading higher at $2,005/ounce & $22.55/ounce, respectively

NITI Aayog and Vishal

More of Intelink Advisors, New Delhi have co-authored a detailed paper ‘Poverty and Inequality in India: Before and After Covid-19’.

The paper analyses poverty and inequality before

OTHER STORIES

PEPSICO TO INVEST

$400K FOR EXPANSION OF SAFE WATER ACCESS

New Delhi (PTI): The PepsiCo Foundation on Monday said it will invest $4,00,000 in partnership with Pandit Jagat Ram Memorial FORCE Trust to expand its safe water access and sustainable sanitation programme in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. This initiative is aligned with the three priority campaigns of the central government: the Jal Jeevan Mission, Jal Shakti Mission and Swachh Bharat Mission, the Foundation said in a statement.

and after the Covid-19 pandemic in India using data on household expenditures reported in the periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) conducted by the National Statistical Office of India.

The main findings of the paper say that poverty levels derived from the periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) are not comparable to those derived from Consumer Expenditure Surveys (CESs) conducted in 2011-12 and earlier due to differences in sample design.

HDFC Securities, said. In the overseas markets, both gold and silver were trading higher at $2,005 per

ounce and $22.55 per ounce, respectively. Comex Gold prices traded higher in Asian trading

hours on Monday and rose to a fresh 52-week high of $2,005 per ounce, Gandhi said.

RENAULT NISSAN SIGNS PACT WITH KAMARAJAR

PORT

New Delhi (PTI): Franco Japanese auto alliance Renault Nissan on Monday said it has signed an agreement with Kamarajar Port Ltd (KPL) for export of cars manufactured in Chennai by Renault Nissan Automotive India Pvt Ltd. The vehicles produced at the plant will be exported to the alliance’s regional and global destinations. The agreement builds on the existing partnership between the Renault Nissan Alliance and KPL.

TAX DEMANDS OF `13,566 CRORE RAISED IN FOUR FISCALS UNDER BLACK MONEY LAW

New Delhi (PTI): The income tax department raised tax demands amounting to `13,566 crore during the last four financial years under the black money law to deal with undisclosed foreign income and assets, the government said on Monday. In a written reply in the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary informed that 183 assessment orders were passed in 2021-22 and a demand of `5,350 crore was raised under the Black Money (Undisclosed Foreign Income and Assets) and Imposition of Tax Act, 2015.

‘SOME DAMAGE TO RABI CROPS DUE TO UNSEASONAL RAINS’

New Delhi (PTI): The Centre on Monday said there has been some damage to the rabi (winter) crops including wheat due to unseasonal rains and hailstorm brought about by western disturbance, but it is yet to receive a report from the states. “There has been some damage. We have not received an assessment report on the extent of damage from the state governments,” Minister of State for Agriculture Kailash Choudhary said.

EPFO ADDS 14.86

LAKH MEMBERS IN JANUARY 2023

New Delhi: Retirement fund body Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) added 14.86

lakh subscribers in January 2023, the Ministry of Labour and Employment said on Monday. Around 3.54 lakh members exited the fold of EPFO which was the “lowest exit” in the last four months, the ministry said. Out of 14.86 lakh subscribers, around 7.77

lakh new members have come under the ambit of EPFO for the first time.

PROTEST TO DEMAND DISTRICT-STATUS FOR SUJANGARH GAINS MOMENTUM

Markets closed, highway blocked

Several markets and highway passing through the town remained closed for the third consecutive day

Tanuj Lata

Sujangarh: Local Congress leaders, market associations and residents among others launched the protest on Saturday, a day after Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot announced the formation of 19 new districts & 3 divisions. Protesters also reached the residence of Congress MLA from Sujangarh Manoj. The MLA assured them of conveying their demand to the CM.s

Under the banner of ‘Janhit Morcha’, the protesters on Saturday gave the call to block the highway passing through Sujangarh to press for their demand.

“The decision to close the market was taken because the CM has ignored the long-pending demand of making Sujangarh a district,” Jitendra, a representative of the local market association, said.

Amit Marothia, deputy chairman of Sujangarh Nagar Parishad, said several block-level Congress leaders have supported the demand & sent their resignations.

MLA protests outside Assembly to make Tijara-Bhiwadi a district

First India Bureau Jaipur: With a demand to provide district statuses to Tijara and Bhiwadi regions, Tijara MLA Sandeep Yadav sat on dharna outside the assembly. He also warned to resign from the post, if Tijara and Bhiwadi are not provided with district statuses.

