First India-Mumbai Edition-9th March 2023

NISAR SATELLITE LANDS IN INDIA, ISRO TO LAUNCH JT MISSION IN ’24

Bengaluru: The US Air Force in a major step towards building Indo-US ties on Wednesday handed over NISAR, an earth observation satellite jointly developed by NASA and ISRO, to the Indian space agency in Bengaluru.

SISODIA LODGED IN SEGREGATED WARD; TIHAR JAIL

New Delhi: Former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia has been assigned to a segregated ward due to security reasons, Delhi prison officials said here on Wednesday. The statement comes after the AAP raised objections over Sisodia being kept in Tihar Jail number 1 with dreaded criminals.

KEY VOTE ON BIDEN’S CHOICE FOR INDIA AMBASSADOR

Washington: The foreign relations committee of the US Senate will vote on whether Eric Garcetti, President Joe Biden’s choice for Ambassador to India, can take over the post. Garcetti’s appt to key envoy post has been held up due to sexual allegations.

Manik Saha 2.0 in Tripura... POWERED BY ‘BRAND MODI’

Architects of BJP’s Northeast win; Modi, Shah, Nadda and Himanta attended oath ceremony

Manik Saha takes oath as Chief Minister of Tripura along with eight-member cabinet team with him

Moni Sharma

Agartala: Manik Saha took oath for the second time as Tripura Chief Minister on Wednesday after the BJP clinched a victory in the February 16 Assembly polls.

Eight other ministers were sworn in on Wednesday.

During the oath ceremony here, top BJP brass was accompanied by Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, Arunachal

CM Pema Khanda, Manipur CM N Biren Singh and Sikkim CM PS Tamang. Also on the stage was BJP’s Biplab Deb, who was replaced by Saha mid-term. However, three cabinet berths have still been kept vacant anticipating that the second largest party TIPRA Motha would join the government, if not, then these would be filled up in the next phase, the BJP sources said.

WAAH! PM NARENDRA MODI CONGRATULATES SAHA

PM Narendra Modi congratulated Manik Saha on taking oath as Tripura Chief Minister and said he and his team of newly sworn-in ministers will certainly deliver on the mandate given by the people of the State once again.

IN chopper meets with accident off Mumbai coast

Mumbai (FIB): An advanced light helicopter (ALH) of the Indian Navy on Wednesday met with an accident off the Mumbai coast. The Navy said 3 crew members were safely rescued by a naval patrol craft. An inquiry to investigate the incident has also been ordered, it said “The Indian Navy ALH on a routine sortie off Mumbai ditched close to the coast.

Immediate Search and Rescue ensured safe recovery of crew of three by naval patrol craft,” the Navy said in a brief statement. P3

THE NEW SAHA TEAM INCLUDES...

4 new ministers was retained from previous govt. They are Ratan Lal Nath, Pranajit Singha Roy , Shantana Chakma and Sushanta Chowdhury. BJP inducted 3 new ministers from within its ranks - Tinku Roy, a close confidante of Biplab Deb, Bikash Debbarma, chief of BJP’s Scheduled Tribes Morcha, and Sudhanshu Das. BJP’s ally IPFT, which was routed in these elections, got one ministerial berth. Sukla Charan Noatia from IPFT took oath as minister.

at Swami Vivekananda Stadium, in Agartala.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pats on the shoulder of newly sworn-in Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha at the Swami Vivekananda Stadium, in Agartala on Wednesday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi exchanges greetings with Amit Shah, JP Nadda, Himanta Biswa Sarma, N Biren Singh and Pema Khandu in Agartala on Wednesday.

I am committed to the development of the state with any political consideration. I believe in a democracy people have the right to vote for Opposition parties and the co-existence of the ruling party and opposition is the beauty of India, which led to development and prosperity. Under the guidance of PM Modiji we shall drive Tripura into a model state.

—Manik Saha, Tripura Chief Minister

NO TALK OF ALLIANCE: TIPRA MOTHA CHIEF AFTER MEETING SHAH, NADDA

H M Amit Shah along with JP Nadda, Manik Saha and Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday met Tipra Motha supremo Pradyot Kishore Debbarma in Agartala amid speculations that the tribal party, which had made an impressive show in the assembly elections, is likely to join hands with the BJP ahead of the 2024 general elections. Debbarma took to Twitter to clarify that issues such as alliance and cabinet were not discussed. He said Shah has started process for a constitutional solution for indigenous people of Tripura and an interlocutor for this process would be appointed within a specified time frame.

A grand welcome for Australian PM in India

Anthony Albanese’s first India trip starts with Sabarmati Ashram, Holi celebration in Ahmedabad

First India Bureau

Ahmedabad: Australian

PM Anthony Albanese on Wednesday visited the Sabarmati Ashram, a place closely associated with Mahatma Gandhi, after arriving here on his first India visit. Albanese, who is on a four-day trip to India, was welcomed at airport by Governor Acharya Devvrat & CM Bhupendra Patel.

“Honoured to celebrate Holi in Ahmedabad, India. Holi’s message of renewal through the triumph of good over evil is an enduring reminder for all of us. No matter what your faith is or where you’ve come from—we celebrate and value what unites us,” said Albanese.

CRUCIAL READ

INDIA IMPOSES PMLA PROVISIONS ON CRYPTOCURRENCY SECTOR

New Delhi: The govt has bought a range of virtual digital asset (VDA) transactions under ambit of Prevention of Money Laundering Act(PMLA) 2002. Finance Ministry said exchange between virtual digital assets and fiat currencies, exchange between one or more forms of virtual digital assets, transfer of virtual digital assets, will fall under purview of the PMLA Act.

ED summons

Telangana CM KCR’s daughter

I am looking forward to deliberations with my Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese to further the friendship between the two countries.

—Narendra Modi, Prime Minister

A true privilege to pay homage to Gandhi’s legacy at Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad.

—Anthony Albanese, Australian Prime Minister

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is being received by Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Gujarat BJP President CR Paatil upon arrival at the Ahmedabad Airport, in Ahmedabad on Wednesday.

IND VS AUS, 4TH TEST: PM MODI & AUSTRALIA PM TO ATTEND TODAY

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he and Prime Minister Modi will be at the toss for the fourth and final Test for the ongoing series between India and Australia for Border-Gavaskar Trophy, at Ahmedabad on Thursday. In a radio interview with NOVA 93.7 Perth ahead of his ongoing visit to India, Albanese confirmed to hosts that he and PM Modi will be at toss for Ahmedabad Test.

final test match of Border Gavaskar Trophy 2023 on Wednesday.

MAHA ECONOMIC SURVEY 2022-23

New Delhi (FIB): Telangana CM K Chandrashekar Rao’s daughter K Kavitha arrived in New Delhi on Wednesday hours after the ED summoned the BRS leader in connection with a money laundering case linked to alleged irregularities in the Delhi excise policy. Kavitha, 44, has been asked to depose on Thursday before agency in Delhi. She has asked for the deposition date to be set for March 15. She said she would fully cooperate with probe agency but would seek legal help.

State growth pegged at 6.8%, slightly behind India’s 7%

Dy CM Fadnavis presents survey a day before the

Assembly on Wednesday, a day ahead of the state Budget.

Agriculture and allied activities sector will grow by 10.2% in 2022-23, it said.

LANKA PRESIDENT

THANKS FM SITHA IAS HELD HOSTAGE, THRASHED IN GUJ

Colombo: Sri Lankan

President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Wednesday lauded 3women leaders, including Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, for providing much-needed assistance to the debt-ridden island nation during ongoing economic crisis.

Himmatnagar: Gujarat IAS officer Nitin Sangwan was allegedly held hostage and thrashed by a group of men associated with fishing activity during his visit to a village near the Dharoi dam in Sabarkantha district, said police on Wednesday.

First India Bureau Mumbai: Maharashtra’s economy is expected to grow by 6.8% against India’s projected 7% growth in the outgoing fiscal, the state’s annual Economic Survey Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis who also holds the finance portfolio tabled the survey report for 2022-23 in the

The industrial sector is expected to grow by 6.1% and services sector by 6.4%.

The figures mostly showed decline compared to 2021-22, when the overall growth of the state economy was 9.1%, agriculture and allied sector growth stood at 11.4%, industrial growth at 3.8% and services sec-

Agriculture and allied activities will grow by 10.2% in 202223, while the industrial sector is expected to grow 6.1%

tor growth was 10.6%.

As per advanced estimates, the nominal (at current prices) gross state domestic product (GSDP) for 2022-23 is ex-

pected to be Rs35,27,084 crore, the survey said.

The real (at constant 2011-12 prices), the GSDP is expected to be Rs21,65,558 crore.

The average share of Maharashtra in the allIndia nominal GDP was the highest among the states at 14%, the report said.

As per the advanced estimates, the per capita state income for 2022-23 is expected to be Rs2,42,247 against Rs2,15,233 in 2021-22.

Maharashtra stood fifth in terms of per cap-

ita income in 2021-22 when Karnataka led the states with a per capita income of Rs2,78,786. The percentage of fiscal deficit to GSDP is 2.5 and that of debt stock to GSDP is 18.4.

Maharashtra received 119.8% of the normal rainfall during 2022, the report noted.

The Foreign Direct Investment inflow during April 2000 to September 2022 was Rs10,88,502 crore which was 28.5% of the total FDI inflow in the country, the report said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Tripura Governor SN Arya greets crowd in presence of Manik Saha and others during the oath-taking ceremony of State CM-designate Manik Saha and newly sworn-in State Cabinet Ministers,

Anthony Albanese pays floral tribute to Mahatma Gandhi during visit to Gandhi Ashram, in Ahmedabad on Wednesday.

Anthony Albanese with Acharya Devvrat and Bhupendra Patel during the Holi celebrations at the Raj Bhavan in Ahmedabad.

Preps underway at Narendra Modi Stadium ahead of

Unseasonal rains destroyed crops on 13.8K ha

Eight districts were badly hit, Fadnavis tells House; orders issued for immediate release of aid to state farmers

First India Bureau

Mumbai: Unseasonal rains have damaged mango, wheat and harbhara (Bengal gram) crops across 13,729 hectares in eight districts of the state, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis told the Assembly on Wednesday. Orders have been issued for the immediate release of aid to farmers hit by the rains, he added.

Maximum damage has been reported from Palghar, Nashik, Ahmednagar, Jalgaon, Nandurbar, Dhule, Buldhana and Washim districts, he said.

“Orders to release immediate relief and financial assistance have been issued,” said Fadnavis.

A decision on immediate relief was taken on Tuesday night based on preliminary infor-

mation, even as the exact extent of damage is being ascertained, he said.

