First India-Jaipur Edition-31st March 2023

London: Former IPL chief Lalit Modi, accused of financial irregularities in India, launched a scathing attack on Rahul Gandhi on Thursday and threatened to take the senior Congress leader to court in the UK over his ‘Modi surname’ remark.

Crucial

READ

US CANDIDATE AJAY BANGA SOLE NOMINEE TO LEAD WORLD BANK

Washington: Ajay Banga, the American pick to lead the World Bank, was the only candidate nominated for the position, the bank confirmed Thursday. ‘Our Directors will conduct a formal interview with candidate in Washington DC, and expect to conclude selection soon,” bank said.

GERMANY FOLLOWS US, SAYS WATCHING

RAHUL CASE CLOSELY

New Delhi: Germany said on Wednesday the “standards of judicial independence, fundamental democratic principles” should apply in case of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi following his disqualification as a LS MP after his conviction. P5

INDIA WILL UNVEIL NEW FOREIGN TRADE POLICY ’23-28 TODAY

New Delhi: Last extension was given in September 2022 till March 31, 2023. India will unveil its new Foreign Trade Policy 202328 today, with a view to boost exports amid slowing global trade. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal will announce foreign trade policy, officials said.

FSSAI ALLOWS

LABELLING CURD IN REGIONAL NAMES

Chennai: The Food safety regulator FSSAI on Thursday revised its order and allowed the use of regional names in printed labels of curd packets amid political controversy in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, official said in a statement.

INDIA SEES BIGGEST

SINGLE-DAY SPIKE IN COVID IN 6 MONTHS

New Delhi: India saw a single-day rise of 3,016 fresh coronavirus cases, the highest in nearly six months, while the active cases increased to 13,509, according to the Union health ministry data updated on Thursday. A total of 3,375 cases were recorded on October 2 last year.

SALMAN KHAN’S 2019 JOURNALIST ‘ASSAULT CASE’

QUASHED BY HC

‘UNWELL’ STEPWELL!

14 KILLED AFTER FALLING INTO WELL AS THE INDORE TEMPLE FLOOR COLLAPSES, PROBE ORDERED

Moni Sharma

Indore: Fourteen people lost their lives and several were rescued after the floor covering a well at a temple in Indore cave in while Ram Navami celebrations were underway on Thursday. The incident was reported from the Shri Baleshwar temple in the Sneh Nagar area of the city.

MP Home Minister Narrotam Mishra said that 14 people were killed in the mishap. 12 bodies (11 female and one male) have been recovered from the spot while 19 were rescued. Among the rescued people, 2 people succumbed to injuries. According to the information, the covering of the well collapsed while worshippers were standing over it inside the temple.

The eyewitnesses said around two dozen people were standing on the step well at the time of the incident. Locals said ambulances and fire brigade services did not reach the spot in time.

TRAGEDY HAPPENED DURING RAM NAVAMI CELEBRATIONS AS THE TEMPLE WITNESSED A RUSH

Mumbai: Bombay HC on Thursday quashed complaint filed against Salman Khan by a journalist in 2019 accusing the actor and his bodyguard Nawaz Shaikh of snatching his phone. Ashok Pandey, had alleged actor indulged in assault, misconduct.

MODI’S SURPRISE VISIT!

Next Ram Navami, Ram Lalla will be in Ram Temple: Shah

First India Bureau

CM CHOUHAN ANNOUNCES EX-GRATIA, URGES TEAM TO EXPEDITE OPERATIONS

Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced an ex-gratia amount of `5 lakh to the next of kin of the deceased while `50,000 will be given to the injured. Chouhan directed authorities to expedite the rescue operations at the temple. The CMO said they were in constant contact with the Indore district administration.

PM MODI EXPRESSES ANGUISH AT INDORE TRAGEDY, SPEAKS TO CM SHIVRAJ SINGH

New Delhi: PM Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed anguish at the mishap in Indore. “Extremely pained by the mishap in Indore. Spoke to CM Shivraj Chouhan Ji and took an update on the situation. The state government is spearheading rescue and relief work at a quick pace. My prayers with all those affected and their families,” he tweeted.

MoD’s `32,000 cr deal for BrahMos & vessels

First India Bureau

New Delhi: In a flurry of deals a day before the ongoing fiscal ends, the defence ministry on Thursday inked major indigenous contracts worth over `32,000 crore for six next-generation missile vessels, 11 offshore patrol vessels and 2 BrahMos missile coastal batteries for Navy as well as 2 more Akash missile regiments, 12 weapon-locating radars for Army.

Rajnath Singh

CENTRE INKS DEAL

WORTH `19,600 CR FOR 17 NAVY VESSELS

The defence ministry on Thursday signed contracts with Indian shipyards for acquisition of 11 next Generation offshore patrol vessels and six next generation missile vessels at cost of Rs 19,600 crore for Navy.

Amit Shah

@AmitShah

The accident that happened in Indore, Madhya Pradesh is very sad. I express my condolences to the bereaved families. Local administration is engaged in rescue work, NDRF is also reaching the spot soon. I pray to God for the speedy recovery of the injured.

Haridwar: Union home minister Amit Shah said on Thursday, when the entire country celebrated Ram Navami, that he is confident that by the next year, Ram Lalla (Lord Ram) will no longer be celebrated in a temporary tent, but rather from the Ram Temple, which is currently under construction in UP’s Ayodhya. He made this statement while inaugurating Patanjali University at Uttarakhand’s Haridwar. Earlier in the day,

in his address to 113th convocation of the Gurukula Kangri here Shah praised the central govt’s New Education Policy for empha-

RCA and HZL sign MoU to build India’s 2nd biggest cricket stadium

The stadium will be named as the ‘Anil Agarwal International Cricket Stadium’

Naresh Sharma and Ziauddin Khan

Jaipur: The Rajasthan Cricket Association on Thursday signed MoU with Hindustan Zinc Limited to build the worlds third largest cricket stadium in Chonp village of Jaipur district here. The HZL,

a Vedanta Group Company, will spend ` 300 crore on facility which

CELEBRATING FOUNDATION DAY OF RAJASTHAN

will be named the ‘Anil Agarwal International Cricket Stadium’. “Anil

Raj is becoming a “model state” in country, says Gehlot

Naresh Sharma

Jaipur: Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said on Thursday that his government’s public welfare schemes have brought a positive change in the lives of lakhs of people and Rajasthan is now becoming a “model state” in the country.

Gehlot was addressing a programme organized to honour the beneficiaries of various schemes of the state government on the occasion of Rajasthan Day in Dur-

gapura on Thursday here. A large number of beneficiaries attended this programme online and offline.

Referring to various schemes of his government, including the Chiranjeevi Health Insurance, Chief Minister Gehlot said, “I am extremely satisfied that the benefits of the schemes brought by the government have reached lakhs of people and these programmes have brought about positive changes in their lives.”

DOCS MEET CM OVER RTH STIR, GEHLOT ASKS DOTASRA

TO RESOLVE MATTER

Jaipur: A delegation of agitating private doctors met CM Ashok Gehlot at the CMR on Thursday.

Doctors said that the CM Gehlot has assured to appoint PCC chief Govind Singh Dotasra to look into the matter and to get it resolved. Dr Virendra Singh, who was in the delegation of 15 doctors, conveyed the sentiments of the agitating doctors to the chief minister, who assured to look into the matter.

“Today, Rajasthan is becoming a model state and is among the fastest growing states in the country. Rajasthan is discussed in the country for

having the best roads, best medical care, maximum number of universities and the most progressive Rajasthan,” he said. More on P8

‘’Sport gives us the best life lessons in leadership, teamwork, competition and hunger to succeed. If India’s youth participate wholeheartedly with energy and passion, nurtured by world class infrastructure, they will become an unbeatable talent pool.

—Anil Agarwal, Vedanta chairman

Agarwal fulfilled RCA’s dream,” said RCA President Vaibhav Gehlot. P8

sising mother tongue learning and universal education based on the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi and Dayanand Saraswati. More on P5

Riot control police in WB after clash, Didi assures action

First India Bureau

Howarh: Several vehicles were set on fire after two groups clashed in WB’s Howrah amid Ram Navami celebrations on Thursday. The violence broke out soon after a Ram Navami procession crossed the area. CM Mamata Banerjee assured strict action against perpetrators of violence in Shibpur and asserted that usage of unauthorised route led to clash. P6

I am not surrendering: Amritpal on YouTube

First India Bureau

New Delhi: When a massive combing operation is on in around three dozen villages of district Hoshiarpur, radical Sikh preacher Amritpal Singh has released his second video virtually on Thursday, pushing Akal Takht jathedar to call Sarbat Khalsa on Vaisakhi at Takht Damdama Sahib and also stating that soon he would come out before the people. He also told in video that, he will not surrender. P6

Amritpal Singh releases another video on Thursday.

MAJOR HIGHLIGHTS

 348 people held during Amritpal crackdown freed, Punjab govt tells Akal Takht.

 Amritpal’s aide booked under Arms Act in J&K.

 Punjab Police deployed a drone in a village in Hoshiarpur district.

WILL TAKE RAHUL GANDHI TO COURT IN THE UK: EX-IPL BOSS LALIT MODI

Narendra Modi makes a surprise visit to the new Parliament building, in New Delhi on Thursday. Sources say PM spent more than an hour at the site and inspected various works. He was accompanied by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. The new building is in its final stages & likely to be inaugurated soon.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurates Patanjali University in presence of Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami, Yog Guru Ramdev, Acharya Balkrishna and others, in Haridwar on Thursday.

Rescue operations in progress after a roof of an ancient stepwell (bavdi) situated in Beleshwar Mahadev Jhulelal Temple collapsed during the Ram Navami festival in Indore on Thursday.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot addressing a programme on the occasion of Rajasthan Day at Durgapura in Jaipur on Thursday.

The MoU being signed by Bhawani Shankar Samota, Honorary Secy, RCA and Arun Misra, CEO Hindustan Zinc in the presence of Dr CP Joshi, Vaibhav Gehlot, Priya Agarwal Hebbar and others on Thursday.

—PHOTO BY SANTOSH SHARMA

Women performing ‘maha aarti’ at Sri Ramchandra Temple in Chandpole, Jaipur on Thursday. PHOTOS BY SUNIL SHARMA

AAP’s anti-Modi poster drive begins in State

First India Bureau

Jaipur: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Thursday launched the ‘Modi Hatao, Desh Bachao’ (Remove Modi, Save Nation) campaign across the country.

Kick-starting the campaign in Rajasthan, Aam Aadmi Party state president Naveen Paliwal released the ‘Modi Hatao, Desh Bachao’ campaign poster.