After this, Minister Pratap Singh Khachari-

yawas had a word with Sandeep Yadav. Moreover, Ministers Shakuntala Rawat and Rajen-

Probe on after Chinkara killed & hanged from tree in Jodhpur

Rajeev Gaur

Jodhpur: A case of hunting of Chinkara (Indian Gazelle) has come to the fore. The hunters first killed the animal and before having it, chopped it into pieces and hung it upside down from a tree. There were about 14 people involved in this. The fearless poachers made a video of it and also shared it on social media. The case is said to be of the Kalijal area located in Panne Singh

Nagar of Luni in the district. There is anger in the Bishnoi society after the video went viral. They have lodged a complaint and provided the

Panic after firing, mob pelt stones at police in Hindaun

Manish Bansal

Hindaun City: Panic spread after a person Adesh entered a house in Mhow Ibrahimpur village of Hindaun and opened fire after which there was a panic among the people. The police caught the accused and locked him in a room. The police were able to

Police Commissioner Ravidutt Gaur and Chief Conservator of Forests SV Murthy with some evidence of the incident.

A group named 009 has been actively involved in these unpleasant activities. The poachers have also formed a group named 009 and are active on social media platforms, throwing an open challenge to the police. A person named Bhavani Singh has shared videos and photos of chinkara hanging from a tree and partying.

dra Yadav also reached Sandeep Yadav. Both the ministers arrived with the message of the Chief Minister. Both the ministers listened to the demands of Sandeep Yadav in detail. After listening to the demands, Sandeep Yadav left for CMO with the two ministers. There may be a discussion with Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on his demands.

BALOTRA RESIDENTS THANK CM GEHLOT FOR NEW DISTRICT

Governor Kalraj Mishra and officials virtually attend convocation ceremony of Bikaner Technical University on Monday. Jaipur: Residents of Balotra in Barmer travelled over 500 kilometres to Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot’s residence here on Monday and expressed their gratitude for declaring it a new district, according to an official release.

Congress MLA from Pachpadra in Barmer Madan Prajapat and other public representatives were also present on the occasion. Prajapat, who remained barefoot over the demand for a year, wore shoes in front of the CM. In a significant announcement in the election year, Gehlot announced the formation of 19 new districts and three new divisions in the state on March 17. Balotra (Barmer) will be one of the new districts.

Special focus should be paid towards tech education, says Guv

First India Bureau

Bikaner: Governor and Chancellor Kalraj Mishra has stressed on technical education to speed up the ‘Make in India’ campaign. He said this while addressing the first convocation ceremony of Bikaner Technical University on Monday via videoconferencing. “Technical universities should develop equipment, mechanical technology with the help of which people can contribute in strengthening the economy by setting up their own industries,” he said.

Congress MLA Madan Prajapat’s barefoot protest ended after 1 year. Shoes were presented to MLA at CMR in Jaipur in the presence of CM Ashok Gehlot on Monday.

School teacher honey trapped, complaint filed

First India Bureau Bhilwara: A honeytrap case has come to the fore in which a government school teacher is involved. This is the second case in a month when a teacher is targeted. This time a lady from the Honey Trap gang offered the male government school teacher to spend a night together. When the teacher went to meet her, the woman along with her companions thrashed him and made

LEADERS’ DAY OUT!

bring the accused to the police station but had to face protest from the villagers. Some people broke the glasses of vehicles including SDM’s.

After this, the police had to use chili bombs to disperse the crowd present on the spot. The villagers demanded that the accused be handed over to them.

CM’S VISION TO PROMOTE JODHPUR

an obscene video. They took away the money from his pocket and demanded Rs 5 lakh. The government school teacher Bhanwar Singh Chundawat has registered a case against the woman and her 3 accomplices at the Gangapur police station.

The Governor said that apart from preparing skilled manpower, special attention should also be paid towards technical education and

make it accessible to the common man. He said that India has been very prosperous in the field of technology since the Vedic times. Under the new education policy, he called for speeding up technology development by coordinating modern global knowledge with ancient knowledge references.

ACB nabs patwari red-handed with `2.25 lakh bribe in Nagaur

First India Bureau Nagaur: A Revenue

Patwari was caught redhanded while taking a bribe of Rs 2.25 lakh in the Badi Khatu area on the instructions of ACB Headquarters Jaipur. The ACB (Anti-Corruption Bureau) carried out this action on Monday after the verification of the case.

The ACB arrested Om Prakash Meghwal, a patwari posted in Badi Khatu, by trapping him after verification. The

Three-day Rajasthan International Expo begins

“Based on this year’s event, it will be our endeavour to organise such an expo every year in Jodhpur,” said Rajsico Chairman Rajeev Arora

Rajeev Gaur

Jodhpur: The threeday Rajasthan International Expo began at the expo ground in Boranada, Jodhpur on Monday.

Rajasthan Cricket Association President Vaibhav Gehlot and Rajsico Chairman Rajeev Arora inaugurated the expo while Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot formally inaugurated the expo.

independent director Sunil Par-

Gupta were present on the occasion. Vaibhav Gehlot and Rajeev Arora visited the stalls and took information about the products displayed by domestic & foreign participants at the expo.

“The expo is being organised in Jodhpur so that it gets international recognition”, Arora said, adding that it is the CM’s vision to organise such an expo to promote Jodhpur.

search is on at other places including the house of the accused.