On Tuesday, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s office said that he had spoken with the chief secretary and a few district collectors about the damage to crops. He had also instructed revenue officials to conduct the damage assessment survey of the affected areas, his office had

CRUCIAL READ

MAN NABBED FOR LURING, RAPING

GIRL

6-YEAR-OLD

Aurangabad: A 55-year-old man has been arrested for allegedly raping a six-yearold girl under the pretext of offering her chocolates in a village in Beed district, police said on Wednesday. The incident occurred on March 03, when the girl was playing with her friends. The man took her to an abandoned building and sexually assaulted her. He reportedly threatened the victim with severe consequences if she revealed the incident to anyone.

said. On Wednesday, Leader of Opposition Ajit Pawar raised the issue and demanded that the government spell out how it plans to mitigate the hardships of farmers who lost their standing crops due to unseasonal rains, thunderstorms, hailstorms and lightning. Addressing the media before the start of House proceedings, Pawar had said, “Maha -

TRIPLE TALAQ: MAN, FIANCEE BOOKED AFTER ‘DIVORCE’

Thane: A man and his fiancee from Thane district have been booked after he allegedly pronounced “triple talaq” to his wife. According to the complainant, her husband and his fiancee abused her on the night of February 26 when she asked him to live with her. The man shouted “talaq-talaq-talaq” and said he had dissolved their marriage. A case has been registered against the couple under the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Act.

MAN HELD FOR SETTING HIS WIFE ON FIRE AFTER SHE REFUSES TO LEAVE THEIR HOME

Palghar: A 40-year-old man from Thane district has been arrested for allegedly setting his wife on fire. The incident occurred when the woman refused to leave their home in Nala Sopara, an official said. The victim is currently undergoing treatment at a civic hospital. She told the police that her husband wanted to drive her out of their home and when she did not agree to it, he poured kerosene on her and set her ablaze. The accused has been booked for attempted murder.

FOUR MEMBERS OF FAMILY RESCUED FROM BLDG FIRE

Nagpur: A family of four, including two children, was rescued from a fire by the Fire Brigade in Nagpur city. The building they were in caught fire on Tuesday at around 9 pm. Fortunately, no one was injured in the incident. The family got stuck on the second floor of the two-storey building and were going to jump from the terrace in a panic. However, teams of the fire brigade and civic officials reached the spot in time and rescued the family.

COPS FINE TWOWHEELER RIDERS FOR VIOLATIONS

Mumbai: City traffic police penalized more than 10,000 two-wheeler riders for not wearing a helmet and 73 motorists for drunk driving during a special drive on Holi, an official said. “Due to Holi and Shab-e-Barat on Tuesday, we conducted a special drive and penalized people who were found violating traffic norms,” the official added. Traffic police fined 746 motorcycle users for riding triple seats and 10,215 were fined for not wearing helmets.

42-YR-OLD THRASHES TRAFFIC COP FOR TOWING AWAY FRIEND’S SCOOTER IN MUM

Mumbai: Police arrested a 42-year-old man for allegedly abusing and assaulting a traffic constable for reportedly towing away his friend’s scooter parked in a no-parking zone. The incident occurred when the accused, Mohammed Nahim Khan, had an argument and attacked police constable Sriram Pawar (42) when asked to pay Rs736 as a no-parking fine. Khan waylaid the tow vehicle and twisted his hand for taking away his friend’s scooter. People present at the spot overpowered him and called the police.

rashtra’s farmers have suffered a lot in the past three days due to unseasonal rains. We’ll raise the issue of compensation to farmers in the Assembly today. Today, the state government must come forward to support and compensate the farmers.”

“We have given adjournment notice in the Assembly on the issue of compensation to the farmers,” the Ma -

MAHA GOVT MUST HELP FARMERS: LOP AJIT PAWAR

Addressing the media before the start of House proceedings, Pawar had said, “Maharashtra’s farmers have suffered a lot in the past three days due to unseasonal rains.

We’ll raise the issue of compensation to farmers in Assembly today. Today, the state government must come forward to support and compensate the farmers.” “We have given adjournment notice in the Assembly on the issue of compensation to the farmers,” the Maharashtra LoP further said.

harashtra LoP further said.

“There was a forecast of rain for these 3 days everywhere. Now, the government should focus on ensuring the materialisation of the farm insurance claims,” he added.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) legislator Chhagan Bhujbal said when the state celebrated Holi with colours on Tuesday, it was a black day for farmers.

Congress’ Nana Patole demanded that the Lower House set aside the business of the day to discuss the measures needed to provide relief to farmers.

‘Just crocodile’s tears, Oppn only does politics over farmers’

First India Bureau

Mumbai: Hitting out at the Opposition for issuing an adjournment notice in the name of farmers in the House, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadanvis on Wednesday said, “The Opposition only does politics in farmers’ names of farmers, they don’t want to help farmers; these are crocodile’s tears.”

He continued: “CM Shinde has already an-

Trend of passing exams illegally has begun in Maharashtra, feels Uddhav Thackeray

Mumbai (PTI): The Shiv Sena - Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray on Wednesday targeted the state government over the alleged paper leak of Higher Secondary School (HSC) exams, saying a new trend of passing exams illegally has begun in the state.

An editorial in Saamana, the faction’s mouthpiece, said all results, right from the judiciary to the Election Commission, have been leaked,

an oblique reference to the poll body’s decision to allot the “Shiv Sena” name and its “bow-andarrow” symbol to rival and Chief minister Eknath Shinde. The editorial said that questions have

Hike in service tax on cessed buildings set to be scrapped

First India Bureau Mumbai: Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday said that the increased monthly service tax levied on Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority’s (MHADA) cessed buildings will be abolished.

The state finance minister said tax of Rs250 per month will be levied, which was applicable till 2019.

Fadnavis announced this decision in response to a question raised by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Ashish Shelar, who requested that either the tax must be waived or it must be charged at a nominal rate. Till March 2019, a service tax of Rs250 per month was being charged. From April 2019, this was increased to Rs500 per month, with a 10% increase every year.

been raised over the educational degrees of a few senior BJP leaders.

“Since the new government took over, there is a trend of illegally passing exams in the state,” it said in an apparent jibe at the government led by Eknath Shinde, whose coup toppled the Thackerayhelmed Maha Vikas Aghadi government last year.

It asked when the “real culprits” would be

caught. “When there is an incompetent government, non-serious education minister, and lax administration, then the state will be destined to have papers leaked,” the editorial said.

A police case was registered in Buldhana district last week after the HSC Mathematics question paper leaked and its images were shared on social media, an official had said.

CM Shinde orders probe into Metro 6 PAP allotment scam

First India Bureau Mumbai: Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has directed Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority to form a special team to conduct an inquiry into complaints of bogus beneficiaries’ list and irregularities in allocation of housing units.

MLC Kapil Patil, who raised the ques-

nounced the help for onion farmers. We have given more than Rs7,000 crore in aid to farmers and we are still doing panchanama to help the farmers affected by the unseasonal rains but the Opposition just wants to create a ruckus.”

Any amount of protest by the Opposition can’t divert us from helping the farmers, he also said.

On February 28, the Maharashtra Legisla-

tive Council was adjourned after opposition legislators created a ruckus on the issue of farmers demanding an appropriate price for onions as prices dipped.

The Opposition leader of the Legislative Council, Ambadas Danve said that they were demanding a discussion on the farmer’s issue with the government but the government did not do so, hence the council was adjourned.

Threat to mill owner, Patole’s bro booked

Gadchiroli (PTI): Police in Gadchiroli district of the state have registered a case against Vinod Patole, brother of Maharashtra Congress President Nana Patole, and others for allegedly threatening a rice mill owner.

A complaint was filed in this regard by Pramod Salve, director of a nursing college in Gadchiroli district.

Vinod Patole had denied the allegations against him in a press conference.

tion in the Legislative Council last week, alleged a Rs90 crore scam in allocation of units to Project Affected Persons (PAPs) after displacement due to the Metro 6 (Swami Samarth Nagar-Vikhroli) corridor. He alleged involvement of the deputy collector responsible to verify the eligibility of slum dwellers affected by the project.

ACCOUNTABILITY

As per the First Information Report (FIR), the family of the complainant’s sister had entered into a verbal agreement in 2020 to sell the rice mill owned by her to Vinod Patole for Rs51 lakh. Vinod Patole paid Rs20 lakh till 2021 but did not assure to pay the balance money. Hence, Salve sent a notice to him and issued an advertisement to sell the rice mill.

The FIR said Vinod Patole and four others stopped Salve in Chatgaon village on March

Vinod Patole had a verbal agreement to buy the mill for `51L, failed to pay `31L

03 when he was headed towards Gadchiroli city and threatened to kill him.

Vinod Patole and four others were booked on charges of criminal intimidation and wrongful restraint under the Indian Penal Code (IPC). No arrest has been made yet, and further investigation is underway, a police official said.

Pay ` 55.47 cr for environmental damage: NGT to bldg firm

It mined stone, sand and murram for projects in Nashik and Hingoli districts without prior environmental clearance

First India Bureau Mumbai: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has ordered a highway construction company to pay Rs55.47 crore for causing environmental damage by illegally excavating stone, sand and

murram for its projects in Nashik and Hingoli districts of the state.

In two separate orders issued on February 22, the tribunal’s western zone bench in Pune directed Rajendrasinh Bhamboo Infra Private Limited to pay

Rs36.35 crore and Rs19.12 crore to the Maharashtra Pollution

Control Board (MPCB) within a month. The detailed orders

were made available recently. “We find that since the activity of mining has been conducted by the project proponent (Rajendrasinh Bhamboo Infra) without taking prior environmental clearance, the same is treated to be violation which impacts the environment adversely,” said the NGT in an order. One Dattatraya Phal-

ke had filed pleas with the tribunal saying that the company be blacklisted for having repeatedly “violated environmental norms for its commercial benefits”.

Earlier, the tribunal had punished the company by imposing “environmental compensation” on it, but it continues to violate the environmental norms, said petitioner Phalke.

Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis (in Nehru jacket) arrives for the Budget Session of the Maharashtra Assembly in Mumbai. —PHOTO BY PTI

NCP MLAs had shown up at the Vidhan Bhavan in Mumbai carrying onions on their heads and wearing onion garlands in support of farmers last week. —FILE PHOTO

Maha Cong chief Nana Patole —FILE PHOTO

Court allows man to rent out home previously gifted to son

Bombay HC cites cancellation of gift deeds as reason not to embargo or restrain owner from action

First India Bureau Mumbai: In an interim order, the Bombay High Court recently allowed a 74-year-old man to create third party rights by renting out his properties, in an appeal by his son against an Appellate Tribunal order.

It also restrained him from selling the properties till the proceedings are finally decided.

The order by Justice GS Kulkarni came in an appeal by senior citizen Rajendra Agrawal’s son against a November 2022 order by the Appellate Tribunal under the

Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act 2007.

The tribunal order had allowed Agrawal, an Andheri resident, to cancel two gift deeds he signed in 2012 giving his properties to his eldest son Ravi and take possession of these properties. He had set ground that specific conditions in the deeds including his sons looking after him and not sell off the properties were violated. His eldest son Ravi Agrawal, 45, and his wife Sarika 45, had chal-

lenged the tribunal order before the court.