Addressing the media persons, Paliwal said that during the freedom struggle, our freedom fighters happily gave up their lives. Why? Because they envisioned that one day our country would be free, illiteracy would be wipedoff, youth will have employment, farmers will get fair prices, and others. However, this dream cannot be fulfilled in the existing Modi regime, he added.

CM Ashok Gehlot along with Sunita Gehlot, Vaibhav Gehlot, Himanshi Gehlot, Kashwini Gehlot, Rajiv Arora, Lokesh Sharma and others performing rituals in Maa Raj Rajeshwari Temple at CMR.

Couple facing opposition from families dies by

Mukesh Mathrani

FSL team inspecting the spot in Barmer on Thursday.

Following the information, police reached the spot and recovered the bodies. Police said that the deceased were identified as Rana Ram (25) & a minor girl aged 15 years. He said that

two days back on March 28, the minor’s family members lodged a case of kidnapping and POSCO and police were probing the matter in the meantime the couple ended their lives.

Neighbour molests girl, threatens to kill her and family to silence her

India Bureau

First

Jaipur: A case of molestation and indecent act with a married woman was reported at the Neendad Raoji locality in the city. The victim woman lodged a case against a youth named Bhavani at the Kotwali police station. The police are looking for the accused after registering a case.

The victim’s father has lodged a report at Mahesh Nagar police station. Police have started the investigation by registering FIR under molestation and POCSO

Act. Police said that on March 21, the accused barged into the house knowing that the girl is alone & molested her but on revolting and making noise, he ran away. While

leaving, he threatened the girl & said that if she told this to anyone, he would kill her & her parents. The victim told her family members when they returned home.

ODISHA GIRL JUMPS TO DEATH IN UDAIPUR

Udaipur: A 21-year-old girl committed suicide by jumping from the terrace of an apartment in Udaipur. Police informed the deceased, identified as Namrata, a native of Odisha, was working at a five-star hotel. “The girl was living with her two friends. On Thursday, she jumped from the terrace and ended her life. Prima facie, it seems that the girl ended her life over an issue of a love affair. However, the actual reason is yet to be ascertained and no suicide note was found on the spot,” police said.

Jalore: A young couple was found hanging from a tree in the field of Bhinmal area of the district. In the morning, village people saw the dead bodies of the two hanging and informed the police and their relatives. The police reached the spot and kept the bodies in the mortuary of the hospital. As per the police, the youth was identified as Shambhu Bhil and girl as Sangeeta Bhil. On Thursday night, both left their house without informing and committed suicide. Police said that in the initial investigation, the matter seems to be a love affair.

Kota: In a brutal accident, the driver of a government ambulance smashed husband-wife grandmother & grandson riding on a bike.

The couple died in the accident. Grandmothergrandson has been admitted to the hospital in critical condition. The accident happened at the Gumanpura flyover in Kota on Thursday.

The driver was drunk at the time of the accident.

Pawan, his wife Manb-

har, mother Surja, and four-year-old child Naksu were on the other side when the ambulance smashed their bike. The collision was so strong that the bike rider Manbhar fell from the flyover, 15 feet down, and died.

TWO BIKE-RIDING YOUTHS KILLED IN HIGH-SPEED COLLISION WITH TRACTOR IN TONK DISTRICT

Tonk: Two bike-riding youths were killed in a high-speed collision with a tractor in the Mehndwas police station area of the Tonk district. After the accident, the passers-by saw the youths lying on the road and informed the police. The police reached the spot and took them to Saadat hospital, Tonk where the doctor declared them brought dead. After the accident, the driver fled from the spot with the tractor. Station incharge Devendra Singh told that Ramnagar resident Rakesh (22) son Ramlal Meena and Um resident Mansukh (20) son Mahavir Meena were 12th-class students and were the victims in the accident who were staying in Tonk for studies.

suicide

Tonk: A young man was found hanging from a tree in the Todaraisingh police station area of Tonk district. In the morning, the shepherds found it and informed the police. After getting the information, the police reached & inspected the spot but did not find any suicide note. Later, the dead body was taken to the hospital. The relatives reached the hospital and the dead body was handed over to them after the postmortem. “Prima facie seems to be a case of suicide & the investigation is still underway”, police said.

Gang of four pickpockets held in Jaipur

First India Bureau Jaipur: Four women have been arrested over charges of theft. Vishnu Mishra, a resident of Pano Ka Dariba, registered a complaint regarding the theft. Police have registered a case & are interrogating the accused women. The women used to pickpocket people. They were caught stealing a man’s purse. People caught the women and handed them over to Manak Chowk police station.

Western disturbance leads to rain again

First India Bureau

Jaipur: Rainfall triggered by a western disturbance lashed several parts of Rajasthan on Thursday. The weather changed afternoon and by evening, several areas received rain and thunderstorms. Rainfall occurred in Jaipur, Mount Abu, Reodar in Sirohi, Sikar, Jhunjhunu, and other areas. Standing and harvested crops got damaged due to the rainfall in Sirohi and other areas. The impact of the western disturbance will be over after Saturday.

‘Who carried out attacks, where is our justice?’

After accused acquitted, victims ask who is responsible for killing innocent people

71 innocent people?

Who is responsible for the deep pain of those who lost their family members or those who are still living that pain even today? If they are not guilty then who are?

This is a burning question and everyone needs an answer,” Sahu said.

State govt should immediately appeal against HC ruling to give affected people justice: Pilot

Yogesh Sharma

“Is this justice?” asked Rajendra Sahu, whose wife died due to head injuries in 2012.

“If they did not carry out blasts then who is responsible for killing

On Wednesday, a court acquitted all accused on grounds that the investigating agency (ATS) did a “shoddy investigation” in connecting the chain of evidence.

Jaipur: Former deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot on Thursday said the acquittal of the four men who were given capital punishment by a lower court for the 2008 Jaipur serial blasts was a serious issue and the Rajasthan government should appeal against it. He said a probe should be conducted against those who were responsible for investi-

gating the case. He also said that the lapses that took place in the investigation are a serious issue. “The state gov-

ernment should immediately appeal against the HC ruling so that affected people can get justice,” Pilot added.

First India Bureau Jaisalmer: In a major movement against the criminals in the district, under operation ‘Sudarshan Chakra’, the police raided suspicious homes and places of the criminals. 152 police officers and jawans from 38 teams, raided the houses of 70 criminals.

Arrests were made of 5 permanent warrants, 52 arrest warrants. 6 criminals were arrested out of 10 accused involved in 5 cases under sec-

tion 151. A scrutiny check was done by raiding 18 places of history sheeters.

cise Act, where a vehicle containing 40 cartons of illegal country liquor was recovered. The campaign was conducted under the direction of Superintendent of Police Bhanwarsingh Nathavat, and ASP Amrit Jingar.

File No. 8950-57

2008 JAIPUR BOMB BLAST CASE

Gul Mohammad

Jaipur: A case of molestation of a schoolgirl has come to the fore in Jaipur. The accused neighbour molested her but on revolting and screaming, he ran away and threatened to kill her and her parents if she told anyone about the molestation.

Barmer: A couple who was allegedly in love had committed suicide by hanging from a tree. An incident has been reported from the Sheo police area in the Barmer district. Passers-by noticed the bodies and informed the police. Preliminary police investigations suggest that couples were in love but were facing opposition from their families. After which the couple first fled from their homes and later took the extreme step.

Commuters braving heavy showers, in Jaipur on Thursday. —PHOTO BY SUNIL SHARMA

AAP State president Naveen Paliwal addressing the media persons on Thursday.

Sachin Pilot performing rituals on the occasion of Ram Navami at Sri Ramchandra Temple in Chandpol Bazar and prayed for the prosperity and progress of country and state on Thursday.

JAI SHRI RAM!

A Ram Navami procession taken out in the Walled City of Jaipur on Thursday.

Ram Navami festival was celebrated with huge pomp and fervour across the State. People donned saffron clothes and ‘Jai Shri Ram’ chants echoed. A grand procession of 6 kilometers was taken out in the capital city through Ramganj Chauraha, Badi Chaupar & Tripolia Bazar.

Governor Kalraj Mishra performing the rituals and offering prayers on Ram Navami in Raj Rajeshwar Temple at Raj Bhavan on Thursday. He also worshiped the girls and took their blessings considering them as nine goddesses.

Couple dies, two injured after drunk ambulance driver hits bike in Kota

YOUNG COUPLE DIES BY SUICIDE IN JALORE

MARRIED WOMAN MOLESTED IN JAIPUR

YOUTH FOUND HANGING FROM TREE IN TONK, SUICIDE SUSPECTED

152 police officers raid houses of 70 criminals in Jaisalmer

RAJASTHAN JAIPUR | FRIDAY, MARCH 31, 2023 03 www.firstindia.co.in I https://firstindia.co.in/epapers/jaipur I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia

Doctors staging agitation by bringing stretcher, wheel-chair and other hospital equipment during protest march at JLN Marg on Thursday. The protesting doctors raised slogans against State govt demanding withdrawal of the RTH Act. —PHOTOS BY SUNIL SHARMA

Doctors meet CM but protest continues

One faction returned to work at SMS, another faction met CM Gehlot who appointed GS Dotasra to examine the points raised by doctors

Vikas Sharma

Jaipur: Amid the ongoing protest over the Right to Health Act, a representation of doctors finally met CM Gehlot on Thursday. The delegation was headed by Dr Virendra Singh on behalf of private doctors. Prior to this meeting, a group of doctors met PCC Chief Govind Singh Dotasra.

According to sources, the intentions of the doctors were conveyed to the CM. In response, CM Gehlot has appointed Dotasra to

examine and test the points being raised by the doctors in the whole matter.

Dr Virendra Singh, who was in the delega-

tion of 15 doctors, conveyed the sentiments of the agitating doctors to the CM, who assured to look into the matter.

The 15-member dele-

Ramps to be constructed for divyangs in Raj temples soon

First India Bureau

HEARING OVER RTH IN RAJ HIGH COURT TODAY

We are the ruling party, we must go ahead & solve the matter, says Pilot

Chief Secretary Usha Sharma with other officials during inspection of a field in Jaipur district on Thursday.

Dr Rituraj Sharma

Jaipur: CS Usha Sharma inspected the fields of farmers in Jaipur’s

Basedi, Guda Kumawatan, Bassi and Jhajhra and observed the innovations of agriculture and horticulture in Balolai villages. She said, “Agriculture plays an important role in the state’s economy. The state govt is working for the upliftment of the farmers.

Sharma interacted with Mevaram Meharia,

a farmer of Balolai village and saw the plants being grown through a drip system in their house. She took information about advanced varieties of organic cucumber, tomato, green chilli, and flowers.