Additional Charge Director General ACB, Hemant Priyadarshi said that the complainant filed a complaint to the

Nagaur unit of ACB. Patwari Meghwal, posted in Halka Khatu Kalan, Tehsil Jayal, demanded a bribe of Rs 2.25 lakh from the complainant in lieu of opening the nomination of his purchased land. After this, under the supervision of Deputy Inspector General ACB, the trap action was conducted. The interrogation is on & further probe will be started by registering a case under the Prevention of Corruption Act.

7th body recovered from Chambal, search ops stop

Manoj Jain

Karauli: In the case of the drowning of seven devotees in the Chambal river, the seventh dead body of a youth who drowned in the accident has been discovered.

The deceased is identified as Luv-Kush, a resident of Chilavad, Madhya Pradesh.

After the recovery of all the dead bodies, now the search operation has been stopped.

Earlier, 17 devotees drowned while coming to Kaila Devi from Chilavad, Madhya Pradesh.

After the incident, 10

Officials during the search operation at Chambal river.

devotees were evacuated, safely, while seven devotees died. The accident took place in the Chambal river near Jagadarpura in the Mandrayal area.

Under the banner of ‘Janhit Morcha’, the protesters gave the call to block the highway passing through Sujangarh to press for their demand of district formation on Monday.

Rajsico Chairman Rajiv Arora, RCA President Vaibhav Gehlot, Dhiraj Srivastava & Veenu Gupta during the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the 3-day Rajasthan International Expo on Monday.

Pratap Singh Khachariyawas talks to Sandeep Yadav.

A student being honoured during the convocation ceremony.

An image from a viral video shows a hunter torturing the animal and killing it.

Om Prakash Meghwal

RCA president Vaibhav Gehlot presented trophies and prize cheques to winners of final ticket of Rajasthan Royals at Barkatullah Khan Stadium, Jodhpur on Monday.

Former Deputy CM Sachin Pilot and Congress workers attend Holi Milan ceremony by Rajesh Choudhary, ex-PCC secretary at Kesar Bagh, Sirsi Road on Monday.

INDIA IS RESPECTED BECAUSE OF STRONG CONSTITUTION: GEHLOT

Yogesh Sharma, Naresh Sharma & Aishwary Pradhan

Jaipur: While addressing a seminar on “Role of Legislature in promoting effective and meaningful democracy” organized in the State Legislative Assembly on Monday, CM Ashok Gehlot, said that in the last 70 years many governments have changed in India. “Despite this, the roots of democracy kept getting stronger in this country with a population of 140 crores. India is respected in the world only because of the constitution and strong democracy made by Dr BR Ambedkar. It took hundreds of years for women to get the right to vote in many western countries, but our constitution gave women the right to vote from day one. We all are proud of this. Dr CP Joshi, playing an important role as Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, has benefited the MLAs by holding meaningful discussions through various semi-

GS Shekhawat’s defamation suit

hearing on Mar 23

New Delhi (FIB): In the defamation case filed by Union Minister Gajendra Shekhawat against CM Gehlot, the hearing was held in Rouse Avenue Court on Monday. Shekhawat’s counsels kept their side before the court for about 2 hours. The court granted permission to present the side in writing. The matter was listed for next hearing on March 23.

nars in the last four years,” Gehlot said.

Assam Governor Gulab Chand Kataria appreciated CP Joshi for running the House properly and said, “The longer the House runs, the better it is for the MLAs.

People of India have guts. If you do well, it works to to make you win in elections. If your work is not good, people ensure your defeat.”

Assembly Speaker Dr CP Joshi said that both the party and the opposition have an important role in a democracy. Parliamentary Affairs Min-

ister Shanti Dhariwal said that democracy will be in danger if we are

not able to realize dream that framers of the constitution had seen.

Randhawa meets CM, Dotasra, ministers; discuss pol issues

Yogesh Sharma Jaipur: State Congress in-charge Sukhjinder Randhawa met CM Ashok Gehlot, PCC chief Govind Singh Dotasra, Dr Raghu Sharma, Harish Chaudhary and some ministers on Monday. Many issues were discussed between CM and Randhawa. The final shape was given to the next list of political ap-

Raj HC quashes ACB FIR against RSS’ Nimbaram

Kamal Kant Sharma

ROLE OF OPPN IS TO KEEP WATCH: RATHORE

Deputy Leader of Opposition Rajendra Rathore said that those in power and the opposition are the two wheels of parliamentary democracy, in which the role of the opposition is to keep watch. He said that we should speak in the form of a meaningful debate in the House. On the other hand, Sanyam Lodha, Secretary, Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (Rajasthan Branch) said that Rajasthan is in a better position in the national scenario of parliamentary democracy.

‘OUR MLA’ SOFTWARE

LAUNCHED FOR EASE

Meanwhile, ‘Our MLA’ software was released by the guests in the programme. In this software, prepared in collaboration with the National Informatics Center, various types of information including all elected members from the first assembly to the current assembly, committees of the assembly, participation in the cabinet and social activities will be available through the website of the assembly. At the same time, a video film was also shown in the program on the proposed first National Legislators Conference in Mumbai in the month of June.