Noting the tribunal order was a reasoned one, Justice Kulkarni said it appeared that Rajendra Agrawal had executed gift deeds in favour of the petitioners with a specific condition that the proceeds from these properties should be used to maintain him. He observed that there was also an explicit condition that the properties in the gift deeds shall not be sold by the petitioners. The court also ob-

BMC looking for alternatives to underground parking lots

served that since the gift deeds are cancelled and Agrawal is in possession of the properties, the petitioners cannot create any embargo or restrain him from renting them out so as to earn his livelihood and maintain a standard of living to which he is legitimately entitled.

“Accordingly, respondent no.4 (Agrawal) is permitted to create third party rights by letting out the premises, however, he shall not sell the property in favour of any third party during

PRE-EMPTIVE ACTION

First India Bureau

Mumbai: In the face of opposition to its proposed plan of creating parking lots under open spaces, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation is now mulling other possibilities.

The BMC has floated a tender for “planning, design, construction of an underground multi-level electromechanical car parking system” for 288 vehicles with shuttle and robo parker system on the north side of Bal Gandharva Rangmandir at Patwardhan Park.

The civic body floated a tender for a fivestorey parking lot on a traffic island opposite Apsara Pen shop at Flora Fountain, Hutatma

CHECKING OPTIONS

Chowk for 200 cars. The tender included planning, design, construction as well as operation and maintenance after completion of the same on the traffic island.

The BMC also floated a tender for a parking space, which can accommodate 640 cars, at its own engineering hub building at Dr E Moses Road in Worli

with similar conditions such as maintenance of the parking system for 20 years after completion and operation and housekeeping of it for a period of five years, according to a report in MidDay newspaper.

Notably, the BMC’s previous plan for underground parking has raised concerns over tree-felling and the possibility of flooding.

the pendency of the present proceedings,” said the February 24 order granting interim relief.

3 ‘safe’ after Navy chopper makes emergency

First India Bureau Mumbai: Three persons were rescued after an Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) of the Indian Navy made an emergency landing in the Arabian Sea off the Mumbai coast on Wednesday, an official said.

The ALH had been on a routine sortie with three personnel on board. The crew was rescued by a naval patrol aircraft, the official said. An inquiry was launched into the incident, the official also said.

“An Indian Navy ALH on a routine flying mission off the Mumbai coast experienced a sudden loss of power and rapid loss of height. The pilot carried out controlled ditching over water close to the coast. All three aircrew exited the helicopter safely

landing

and were recovered as part of a swift Rescue Operation by a naval patrol craft,” the Navy said in a release.

“Ditching” refers to an emergency landing on water.

The chopper’s crew members--whose identities and ranks have not been revealed--were shifted to the INS Shikra heliport in Colaba, where they underwent a medical examination and have been declared as “fine”, the official said.

Pilot deployed floatation gear after sudden loss of power and rapid loss of height; inuiry launched

“The pilot did a controlled landing so that the aircraft is not lost. The floatation gears were deployed and efforts are on to salvage the helicopter,” the official said.

BEST seeks fresh bids for 700 double-decker e-buses

First India Bureau Mumbai: A plan to procure 900 double-decker e-buses in the 2023-24 fiscal could face delays with the BEST undertaking terminating a contract for 700 electric AC double-deckers for Mumbai, officials said. The termination of the contract could also affect the electrification of the fleet next fiscal.

BEST on Tuesday floated two fresh tenders: one to procure 700 double-decker e-buses and another to procure 50 open-deck e-double deckers (with AC lower deck) for Heritage Tours in south Mumbai.

According to news reports, BEST terminated the existing contract-worth around Rs2,800 crore--over delays in “providing a prototype

of the new vehicle” and “bringing these buses on city roads.”

As per BEST’s schedule, which was also mentioned in the recent civic budget, the undertaking expects its electric fleet to make up 50% of the total 7,000 buses by early next year. This e-fleet will gradually replace all existing diesel and CNG buses in a year or two.

Women’s Day: Commuters wear black ribbons to highlight pending demands

Thane (PTI): Several women at Dombivli railway station on Mumbai suburban railway network wore black ribbons on Wednesday in protest against the alleged “apathy” of railway officials towards their commuting woes and other issues.

They claimed their long-pending demands including better facilities for women commuting between Karjat and Kasara and CSMT in south Mumbai are being neglected by authorities despite the submission of several reminders and holding of meetings.

Lata Argade, presi-

EQUAL RIGHT

dent of Upanagariy Railway Pravasi Mahasangh, told reporters at Dombivli railway station in Thane district that their demands include shuttle services between Thane and other far away stations like Karjat and Kasara.

She said the number of coaches reserved for women on suburban rakes remained the same as it used to be 20 years ago despite a manifold rise in the number of commuters. Among other issues raised by Mahasangh

Number of coaches reserved for women same as it was 20 years ago, despite a manifold rise in the number of commuters

are the nuisance caused by beggars, drug addicts, and anti-social elements, and the overall safety of women on local trains.

Nearly 40 lakh commuters travel daily in the local trains operated by the Central Railway in Mumbai suburban network, excluding the services operated by the Western Railway.

Husband has legal right to home: Court on domestic violence case

Man told to pay `17K per month in maintenance; magistrate says whole family has right to access the property

First India Bureau Mumbai: A magistrate court has refused to dispossess a man of his

residence jointly purchased with his estranged wife in case of domestic violence. It observed that as he has a legal right in it, he cannot be dispossessed.

“Besides, he has moral authority to share the home with his wife and daughters in order to look after their well being,” said the court. The woman and their daughters lived separately.

While directing the

man to pay a monthly maintenance of Rs17,000 to his wife, the court said that the entire family has a right to access the property. The amount will have to be paid from the date the woman had first moved court in August 2021.

The woman moved the Domestic Violence plea against her husband, father-in-law and two sisters-in-law. She told the court that she

The court said the woman and her daughters have lost ‘this opportunity of financial and moral safety’ on account of the couple’s separation

hoped that things would get better one day.

The woman said that, however, she was blamed for problems in her sister-in-law’s life and was subjected to cruelty. In 2008, her other sister-in-law’s husband died and she was blamed for that as well.

Thane (PTI): Three girls from Miragaon in Thane district of Maharashtra who ran away from their homes have been traced within hours on an out-station train at Khed in Ratnagiri district, police said on Wednesday.

The girls, aged between 11 years and 14 years, were playing in a garden on the evening of March 06. As it became late, they thought that their parents would scold them and decided to run away. They reached a nearby railway station and boarded a train, without knowing its destination, a Kashimira police station officer said.

married the man in 2017 and had two daughters born in 2008 and 2014.

The petitioner said that she was taunted and abused soon after

the marriage when she was living with her inlaws. She said she shouldered responsibilities at her work place and home and

She said subsequently she left her husband and was eventually persuaded to return.

After she insisted on living separately they

bought the flat but her father-in-law too moved in with her and the harassment continued. The woman alleged that she was also taunted for giving birth to a second child, again a girl.

The woman said that her husband earned Rs1.30 lakh every month. She sought a monthly maintenance of Rs50,000 and wanted sole possession of the apartment.

Meanwhile, the parents of the girls lodged a complaint with the police as they failed to return home till late at night.

“Police managed to trace the location of one of the girls as she was carrying a mobile phone and found that they were travelling on Mandovi Express. They were traced at Khed in Ratnagiri district, around 153km from Thane, on Tuesday. They were brought home safely and reunited with their families,” the officer added.

3 minors run away; found on train just hours later

Passengers wait to board trains at CSMT. —FILE PHOTO

KUDOS TO SAHA FOR BJP’S MANIK ‘SARKAR’ 2.0

PARTY, HOWEVER, MUST INTROSPECT RESULT; IPTA, BJP’S POLL ALLIANCE WAS NOT ONLY TORN APART BY THE EMERGENCE OF TIPRA MOTHA BUT IT LOST ITS SHEEN TOO

However, BJP’s timely intervention and removal of Biplab Deb as its CM is seen as an astute masterstroke by the central leadership as political analysts believe that in the remaining few months to the run-up to the 2023 polls, the dental surgeon, Manik Saha, managed to scramble home with the propeople schemes or else the mood of the voters with Biplab Deb around would and could have been different for the Saffron might!

Seventy-year-old BJP leader Manik Saha on Wednesday took oath as chief minister of the sensitive border state of Tripura. Eight more ministers, including Ratan Lal Nath, Pranajit Singha Roy, Santana Chakma, Tinku Roy and Bikash Debbarma were also sworn in by Governor Satyadeo Narain Arya.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP president JP Nadda as well as Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma were among the dignitaries present on the occasion.

However, behind the rosy picture, BJP must acknowledge the fact how Manik Saha albeit very little time, managed to steer all controversies and bickerings and kept his flock together and despite the fact that the BJP and its alliance were down from its last time tally of 44 to 33 seats this time, managed to snatch the thunder in a keenly fought Assembly polls.

Manik Saha had been made chief minister earlier in 2022, replacing Biplab Kumar Deb, in a brand re-

newal exercise after it was found that his popularity rating was plummeting on account of the poor law and order situation in Tripura’s hinterland.

The BJP brought in Manik Saha as the chief minister in May last year. That was just months after he made it to the Rajya Sabha as a BJP member.

Just in March, Manik Sahah became the first BJP leader from Tripura to get elected to the Rajya Sabha.

Manik Saha’s not being a veteran politician helped him get acceptance among the common people of Tripura, most political pundits feel.

In January, Chief Minister Manik Saha had operated upon a 10-year-old boy for oral cystic lesion. He emerged from the operating room in January and declared “There was no difficulty in performing the surgery though it was after a long gap. The patient is in good condition now.” And it also now looks that the BJP’s surgery in Tripura worked out well too!

And understandably, after the northeast Assembly results were out, Holi had arrived “earlier” in Tripura for the BJP, but the celebrations were not that boisterous for the Saffron might especially with the emergence of the Tipra Motha!

A recap of the last elec-

DENTING THE IPTA

tion results would reveal that the Saffron might may have maintained its winning streak, but the results will present the Big Picture clearly to one and all.

The Tripura Assembly has 60 seats. The BJP managed to get 32 seats and its ally IPFT one seat. CPM bagged 11 and the Congress just three. The Tipra Motha Party managed to get 13 seats and emerged as the secondbiggest party. However, the 2018 Assembly polls saw the BJP-led NDA win 44 of the 60 seats.

THE COMPLEX TEXTURE

In Tripura there are around 12 to 16 seats with a considerable amount of mixed population and the tribal population in these seats roughly range between 20 and 30 per cent. Taking a shrewd move this election, Tipra Motha

jumped onto the poll bandwagon to garner the support of around 8,000 to 10,000 votes in these segments thus denting the fortunes of IPTA and the Left heavily! Of course, the IPTA seemed to be a bigger loser.

If you take a closer look at the results, the breakup will reveal that in 2018 BJP won 36 seats on its own and the IPTA bagged the rest to take the NDA tally to 44. With the emergence of Tipra Motha, all that is history “now”, IPTA has won in 1 while BJP, too, had to remain satisfied with a lesser score than last time.