Sharma inspected crops in rural areas. Farmers told her that adopting an organic farming model has profited them. Horticulture

Commissioner Shubham Chaudhary and others were also present.

Jaipur : Speciallyabled people will have ease in visiting temples in the state. Ramps will be constructed in temples on the instructions of the commissioner for specially abled persons.

Commissioner Umashankar Sharma has given instructions to Devasthan Department and all the district collectors for the construction of ramps in temples so that specially abled persons can visit the temple with ease.

Instructions were also given for keeping wheelchairs, sign boards and all necessary equipment in temples and for making erickshaws and other resources available during religious fairs.

gation of doctors including IMA President Dr Sunil Chugh, Dr Rajshekhar Yadav, Dr Sunil Garsa, and Dr Ashok Sharda reached CMR after their press conference. According to the sources other options will be discussed in case of ‘NO RTH’. Meanwhile, one faction of resident doctors of the SMS medical colleges returned to work while the other faction has opened a front against it and announced to continue the boycott in support of the private doctors.

P ublic Interest Litigation filed against the private doctors’ strike in protest against the Right to Health Bill and to provide necessary resources in government hospitals will be heard on Friday in Rajasthan high court. A division bench of acting Chief Justice MM Srivastava and Justice Anil Upman will conduct the hearing. The petition has been listed in the supplementary cause list.

Yogesh Sharma

Jaipur: A delegation of private doctors met former Dy CM Sachin Pilot at his residence on Thursday. Talking to reporters after the meeting, Pilot said that the government should listen to the agitating doctors as patients are getting worried all over the state.

One of the doctors acting as dummy patient during the protest march at JLN Marg, in Jaipur on Thursday. Doctors with Sachin Pilot at his residence on Thursday.

“Even when our government was at the cen-

tre, we made universal laws. It hurts when thousands of people are in need of treatment, but they are not getting

treatment. Neither side should adopt an adamant stand so that meaningful talks held. There may be a way out, we are the ruling party, so we should go ahead and solve the matter, because the situation is getting worse and worse. Both sides should discuss with an open mind. I appeal to all the doctors to sit and talk. There may be a way out,” he said.

3 die in Ram Navami procession, CM expresses grief

Lalit Bansal

Kota: Three youths died while four got injured in Kotra Deep Singh village in Sultanpur area of Kota district during a grand procession on the

HC rules in favour of transport inspectors

First India Bureau

Jaipur: The High Court has ruled in favour of transport inspectors and about 200 inspectors will be benefited. The Krishna Bhatnagar committee had amended the pay scale of transport inspectors but they got the benefit of increased salary from 2013.

The transport inspectors had been demanding an increased salary from the year 2008. When the govt did not listen, they approached the HC.

DOC SENTENCED TO JAIL IN CHEQUE BOUNCE CASE

A

No. of flights may increase to 70 from Sept

Kashiram Choudhary

5 FLIGHTS FROM DEL DIVERTED TO JPR

Five flights were diverted to Jaipur airport from Delhi due to bad weather conditions there. The flights which were diverted are SriLankan Airline’s Colombo to Delhi flight, Air India’s Mumbai to Delhi, Air Arabia’s Sharjah to Delhi, Indigo’s Jabalpur to Delhi and Madurai to Delhi.

JPR-CHENNAI FLYERS HALTED IN NOTAM

On the other hand, passengers of IndiGo flight from Jaipur to Chennai suffered as the flight did not get permission to take off due to runway NOTAM. Despite

the NOTAM hours, the airlines got the passengers boarded the plane. More than 160 passengers kept on waiting in the plane for the take off.

If these 9 flights also operate, passengers will be able to get many op-

The situation raises questions on the control of the regulatory agency DGCA. The nine flights which are on papers are of Air In-

occasion of Ramnavami on Thursday. The youths were displaying acrobatics skills when a wheel got stuck with an electric wire. They were trying to remove it when the incident happened.

Three people died, while three were referred to Kota and a young man was being admitted in a Sultanpur hospital. The Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot also expressed grief over inci-

dent. “Our deepest sympathies go out to families of those who lost their lives in this unfortunate accident. Necessary instructions have been given to provide best treatment.” he tweeted.

CS interacts with farmers who are using innovative methods, inspects

fields

IN WOMEN AND GIRLS HAS SOARED 25% IN CRISIS-HIT COUNTRIES

WHY IS THE PROBLEM GETTING WORSE?

Every mother wants the best for their child. But a nutrition crisis means that many children are seeing their life opportunities negatively affected before they are even born. More than a billion adolescent girls and women suffer from undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies and anaemia. It’s amplifying gender inequalities, curbing learning and wage-earning potential, and shaping lives. We have made scant progress on targets to improve nutrition, and many of the countries most affected are those already grappling with poverty, conflict and climate change. Now, the global food crisis is deepening the problem, a new report from UNICEF finds, with maternal acute malnutrition rising by a quarter between 2020 and 2022 in the worst-hit countries.

HOW BAD IS THE PROBLEM?

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

l More than a billion women and adolescent girls are malnourished, which has broad health, economic and well-being impacts.

A series of local and global crises could combine in 2023 to exacerbate the problem for women and girls in several regions of the world. The pandemic had a devastating impact on food security, which disproportionately affected women and girls. Indeed, the gender gap for food insecurity more than doubled between 2019 and 2021 as girls and women found their livelihoods, income and access to nutritious food all hit. In southern and eastern Africa, for example, up to four in five pregnant and breastfeeding women were food insecure as a result of the pandemic.

Coordinated action which brings together multiple sectors and unites policies is needed to widen access to good nutrition. This includes improving access to and education about affordable, nutritious food, as well as expanding access to essential nutrition services for pregnant and breastfeeding women in particular

Poor nutrition and the issues associated with it can have major and long-lasting implications throughout a person’s life. These include poorer defence against disease and infection, reduced learning ability and stunted growth. Poor maternal nutrition can increase the risk of stillbirth, newborn death, and preterm delivery. It can also affect foetal development, creating lifelong impacts. Globally, 51 million children under two, have stunted growth, about half of which will have become stunted during pregnancy or the first six months of life, when they are fully dependent on their mother for nutrition, the report says.

WHERE IS THE PROBLEM MOST ACUTE?

Over two-thirds of adolescent girls and women who are underweight live in

South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa, with these regions also home to 60% of women and girls with anaemia. But there is significant variation between countries and regions – less educated, poorer and more rural women and girls are significantly more likely to be affected by issues related to nutrition. Rising poverty and inequities increase the chances that

people will turn to cheap, ultra-processed, unhealthy foods. In Sudan already only 10% of girls and women have diets that meet the minimum dietary diversity to provide sufficient nutrients. The story is similar in Burundi, Burkina Faso and Afghanistan, where fewer than one in three have a sufficiently diverse diet.

Rising poverty and inequities increase the chanc-

es that people will turn to cheap, ultra-processed, unhealthy foods. In Sudan already only 10% of girls and women have diets that meet the minimum dietary diversity to provide sufficient nutrients. The story is similar in Burundi, Burkina Faso and Afghanistan, where fewer than one in three have a sufficiently diverse diet. In the 12 countries that are most affected by the cur-

Will Indonesia’s presidential election be delayed?

AND COULD JOKOWI STAY IN POWER LONGER?

Adecade ago, Joko (Jokowi)

Widodo was an outsider candidate whose carefully cultivated “everyman” persona swept him into Indonesia’s presidential office. To get there, he had to overcome Opposition from many rich and powerful figures.

However, he soon built a formidable political coalition, and he and his family are now firmly part of the oligarchic ruling elite. So much so, that many mem-

bers of that elite fear their access to political and economic power could be disrupted if he leaves office. By law, Jokowi’s time in office is limited. In 1998, Indonesia’s longest-serving president, Soeharto, was forced to step down after 32 years in power. One of the constitutional pri-

ELECTIONS FOR THE PRESIDENCY AND LEGISLATURE ARE NOW DUE ON FEBRUARY 14, 2024, AND, BECAUSE JOKOWI HAS ALREADY BEEN ELECTED TWICE, HE CANNOT RUN AGAIN

orities after his fall was to prevent a repeat of his long rule, which had become associated with military repression and corruption.

In 1999, the Constitution was amended to prevent presidents serving more than two five-year terms. This was seen as a non-negotiable part of the reforms

that delivered Indonesia’s transition to democracy.

Court decision causing election uncertainty

The idea of Jokowi staying in power just won’t go away. In fact, it is dominating headlines again after the Central Jakarta District Court issued a shock decision in early March

ordering the General Election Commission to postpone the 2024 elections.

THE POTENTIAL FALLOUT FROM A POSTPONEMENT

The run-up to elections is always a time of intense political manoeuvring in Indonesia. Presidential and parliamentary candidates for next year’s elections have also not yet been finalised.

It’s a fair point. Many observers already believe Jokowi’s time in office has led to democratic regression, with Indonesia slipping in the Freedom House rankings. Jokowi himself has publicly said he thinks Indonesian democracy has “gone too far”.

Source: The Conversation

l We are making slow progress and issues like soaring food prices, climate change and the lasting impact of the pandemic risk making the nutrition crisis an even greater problem in 2023.

l Nutrition is a widely overlooked issue, and coordinated access and policy intervention is urgently needed.

rent food crisis (Mali, Niger, Kenya, Nigeria Northeast, Burkina Faso, Chad, Somalia, South Sudan, Afghanistan, Sudan, Yemen and Ethiopia), the number of acutely malnourished pregnant and breastfeeding women increased by 25% between 2020 and 2022. These countries alone account for almost 7 million acutely malnourished mothers, according to UNICEF’s report.

“Addressing malnutrition in women and girls is essential to reduce the gender health gap,” says Amira Ghouaibi, Project Lead, Women’s Health Initiative, Shaping the Future of Health and Healthcare, World Economic Forum. “For too long, women and girls have deprioritized their own needs impacting their health and wellbeing- they eat least, less and inadequately. Access to good nutrition will not only improve health outcomes for women and girls but will create equal opportunities, increase economic empowerment and promote gender equality.”

WHAT CAN BE DONE?

The scale and consequences of the problem are being widely overlooked and underrecognized by families, society, governments, researchers, humanitarian agencies and the private sector, UNICEF says. The challenges facing women and children, particularly in the worst affected areas, continue to mount and much faster progress is needed. But only 8% of countries had all of the eight policies UNICEF considers key to tackling the problem. And there is also a lack of data to inform the problem and actions being taken.