CM OSD Lokesh Sharma probed for over 7 hours by Delhi Police

First India Bureau

New Delhi : Lokesh

Sharma, Officer on Special Duty (OSD) of Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, was questioned by the Delhi police for over 7 hours on Monday in connection the phone tapping case. The Delhi Crime Branch questioned CM’s OSD Lokesh Sharma. He was summoned by crime branch of Delhi Police on Monday. Sharma has been summoned by the Delhi Police for the 7th consecutive time in the matter. Notably, the Delhi Police had moved an application in January to quash the interim relief from arrest of Lokesh Sharma. The hearing in the application will take place on March 24 in Delhi High Court.

Jaipur: A single-judge bench of the Rajasthan High Court on Monday quashed the FIR against the RSS regional pracharak Nimbaram who was named as an accused in a bribery case by the Anti-Corruption Bureau in 2021.

The order came on a petition filed by the Kshetriya Pracharak Nimbaram praying for the FIR against him to be quashed.

In his order, justice Farzand Ali held that the alleged pendrive containing the sting operation of the demand made by the Mayor’s Husband in presence of Nimbaram was secondary evidence as the ACB

in its status report has admitted that the original recording and the original device recording the said footage was not available nor it was made known as to who recorded the incidence. The court thus quashed the FIR against the petitioner Nimbaram. The court however refused to quash the FIR against the other co-accused. The ACB has already filed a chargesheet against Rajram and BVG company official.

BJP LEADERS WELCOME DECISION

Welcoming the decision, BJP state president Satish Poonia said that the case was framed against Nimbaram under a conspiracy. “Truth can be troubled but cannot be defeated and today it has become clear that truth always prevails. I welcome the decision,” he said. “One more thing has become clear that the Congress party does politics, defames and discredits nationalist organisations to cover up its sins,” Poonia said. Dy LoP Rajendra Rathore said that whatever allegations were against Nimbaram have been dismissed with the quashing of the FIR. He said that misuse of police machinery has also been exposed in the matter. “Justice for truth may be delayed but truth cannot be defeated,” he said. BJP state spox Ram Lal Sharma said that Congress was trying to stain the character of such a person who dedicated his life to the nation.

SIROHI RATNA SAMMAN

Revenue Min Ramlal Jat lauds First

pointments and contemplation also took place on future important changes.

It is believed that Randhawa put forth the message of the high command and there there was a discussion on political profit and loss. In the coming times, a strategy was made to publicise the effective

RAJASTHAN IT DAY

decisions of the Gehlot government.

Earlier, Randhawa was welcomed at the Jaipur airport by GS Dotasra. Interestingly, it has come to light that the state Cong incharge came only to meet the CM Gehlot he had reached with an important message from the high command.

Role of IT crucial in transparent & accountable governance: CM Gehlot

First India Bureau

Jaipur: CM Ashok Gehlot said on Monday that the state govt is working with commitment to provide sensitive, transparent and accountable good governance to the people. “Information technology plays an important role in this. Former PM Rajiv Gandhi dreamed of connecting the country to the 21st century through IT,” Gehlot said while addressing a program organized on the occasion of IT Day on Monday. He said that due to the policies of the state government, the region has emerged as a leading state in the field of IT today. Over 1 lakh participants from 60 countries are taking part in the hackathon. The Chief Minister interacted with the participants and encouraged them.

Meanwhile, through VC, CM laid the foundation stone of the Rajiv Gandhi Knowledge Service and Innovation Hub, Jodhpur, to be pre-

pared at a cost of Rs 200 crore. CM Ashok Gehlot launched the Chief Minister’s Dependent Service Scheme on this occasion.

India News for the social concern

Ashok Kumawat

Sirohi: First India News has been honouring dignitaries for their excellent work across the state. People of Sirohi were honoured at the ‘Sirohi Ratna Samman’ at Sun Hotel & Resort on Aburoad of Sirohi district on Sunday. State Revenue Minister Ramlal Jat was the chief guest at the event. Former minister Ratan Devasi, Reodar MLA Jagsi Ram Koli, Pindwara MLA Samaram Garasia, Sirohi District Collector Bhanwarlal, Sirohi SP Mamta Gupta were special guests.

‘CENTRE SHOULD ENACT A LAW TO PROVIDE SOCIAL SECURITY’

Gehlot said that food safety, notification and punishment powers were given by the previous govts in the country by enacting laws. “RTI Act was implemented first in the state. The state govt has implemented OPS for employees. This has given them a sense of security towards their future. Today the Central govt should provide social security to the common man. In many democratic countries this is being provided through legislation,” he said.

The programme started with the national anthem. More than 30 dignitaries from across the district were honoured with shawls and were presented mementos.

Addressing the event, Jat said that the First India News has a unique place in the world of news. “Under the leadership of Channel Head Jagdeesh Chandra, First India has always been on the pinnacle of success. Reporting every moment and going to the bottom of the news to bring the truth to the common people. Apart

from this, First India has always worked for social concerns. Chandra’s assessment is always accurate, be it political analysis or the upheavals,” he said.