However, BJP’s timely intervention and removal of Biplab Deb as its CM is seen as an astute masterstroke by the central leadership as political analysts believe that in the remaining few months to the runup to the 2023 polls, the

JAPAN’S WORRY OVER AGEING

Japan’s Prime Minister Fabio Kishida’s advisor Masako Mori has made a scary prediction about his country. “The country will cease to exist if it can’t slow the fall in its birth rate that threatens to shatter the social safety net and economy.” The statement came after a record slump in the number of babies born in the country last year. In 2022 Japan recorded less than 8,00,000 births and around 1.58 million deaths. If the trend continues, the country will disappear. Faced with a high proportion of population aged 65 and above, the sharply declining birth rate poses several prob-

Japan’s Prime Minister Fabio Kishida’s advisor Masako Mori has made a scary prediction about his country. “The country will cease to exist if it can’t slow the fall in its birth rate that threatens to shatter the social safety net and economy”

lems like weakened industrial and economic strength. Prime Minister Kishida has promised “unprecedented” steps to tackle the problem of social distortions.

Japan is not the only

country which is saddled with an ageing population and falling birth rates. A report by the World Economic Forum said that fertility rates have been falling globally for the last 70 years with a total decline of 70 percent. The report attributed the main reasons for this to women’s empowerment in education and workforce, lower child mortality rate and higher cost of raising children. Ageing population, the report said, is the outcome of increased life expectancy and lower fertility rate. The increased population of silvers has its own problems like shrinking workforce and higher costs of healthcare.

As for higher education

and lower fertility India is an example. The fertility rate has declined by 20 percent in 10 years and female

AT A GLANCE...

l Manik Saha defeated his nearest rival Ashish Kumar Saha of Congress by a margin of 1,257 votes. He overcame detractors within his own party who predicted a “tough time” for him in the prestigious constituency of Town Bardowali.

l Saha had only 10 months as the Chief Minister of Tripura after replacing Deb but managed to lift the state government’s image before the February 16 assembly polls.

dental surgeon, Manik Saha, managed to scramble home with the pro-people schemes or else the mood of the voters with Biplab Deb around would and could have been different for the Saffron might!

The party must reckon Saha’s contribution who also in the face of the Tsunami-like emergence of the Tipra Mohta managed a decent win and the maximum loss was inflicted on Left and Congress alliance that appeared to look as a strong contender (at least this time).

After the results, Manik Saha tweeted his thanks to PM Narendra Modi… “The landslide victory is the reflection of people’s trust in your development goals”.

THE RISE OF TIPRA MOTHA

Before the results were out on March 2, 2023, the media was full with speculations

that Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma would play the role of a kingmaker or at least as a deciding factor. Now, that the results are out, it can be easily said that the thoughts were not just plain fancies. Tipra Motha, was also projected to play a key role in the formation of the government in the state. It was, however, a touch and go affair for the Tipra Motha.

Tipra Motha had also rejected proposals of an alliance from the ruling BJP as well as the CPI(M). And after the results, Tipra Motha emerged strong especially for the battered IPTA and anyone with the slightest political acumen cannot politically ignore the Tipra Motha, now. Tipra Motha alone won 13 seats. The two-year-old party proved to be a strong political force to reckon with in the tribal areas and was next only to the Saffron might.

The party fielded candidates in 42 of the 60 seats in Tripura. It may be recalled that the Tipra Motha chairperson Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma announced on the last day of the campaign in Tripura that he would resign from politics after the election and never seek votes as ‘Bubagra’ (the king).

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHOR ARE PERSONAL

TOP TWEETS

Amit Shah @AmitShah

India is proud of its resilient NariShakti. While they contribute to building the nation with countless sacrifices, their individual stories of courage, grit and determination ignite our minds with inspiration. I salute all of those strong women on International Women’s Day.

Rajnath Singh @rajnathsingh

Congratulations to Dr. Manik Saha Ji and all others who took oath in Tripura today. I am confident that his team will deliver good governance to the people of Tripura and build on the pro-people & pro-poor work done in the last five years. @DrManikSaha2

SPIRITUAL SPEAK

participation in the work-

force has risen from 18.6 percent in 2018-19 to 25.1 percent in 1920-21.

It is better to conquer yourself than to win a thousand battles. Then the victory is yours. It cannot be taken from you. Buddha

ROBIN ROY

The writer is Senior Journalist and former Managing Editor, First India

The party’s demand for a Greater Tripaland consolidated its grip over the tribals and it sounded a death knell of sorts and led to large-scale desertions from IPFT to its ranks.

BJP-Cong slugfest continues on Rahul’s London statement

New Delhi (Agencies):

The Bharatiya Janata Party and Congress are at loggerheads over Rahul Gandhi’s statements in London on various platforms with the BJP alleging that the Congress leader tried to get intervention from the West.

The Congress, however, has countered this and said that the BJP is twisting the facts.

Now, the Congress is saying that the BJP is rattled since he attacked the RSS. “It is built along the lines of the Muslim Brotherhood and the idea is to use the democratic contest to come to power and then subvert the democratic contest afterwards. And it shocked me at how successful they have been at capturing the different institutions of our country -- the press, the judiciary, Parliament, Election Commission -all the institutions are under pressure, under threat and controlled in one way or the other,” Rahul Gandhi had said.

While the Congress is countering the BJP, by highlighting that Rahul Gandhi said, “Look, first of all, this is our problem, it is an internal problem and it is an Indian problem and the solution is going to come from inside, it is not going to come from outside. However, the scale of Indian democ-

13 BJP FUNCTIONARIES QUIT PARTY IN TAMIL NADU TO JOIN AIADMK

Chennai (ANI): A total of 13 functionaries from the Tamil Nadu’s BJP on Wednesday quit the party to join its alliance partner the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK). The 13 belonged to the BJP’s IT wing in Chennai West The development comes as the State unit of the BJP accused the the Edappadi Palaniswami-led AIADMK over allegedly “poaching” its leaders. BJP IT Wing District president Anbarasan in a statement said, “I have worked for BJP for years. People know that I have never expected any position. Considering the unusual scenario in the party for the past few days I have decided to resign from the party.” The statement bears the signatures of 10 IT Wing District Secretaries and two IT Wing District Deputy Secretaries. Several BJP MLAs have resigned and joined AIADMK recently.

racy means that democracy in India is a global public good, it impacts way further than our boundaries.”

The Congress said that he kept Indian democracy above all when he said, “If Indian democracy collapses in my view, democracy on the planet suffers a very serious, possibly a fatal blow. So, it is important for you too. It is not just important for us. We will deal with our problem, but you must be

aware that this problem is going to play out at a global scale, it is not just going to play out in India and what you do about it ...is of course up to you, but you must be aware that in what is happening in India, the idea of a democratic model is being attacked and threatened.”

The Congress even challenged to debate all the issues raised -whether it is weakening democracy, unemployment or high prices and

‘Sisodia kept in Tihar jail with dreaded criminals’

New Delhi (ANI): Aam Aadmi Party MLA Saurabh Bharadwaj on Wednesday launched an attack on the BJP-led central government over the arrest of former Delhi deputy chief minister and party veteran Manish Sisodia and alleged that the latter was refused the ‘vipassana cell’ and lodged with dreaded criminals in Tihar Jail.

BJP TO HOLD CONFERENCES IN WESTERN UP TO CONNECT WITH MUSLIM VOTERS

Lucknow (PTI): With an eye on the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, the ruling BJP is planning to hold conferences in various parliamentary constituencies of western Uttar Pradesh starting from Muzffarnagar next month to connect with the Muslim communities having an influence in the region. “Muslim Jat, Muslim Rajput, Muslim Gurjar and Muslim Tyagi communities have a sizeable number of voters in western Uttar Pradesh. In almost every Lok Sabha constituency of Western UP, their population is on an average 2.5 lakh,” UP BJP Minority Morcha president Kunwar Basit Ali said. “The party will try to connect with these voters by organising ‘Sneh Milan: Ek Desh, Ek DNA, Sammelan’ in various West UP districts,” he said, adding these conferences would start after Eid next month in Muzaffarnagar.

all that he has spoken on China. Congress Supriya Shrinate said, “So, where is the problem? Is this jealousy, is that complex what are you embroiled in? You should be happy that here is an Indian Parliamentarian, who has been asked to deliver a lecture in a country that ruled us for 200 years. We look them in the eyes and say that we will decide what the future of democracies in

the world will be.”

Former Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad criticised Rahul Gandhi over his statement in which he asked for America and Europe’s interference to restore democracy in India. During his recent visit to London, Rahul Gandhi said at an event that the “US and Europe are not doing enough to restore democracy in India” as they are “getting trade and money” from the country.

“The reason behind holding this conference today on Holi is to expose the Centre’s conspiracy due to which Manish Sisodia is behind the bars,” Bharadwaj said while addresssing a press conference.

He alleged that Sisodia’s arrest in the alleged Liqour Scam case was part of a major conspiracy. “He (Sisodia) has been kept under Jail No.1 of Tihar, while such first trial people are not kept there. Jail no.1 is home to some of the most dreaded criminals and murderers,” he said.

Bharadwaj also took a jibe at the BJP government for failing to defeat the AAP in the Delhi assembly and MCD elections.

“We are political rivals of BJP, but does this kind of enmity happen in politics, we want to know from BJP, you could not defeat us in Delhi, MCD, will the Prime Minister take revenge for this defeat in this way,” he questioned.

Bharadwaj further alleged that the BJP

SISODIA JAIL INMATES ARE ‘HARDCORE CRIMINALS’, CONSPIRACY OF CENTRE: AAP

New Delhi (Agencies): AAP MLA Saurabh Bharadwaj has accused the central government of hatching a conspiracy to endanger Manish Sisodia's life. He questioned the jail administration's move to lodge the former Delhi deputy CM in Jail No. 1, despite the court order to lodge him in a Vipassana Cell. Bharadwaj highlighted that the Delhi court had clearly directed that Manish Sisodia should be lodged in a cell where he can do his meditation. “However, the BJP government has deliberately housed him with the most hardened criminals in Tihar Jail. This is a clear sign of the government's vindictive attitude towards its political rivals,” he said.

DELHI

PRISON TRASHES AAP’S “PLOT TO KILL MANISH SISODIA IN JAIL” CHARGE

New Delhi (Agencies): The Delhi prisons department today trashed the AAP’s allegation of a plot to murder its senior leader Manish Sisodia in Tihar jail. Manish Sisodia’s bail petition will be taken up on Friday. The prisons department said in a statement that Manish Sisodia “has been assigned to a segregated ward keeping his security in mind”. “The ward of CJ-1, where he is lodged has minimum number of inmates who are not gangsters and are maintaining good conduct inside the jail,” the prisons department said, responding to AAP’s allegation that Sisodia has been lodged with dangerous and violent prisoners.

was conspiring to kill his party leaders. “Why is PM Modi silent on the matter. You are not able to harm AAP politically, you have even sent them to jail and now the conspiracy has reached the point of killing our leaders,” the AAP leader said. He also claimed that as per the court’s order,

BJP misuses CBI, ED only to defame Opposition, says SP leader Ram Gopal

Etawah (ANI): Senior Samajwadi Party leader Ram Gopal Yadav on Tuesday criticized BJP and alleged the rival party was continuously misusing the central agencies against the opposition parties.