Source: World Economic Forum

TOP TWEETS

Jagat Prakash Nadda @JPNadda

He is the delight of the worlds, the brave on the battlefield, the lotuseyed, the lord of the Raghu dynasty. I take refuge in the merciful form of Sri Ramachandra who is merciful. Happy Rama Navami to you all. I pray that this festival brings good fortune and prosperity to all. May the grace of Lord Sri Rama rest upon all. Jai Shri Ram!

Dharmendra Pradhan @dpradhanbjp

Lawless Odisha is a reality. High-time people in power recognise the faultlines in the law and order situation in the state. Murder of young Samarth exactly within two months of the broad daylight killing of Minister Nabha Das exposes Odisha govt’s tall claims on rule of law.

SPIRITUAL SPEAK

As person abandons worn-out clothes and acquires new ones, so when the body is worn out a new one is acquired by the Self, who lives within. Bhagavad Gita

India’s NEP based on teachings of visionaries like Gandhi: Shah

Union Home Minister addresses 113th convocation of Gurukul Kangri in Haridwar

Haridwar (PTI): Un-

ion Home Minister

Amit Shah on Thursday hailed the Central government’s New Education Policy for its emphasis on learning in mother tongue and universal education based on the teachings of Indian visionaries such as Mahatma Gandhi, Dayanand Saraswati and Lala Lajpat Rai.

Addressing the 113th convocation of the Gurukula Kangri here, Shah credited the university (deemed to be) for the revival of vedic education in India and combining it with modern education.

Shah paid tributes to the university’s founder Swami Shraddhanand saying he set India’s education system free from the stranglehold of the British and revived the country’s vedic education

Rijiju slams Rahul over foreign powers’ ‘help’

NEP contains the visions of four great people. Accessible education as propagated by Maharshi Dayanand, combining vedic education with modern as propagated by Swami Shraddhanand, Mahatma Gandhi’s education in mother tongue, & Lala Lajpat Rai’s principle of education for all are at the core of NEP.

—Amit Shah, Union Home Minister

system, all the while emphasising on culture and modern education.

The Union Home Minister praised the NEP brought by the Narendra Modi-led central government saying it

COURTESY MEET!

Israel stands by India in fight against terror: Ohana

Jerusalem (PTI): The planners of “abominable” 2008 Mumbai terror attack should pay a heavy price for it, the Speaker of Israel’s Parliament has said ahead of his maiden visit to India, asserting that the fight against terrorism is common concern for the two countries.

Amir Ohana, a close confidante of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, will travel to India for four days starting March 31, on his first official visit abroad after assuming office in

December last year.

Amir Ohana said the fight to counter it requires all the progressive countries to come together.

represents the combined visions of Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati, Swami Shraddhanand, Mahatma Gandhi, and Lala Lajpat Rai.

“The new education policy, which is the

country’s third, contains the visions of four great people. Accessible education as propagated by Maharshi Dayanand, combining vedic education with modern as propagated by Swa-

mi Shraddhanand, Mahatma Gandhi’s education in mother tongue, and Lala Lajpat Rai’s principle of education for all are at the core of this policy,” the Union Home Minister said.

New Delhi (ANI): Union Law Minister Kiren Rijiju on Thursday criticized Congress and Rahul Gandhi for inviting foreign powers to interfere in India’s internal matters and said “remember, Indian Judiciary can’t be influenced by foreign interference. India won’t tolerate ‘foreign influence’ anymore because our Prime Minister is Narendra Modi.”

“Thank you Rahul Gandhi for inviting foreign powers for interference into India’s internal matters. Remember, Indian Judiciary can’t be influenced by foreign interference. India won’t tolerate ‘foreign influence’ anymore because our Prime Minister is:- Shri @narendramodi Ji,” tweeted the Minister.

Rijiju reacted to Digvijay Singh’s tweet which thanked German Foreign Affairs Ministry and Richard Walker over Rahul’s matter.

SITHARAMAN RAPS CONG FOR ‘FOREIGN INTERFERENCE’

New Delhi: Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday hit out at Congress over “foreign interference in our affairs” after MP Digvijaya Singh thanked the German foreign ministry for taking note of Rahul Gandhi’s matter.

“Apparent that @INCIndia wants foreign interference in our affairs. Sign Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Communist Party of China with opaque contents,” Sitharaman said.

Reddy meets Shah, urges release of funds

New Delhi (Agencies):

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Thursday met Union Home Minister Amit Shah here and urged him to resolve several long-pending issues since the bifurcation of the state.

Chief Minister Reddy requested the Home Minister to immediately release a grant of Rs 10,000 crore on an adhoc basis to expedite Polavaram project. He added that pending issues have pushed Andhra Pradesh backwards in terms of devel-

ENHANCE ANDHRA

PRADESH’S CREDIT

LIMIT: CM TO SITHA

opment and revenue. He also requested for Rs 2,020 crore to fill the scourge pits formed at the main dam site due to the washing away of the diaphragm in flash floods, said a statement

THANK YOU GERMANY FOR TAKING NOTE OF RaGa MATTER: DIGGY

New Delhi: Senior Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Digvijaya Singh on Thursday thanked Germany for “taking note” of Rahul Gandhi’s disqualification from Parliament as the Lok Sabha Member of Parliament. Taking to Twitter, Singh said, “Thank you German Foreign Affairs Ministry and Richard Walker for taking note of how the Democracy is being compromised in India through the persecution of Rahul Gandhi.”

Tripura BJP MLA watches porn on mobile in House

on Wednesday night.

This is Reddy’s second visit to Delhi in a month. On March 17, Reddy had met with Prime Minster Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Shah.

Cong is corrupted, BJP will get absolute majority in Karnataka: BS Yediyurappa

Bengaluru (ANI): Former Karnataka Chief Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader BS Yediyurappa on Thursday said that BJP will get an absolute majority in Karnataka assembly elections and added that Congress is making false allegations because they are corrupted.

Addressing a press briefing, Yediyurappa said, “Under PM Modi’s leadership, we’ll come back to power. Congress is corrupted and that’s why they’re making

false allegations of 40% commission and such others, these things will be kept away by voters.” “Only BJP has leaders like Amit Shah and

SIMMERING RESENTMENT

Narendra Modi, who are welcomed in a large manner by the people of Karnataka. So BJP will 100 per cent win with a clear majority in

the state”, he said. Yediyurappa added that lakhs of people gathered in the road shows, Vijaya Sankalpa Yatra and other public events organized by BJP and this gives a clear message.

“I have already spoken to Amit Shah. MPs of both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha have been asked to be present and work in their respective constituencies. A parliamentary committee meeting will also be held in Bengaluru soon,” he said.

Why are the MPs of Nitish Kumar’s party upset?

Mahesh Sharma

New Delhi: The leaders of Grand Alliance i.e. RJD, JDU and Congress in Bihar are determined to defeat BJP in the next Lok Sabha elections. But before that the big question is how will there be coordination between the three parties? How will the seats be distributed? Will the seats be swapped and if so what will happen to the sitting MPs? The MPs of Nitish Kumar’s

party are troubled by these questions. Keep in mind that no Lok Sabha MP of RJD has won, so there is no problem there. Congress also has only one MP and that too from Kishanganj seat. In the alliance, that seat is sure to go back to the Congress account. So, the real concern is of JDU MPs. Its 16 MPs won while contesting in alliance with BJP, in which at least half of the MPs are worried about changing the seat.

Keep in mind that JDU had got all such seats in the BJP alli-

ance, where RJD is strong. JDU MPs have won the seats affected

by RJD. Madhepura is the traditional seat of RJD, from where JDU’s Dinesh Chandra Yadav hails from. Similarly Siwan is the seat of Shahabuddin’s family, who is the Muslim face of RJD. There is Vita Singh from Bhagalpur which has been a strong seat of RJD, from where Ajay Mandal of JDU has won. Ranjit Ranjan and Pappu Yadav are with the Congress, whose areas of influence are Madhepura,

Supaul and Purnia. JDU MPs have won all these three seats. Similarly, there are JDU MPs in seats like Gopalganj to Jhanjharpur, Sitamarhi, Banka. Katihar is the traditional seat of Congress’s Tariq Anwar, which is won by JDU’s Dulal Chand Goswami. Thus, JDU MPs are restless on these seats and feel that his seat in the alliance may change. So, many MPs are being told to be in touch with the BJP.

Amaravati: Andhra CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy called on Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Delhi on Thursday and urged her to increase state’s credit limit and release pending funds. He appealed to her to enhance credit limit of Rs 17,923 crore which was reduced from Rs 42,472 crore in 2021-22 for no fault of the state govt.

Agartala (Agencies): In a major political embarrassment to the BJP, a party MLA Jadab Lal Nath was allegedly caught on camera watching a pornographic clip in the Tripura assembly. A video has gone viral on social media where the legislator from the Bagbasa constituency can be seen watching obscene clips playing on his phone when a session to discuss issues related to the state budget was underway.

IN THE COURTYARD

SC SEEKS RESPONSE ON FAVOURITISM IN APPOINTMENTS IN J&K JUDICIAL COURTS

New Delhi: The Supreme Court has directed the Registrar General of the Jammu and Kashmir High Court to file its response to a plea which alleged that relatives of former judges and staff were favoured in the appointments in judicial institutions and courts in the Union territory. A bench headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud initially suggested to a counsel, representing petitioner NGO ‘Jammu and Kashmir People’s Forum, that it should approach the high court with the plea.

NO RELIEF FOR BUS DRIVER ACCUSED OF MOLESTING MINORS

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court has upheld a five-year jail term to a school bus driver for sexually assaulting two minor students in 2014. The accused had challenged a 2020 trial court decision holding him guilty of section 354A (sexual harassment) IPC and section 10 of POCSO Act on grounds that there were contradictions in the prosecution case and both the victims could not give the exact date and narration of the event.

CHARGES FRAMED AGAINST 3 IN 2017 ROAD RAGE CASE

New Delhi: A local court recently framed charges against three persons for beating a person and injuring him grievously in a road rage case of December 2017 near Tilak Nagar Flyover. However, the court discharged the accused persons of the charge of attempt to culpable homicide not amounting to murder. Additional Sessions Judge (ASJ) Hem Raj framed charges against Mandeep Singh alias Raja, Ashmeet Singh and Tarun Sharma.