Former minister Ratan Devasi, MLA

Samaram Garasia and MLA Jagsiram Koli also praised First India News. Editor

Jinendra S Shekhawat, Vice-President of Bharat 24 News Channel Vishal Mathur and the First India team

from Jaipur were also present. At the end of the programme, Sirohi Bureau Ashok Kumawat expressed gratitude to the guests and dignitaries for attending the felicitation ceremony.

Dr CP Joshi addressing the gathering during the programme in Rajasthan Assembly on Monday. Gulab Chand Kataria, Ashok Gehlot, Shanti Dhariwal, Rajendra Rathore, and Sanyam Lodha are also seen.

CP Joshi is playing an important role as Speaker by holding meaningful discussions, says CM Assam Governor GC Kataria appreciated CP Joshi for running the House properly

CM Ashok Gehlot, Chief Secretary Usha Sharma, ACS I-T Akhil Arora and other officials during the launch of Jan Aadhaar e-wallet at the I-T day celebration on Monday. —PHOTO BY SUNIL SHARMA

Delegation of Raj Pharmacist Employee Association met CM Ashok Gehlot and submitted their demands of unequal pay on Monday.

SP Mamta Gupta, Collector Dr Bhanwar Lal, Jinendra Singh Shekhawat, Ratan Devasi, Ramlal Jat, Jagsi Ram Koli, Samaram Garasiya listen as Anchor Megha Kaushik addresses during the programme at Sun Hotel & Resort in Aburoad, Sirohi on Sunday.

Vishal Mathur, Jinendra Shekhawat felicitating SP Mamta Gupta during the programme on Sunday. Collector Dr Bhanwar Lal also seen.

Ratan Devasi, Ramlal Jat, Jagsi Ram Koli, felicitating Head Constable Vinod during the Sirohi Ratna Samman on Sunday.

Ratan Devasi, Ramlal Jat, Jagsi Ram Koli, felicitating an ANM during the Sirohi Ratna Samman on Sunday.

Vishal Mathur, Jinendra Shekhawat, Ashok Kumawat felicitating Jagsi Ram Koli, Samaram Garasiya at Sun Hotel & Resort on Sunday.

Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra with Assam Governor GC Kataria at Raj Bhavan during a courtesy meet on Monday.

GUV MEETS GUV

The awe-inspiring Fashion Connect by First India and Bharat24- Vision of New India recently created a huge splash and left everyone with a whole bunch of trends to slay. The Fashion Connect season 14 was held on March 19 at Oaks Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel Dubai. City First highlights some glimpses of the resplendent fashion fest

Fashion Connect Season 14 landed in Dubai with majestic collections and gorgeous supermodels and without a doubt

Punia, educationist Kamla Poddar, businessman Harsh, models Aastha Khandelwal, Muskaan, Renu along with Naseeha were a few prominent guests who were also present at the fashionable event.

Stunning anchor Sonal Sharma hosted the spectacular evening. As the designer of the grand finale, Anju Modi wowed the runway. Her traditional designs inspired by Heritage Bollywood were heart-stoppingly beautiful and exquisitely crafted.

“Luxury Lifestyle Awards 2023” was also held to recognise the efforts of diligent designers and eminent entrepreneurs and people from other fields. The ramp was adorned by models wearing elegant outfits that emanated refinement, euphorically rousing fashion enthusiasts. The collections were exhibited looking at the wedding summer

Official partner Filmfare

Middle East and Khaleej Times, Jewelry Partner-Nandita Shekhawat, Health Partner - JNU Hospital, Gifting Partner-Brands For You, INIFD Jaipur, Fashion inst partner and Styling PartnerShades were a few among the several sponsors that have made significant contributions to the success of this season and made every effort to establish a new standard.

KAVITA CHAUHAN cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

Jagdeesh Chandra with Yaqoob Al Ali, Rishee Miglani, Sonal Sharma and International supermodels during the grand finale at Fashion Connect Season-14

—PHOTOS BY SANTOSH SHARMA

Jagdeesh Chandra with HH Sheikh Juma Bin Maktoum Al Maktoum (L) and Yaqoob Al Ali (R) during the Luxury Lifestyle Awards 2023

Stunning International Models donning the exquisite collection

YOUR DAY

Horoscope by Saurabbh Sachdeva

ARIES

MAR 21 - APR 20

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

TAURUS

APR 21 - MAY 20

Vitamin D UNDERSTANDING the Importance of

Vitamin D is a nutrient your body needs for building and maintaining healthy bones. That’s because your body can only absorb calcium, the primary component of bone when vitamin D is present. City First highlights the significance of Vitamin D on overall health!

You love to live close to your family. Best day to buy gold and silver for investment sake.

You are a child at heart and never let this child die. You have a big heart and you always help someone if you can. Video gathering is possible as you miss your social circle like anything.