Addressing reporters here Yadav said, “BJP continuously misuses the CBI, the ED and other institutions.

There are several instances in which nothing has been found but still such actions are taken to defame opposition among the people”.

The SP leader further stated that there will be an increase in raids

BJP to propose resolution against BBC documentary in Guj Assembly

Ahmedabad (PTI):

Gujarat BJP MLA Vipul Patel will move a resolution on Friday in the Assembly seeking “strong action” against the “concocted” findings shown in a BBC documentary, which he alleged “once again attempts to blame the then-state government” for the 2002 post-Godhra riots. The proposed resolution will likely say the BBC documentary was a “low-level attempt” to tarnish India’s global image. “India is a democratic

shared by the Assembly secretariat on Tuesday.

The two-part BBC documentary, titled “India: The Modi Question”, claimed it investigated certain aspects relating to the 2002 Gu-

jarat riots when Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the chief minister of the state.

“If someone behaves or acts like this (BBC), then he cannot be taken lightly. BBC is losing its credibility and seems to be working with some hidden agenda against India & the Indian government. Hence, this House requests the Government to take strict action against the mindboggling findings shown in documentary,” said a note on the resolution to be moved by Patel.

with Lok Sabha 2024 elections drawing close. “As the elections of 2024 draw near, there will be no opposition leader left who is not raided by income tax,” He said.

He pointed out that BJP needs to learn les-

AKHILESH, MAYAWATI QUESTION ENCOUNTERS

New Delhi: The Samajwadi Party and the BSP have raised questions on the encounters being carried out after Umesh Pal’s murder in Prayagraj. Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav said, “What is the government trying to conceal by eliminating the accused through encounters?’

sons from the past while drawing parallel comparisons between the current BJP and how Indira Gandhi treated the opposition. Yadav said “Indira Gandhi had made everyone go, even at that time there was no oppo-

OFFICIALS LET MLA’S WIFE MEET HIM: COPS

Chitrakoot: About Rs 6 lakh cash, a car, 2 mobile phones were recovered from the houses of eight jail officials who were arrested in connection with the illegal meeting of MLA Abbas Ansari and his wife in a prison. Two officials were arrested in connection with the meeting of Ansari and his wife in the jailor’s room.

sition leader left to campaign. When the elections came, Indira ji did not get any seat except the Chhindwara seat of MP. These people do not want to learn anything from history. No one can stay in power by misusing power.”

Conrad Sangma, Neiphiu Rio take oath as new Chief Mins

New Delhi (Agencies):

Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party’s Neiphiu Rio and National People’s Party chief Conrad Sangma took oath as the Chief Minister of Nagaland and Meghalaya respectively on Tuesday. Both the ceremonies were graced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Taditui Rangkau Zeliang and Yanthungo Patton take oath as Deputy chief ministers of Nagaland in Kohima.

During the oath-taking ceremony in Meghalaya, Governor Phagu Chauhan swore in

12-member council of ministers including NPP’s Prestone Tynsong and BJP’s Alexander Laloo Hek.

Prime Minister Modi arrived in Guwahati in the morning, where he was received by Assam

Governor Gulab Chand Kataria. He then left for Shillong on a helicopter where he was received by Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP president J P Nadda, who had reached there on Monday.

“Sisodia was supposed to be kept in a Vipassana cell but why is he being kept with such dangerous criminals.”

“Today Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain are not among us but there is also concern whether the central government will also carry out political killings,” Bharadwaj said.

Dhankhar appoints personal staff on 20 house panels

Dhankhar

Jagdeep

New Delhi (ANI): In an unprecedented move, Rajya Sabha Chairperson Jagdeep Dhankhar on Tuesday appointed eight members of his personal staff on 20 committees under the ambit of the Upper House Secretariat.

Eight members of Mr Dhankhar’s personal staff, including four posted in the Vice-President Secretariat, have been appointed on the 20 committees, an order issued by the Rajya Sabha Secretariat said.

Eight committees include four departmentrelated parliamentary standing committees and four other parliamentary standing committees. These include committees headed by non-BJP and opposition MPs.

Among those appointed to the committees include the Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to the Vice-President, OSD to the Chairman and Personal Secretary to the Vice-President.

Aam Aadmi Party MLA Saurabh Bhardwaj

Ram Gopal Yadav

HM Amit Shah, BJP National Prez JP Nadda, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, and newly sworn-in Chief Minister of Tripura, Manik Saha visited Matabari, on Wednesday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Meghalaya CM Conrad K Sangma during the swearing-in ceremony, in Shillong.

Ravi Shankar Prasad

Rahul Gandhi Supriya Shrinate

End violence against women & girls by terrorists: India at UNSC debate

India calls for the adoption of a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of terrorism

United Nations (PTI):

India has told the UN Security Council that violence perpetrated by terrorists against women and girls remains rampant and should be strongly condemned while calling for the adoption of a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of terrorism.

India’s Permanent

Representative to the UN Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj said on Tuesday that Member States must provide a conducive environment for the participation and inclusion of women in political processes and decision-making.

“Terrorism and violent extremism contin-

ue to be the biggest violators of human rights and a persistent threat to global peace and security. Needless to say, women and girls suffer invariably and disproportionately,” she said.

Speaking at the UN Security Council open debate on ‘Women, Peace and Security: To-

CRUCIAL READ

AYODHYA MOSQUE CONSTRUCTION TO

BEGIN AFTER RAMZAN

Uttar Pradesh: The construction of a mosque in Ayodhya is likely to start after the holy month of Ramzan. The Ayodhya Development Authority (ADA) has given clearance to the mosque complex layout in Dhannipur village in a recent board meeting. Nitish Kumar, district magistrate and chairman of ADA, Ayodhya, said, “All pending clearances to Ayodhya’s mosque cum complex project have been cleared in the recent board meeting.

5 HELD IN ASSAM FOR SUPPLYING SIM CARDS TO PAK AGENTS: COPS

Guwahati: Five people were arrested from Nagaon and Morigaon districts of Assam for allegedly supplying SIM cards to Pakistani agents, a police spokesperson said. Several mobile phones, SIM cards and other incriminating materials, including a handset used to share defence information with a foreign embassy, were seized, he said. Assam Police said the arrests were made during an operation carried out on Tuesday night.

Ghaziabad: A gym trainer who was allegedly assaulted by a group of youths after he objected to “obscene acts” by a man and a woman while riding a scooter in Ghaziabad has died of his injuries, police said. Six accused have been arrested and charges under IPC section 302 (murder) will be added in the FIR, they said. Virat Mishra, around 27 years of age, was assaulted in Sahibabad area, according to Bunty, who knew the victim and also got thrashed in the episode while intervening in it. “Virat had objected to the man, identified as Manish, and the woman engaged in objectionable acts, saying it was a residential area and they should go somewhere else. “On this, Manish called up some his friends who immediately reached the spot and attacked Virat on his head and body with stones and sticks,” Bunty claimed in his complaint to the police.

WOMAN ‘CAUGHT SMOKING’ INSIDE FLIGHT TOILET, HELD

Bengaluru: A 24-year-old woman allegedly caught smoking in the toilet on an Indigo flight from Kolkata was arrested on her arrival in Bengaluru. She was later released on bail. As per police complaint, Priyanka C, who boarded the Indigo 6E-716 flight from Kolkata on March 5, was suspected to be smoking in the toilet mid-flight by the cabin crew, who asked her to open the toilet door. When the door was opened, a cigarette was found lying in the dustbin and the crew put it out with water, according to the complaint.

SHARMILA DETAINED IN HYD DURING PROTEST ON WOMEN’S DAY

Hyderabad: Police on Wednesday detained YSR Telangana Party (YSRTP) leader Y S Sharmila when she staged a silent protest against atrocities on women. Sharmila was leading the protest to commemorate the International Women’s Day. Talking to media persons, she said that Telangana has turned into a place filled with landmines for women under KCR’s rule. She further said the state now has the dubious record of registering most number of rapes and kidnapping cases against women.

wards the 25th Anniversary of Resolution 1325’, she said violence against women and girls perpetrated by terrorists remains rampant. “This deserves the strongest condemnation and calls for the adoption of a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of terrorism,” she said.

“UNWORTHY TO EVEN RESPOND”: INDIA SLAMS PAK MINISTER’S KASHMIR REMARKS

United Nations (PTI): India tore into Pakistan after its foreign minister raised the issue of Kashmir at a Security Council debate on women, peace and security, saying it is “unworthy” to even respond to such “malicious and false propaganda”. Responding to Pak Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto’s remarks on Kashmir, India’s Representative to the UN Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj termed his statement as “baseless and politically motivated”.

“Before I conclude, let me dismiss the frivolous, baseless and politically motivated remarks made by the delegate of Pakistan regarding the Union Territory of J&K,” she said.

“FACTUALLY INACCURATE”: INDIA SLAMS UN HUMAN RIGHTS FOR COMMENTS ON J&K

United Nations: India voiced regret over comments by the UN’s human rights commissioner on the situation in Kashmir, terming the reference as “unwarranted and factually inaccurate”. “We regret the High Commissioner’s unwarranted and factually inaccurate portrayal of the human rights situation in the Union Territory of J&K. Let me reiterate that the matters pertaining to the Union Territory of J&K are an internal affair of India and we do not see any role for the OHCHR in it,” Representative of India to the UN in Geneva Ambassador Indra Mani Pandey said.

TMC leader sent to custody till March 10 in cattle smuggling case

New Delhi (PTI): A Delhi court on Wednesday sent TMC leader Anubrata Mondal to ED custody till March 10 in an alleged money laundering case related to West Bengal cattle smuggling case.

The midnight court passed the order on a plea moved by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), which sought his 14-day custody and said the accused was required to be quizzed.

Special Judge Rakesh Kumar directed the agency, represented by Special Public Prosecutor Nitesh Rana, to produce the accused on

Anubrata Mondal

March 10 before the regular court.

The ED on Tuesday got custody of arrested Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Mondal after doctors at JokaESI Hospital in West Bengal found him fit to travel to New Delhi.

MAN TRANSPORTING

COWS SHOT AT IN UP, PROBE LAUNCHED

Lucknow (ANI): A truck driver was shot near a culvert in the Mohan Nagar area of Lucknow while transporting cows, the police said. The victim has been identified as Prem Singh Yadav. According to Police, “Driver Prem Singh along with his owner Sanjeev Singh was transporting cows from Gorakhpur to Lucknow in a DCM truck. On their way, some unknown persons came and opened fire at the driver.” “The assailant fled after committing the crime,” added police. Upon receiving the information, a team of police reached the spot and the driver was rushed to hospital. His condition was said to be stable. Further investigation is underway.