DELHI EXCISE ‘SCAM’: INTERIM BAIL OF LIQUOR BIZMAN MAHENDRU EXTENDED

New Delhi: A Delhi court has extended the interim bail granted to liquor businessman Sameer Mahendru on medical grounds in a money laundering case related to alleged irregularities in the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy. The court granted the relief for a week after the Enforcement Directorate said it needed time to reply to the application seeking extension of the bail. ED’s Special Public Prosecutor told the court that the agency has emailed all medical documents of the accused to the doctors/ hospitals concerned, but some of the reports are still awaited.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah addresses at the 113th convocation ceremony of Gurukul Kangri University, in Haridwar on Thursday. —PHOTO BY ANI

Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets with the team associated with 2023 Oscar Awardwinning documentary short film ‘The Elephant Whisperers’, in New Delhi on Thursday.

—PHOTO BY ANI

Union Law and Justice Minister Kiren Rijiju. —FILE PHOTO

YS Jagan Mohan Reddy with Amit Shah in New Delhi on Thursday.

BS Yediyurappa (R) with Karnataka CM Bommai. —FILE PHOTO

Israeli Knesset’s (parliament) speaker Amir Ohana.

Nitish Kumar

Life of Lord Ram an inspiration for humanity in every era: PM Modi

New Delhi (ANI):

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday wished people on the occasion of Ram Navami and said that the life of Lord Ram will remain an inspiration for humanity in every era.

Taking to Twitter, PM Modi said, “Many best wishes to all the countrymen on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami.”

He also added that the life of Maryada Purushottam Lord Ramchandra, based on sac-

348 held during Amritpal crackdown freed: Govt

Akal Takht Jathedar had given an ultimatum to the Punjab govt

Chandigarh (PTI):

The Punjab government has informed the Akal Takht that 348 of the 360 people taken into preventive custody during a police crackdown against radical preacher Amritpal Singh have now been freed.

The Akal Takht Jathedar’s personal secretary Jaspal Singh on Thursday said a message was received from the state government that the rest would also be released soon.

Earlier this week, Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh had given an ultimatum to the state government to release all Sikh youths held during the police crackdown against Amritpal Singh and his aides.

The Jathedar had also condemned the state government for invoking the National Security Act against a few people during the police crackdown.

A few days prior to the Jathedar’s ultimatum, the Punjab Police had said that out of those detained, nearly 30 were hardcore criminals. The rest would be released after verification, a senior police official had said.

Meanwhile, the Punjab police have stepped up security in and around Amritsar and Bathinda amid reports that Amritpal Singh may surrender after entering any of the two Sikh shrines – the Golden Temple in Amritsar or the Takht Sri Damdama Sahib in Bathinda. Vehicles are being

Dhoni’s

New Delhi (PTI): The never-ending speculations about Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s impending ‘last dance’, Virat Kohli’s endless pursuit of an elusive silverware and Rohit Sharma’s customary nonchalance are things that make the IPL starting Friday a heady cocktail of cricket and entertainment.

Megastars Dhoni, Kohli and Rohit have been the IPL’s driving force in the past 15 sea-

Total 5 ‘Khalistanis’ held since Jan for violence in Australia

Melbourne: Three men were arrested in connection with violent brawls that broke out between pro-Khalistani supporters and Indian demonstrators in late January in Melbourne, Australian state Victoria’s police said on Thursday. The arrests were made by the Melbourne East Neighbourhood Policing Team “in relation to an alleged affray” at the Federation Square on January 29, Victoria Police said in a statement. With the latest arrests, police have so far rounded up five suspects in connection with the incident. “Police were in attendance at a Khalistan Referendum

checked at several places in other districts, including Hoshiarpur, in search of the head of ‘Waris Punjab De’. Amritpal, who has

event at Federation Square on 29 January when it’s alleged two fights broke out, one at about 12.45pm and the other at about 4.30pm,” it stated. Police said that the investigation remains ongoing and they are making enquiries to identify and

been on the run since March 18 when the police crackdown was launched, appeared in a video on Wednesday. In the undated clip,

rifice, austerity, restraint and determination, will remain the inspiration for humanity in every era.

Ram Navami is a Hindu festival that is celebrated in order to honour the birth of Lord Vish-

CBI raids to bust doctors and middlemen nexus in Delhi

New Delhi: The CBI raided locations in Delhi on Wednesday evening to expose a corruption case involving Safdurjung hospital doctors and middlemen. “After the agency had received complaints related to a doctor and middlemen, raids in Delhi were conducted last evening to expose the nexus between them. During raids, CBI found increment documents related to corruption. Documents have been seized,” a CBI official said. “A few people including a doctor from the neurosurgery department and middlemen have been apprehended by CBI,” official said.

Narendra Modi @narendramodi

Many best wishes to all the countrymen on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami.

nu’s incarnation, Lord Rama. This day marks the end of the nine-day Chaitra-Navratri celebrations, which are celebrated in the Hindu month of Chaitra which falls on the cusp of spring and summer.

PM MODI TO ATTEND COMBINED COMMANDERS’ MEET IN BHOPAL

New Delhi: PM Narendra Modi will attend the Combined Commanders’ Conference-2023 in Bhopal on April 1, said an official press release on Thursday. The PMO statement said, “At around 10 AM, Prime Minister will attend the Combined Commanders’ Conference-2023 at the Kushabhau Thakre Hall in Bhopal. Thereafter, at around 3:15 PM, Prime Minister will flag off the Vande Bharat Express train between Bhopal and New Delhi at Rani Kamlapati Railway Station, Bhopal.” The three-day conference of Military Commanders will be held from 30th March to 1st April 2023 on the theme ‘Ready, Resurgent, Relevant’. During the Conference, deliberations will be held over a varied spectrum of issues pertaining to national security, including jointness and theaterisation in the Armed Forces.

Vehicles burnt, cops on alert in WB’s Howrah

Kolkata: Several vehicles were set on fire after two groups clashed in West Bengal’s Howrah amid Ram Navami celebrations on Thursday. The violence broke out soon after a Ram Navami procession crossed the area. Visuals showed several vehicles engulfed in flames and heavy police deployment - including riot control force - in the area. A police van and a car with their glasses smashed were also seen in the videos from the spot.

CM Mamata Banerjee assured strict action against the perpetrators of the violence in Howrah’s Shibpur and asserted that usage of

SWACHHOTSAV 2023

unauthorised route led to the clash. “They have been hiring goons from outside the state to orchestrate communal riots. Nobody has stopped their processions but they do not have the right to march with swords and bulldozers,” said Mamata Banerjee.

MAMATA RESPONSIBLE FOR VIOLENCE: BJP

The BJP attacked Banerjee for the violence. “As Bengal’s CM and home minister, Mamata Banerjee is directly responsible for violence. When over 10,000 processions were taken out, she was on a Dharna. When she should have looked after police management, she was doing politics,” BJP said.

CRUCIAL READ

MAN ARRESTED FOR IMPERSONATING AS JOURNALIST IN DELHI

VANDE BHARAT TRIAL BETWEEN CHENNAI & COIMBATORE HELD

apprehend any further alleged offenders from the day.

According to Victoria Police during the fight it is alleged flag poles “were used by several men as weapons which caused physical injuries to multiple victims.”

he urged the Akal Takht to summon a “sarbat khalsa” – a congregation of Sikhs to discuss issues concerning the community.

IPL TURNS ‘SWEET 16’

New Delhi: As many as 1000 cities are targeted to become 3-Star Garbage Free by October 2024” said Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri on the occasion of International Zero Waste Day 2023 in New Delhi on Thursday.

Highlighting the progress in the GFC-Star rating, launched in January 2018 to encourage a competitive, missionmode spirit among ULBs, he further said that the certification has increased exponentially sinceinception.

Puri said that urban India has become Open Defecation Free (ODF), with all 4,715 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) com-

pletely ODF, 3,547 ULBs are ODF+ with functional and hygienic community and public toilets and 1,191 ULBs are ODF++ with complete faecal sludge management. Further, waste processing in India has gone up by over four times from 17% in 2014 to 75% today.

CSK, Rohit’s MI remain main contenders

ALL EYES ON OLD GRAPEVINE DHONI

sons, getting the cricket crazy Indian fans hooked on the event for nearly two months every year.

As it enters the 16th season, innovations introduced in the form of potential game changer like the ‘Impact Player’

rule, DRS on wides and waist-high no balls, and two broadcasting giants locked in an ugly war of ‘TV vs Digital’ act as in-

gredients garnishing the mouth-watering dish, which will be devoured by millions for more than 50 days.

New Delhi: Delhi Police has arrested a 52-yearold man impersonating as a journalist and extorting money from businessmen by threatening them to defame by posting fake news against them, police said adding that his son has also been arrested.

Coimbatore: The Vande Bharat Express, which was on a trial run from Chennai to Coimbatore, reached here 22 minutes ahead of its scheduled time of 11.40 AM on Thursday, officials said. The train left Chennai at 5.40 AM and reached Coimbatore at 11.18 AM, in record five hours and 38 minutes.

CAR CATCHES FIRE ON NOIDA EXPRESSWAY, OCCUPANTS JUMP OUT TO SAVE THEMSELVES

Noida: A fire broke out in a moving car on Noida-Greater Noida Expressway and its driver and passenger had to jump out of the vehicle to save themselves, police said on Thursday. The incident occurred on Wednesday night. The fire engulfed the vehicle within a matter of minutes, leaving it completely gutted. Eyewitnesses told the fire department, after which fire brigade vehicles reached the spot and extinguished the blaze. The burnt car was moved to the roadside. The fire officials said that traffic slowed down for some time after the incident and barricades were put up to allow other vehicles to pass safely.

ALCOHOLIC MAN SLAUGHTERS WIFE & DAUGHTER WITH AXE

NOIDA: FIRE AT ADANI GROUP’S IN PROCESS DATA CENTRE

However, the product will remain the driving force and players the main stakeholders, as the likes of Dhoni, Kohli and Rohit set the narratives for their respective franchises with amazing fan bases.

Nearing 42, Dhoni has defied the law of diminishing returns when it comes to his manic following among CSK fans, who thronged the Chepauk to see their ‘Thala’ hit towering sixes at his spiritual home.

Hyderabad: An alcoholic man murdered his wife and daughter in Telangana’s Jayashankar Bhupalapally district. The incident occurred in Bhupalapally municipality limits on Wednesday night. According to police, the accused killed his wife and daughter with an axe after an argument.

Noida: A fire broke out at the under-construction data centre building of Adani Group located in Noida Sector 62, which was later brought under control. The fire broke out on Wednesday night. According to the fire department, no casualties were reported in the incident, officials said.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Akal Takht Jathedar Harpreet Singh. —FILE PHOTO

1000 cities to be 3-star garbage free by Oct 2024: Puri

A priest performs ritual on the occasion of Ram Navami at Sree Seeta Rama temple, at Nampally, in Hyderabad on Thursday. —PHOTO BY ANI

Pro-Khalistani supporters had indulged in violence against the Indian demonstrators in Melbourne on January 29.