GEMINI

MAY 21 - JUNE 21

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

CANCER

JUNE 22 - JULY 23

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

LEO

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

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

VIRGO

AUG 24 - SEP 23

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

LIBRA

SEPT 24 - OCTOBER 22

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

SCORPIO

OCT 23 - NOVEMBER 22

You will feel amorous towards your wife. This is the best time try something new with life give yourself a new purpose. Work on your limitations, there can be no better time than this. You have more opposite sex friends than the same and you may be judged sometimes but don’t care.

Vitamins and minerals play a crucial role in maintaining good health. Vitamin D is one of the most essential nutrients that our body needs to build strong bones, teeth and muscles. In addition, it helps the body absorb and retain calcium and phosphorus, which are necessary for healthy bones. The primary source of vitamin D is sunlight, also known as the 'sunshine' vitamin. However, the role of sunlight in fulfilling our daily vitamin D requirement can be unclear.

DOES SUNLIGHT THROUGH WINDOW GLASS PROVIDE VITAMIN D?

According to Luke Coutinho, a Holistic Nutritionist specializing in the field of Integrative and Lifestyle Medicine, sunlight does not actually "provide" vitamin D. The sun's ultraviolet rays trigger vitamin D synthesis in the skin, and the liver and kidneys convert it into biologically active forms that the body can use to promote bone health, immunity, hormonal health and

much more. Coutinho emphasizes that one needs direct exposure to the skin to gain all the benefits of vitamin D. Early morning sun or sun that is not burning the skin is recommended for a minimum of 15 minutes to an hour to gain extraordinary benefits.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF VITAMIN D

Vitamin D helps control and manage the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body, which are necessary to keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy, according to Britain's National Health Services (NHS). Vitamin D deficiency can lead to bone deformities such as rickets in children, and bone pain caused by a condition called osteomalacia in adults. Fatigue, bone pain, mood problems, hair loss, muscle weakness, loss of appetite and getting sick frequently are all symptoms of vitamin D deficiency.

Vitamin D is essential for good health and sunlight is the best source of this vital nutrient. Direct skin exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays triggers vitamin D synthesis, which is necessary for calcium absorption, bone health, immunity, hormonal health and much more. It is recommended to get sunlight exposure in the early morning or when the sun is not burning the skin for a minimum of 15 minutes to an hour to gain extraordinary benefits.

Source- https://www.medindia.net/news/healthwatch/understanding-the-importance-of-vitamin-d-for-overall-health-210908-1.htm

SAGITTARIUS NOV 23 - DEC 22

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

CAPRICORN

DEC 23 - JAN 20

You are very generous by nature and also you are the backbone of your family. Today is a favourable day for business. You may postpone your study plans. You are very fortunate to

DR TRUPTI SHIROLE cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

EMMA ATTENDS TAYLOR’S CONCERT Priyanka dances at Nick’s concert

riyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas are one of the most adorable couples. These two often melt our hearts with their mushy romance. After almost 5 years of marriage and 1 adorable baby girl, the sparks between these two are still alive and they never hesitate in expressing their love for each other. Today a video of the actress singing and dancing at Jonas Brother’s concert is going viral and it is proof of how much she enjoys his songs.

A video has gone viral where we can see Priyanka Chopra standing in the crowd amidst other fans. She can be seen wearing an allwhite attire and looks lovely in that. Indeed, Priyanka is a true cheerleader and we bet Nick

E

mma Stone was one of the celebrities who attended Taylor Swift’s muchtalked-about Eras Tour. And now, a video has surfaced on TikTok where the Easy A actress can be seen having the best time on the 33-year-

‘Sweet & Humble’

S

hah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan’s daughter Suhana Khan has a massive fan following. The star kid is all set to dip her toes in Bollywood with Zoya Akhtar’s The Archies, which is expected to release this year. She is already a star in her own right, with over 3.2 million followers on Instagram, who go gaga over her every time she posts a picture. On Monday afternoon, Suhana Khan was spotted by the paparazzi at the Mumbai airport. She lookeduber-chic in a casual, comfy outfit. Suhana was seen politely interacting with the paparazzi, and also posing for selfies with fans before she headed to the entrance gate of the airport.

Suhana looked beautiful as she arrived wearing a shortsleeved grey crop top, paired with white baggy pants. Her airport look was stylish yet comfortable at the same time. She accessorized with a black handbag, a pair of black sunglasses, and white sneakers.

'SPOT THE BEAUTY'

Kareena Kapoor Khan, who is an avid social media user, is currently busy enjoying her adventurous vacay with Saif Ali Khan, Taimur and Jeh Ali Khan in South Africa. They were recently seen leaving for a family vacation. The actress has been treating her fans with cool pictures from South Africa.

A while ago, she took to her Instagram story and offered a glimpse of her jungle safari. She even shared a picture of a lion.

gram story and shared a picture of a lion with her fans. The picture was clicked from a distance. Along with the picture, she wrote, "Such a handsome boy". Now, she shared a beautiful selfie featuring a lion in the backdrop. Her son Taimur's reflection is visible on her sunglasses. Along with it, Kareena wrote, "Spot the beauty.

old singer’s tour. Needless to say, Swifties are having a field day on the social media platform with their reactions and comments.