85 women CRPF officers to ride 1,800 km to Maoist stronghold

New Delhi (Agencies): A team of 85 women bikers of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) will undertake 1,848 km-long expedition from Delhi to one of the most Left Wing Extremism affected areas of Chhattisgarh.

“We will cover 1,848 kilometres in 16 days and it’s a challenge considering bullet is a heavy bike but we love new challenges,” said Anjilee, who comes from Muzaffarpur in Uttar Pradesh.

“On a bike I feel powerful as powerful as shakti. I don’t fear any-

one nor do I get tired,” said Anjilee, who has been riding a bike since school days.

“I would like to say never think of yourself as someone who won’t be able to accept any challenge we should al-

WOEFUL WEDNESDAY

Five killed, several injured after car collides with tree in MP

Tikamgarh: Five people were killed while several others were injured after a four-wheeler collided with a tree on Jatara Road in Tikamgarh, Madhya Pradesh on Wednesday, the police said.

Sub Divisional Police Officer Abhishek Gautam said that four people died on the spot while one succumbed to injuries while being taken to the hospital.

According to the police, the driver lost control as he was overspeeding the car which led to the collision with the tree.

Officials said that all the injured have been sent to Tikamgarh District Hospital In Rajnagar village of the district.

Woman’s body found stuffed in suitcase on Rohtak highway

Panipat (ANI): A woman’s body was found in a suitcase on the Rohtak-Jaipur highway near a railway overbridge in Panipat city of Haryana, police said.

After getting information about the incident a Haryana Police team reached the spot.

Forensic Science Laboratory team also reached the spot and inspected the suitcase and the spot where the suitcase was found.

IPS officer Mayank Mishra, ASP Panipat zone also reached the spot with his team.

3 DIE IN BIHAR AFTER MORTAR SHELL FALLS OUTSIDE ARMY FIRING RANGE, SAYS POLICE Gaya (PTI): Three villagers were killed in Gaya district of Bihar when an Army mortar shell fell and exploded well outside the firing range in the early hours of Wednesday, a senior police officer said. Senior Superintendent of Police, Gaya, Ashish Bharti said the incident took place in Gularved village, falling under Barachatti police station area, where six people got injured when the mortar shell fell and burst. All of them were rushed to the Anugraha Narayan Magadh Medical College and Hospital in the town where three of the injured villagers, including a woman, died while undergoing treatment.

4 LOSE LIVES AFTER CAR FALLS INTO GORGE

Shimla (ANI): Four persons were killed and one gravely injured after the car they were travelling in fell into a gorge in Shimla district on Wednesday. The incident happened near Nerwa village of Chaupal Tehsil. “A car carrying five people fell into a gorge on its way to Nerwa village. The

accident took place 5 kms away from Nerwa,” the police said. Further, as per police, 3 persons died on the spot while another succumbed to his injuries during treatment. “A fourth occupant of the car sustained critical injuries and is undergoing treatment at the hospital,” he added.

India to send 20K MT of wheat to Afghanistan

Wheat shipment to Afghanistan.

Afghanistan (PTI): India and five central Asian countries asserted that Afghanistan’s soil must not be used for any terrorist activities and called for formation of a “truly inclusive” political structure in Kabul that respects rights of all Afghans including women and mi-

IN COLOURFUL VIBE

norities. At the first meeting of the IndiaCentral Asia joint working group on Afghanistan, New Delhi also announced a fresh tranche of assistance of 20,000 metric tonnes of wheat to Afghanistan and the consignments will be sent through the Chabahar Port in Iran.

Rs8 crore cash from Arecanut sale: MLA facing corruption charges

Davangere: The embattled BJP MLA Madal Virupakshappa, who is facing corruption charges after Rs 8.23 cr was seized from his house and office said that he got the money from sale of arecanut (supari).

ways conquer our fears and participate in everything,” said another woman officer. The level of josh and motivation can be judged from the way they are revving their bikes.

PRESIDENT’S PITCH FOR GENDER EQUALITY

Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Anurag

Singh Thakur takes a selfie with Union Minister of Law and Justice Kiren Rijiju, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, US Secretary of Commerce, Gina Raimondo, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and others during Holi celebrations, in New Delhi on Wednesday.

Channagiri MLA Virupakshappa, who was the Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Limited chairman, told reporters at Channeshapur after getting bail from the High Court this was the first in the history of India that a raid has been carried out against a ruling party MLA.

World would be happier place if women made equal partners: Murmu

First India Bureau

New Delhi: President

Droupadi Murmu said that the country has a good representation of women in decisionmaking institutions at the grassroots level but as we move up in the hierarchy, we see fewer women.

Extending her wishes on the occasion of International Women’s Day, Murmu shared an article on the indomitable spirit of Indian

women on International Women’s Day.

Her article “Every Woman’s Story My Story!” talked about the status of women in society.

Lauding examples of women empowerment, the article said, “ In the 21st century, when we have made unimaginable progress in every field, till date no woman has become the head of state or government in many countries.”

“My election as the President of the world’s

largest democracy is a part of the story of women empowerment,” she added. Today, countless women are

contributing to nationbuilding by working in their chosen fields, she further stated. She observed, “We have a good

representation of women in decision-making institutions at the grassroots level. But as we move upwards, the number of females gradually decreases.”

She further observed, “I strongly believe that there is a need to change the mindset prevailing in the society. In order to build a peaceful and prosperous society, it is necessary to understand and break free from ingrained prejudices based on gender inequality.”

Narendra Modi@narendramodi

On International Women’s Day, a tribute to the achievements of our Nari Shakti. We greatly cherish the role of women in India’s progress. Our govt will keep working to further women empowerment.

Amit Shah@AmitShah

India is proud of its resilient NariShakti. While they contribute to building the nation with countless sacrifices, their individual stories of courage, grit and determination ignite our minds with inspiration. I salute all of those strong women on International Women’s Day.

AIR INDIA GROUP FLEW 90 ALL-WOMEN CREW FLIGHTS TO MARK WOMEN’S DAY

New Delhi: Air India, along with Air India Express and AirAsia, flew over 90 all-women crew flights in the run-up to Women’s Day since March 1. 90 was the chosen number as tribute to the 90th Anniversary of Bharat Ratna JRD Tata’s first commercial flight, a statement read. The Air India Group has been operating these all-women crew flights since March 1.

ACHIEVE ACCESS FOR ALL WOMEN AND GIRLS TO DIGITAL INNOVATIONS: WHO

New Delhi (ANI): WHO is calling for intensified action across the world to ensure that every woman and girl, everywhere has timely and equitable access to digital innovations and technologies that can protect, promote and support health and well-being, and accelerate gender equality,” said, Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh, WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia.

India’s Permanent Representative to UN Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj.

The ride will begin from the India Gate on March 9 and will end at Jagdalpur in south Bastar region of Chhattisgarh on March 25.

President Droupadi Murmu applies tilak to a student as she receives Holi greetings from students at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi.

MAN WHO WAS BEATEN FOR OBJECTING TO “OBSCENE ACTS” IN PUBLIC DIES, SAYS UP COPS

—PHOTO BY ANI

—PHOTO BY ANI

COMMODITIES

www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epapers/mumbai I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia

GOLD TUMBLES BY `615/10 GM; SILVER PLUMMETS `2,285

New Delhi: Gold price tumbled by `615 to `55,095 per 10 grams in the national capital on Wednesday amid a decline in rates of precious metal in the overseas markets, according to HDFC Securities. The yellow metal had closed at `55,710 per 10 grams in the previous trade. Silver also plummeted `2,285 to `62,025 per kilogramme. In the overseas markets, both gold and silver were quoting lower at $1,814 per ounce and $20.05 per ounce, respectively. —PTI

15% OF AIR INDIA’S

TOTAL 1,825 PILOTS ARE WOMEN

New Delhi: Air India on Wednesday said 15% of its 1,825 pilots are women pilots, making it an airline with the largest number of female pilots. To mark International Women’s Day, the Tata Groupowned Air India, along with Air India Express and AirAsia India, has scheduled more than 90 allwomen crew flights, and the carriers have been operating these all-women crew flights on international and domestic routes since March 1, according to a release. —PTI

ADANI POWER AMALGAMATES

SIX SUBSIDIARY COS

New Delhi: Adani Power said it has amalgamated its six subsidiaries, including Adani Power (Mundra), with itself. An amalgamation of six wholly-owned subsidiary companies of Adani Power Ltd (APL)—Adani Power Maharashtra Ltd (APML); Adani Power Rajasthan Ltd (APRL); Udupi Power Corporation Ltd (UPCL); Raipur Energen Ltd (REL); Raigarh Energy Generation Ltd (REGL) & Adani Power (Mundra) Ltd (APMuL)—with APL was sanctioned by the Ahmedabad-bench of National Company Law Tribunal on February 8, 2023. —PTI

MARUTI, HYUNDAI MARKET SHARE DIPS IN FEBRUARY 2023

New Delhi: Maruti Suzuki

India and Hyundai Motor India saw a dip in their market share in February while Tata Motors, Mahindra and Kia India witnessed an year on year increase last month. As per the retail sales data collated by the FADA, Maruti Suzuki’s retail sales last month stood at 1,18,892 units as compared with 1,09,611 units in February 2022. Similarly, Hyundai’s market share last month dipped to 13.62%. —PTI

‘

India growth slow down is temporary ’

New Delhi (PTI): Moody’s Analytics said India’s domestic economy, rather than trade, is its primary engine of growth and the slowdown in economic activity late last year will only be temporary.

The government data released last week showed India’s GDP growth slowed to a three quarter low of 4.4% in October-December,2022, mainly due to contraction in manufacturing.

While the manufacturing sector contracted by 1.1%, private consumption expenditure slowed to 2.1% in the October-December quarter of current fiscal.

In its report on emerging market outlook, Moody’s Analytics said growth slowed substantially on a year-ago basis, with private consumption lagging overall GDP for the first time since the Delta wave of Covid-19 struck the economy in the second quarter of 2021.

“Our take is that the slowdown late last year will be temporary and even salu-

IN 7TH ROUND India-UK FTA talks covered 11 policy areas

New Delhi (PTI): The seventh round of India-UK free trade agreement (FTA) talks concluded following technical discussions across 11 policy areas over 43 separate sessions between negotiators from both sides last month, the British government has said.

Jio extends 5G coverage to 27 more cities

FTA,” the outcome statement reads.

TOP TALKING POINTS

z The government data released last week showed India’s GDP growth slowed to a three quarter low of 4.4% in October-December,2022, mainly due to contraction in manufacturing

tary, helping to wring some of the demand-side pressures out of the economy without stopping it wholesale. On the external front, better growth in the US and Europe’s incipient recovery

Indian market large enough for all players: Emirates

New Delhi (PTI): Indian aviation market is “large enough to accommodate all players profitably” and irrespective of what competitors do, the airline is focused on its strategies, leading Gulf carrier Emirates has said amid Air India ramping up its fleet and operations. Emirates flies to nine Indian cities and operates 167 weekly flights to the country.