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri at the event on Thursday.

The police personnel at the area where clashes broke out.

Change is a part of life. The man who adapts to change and embraces it, will make a success of his life.

CM SHARES ‘VISION 2030’ ON RAJ DAY

Naresh Sharma

Jaipur: Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot while sharing his vision 2030 on Thursday said that maximum awareness should be spread about the schemes of the State Government so that no eligible person in the State is deprived of its benefits.

“Today the schemes of the State Government are the subject of discussion in the whole country. The innovations made in the state in public welfare are unique. It is our responsibility to take their benefits to every needy. Just as the common man went ahead and contributed in realising the concept of no one sleeps hungry in Covid 19 management, similarly, it is our duty to ensure that no one is deprived of the benefits of the schemes,” Gehlot said and called upon the common man to contribute in making Rajasthan the number one state by 2030.

“Work is being done keeping in mind the goal of prosperity of every family of the state by 2030 so that every Ra-

Target not met, Govt extends PSKS campaign by six months

Abhishek Shrivastava

Jaipur: Although the duration of Prashasan Shehron ke Sang campaign was until March 31, the government has decided to extend the campaign by six months to issue more leases to people.

During this period, a target of issuing 10 lakh leases was set. But according to data until March 28, local bodies issued only 6 lakh 91 thousand 779 leases. The Department of Self-Government recently conducted a comprehensive survey and it came to light that there are about eight lakh families across the state who have not yet received leases of their plots. Division-wise review meetings will be chaired by UDH Minister Shanti Dhariwal.

l Calls for spreading maximum awareness about schemes of the State Government

l Interacts virtually with over 2L people of the State during the Beneficiary Festival

Rahul disqualified for questioning Centre on Adani issue: Randhawa

Pushkar: Congress incharge for Rajasthan

Sukhjinder Singh

Randhawa on Thursday said that the character and face of the Bharatiya Janata Party has been exposed in front of the public that there is a difference between their words and actions.

Jaipur: Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot will be addressing Congress workers in Bharatpur and Ajmer districts on Friday. He is scheduled to depart from Jaipur at 10 am and take a meeting of Congress workers in the Bharatpur division at 11 am. He will reach Ajmer at 2:45 pm to address party workers at Jawahar School Stadium. Gehlot is scheduled to reach Jaipur at 5:30 pm.

jasthani can come in the front line of the country,” he said while addressing the beneficiary festival organised in Jaipur on Rajasthan Day on Thursday.

He said that along with free education, water, electricity, ration, health insurance, cheaper gas cylinders etc., 1 crore people are being benefited by public welfare schemes of the state government.

“Along with this, Rajasthan ranks second in the country with an eco-

nomic growth rate of 11.04 per cent. Both these achievements have be-

come possible at the same time because of the public money being

BJP state core panel to discuss strategy against Govt on April 2

First India Bureau Jaipur: BJP state core committee meeting will be held on April 2 to discuss various organisational and political issues.

Aishwary Pradhan

Jaipur: The BJP high command is likely to decide soon on appointing the Leader of the Opposition, Deputy Leader of the Opposition and Chief Whip in Rajasthan.

The month of April is considered crucial for these appointments and a decision on these three posts is very much likely to be taken in the coming days. Although, Dalit leader Jogeshwar Garg is already the Chief Whip.

Sources informed that

the party will try to balance caste equations in the upcoming appointments in the party organisation. It is believed that Deputy Leader of Opposition Rajendra Rathore may be appointed leader of the opposition in the state assembly. Similarly, former State BJP President Satish Poonia may also be given an important post in the organisation. Malpura MLA Kanhaiyalal Chaudhary, BJP leader Anita Bhadel, Kalicharan Saraf and Pushpendra Bali may also figure in the list of appointees.

BJP state president CP Joshi, state in-charge Arun Singh, Co-incharge Vijaya Rahatkar, Deputy Leader of Opposition Rajendra Rathore, Union Ministers Bhupendra Yadav, Arjun Ram Meghwal, GS Shekhawat, ex-CM Vasundhara Raje, senior leaders Om Mathur and Alka Gurjar will be present during the meeting. Discussions on issues related to organisation and regarding strategy to corner the state government will be held in the meeting. Joshi will reach Jaipur by late night tomorrow and will stay in Jaipur for 3 days.

to all the residents of Rajasthan on the occasion of ‘Rajasthan Day’, the holy land of bravery, art and culture. On this occasion, I wish for the protection, promotion and prosperity of the people of this supernatural culture.

spent by the state government in public interest. 19 new districts have

been created in Rajasthan, so that better governance can be given through smaller administrative units,” he said.

PCC Chief Govind Singh Dotasra said that the State Government is working to serve the poor considering them as Ganesha.

The Chief Minister also interacted with the beneficiaries from across the state. About 2 lakh beneficiaries from all the districts of the state were connected to the event through VC.

Randhawa, while talking to reporters in Pushkar, said that the disqualification of Rahul Gandhi from Lok Sabha is a conspiracy hatched by the BJP. He said that the Central Government has taken this step because of the questions raised by Rahul Gandhi

Shahpura delegation thanks CM Gehlot post district formation

First India Bureau

Jaipur: A delegation from Shahpura in Bhilwara on Thursday reached the Chief Minister’s residence and thanked the Chief Minister for the announcement of making Shahpura a district. The Chief Minister congratulated the people from the region for the formation of a new district and said that after the formation of the district, opening of new offices will facilitate the common man.

“Every section of people are getting benefitted by the schemes of the state government. In the field of health, the Chief Minister Chiranjeevi Health Insurance Scheme is a topic of discussion in the whole country. With this scheme, the common man has got freedom

MOU INKED FOR CHONP CRICKET STADIUM

Jaipur: Sujangarh MLA Manoj Meghwal met Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot regarding the demand of making Sujla district. Meghwal has demanded CM Gehlot to include Sujangarh, Ladnun, Bidasar and Ratangarh in Sujala district. The MLA said that after the announcement of 19 districts, there is anger among the people of the area, so Sujla district should be made. He also handed over the letter of support for the demand of Sujla district by Ladnun MLA Mukesh Bhakar to the CM. During the meeting, Congress state in-charge Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, PCC Chief Govind Singh Dotasara, MLA Raghu Sharma were also present. —Tanuj Lata

from the worry of expensive treatment. Under this, treatment up to Rs 25 lakh is being provided free of cost to the people of the state,” Gehlot said.

“In order to give re-

Vaibhav hails Govt for allotting land at cheaper rates

Stadium will develop talent of new players, says Assembly Speaker Dr CP Joshi

Naresh Sharma & Ziauddin Khan

Jaipur: After the MoU signing between the Rajasthan Cricket Association and Hindustan Zinc Limited to build the worlds third largest cricket stadium in Chonp village of Jaipur district here on Thursday, RCA president Vaibhav Gehlot highlighted the history and achievements of

RCA. He hoped that similar support would be forthcoming for the construction work of the second phase and also thanked the State Government for allotting 100 acres of land for the stadium at concessional rates.

The MoU was signed by Bhawani Shankar Samota, Honorary Secretary, Rajasthan Cricket Association and Arun Misra, CEO Hindustan Zinc in the presence of Dr CP Joshi, Speaker, Rajasthan Vidhan Sabha

and Chief Patron, RCA, Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Chairperson, Hindustan Zinc and Non-Executive Director, Vedanta Ltd. and Vaibhav Gehlot, President, Rajasthan Cricket Association. Dr CP Joshi ex -

It is the biggest cricket playing field in the world, is one of the world’s biggest Cricket stadiums with a seating capacity of 75,000. (2nd largest in India and 3rd largest in the world), spread over 100 acres (4,04,685 sqm) biggest playing area and is well connected via DelhiJaipur Express Highway. The stadium facilities will be spread across 100 acres and have a seating capacity of over 75,000. In terms of the size of the playing field area this stadium would be the largest in the world.

pressed happiness at the generous offer from HZL and signing of the MoU. “This will accomplish the long felt dream of construction of a modern International Cricket Stadium at Jaipur. The stadium will develop the talent

of new players,” he said while thanking Anil Agarwal and Priya Agarwal Hebbar for their support and MOU for 1st Phase of Stadium. He hoped the 2nd Phase of the stadium would also be supported by Vedanta.

on the Adani issue. He said that Rahul Gandhi is the son of a martyr and he is standing with the people against injustice, which is not being liked by the BJP and the Central Government.

Raj Information Commission bench in Jodhpur gets CM approval

lief to the common people in the state from inflation, the state government has made a provision to give gas cylinders to 76 lakh families in just Rs.500,” the Chief Minister added.

First India Bureau Jaipur: For effective implementation of the Right to Information (RTI) Act, a bench of the Information Commission will now be established in Jodhpur. Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has approved the proposal for establishment of the bench. He has also approved 12 new posts and necessary financial provision for the operation of the office. In these new posts, one post is that of Information Commissioner, whose appointment will be done as per the rules. Apart from this, one post each of Personal Assistant, Reader, Information Assistant, 2 posts of Senior Assistant and 3 each of Junior Assistant and Class IV employees are included.

Application window for various RHB schemes in 17 cities closes today

First India Bureau Jaipur: March 31 will be the last date for application in 27 residential and one commercial scheme of the Rajasthan Housing Board being brought forward in 17 cities of the State.

People can apply till the last date for schemes

related to more than 4500 houses and 132 showrooms.

Notably, the independent housing scheme has come in Jaipur after a long time and a large number of people are applying in these schemes which were launched by UDH minister Shanti Dhariwal on March 1.

Shubham Jain

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot addresses a gathering during the Beneficiary Festival on the occasion of Rajasthan Day, at Durgapura in Jaipur on Thursday.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, GS Dotasra, Kunji Lal Meena and others during the Beneficiary Festival in Jaipur on Thursday.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot addresses the people from newly formed Shahpura district, at CMR in Jaipur on Thursday.

Dr CP Joshi, Vaibhav Gehlot, Arun Misra, Priya Agarwal Hebbar, GS Sandhu and others during the MoU signing ceremony in Jaipur on Thursday. —PHOTO BY SANTOSH SHARMA

Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, Dharmendra Rathore and others offer prayers at Brahma Temple. —PHOTO BY ANAND SHARMA

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE NEW STADIUM

Come April, filling of Oppn leader, Dy LoP, Chief Whip posts likely

MLA MANOJ MEGHWAL MEETS CM DEMANDING SUJLA DISTRICT, SUBMITS SUPPORT LETTER

JP Nadda@JPNadda Hearty greetings

THE PERFECT STYLE

QUOTIENT

City First highlights the mindboggling collection of designer Hardik Patel showcased at the Jaipur Couture Show, held at The Palace from March 13 to March 15!