On Friday, March 17, Emma Stone was spotted at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, where Taylor Swift opened her

grand Eras Tour. As per Just Jared, the 34-year-old actress could be seen ‘losing her gd mind’ as Swift performed her throwback hit You Belong With Me. The clip featuring Stone went viral on social media and garnered a whopping 1.7 million views in no time.

ecently, Kim Kardashian took to Instagram to share her childhood picture and fans are going gaga over it. The reality television star posted a throwback picture from her childhood when she was about six years old. In the picture, Kim Kardashian can be seen with a face painted dragon on her cheek. She was aRsporting light pink colored t-shirt with several graphics such as a pair of ballerina shoes. She completed her look with white tennis shoes and light pink colored ruffle socks. The younger Kardashian further tied her hair in adorable pigtails with pink polka dot bows ribbon in her hair. She captioned her Instagram post ‘1987 KK’.

Fans were quick to react to this adorable picture of Kim Kardashian and said that she looked very much similar to her daughter.

id you ever feel like the best tees were hiding in plain sight? Well, maybe a bit but Kiara's look will take this feeling out of your mind.

And, for a fun option, Kiara's Dolce & Gabbana x Gianpiero D’Alessandro sleeveless t-shirt which she paired with bootcut black pants look should be the one to follow.

The Shershaah actress's Rs. 38,051.17 cropped tee had a colorful graphic print displayed as a rainbow and cloud.

Kim posts her childhood picture

‘Colour me like a RAINBOW’

Kiara Advani

Kiara donning the look

Her post...

Kareena Kapoor Khan

Priyanka Chopra

Emma Stone

Suhana Khan at the Mumbai International Airport

Kim Kardashian

Her post...

ART OF CINEMA @JKK

—PHOTOS BY MUKESH KIRADOO

The second day of the iStart International Youth Film Festival witnessed the screening of some heartwarming films - from Aye Zindagi, a film on organ donation to Rinki Ka Mobile, a humorous short film about the aspirations of a young girl in the hinterlands of Rajasthan. The film festival is curated by filmmaker and Founder, TOSS, Shilpi Batra Adwani and is being held at JKK. The festival is powered by The Open Space Society (TOSS).

The day began with the screening of ‘A Northern Soul’ followed by an invigorating discussion with the Artistic Director, Docedge Kolkata, DRI, Diksha Sharma. Next was the screening of Aye Zindagi which left the audience emotionally overwhelmed. Following the screening, actor, Satyajeet Dubey

and Editor of First India, Project Director, MOHAN Foundation Jaipur Citizen Forum (MFJCF), Dr Anita Hada made a heartening appeal to the audience to pledge organ donation. On the occasion, Satyajeet also said, ”This is a commendable initiative by the Government of Rajasthan and TOSS in supporting some really interesting cinema and promoting meaningful films”.

Day 2 concluded with the screening of ‘Rinki Ka Mobile’ followed by a discussion with the

TOURISM & IT’S IMPACT

CITY FIRST

In the recent budget announced by CM Ashok Gehlot, the decision has been made to exempt tourist luxury coaches authorized by the Department of Tourism, Rajasthan Association of Tour Operators (RATO) and Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) from Motor Vehicle Tax. Tour Operators Associations had written to the Tourism Minister, Vishvendra Singh, seeking exemption of Motor Vehicle Tax on Tourist Coaches for the period beyond 1 April.

RATO President, Mahendra Singh Rathore

DURING THE DAY!

lighted the art of story writing, while ‘Doglapan: The Hard Truth about

life and Start-ups’ by Asheer Grover, founder of Bharat Pay discussed the insights about his latest book. Ek Tha Tiger was moderated by Nishtha Gautam while Doglapan was moderated by Giriraj Kiradoo. The festival is playing a key role in promoting meaningful dialogue among the youth in challenging a lot of mainstream notions. The art of cinema is bringing people together as everyone celebrates the unique stories being presented during the festival. cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

WHAT’S HAPPENING!

expressed satisfaction that this decision of the Government will not only boost tourism in the State but also provide relief to the tour operators of the State. RATO President, Mahendra Singh Rathore, along with RATO Chairman, Bhim Singh; Former President, Kuldeep Singh Chandela; General Secy, Mohan Singh Mertia; Executive Committee member, Rajendra Singh Jodha; FHTR President, Apurv Kumar; IHHA President, Randhir Vikram Singh; VP, Khalid Khan and other expressed their gratitude to CM Ashok Gehlot and Tourism Minister, Vishvendra Singh.

A Station Cricket Tournament was organised at Gandiv Stadium in Jaipur Military Station from March 7 to 8. Teams from Tanot Brigade, Sapta Shakti Command & HQ 61 Sub Area participated in the tournament which was played in round robin league followed by finals between the top two teams. The final match was played between Tanot Brigade & HQ 61 Sub Area teams on March 18. Tanot Brigade won the match on the last ball. HQ 61 Sub Area team scored 162 runs in 20 overs which was successfully chased by Tanot Brigade with four wickets in hand to win the tournament. The event was graced by the presence of other distinguished guests including Brig JS Bisht, the Station Commander, officers, ladies as well as children.