A senior Emirates executive said the expansion of Air India might push airports to improve their services, which will be a positive development for all other airlines, Indian customers as well as the aviation and travel industries as a whole.

“Air India flying to new international routes might also have a positive (effect) on Emirates. When a new route is operated by an airline, then that could result in increased traffic demand and the particular airline might not be able to cater to the demand.

“As a result, the potential customers will look at other carriers and that can have a positive impact,”

ACCORDING TO EMIRATES

z Indian aviation market is “large enough to accommodate all players profitably” and irrespective of what competitors do, the airline is focused on its strategies

z The leading Gulf carrier flies to nine Indian cities and operates 167 weekly flights to the country

Mohammed Sarhan, Vice President - India & Nepal of Emirates, said.

To a query related to Air India and competition in the Indian market, Sarhan said that competition is there and irrespective of what competitors do, “we are focused on our strategies”. He asserted that “the market is large enough to accommodate all players profitably”.

‘WITNESSING ROBUST GROWTH’

z While the manufacturing sector contracted by 1.1%, private consumption expenditure slowed to 2.1% in the Oct-Dec quarter

z The US & Europe are India’s largest trade partners and are important destinations for exports of business services

will propel India at the midyear mark,” it said.

The US and Europe are India’s largest trade partners and are important destinations for exports of business services.

In an outcome statement, the Department for Business and Trade did not give any further details on the policy areas covered, but confirmed that the eighth round of talks is due to take place in a few weeks’ time.

“On 10 February 2023, the United Kingdom and the Republic of India concluded the seventh round of talks for an India-UK

“Technical discussions were held across 11 policy areas over 43 separate sessions. They included detailed draft treaty text discussions in these policy areas. The eighth round of negotiations is due to take place later this Spring,” it said. Last month’s session was also conducted in a hybrid fashion, with a number of Indian officials travelling to London for negotiations and others attending virtually. In keeping with the norm so far of alternating locations, the next round is expected to take place in New Delhi towards the end of this month.

New Delhi (PTI): Reliance Jio, the country’s largest telecom operator, on Wednesday announced the launch of its 5G services in 27 more cities of 13 states and union territories to extend its network of ultra high-speed telephony to 331 cities across India.

Jio True 5G is now available in 27 additional cities in states like Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, UP, Uttarakhand and West Bengal, the company said in a statement.

Starting March 8, 2023, Jio users in these 27 cities will be invited to the Jio Welcome Offer, to experience unlimited data at up to 1 Gbps speeds, at no additional cost, it said.

Sensex rises over 120 points; Nifty closes above 17,750

Mumbai (PTI): Rising for the third straight session, equity benchmark Sensex closed higher by 123 points on Wednesday, propped up by robust fag-end buying in banking and financial stocks amid a bearish trend in global equity markets.

In a largely subdued session, the 30-share BSE Sensex ended 123.63 points or 0.21% higher at 60,348.09. During the session, the in-

dex touched a high of 60,402.85 and a low of 59,844.82.

The broader NSE Nifty gained 42.95 points or 0.24% to finish at 17,754.40. IndusInd Bank was the

‘GQG PARTNERS LIKELY TO INCREASE ADANI INVESTMENT’

New Delhi (FIB): GQG Partners would likely expand its investment in the Adani group, the fund firm’s founder Rajiv Jain said on Wednesday, a week after its $1.9 billion infusion into the embattled Indian conglomerate. “Chances are we’ll probably buy more because we typically initiate a position and then depending on how things go and how the earnings come through we tend to get it to full size because we’re not at full size at this point,” Jain said.

GQG Partners, co-founded by Jain in 2016, bought shares worth $1.87 billion in four Adani group companies, marking the first major investment in the Indian conglomerate since a short-seller’s critical report in January sparked a stock rout. Jain, based in Florida, flew to Australia this week for talks with investors, which include some of Australia’s largest pension funds. Last week, pension fund investor Cbus Super, with A$71 billion ($46.82 billion) under management, told Reuters they had queried GQG about the Adani purchase.

Start-up ecosystem needs shift in mindset

New Delhi (PTI): The start-up ecosystem is witnessing robust growth and needs a shift in the mindset, a study undertaken by city-based CIEL HR Services said.

CIEL HR Services managing director Aditya Narayan Mishra in a statement said, “The start-up and entrepreneurship ecosystem in India is witnessing robust growth. When we at CIEL took a closer look at the system with a gender lens, we discovered that with the progress the challenges have also scaled.”

“What the ecosystem

needs immediately is a shift in mindset and that is evident in CIEL’s study report. One of the recom-

mendations is to promote entrepreneurship among students and also provide them the right facilities

MAJOR FINDINGS

z According to the findings, women entrepreneurs continue to face challenges with Indian start-ups witnessing dynamic growth

z Women in an entrepreneurial role struggle to raise capital, face lack of professional networks and mentorship

like access to capital, mentorship programme...,” Mishra also the CEO of the company said.

biggest gainer on the Sensex chart, rising 4.75%, followed by M&M, L&T, NTPC, ITC, Ultra Cement, Tata Steel, Maruti and SBI.

In contrast, Bajaj Finance, Tech Mahindra, Infosys and Sun Pharma were among the losers, shedding up to 2.30%.

In the broader market, the BSE midcap gauge rose 0.61%, and the smallcap index gained 0.28%.

OTHER STORIES

` FALLS 11 PAISE TO CLOSE AT 82.03 AGAINST DOLLAR

Mumbai (PTI): The rupee depreciated 11 paise to close at 82.03 (provisional) against the US currency on Wednesday as a strong dollar in the overseas market weighed on investor sentiments. At the interbank foreign exchange market, the rupee opened at 82.25 against the greenback and closed at 82.03 (provisional), registering a fall of 11 paise.

NAFED TO BEGIN ONION PROCUREMENT FROM 3 MANDIS IN GUJARAT FROM TODAY

New Delhi: Cooperative Nafed will start procurement of kharif onion in Gujarat from Thursday from three mandis to provide relief to farmers, as prices have crashed in the wholesale markets, according to the Food and Consumer Affairs Ministry. Nafed will begin onion procurement from Bhavnagar, Gondal and Porbandar mandis in Gujarat from March 9. More centres will be opened from time to time as required, it said. “Farmers are requested to bring their good quality and dried stock to the procurement centres to avail better rates at these centres,” the ministry said. —PTI

VOLATILITY IN STEEL PRICES TO CONTINUE IN MEDIUM TERM

New Delhi: The volatility in steel prices is likely to continue in the medium-term due to the impact of geopolitical situation on supply chain logistics, according to SteelMint. Last week, steel makers increased the prices of hot-rolled coil (HRC) by `1,400 to `60,700 per tonne. In the last six months, the steel prices have not been stable. “The volatility in the prices is likely to continue in the medium-term on account of geo-political situations across the globe impacting the supply chain,” SteelMint said. —PTI

CREDIT CARD OUTSTANDING RISES 29.6% IN JANUARY

New Delhi: The credit card outstanding in January rose 29.6% to reach an all-time high of `1.87 lakh crore on back of increased digitisation and rising consumer confidence in the post-Covid period. As per the latest data of the Reserve Bank, the credit card outstanding has recorded a growth of over 20% in the 10 months of the current fiscal. June had recorded the highest growth of 30.7%. On the monthly trends in credit card usage, there has been a consistent growth in the credit card spends for the last few months. —PTI

IOC KEEN TO DEVELOP HALDIA REFINERY INTO PETROCHEMICALS COMPLEX

Kolkata: Oil marketing PSU Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) is keen to develop its existing refinery in West Bengal’s Haldia into a petrochemicals complex for “sustaining operations profitably”, a company official said on Wednesday. Running a standalone refinery is “not sustainable in terms of profitability” for which it has to be supplemented by a petrochemicals complex, he said. “We want to set up a petrochemicals complex contiguous to the Haldia refinery whose current capacity is 8.5 million tonnes per annum (mtpa)”, the company official said. —PTI

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

No dreams of being PM, but will bring change in 2024: Uddhav

First India Bureau

Mumbai: Former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Wednesday said that while he has no prime ministerial ambitions, he hopes to bring “change in 2024”.

The leader, who recently lost the “Shiv Sena” name and poll symbol to rival and CM, Eknath Shinde, on Wednesday made his first appearance at Vidhan Bhavan since the beginning of the Budget Session, to participate in a meeting of the Maha Vikas Aghadi allies.

The MVA alliance consists of the Congress, the Nationalist Congress Party and the Shiv Sena - Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray.

“I am not dreaming of becoming Prime Minister but will definitely try to bring

change in 2024,” he told reporters, prior to his visit to the Vidhan Sabha.

“There was a time when Congress thought no one could defeat them. And now BJP thinks the same. But soon their government will also fall, they too will be defeated. When Congress was in power, former Union Minister George Fernandes challenged that he

MVA allies have decided to come together to hold rallies in different parts of the state to take on the Eknath Shinde-BJP govt, insiders say

could defeat Congress.

Today, the same has happened to the BJP,” he said, in reference to Ravindra Dhangekar defeating the BJP candidate in the recent Kasba Peth bypoll.

“I’m glad that Ravin-

On Women’s Day, Ajit Pawar rues lack of woman ministers

First India Bureau

Mumbai: The Leader of the Opposition in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Ajit Pawar on Wednesday pointed out that there is not a single woman in the state cabinet.

The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader was speaking in the Assembly on a resolution moved by Speaker Rahul Narwekar urging the government to formulate a new women’s policy.

The alliance government of Eknath Shindeled Shiv Sena and Bharatiya Janata Party which came to power in June 2022 has 20 ministers including the chief minister.

To mark International Women’s Day, the Assembly discussed the proposed fourth women’s policy.

The (upper) limit of 43 (state cabinet) ministers has not been exhausted. Women make up 50% of the population but Maha does not have a single woman minister.

—Ajit Pawar, LOP, Assembly

IN GOVT, FACED RESISTANCE TO PROWOMEN DECISIONS: SHARAD PAWAR

Kadu, leader of the Prahar Sanghatana who supports the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra government, subsequently secured bail from the court.

His lawyer said they will file an appeal in the

Bachchu Kadu —FILE PHOTO

High Court against the sentence.

On July 24, 2017, the Prahar Sanghatana had staged an agitation outside the Nashik Municipal Corporation over the issue of non-utilization of 3% funds reserved for the speciallyabled persons.

As per the prosecution, Kadu, who led the agitation, abused and tried to hit Nashik commissioner Abhishek Krishna.

dra Hemraj Dhangekar has become an MLA from Congress. The Kasba seat which was the traditional seat of the Bharatiya Janta Party was won by Congress MLA Dhangekar under the leadership

of MVA,” he added.

Earlier in the day, state Minister Shambhuraj Shivajirao Desai said the Legislative Council was “waiting eagerly” for Thackeray’s visit.

“It’s a good thing. The Bhavan is eagerly waiting for him. He is an honourable member of the Vidhan Bhavan and ex-CM. Let’s see what he has to say,” Desai said.