SHUBHANSHI PATHAK cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

The three-day Jaipur Couture Show, presented by First India and Bharat24Vision of New India was organised at The Palace on Ajmer Highway from March 13 to March 15.

Jagdeesh Chandra graced the occasion as the chief guest and appreciated the designer, Hardik Patel for his exquisite collection designed under the brand Neelja. Neelja presented the very rare Dhabu print and Ajrakh collection with modernized design with an aim of promoting the arti-

sanal heritage to the next generation of youth.Neelja is a wellrenowned brand based in Akola, Chittorgarh, Rajasthan. The brand is powered by Craftifly Producer Company Limited and sponsored by the Development Commissioner of Handicrafts.

The brand specialises in Indigo Dabu Printing and Block Printing techniques. It is also known for creating creative handcrafted apparel and home décor items. The skilled artisans at Neelja create exquisite handmade designs using traditional printing techniques. Neelja’s clothing line showcased sarees, kurtas, dresses and jackets all crafted with utmost care. Neelja’s products are cherished by customers worldwide for their beauty, durability and unmatched quality.

Arzoo, Harshita, Sheena, Karishma and Navya

Have you ever had to choose between flushing out one of your organs or keeping it just to struggle for mere existence?

And have you ever decided to go for the former option instead? That's exactly what a few women from a drought-stricken area of Maharashtra did. To cope with the intensive workload on sugarcane fields, these labourers got their wombs surgically removed to not let cramps, infections and unusual health complications hinder their meagre pay of 300 Rs/day. Such a gutwrenching decision to be made by anyone should be enough to highlight the urgency of calamity mitigation measures and policies to include a gender perspective in their formulation.

Instances of droughts, natural disasters and other environmental challenges aren't just purely 'scientific' or 'economic' challenges that affect everyone equally and can be solved by a single move. Gender, like other social factors, is embedded in their structure. According to UNFPA(ILOSTAT DATA,2019) data, 85% of disaster victims are women and 70-80% of casualties in the 2004 tsunami were women. Thus, it’s imminent to address how climate change and disasters affect women disproportionately and how we have historically neglected them in our discussions and actions.

Gender inequality is rooted in our cultural attitudes, laws and institutions that govern activities causing environmental harm and mitigation. This inequity gets manifested in three spheres: Representational and Financial Inequality, Research and Data Inequality and Education and Awareness Inequality.

Women are involved in and are responsible for various climate-sensitive tasks. Their representation is more than 50 per cent in professions most impacted by climate change, agriculture is one of them. With the feminization of agriculture worldwide, specifically in India, we have 55 per cent of women employed in agriculture, yet only 6 per cent of women have ownership rights over agricultural land compared to 63 per cent of men. The struggle

ARIES

MAR 21 - APR 20

Your innovative ideas on the professional front are likely to be well received. Good health will keep you fit and energetic. Spirituality will have a special allure for you. You are likely to expand your social circle. You are likely to get immense fulfillment in your current romantic relationship.

TAURUS

for women doesn't end here as they are additionally expected to shoulder the unpaid household work along with extra hours put in to fight the sweltering heat and dwindling water storage.

Though the Indian Government's MGNREGA scheme has financially empowered women impacted by natural calamities and COVID-19, the scheme’s active implementation is ensured only post events like cyclones and floods. Slow-onset events like droughts get ignored, affecting the rural women left behind to take care of the family farm.

In rural India, women are the ones who feed the household so they are often the first ones to notice when a variety of food is no longer growing. Them being at the helm of climate change de-

LIBRA

SEPT 24 - OCTOBER 22

Homemakers will get a chance to implement their ideas. You are likely to be recognised for your efforts on the professional front. Chance of a raise is possible for some. Timely and correct decision will help you in saving a lot of money. It’s time to change yourself for better.

SCORPIO

OF SIGHT, OF MIND

style and health. The importance of such a measure was highlighted in a study published in Nature magazine that talked about the link between air pollution and anaemia levels in women. Drawing from the NFHS survey and satellite data, the study showed that for every 10 microgram/meter cube increase in PM 2.5 exposure, the average anaemia prevalence in women increased by 7.3 per cent. The reason was

“An expert is someone who knows some of the worst mistakes that can be made in his subject and how to avoid them.” Though these women are aware of their mistakes, the knowledge of how to avoid them is what they lack. And that's where our third sphere of inequality reveals itself, i.e., ‘Education and Awareness Inequality’. We must ensure that women have a seat at the table, not just at the global conferences but in the classrooms and panchayats too. This requires not just imparting education but also translating it, making the science easier to understand for the largely uneducated pool of rural and underprivileged women. The story of ‘Bageshwari Mahila Mandal’ of Sudhera village in Himachal Pradesh highlights exactly this. When a local NGO made the village women aware of the rules of solid waste management, they formed an advocacy group to protest against the illegal dumping of solid waste which polluted their streams and groundwater. It led to the point where half the women were suffering from skin diseases. Alarmed by this, the group wrote a letter to NGT alleging how the 2016 Solid Waste Management Rules were violated by the dumping site. This prompted NGT to issue directions to the Municipal Corporation and the state’s Pollution Control Board to take action. Even the Madhav Gadgil report on the ecology of Western Ghats recommends the need to make policy frameworks more inclusive of indigenous narratives for easy understandability.

APR 21 - MAY 20

You succeed in putting an ambitious project on the tracks and cross all hurdles in making it a success. Homemakers can exceed budget in doing up their homes. An old friend or a relative is likely to pay you a visit. Love beckons and promises to give immense joy and fulfillment.

GEMINI

MAY 21 - JUNE 21

A job switch needs to be considered taking all aspects into consideration. It is one of those days when you will feel satisfied with whatever you do today on the social front. Those seeking love may not get lucky, but persistence will pay . A friend or relative can get you all upset.

CANCER

JUNE 22 - JULY 23

You will put in extra efforts to complete a task entrusted to you. Your academic aspirations may take some time to get realised. A contentious property issue may not show any signs of getting sorted out amicably. Financial worries evaporate as new avenues of earning open up.

LEO

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

Support from the family may seem most encouraging for those aiming an academic pursuit. Sticking to workout routine may benefit you on the health front. Meeting relatives at a marriage or party cannot be ruled out. A passion-filled evening is foreseen, as romantic front brightens.

VIRGO

AUG 24 - SEP 23

OCT 23 - NOVEMBER 22

Speculation may not be profitable and you can very well burn your fingers. A major purchase may make a dent in your savings, but will help in keeping up with the flow .Some of you may get hard pressed to find a good match for someone eligible in the family. Overall a good day.

SAGITTARIUS

NOV 23 - DEC 22

A profitable day for entrepreneurs is envisaged. You may be played upon for spending on someone else’s needs and desires. Homemakers are likely to enjoy the day in the company of neighbors and friends. Fatigue threatens in a long journey, but adequate breaks will keep you going.

CAPRICORN

DEC 23 - JAN 20

Money coming from various sources will keep you in a happy state of mind. A new fitness regime that you have adopted promises to keep you in the pink of health. Getting an old furniture upholstered may be at the top of the mind of some homemakers.Overall health remains satisfactory.

AQUARIUS

JAN 21 - FEB 19

Something concerning property will work out in your favour. A lot of time may be wasted in socialising, but you will love every moment of it. You will succeed in surmounting the odds to get a stalled job back on the tracks. A romantic outing is on the cards and promises fun and frolic.

PISCES

FEB20 - MARCH 20

attributed to indoor air pollution exacerbated by the environment of their poorly ventilated homes.

But unfortunately, the Indian Government has come out saying that it has no conclusive data to establish this correlation. Such gaps in data collection and research are what are holding back wom-

All of this requires the government's unfaded ‘Intention’ to translate our efforts into gender-inclusive policies planning the path of “NEEYAT (intention) se NEETI (policy) tak”. Women have been in a symbiotic relationship with the climate, carrying the inherent attitude of a caregiver, making them benevolent towards the environment. We can’t let 3.4 billion women of the world be termed as mere victims and leave them behind when they too can be the agents of change. Because once they are out of sight, they will be out of mind too. If nature's wrath doesn't differentiate then why should we?

Those not in a stable job can expect permanency. You will manage to ignore distractions and interruptions at work to complete a pending task in time. Job prospects for those freshly out of professional institutes are set to brighten up soon. Health will be satisfactory.

YOUR DAY

Horoscope by Saurabbh Sachdeva

You are likely to spend an enjoyable time with a close relation today. Satisfaction is foreseen for the image conscious people trying to achieve perfect figure and physique. Your efforts on the academic front will keep you in contention. Your helping hand to someone in need will be appreciated.

KHUSHBU VERMA, Model

HARSHIT BHURADIA cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

MANDALA MURDERS SHOOTING BEGINS

Yash Raj Films (YRF) is one of the leading studios for the production and distribution of Indian films. The streaming arm of the studio is called YRF Entertainment, which recently produced the docu-series titled ‘The Romantics’.

They have returned to the OTT sphere with the crime thriller titled Mandala Murders. The show is created and directed by Gopi Puthran, who started his career in Hindi cinema under the YRF banner as a writer for the film Lafangey Parindey.

The multi-season series is helmed by Vaani Kapoor in the lead role. This will also mark the OTT debut of the actress. Vaibhav Raj Gupta will also make his debut as the leading man.

The actor has been part of several television shows and was recently seen in the hugely acclaimed show Gullak. The project will be co-directed by Manan Rawat, who has earlier worked as an Associate Director on several YRF films. Surveen Chawla and Jameel Khan have also been cast in prominent roles in Mandala Murders.

The show’s shoot will start tomorrow and will continue for about a month in Uttar Pradesh. The team will then head to Delhi and Mumbai. —Agency

BFF GOALS!

Two pods in a pea-like Selena Gomez and Taylor Swift sparking a BFF Alert when Gomez called out and gushed about Swift at the iHeartRadio Awards is something you shouldn’t miss out on.

As for anyone who is not aware of their friendship, which the gal pals have shared for quite a long time, from posting on each other’s birthdays to being there for each other, they have an unbreakable bond that the two industry mates share. Selena Gomez quotes in the video “She can represent what she’s walking through so well. As a role model, I don’t think that’s something you sign up for. I just think it’s something you inherently have inside of you, and I think that’s Taylor.”

Which filled Taylor’s heart with joy and gratitude. It is definitely a win-win to have friends like them. With Selena making headlines these days, it will be a treat to the eyes when the duo makes an appearance someday. —Agency

GIFT FULL OF LOVE!