Round Table India left for Delhi by train from Jaipur with 39 underprivileged children, 4 teachers and people from the organisation under the banner of Flight of Fantasy recently. The program aims to provide education and opportunity to underprivileged children across the country. Children aged 10 to 14 years had the opportunity to visit some of India’s most famous sites including Qutub Minar, India Gate and Teen Murti Bhavan Museum and met CM of Assam Himanta Biswa, Cabinet Ministers Nandita Gorlosa and Atul Bora, where they appreciated the program in the education section of the round table and unveiled the banner of Flight of Fantasy.

On behalf of Shringa Vichar Samiti Sikhwal Brahmin Samaj, in the presence of the current managing executive chairman of the organisation Umesh Shringi & Gen Secy Norat Sikhwal and the guests Bharat Pandya Babulal, Sanwarmal, Mahesh, Badri, and former members of the committee President SN Tripathi, Sandeep Sikhwal Advocate, Radheshyam Shringi, Hanuman Shringi, Avinash Shringi released the poster of the kulguru of the temple with the aim that more and more people should know about the descendants of the Sikhwal Community recently.

THE GRAND ROYAL DINNER

CITY FIRST

The magnificent polo match titled Jaipur Polo Cup Finals, organised by Jaipur Riding & Polo Club witnessed the grand polo match at Sirsi Bindayaka on Sunday.

The momentous match ushered in the prestigious and much anticipated JRPC Polo Season with the vision to promote the young and upcoming players of Rajasthan both Men and Women.

To celebrate the hardwork of players a grand dinner was organised at

Niranjan Kumar Arya, Advisor to CM Ashok Gehlot helped an orphan girl who he met on Monday. The girl was provided with the benefit of monthly assistance of Rs 1500 from the Rajasthan government. Expressing gratitude towards the situation, Arya expressed “I am a little relieved that her condition is improved and I will continue to help her family in future as well.” Through this, Arya also gave the message to stand out for children in need.

The ancient manuscripts of Indian history, heritage and culture, were discovered and preserved, under the program of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav by Rajasthan Oriental Vidya Pratishthan, Department of Art and Culture, in a national seminar organised at Rampuria Haveli, Hotel Bhanwar Niwas on Sunday. In the inaugural session of the National Seminar, Chief Guest, Art and Culture Minister Dr BD Kalla shared in his address that the content of the manuscript is very important from the point of view of civilization and culture. The Minister also made two announcements for the Rajasthan Praachya Vidya Pratishthan, first of which a ‘Digital Desk’ would be set up in the Bikaner branch and the publication of Pratishthan’s research magazine “Pratishthan” would be restarted in the next financial year.

Parsadi Lal Meena, Minister of Medical & Health and Minister of Excise felicitated two medical personnel at his residence on Monday for their excellent work in medical and health services.

Dr Ravi Prakash Mathur, Director of Public Health said that Dr Naval Kishore Gupta, DCP, District Drug Store, Bikaner and Pukhraj Deora, a senior nursing officer of Mathuradas Hospital, Jodhpur, were given this honour on the recommendation of the Cabinet Secretariat as an award for the Independence Day celebrations-2022.

Hyatt Residency, Jaipur on Sunday.

Various Who’s who of the city including Jai Singh of the erstwhile royal family of Jaipur, Haji Syed Salman Chisthy, Ajmer Dargah,

Dr Amandeep Kapoor IPS, Member, of National Police Mission on Technology & Communication, Indu Garcha, members of royal families, industrialists etc. cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

Kabir Khan in conversation with Nishtha Gautam

Shiladitya Bohra, Satyajeet Dubey, Anita Hada, Yashodha Batra, Shilpi Batra Adwani and Manoj Batra

Kabir Khan addressing the audience

(L-R) Jagdeep Singh, Rajneesh Pardal, Col. KS Garcha, Saher Chisthy, Haji Syed Salam Chisthy and Sandeep Bakshi Nikhil Gandhi with guests

(L-R) Namrata, Sanyogita, Anupama and Meghna (L-R) Lt. Col. Sweetan, Harinder Garcha, Col. KS Garcha and Col. Rohit Daggar

Zeeshan, Saavir, Shailendra, Bindiya, Rishika, Blue Beard Baba and Dhruvpal Godara Mrs & Mr Rajeev Swaroop

(L-R) Mariam, Sanyogita, Indu Garcha and IG Sandeep Singh Chauhan

Minister Parsadi Lal Meena felicitating Pukhraj Deora

Minister Parsadi Lal Meena felicitating Dr Naval Kishore Gupta

Vishvendra Singh, Tourism Minister with RATO and other Association members during their meeting

—PHOTOS BY MUKESH KIRADOO