Sonam Kapoor took to her Instagram story to share a picture of the gifts sent by Alia Bhatt for baby Vayu Kapoor Ahuja.

On Wednesday, Sonam Kapoor took to her Instagram story to share a picture of the gifts sent by Alia Bhatt for baby Vayu. The picture shows a beautiful personalized card in the shape of a

Priyanka on foraying into business

As per a report in Cosmetify, Priyanka Chopra’s hair care brand has emerged as the second wealthiest celeb beauty brand after Rihanna’s cosmetic brand. Priyanka’s hair care brand debuted last year, in 2022. Speaking about foraying into the business side, PeeCee told Vogue India, “I’ve just recently taken to the business side of both, the beauty and the entertainment industry. That made me bifurcate the difference between sitting in the stylist’s chair and using a bunch of products, to actually having a say in the products going into my

Priyanka Chopra has been busy with the promotions of her upcoming series Citadel, which will premiere on Prime Video on April 28.

—Agency

house, with ‘Vayu’ written on it. The picture also showed a blue box with some beautiful outfits for Vayu inside them.

The cute tees had slogans on them, one of which read, “Mama’s boy,” while another one read, “Just lion around.” The gifts are just too cute, and Sonam Kapoor thanked Alia Bhatt for sending the gifts for Vayu. —Agency

IS LANA DATING EVAN?

American singersongwriter Lana Del Rey is engaged to music manager Evan Winiker, according to a report by Billboard. The rumoured duo has been spotted together in public a couple of times over the last months, but questions arose when Del Rey was spotted with a ring on her left-hand finger at the 2023 Billboard Women In Music event. Continue reading to know more about the Summertime

Sadness’ reported fiance Evan Winiker. Winiker joined Range Media Partners as a music manager in 2021 and brought over clients like MAX, Daya, Disco Biscuits, Skyler Stonestreet, and Walk Off The Earth. “As a manager, it’s always my goal to surround my clients with the

best teams in all areas. This ecosystem is truly that. It’s an environment of forward-thinking people who look beyond the boundaries and walls that are categorically put in place, allowing them to open new doors and reach new peaks that we dream up. —Agency

Selena Gomez

Taylor Swift

Alia Bhatt

Vaani Kapoor

Lana Del Rey

Evan Winiker

Priyanka Chopra

74TH RAJ DIWAS!

On March 30, Rajasthan which has its own distinct identity in the world for the glory of the legends and kings and princely states turned 74 years old. To mark the same, Rajasthan Diwas 2023 was celebrated as Rajasthan Utsav where more than 1000 artists were present and depicted Rajasthani folk culture at Albert Hall. Along with this, a collective performance will also be given by Best of Rajasthan-Folk Artists. Various dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

A MELODIOUS MUSICAL NIGHT!

CITY FIRST

GREETINGS!

Amusical night was organised by JKK on Thursday, March 30, on the occasion of Rajasthan Day.

Gafaruddin Khan Mewati and his colleagues gave a presentation on this. ‘Tu Nawaz pe aaye to Nawaz de zaman, Rab tu kareem hi to thraha tere karma ka kya thikana’, dedicating this couplet to God, Gafaruddin Khan Mewati and his companions started playing Bhapang. ‘Duniya mein baba dekh le ho rahi hai

tur hi tur’, listening to this song on the tune of Bhapang, the audience was in awe. He also

recited ‘Bari Si Age Mein Piya Mar Gio Re’ in Albakshi style with Bhapang. The audience

appeared very eager to lis ten to Panduna’s verses. During the

occasion, Gafaruddin Khan shared that the meaning of Pandun’s string is to sing various episodes of Mahabharata in Mewati style. Under the leadership of Gafaruddin Khan, 18 artists of the Mewati Jogi community sang the Kada of Pandun in Dhani style with the accompaniment of instruments like Jogia Sarangi, Mewati Chikara, Dholak, Nagada, Bhapang, Khanjari, Mewati Algoza, Jodi, Laykari, Mancityfirst@firstindia.co.in

RUN FOR A CAUSE!

CITY FIRST

Mewar University Student, Bappa Burman won Gold medal in International Amateur Games, held in Bangkok Thailand on March

27. Bappa Burman Student was nominated to represent India by the All India Yoga Culture Federation in National Yoga Championship (Senior Boys category). The event was organised in Bangkok from March 27 to 30. He also won Silver Medal in the Artistic yoga event. It’s an honour to the Indian yoga in any international event.

IIHMR University, Jaipur has been honoured with the “Best University for Health Management in India” award at the Global Education Achievement Awards 2023, presented by Topnotch Foundation. This prestigious award was received by the President, Dr PR Sodani, from the renowned actress, Hema Malini, at the event held at Hotel Shangri-La Eros, New Delhi. The event was graced by notable personalities including Faggan Singh Kulaste, Union Minister for Steel & Rural Development, Govt. of India; Hema Malini, Legendary film Actress & Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha;  Dr Thakur Raghuraj Singh, Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Govt. of Uttar Pradesh; Dr Rajdeep Roy, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha; Ranjit Naik Nimbalkar, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha; Ramdas Tadas, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha and Adesh Gupta, Former Delhi BJP President.

DURING THE DAY!

MLA Kalicharan Saraf flagged off the saffron rally from Ward 142 Lalkothi Apex Mall Hanuman Mandir on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami on Thursday. Local councillor Himanshu Jain shared that a two-wheeler saffron vehicle rally was organised, which was flagged off by Saraf. Youth workers took out a saffron rally raising slogans of Jai Shri Ram in the rally. The saffron rally passed through Apex Mall, Greater Kailash, Everest Colony, Indrapuri, Satya Vihar, Raghu Vihar, Krishna Nagar, Awadhpuri, Lal Kothi Scheme and culminated at Laxmi Mandir. OP Jain, Natwar Kumawat, Shankar Mahavar, Kailash Yadav, Navratna Dhanka, Dheeraj Mahavar etc were present on this occasion.

On the occasion of Ram Navami, the poster of the web series Siyaram, which is going to be made under the banner of Kirti Rathore Production, was released by MP Col Rajyavardhan Rathore at his office in Delhi on Wednesday. On this occasion, he congratulated Kirti Rathore for taking forward the Indian Sanatan culture and encouraged her for the upcoming web series. While congratulating all Indians on Ram Navami, Kirti Rathore said that by presenting the true form of Indian culture and Sanatan Dharma through this web series, she wants to convey the greatness of Sanatan Dharma not only to all individuals but also to the generations to come.

With an aim of giving the message of non-violence amidst the problems and confusion spread all over the world, Jain International Trade Organisation (JITO ) will be organising JITO Ahimsa Run on April 2nd, 2023. This is the first time in global history that thousands of runners will join for a cause across 65 cities in India and at 16 international locations simultaneously. This run has marked its entry into the Guinness World Record for the most runners to run in multiple locations for the cause of Ahimsa. In order to give more infor-

mation in the context of this historic run, a press conference was organised on Thursday at Hotel Holiday Inn, Bais Godam. On the occasion, JITO Jaipur Chapter Chairperson Nitin Jain, JITO Jaipur Chapter Chief Secretary Rajeev Palawat, JITO Ladies Chapter Chairperson Khushboo Bakliwal, Ladies Chapter Vice Chairperson Saloni Jain, Chief Secretary Meghna Jain, JITO Youth Chapter

Chief Secretary Charchit Jain reviewed the preparations for the programme.

Nitin Jain, Chairperson, JITO Jaipur Chapter, informed that CM Ashok Gehlot will be the Chief Guest for the event while Khushboo Bakliwal, Chairperson, of the JITO Ladies Chapter said, “This noble cause will witness the participation of lakhs of people, T-shirts and medals have been arranged for the participants”.

Jagdeesh Chandra greeted Kavya Sharma, son of Mahesh Sharma, as he reached the former’s residence to seek blessings on the occasion of his birthday on Thursday, March 30. Mahesh Sharma, Editor Coordinator of First India, Meenakshi Sharma and Kaveesh Sharma were also present on the occasion.

WEDDING BELLS!

The grand Mehendi and Sangeet Ceremony of Sachin, son of Sadhna and OP Vyas with Aditi, daughter of Sudha and Ashok Kumar Singh took place at Bal Niwas Marriage Garden, Jaipur on Wednesday, March 29. Jagdeesh Chandra reached to bless the couple and wished them a happy married life ahead.

WHAT’S HAPPENING!

Singer Akshay’s new Punjabi song Jatti, which has been released on T-Series, is gaining a lot of popularity on social media. During a conversation, he said, “I stepped into the field of album making only after complete preparation and homework, when I started working on my first album “Baliye”, I faced some difficulties in the initial phase, got some good people and many others. I also met those whom I don’t want to talk about but many veterans of Punjabi music industry showed me the way in my initial days.” Akshay said that during the video shoot of this song, my female artist Swati Chauhan also cooperated with the entire unit.

Somendra Harsh is representing Rajasthan as a guest for the last 7 years at Bengaluru International Film Festival and said, “It’s great to attend the different film festivals and represent Rajasthan and invite regional films from different states and also wish to travel our own Rajasthani films also in another state big film festival like Bangalore, Kerala, Goa, Kolkata etc.”

President of Jaipur Sikh Society Harmeet

Singh Dimple celebrated his birthday among the children of Rais Asha Ki Ek Kiran Sanstha on Wednesday. The children looked very happy after receiving the sweets and gifts. Seeing their smile, happiness was created on the faces of all the people present there. Dimple said this is the happiest and most successful day of my life, today am feeling very good to be among the children and see their happiness.

Rajasthan Day is celebrated by the Act to Action acting school in Bhilwara at Gaon Guwadi with children recently. Kids explored Rajasthani tradition and culture while acting various local characters in the authentic set-up of Rajasthan with costumes, food and properties.

Glimpse from the mesmerizing dance performance

Upendra Singh Shekhawat and Rakesh Cholak (L-R) Gayatri Rathore, Dr Rashmi Sharma, Punita Singh, Anand Tripathi and Mahendra Khadkawat

Gafaruddin Khan Mewati, Shahrukh Khan Mewati and Tayyab Khan

Gafaruddin Khan Mewati during the performance

Jagdeesh Chandra greets Kavya Sharma. Also seen are Mahesh Sharma, Meenakshi Sharma and Kaveesh Sharma

Jagdeesh Chandra with Sachin & Aditi and OP Vyas

Runa Karnawat, Saloni Jain, Meghna Jain, Khushboo Bakliwal, Nitin Jain, Rajeev Palawat, Vimal Singhvi, Charchit Jain and CA Vikas Jain

—PHOTOS BY SANTOSH SHARMA