Chor Mandal: Remarks aimed at particular group, Raut says

First India Bureau Mumbai: Responding to the breach of privilege notice issued by the Maharashtra Assembly Speaker, Shiv Sena - Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction leader Sanjay Raut on Wednesday said that his “chor-mandal” remarks were directed only towards a specific group and not all MLAs. He has not done anything or said anything with an intention to insult the state legislature, he added.

“I have been a Rajya Sabha MP and know the importance of Assembly, the statements were directed towards only a specific group (Shinde camp) and not all MLAs,” Raut said.

Meanwhile, Speaker

Narwekar on Wednesday said he had accepted Raut’s request for more time to submit a written clarification on his “chor-mandal” remark.

“I have received a communication from him today. The response was sought as part of natural justice. My view was that the remarks referring to the legislature as a body of thieves' was an insult to the House,” Narwekar

COMING SOON

said. “I have accepted the request,” he added without specifying how much time has been given to Raut.

Earlier, Raut had sparked chaos in the House after he called the legislature a “chormandal” (council of thieves). His comment also prompted members of the ruling BJP and Shiv Sena to submit to the speaker a notice for breach of privilege motion against the MP.

“This is not a legislature but a band of thieves. What if we are removed from the post are we going to leave the party? Many such posts have been given to us by the party, Balasaheb had given them, and Uddhav ji has given them, we are not hawkers,” Raut had allegedly said.

Pawar said the new policy should provide for social security for women and also their financial empowerment. Domestic violence is often not reported because women do not speak out about such issues and the new policy should address this problem, the Leader of Opposition added.

NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal praised the decision of the BJP gov-

Mumbai (PTI): Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) president and former Union minister Sharad Pawar on Wednesday recalled resistance he faced from certain quarters while implementing decisions related to women empowerment, including inducting female officers into the armed forces, but said when an administrator is strong policies get eventually executed. The veteran parliamentarian held key portfolios of defence (1991-1993) and agriculture (200414) as a Union minister and also served as chief minister of Maharashtra four times during his

ernment in neighbouring Madhya Pradesh to provide an allowance of Rs1,000 per month to women from the financially weaker section. There was a time when Maharashtra took the lead in intro -

Centre wants to make women ‘lakhpatis’: Min

decades-long political career. Pawar said while serving as chief minister of Maharashtra, he chose to handle the women and child welfare department instead of crucial portfolios like the home which changed people's perspective about his administration. Pawar said many decisions taken by him while in government were not appreciated by his male colleagues, including his move to give equal share in family property to women. The former CM, however, asserted that despite facing opposition, he went ahead with decisions that empowered women.

ducing such measures, the former minister said.

Bhujbal also demanded that the House pass a resolution demanding a 50% quota for women in Parliament and state legislatures.

Beed bizman assaulted; FIR names NCP MLA

Aurangabad (PTI):

First India Bureau Thane: Union Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Giriraj Singh on Wednesday said the Central government has resolved to make members of women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) “lakhpatis”.

“There are 86,000 SHGs in India which include 9 crore women. In the last eight years, the government has dis-

bursed Rs6.26 lakh crore to these women. It is the dream of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to make each and every member of SHGs a lakhpati. We are working in that direction,” he said, after inaugurating a oneday workshop of women and an exhibition at Shahapur in Thane district. Meanwhile, a section of the pandal put up for the event collapsed due to heavy winds.

New women’s policy to be rolled out during Budget session

First India Bureau

Mumbai: The state will introduce a new women’s policy during the ongoing Budget Session, the government said on Wednesday.

Women and Child Development Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha announced the decision in the Legislative Assembly while replying to a debate on the issue, which was initiated in the House to mark Inter-

national Women’s Day.

The state government will take note of all the suggestions put forth by MLAs with regard to welfare, security and empowerment of women, Lodha said, and will also table its performance report on decisions related to women empowerment regularly.

Shinde

CM Eknath

also be announced. A

A women’s bazaar to promote products of Self-Help Groups has also been proposed every month in all districts, the minister added. As much as 50% of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds should be allocated for women’s causes, he said.

An attempt-to-murder case has been registered against Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) legislator Prakash Solanke, his wife and others after a group of unidentified people attacked a businessman in Beed district, an official said on Wednesday.

A businessman named Ashok Shejul was allegedly beaten up by unidentified people in Majalgaon city on Tuesday. Solanke represents the Majalgaon constituency. In his complaint, Shejul said the attackers came on bikes and hit him with pipes.

sented on Thursday, will be women-centric and dedicated to middle-class people.

“We will be fulfilling our promises (when the Budget is presented) Everyone is anticipating what the Budget will hold for them. I can tell you that it will look to fulfill the needs and aspirations of women and the middle class.

“janata

be held for women at

Speaking later, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said the state Budget, which is to be pre -

This government is committed to working for the people,” he said.

The attackers told Shejul that he should be killed because he keeps complaining about "Prakashdada's" (MLA Solanke) organisation, the official said. On the businessman's complaint, the police registered a case under Indian Penal Code sections, including 307, against the MLA, his wife, a man and five to six unidentified persons, the official said, adding that the complainant is being treated at a private hospital.

Ex-CM Uddhav Thackeray visited Vidhan Bhavan for the first time since the Budget Session began. —PHOTO BY BHUSHAN KOYANDE

There was a time when Congress thought no one could defeat them. And now BJP thinks the same, ex-CM says

Nashik: A local court here on Wednesday sentenced independent MLA and former Maharashtra minister Omprakash alias Bachchu Kadu to one year’s rigorous imprisonment for obstructing government work and trying to assault an official during a 2017 agitation. He was sentenced on two counts, and as per the court order which became available late in the evening, both the sentences of one year each would run concurrently.

STRONG WOMEN OF ALL TIMES!

On International Women’s day, First India honoured women achievers from different fields with the First India Women Achievement Awards 2023 and an insightful panel discussion was also held

BY MUKESH KIRADOO

UTTKARSHA SHEKHAR uttkarsha.shekhar@firstindia.co.in

“The woman who follows the crowd will usually go no further than the crowd. The woman who walks alone is likely to find herself in places no one has ever been before.”

—Albert Einstein

The woman is the epitome of strength and power and that’s why she is also known as SHAKTI. Women today, more than ever, are defying male-dom inated communities and civilizations. The miracu lous history of Indian Wom en is full of frontiersperson, who have broken the chained gender impedi ments, and stereotypes and worked hard for the uplift ment of society and their rights, making India proud with their sterling record of accomplishments in the field of politics, art, social work, etc. To celebrate the power of women First India organised an award show titled ‘First India Women Achievement Awards 2023’ on Sunday at the First India News office, Sahakar Marg, Jaipur.

Munesh Gurjar, Mayorof Jaipur Municipal Corporation Heritage graced the occasion as the chief guest and expressed her gratitude to Jagdeesh Chandra for this unique initiative and said that we cannot measure the tolerance of a woman because compassion and tolerance are the greatest power of a woman.

20 women from various fields were honoured for their impeccable work followed by a panel discussion on Empowering Women held with eminent women guests and awardees.

Senior Editor Jinen dra Singh Shekhawat and Anita Hada wel comed all the guests.

On the occasion, Ani ta Hada proudly shared her journey, proclaiming her pride in being a wom an she said, “I am proud to be a daughter, wife, mother, and most importantly a woman be cause the female bond is so strong when women sup port women incredible things can happen and also because we are fantastic at dealing with anything; throw anything at us and we can handle it. I am grateful to Dr Jagdeesh Chandra for his support to me and every col league of mine at First India and Bharat24 for the opportunity for all of us to grow and bloom, and also to all women who have inspired me to become the strong per son I am.

Anita Hada, Jinendra Singh Shekhawat and Megha Kaushik with awardees (Sitting): (L-R ) Dr Neha Batra, Kamlesh Sharma, Ranu Uba, Mridul Bhasin, Nirmala Sewani, Suman Choudhary (Standing): (L-R) Priyanshi, Aishwarya Jain, Parul Beel, Nupur Jhankal, Priyambi Rajawat, Vandana Chandna, Navya Tiwari, Dr Swati Tomar, Dr Mala Airun and Dharmendra Kanwar

Jinendra Singh Shekhawat and Anita Hada greet Munesh Gurjar

Anticlockwise: Priyanshi Khandelwal, Nupur Jhankal, Aishwarya Jain, Parul Beel, Priyambi Rajawat and Navya Tiwari

MUMBAI’S BIGGEST HOLI BASH: RANG BARSE

CBTF Rang Barse

2023 Powered by Bira Presented by Hex & Khalid Ansari with News Partner

First India & Bharat 24 at Country Club Andheri west was a grand affair.

Rang barse saw a splendid Holi celebration

Vaani Kapoor at Paris Fashion Week!

Gorgeous Bollywood actress Vaani Kapoor, who has been making some cool fashion statements with her sartorial choices, was the only Indian to be invited to top global designer Peter Dundas’ stellar show at Paris Fashion Week!

Vaani revealed this information through her social media as she uploaded images from the headline-grab-

She wrote, “Dundas you beut! What a show! ️ pleasure to discover your world up close!! @ peter_dundas @dundasworld #ParisFashionWeek” (if she changes the caption put it here along with the link)

Born in Norway, Dundas studied at Parsons in New York. He has worked with fashion stalwarts like Jean Paul Gaultier, Emilio Pucci, Emanuel Ungaro & Roberto Cavalli. He then launched his eponymous label, Dundas, which made its debut on Beyoncé at Apart from Beyoncé, Dundas has styled global an, Gwyneth Paltrows, sandra Ambrosio, Megan Fox, Ciara, dall Jenner, to name

on 7th March 2023. This year’s event as promised was bigger and better with a wide range of activities and attractions to keep partygoers entertained throughout the day.

From an explosive list of DJs to rain dance and much more makes Rang Barest the most electrify-

ing Holi bash in town. With Rang Barse Holi fans across Mumbai were in for a treat, this summer !!! Actor and Performer Ali Merchant mesmerised everyone with his High. Actor Anjali Arora entertained the audience with her dance moves. Yohani and Tony Kakkar

graced the event to launch and promote their new song with Tseries #Chunarimeindaag. The event also saw the presence and performances of Soundarya Sharma & Vishal Kotian. Well, Rang Barse indeed Was a breathtaking experience of Life Time. cityfirst.mumbai@firstindia.co.in

KARAN JOHAR WRAPS KASHMIR SCHEDULE

Alia Bhatt and Ranveer Singh starrer Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani is one of the most awaited films of 2023. Directed by Karan Johar, the film also stars Dharmendra, Jaya Bachchan and Shabana Azmi in key roles. Rec ently, Alia and Ranveer jetted off to Kashmir to shoot for a song. Johar, who returns to direction with the film after 2016’s Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, took to his official Instagram account to share the work update. Karan took to social media and shared a

Kriti Sanon on marriage!

Karan Johar

dreamy video of himself. “Meri performance pe mat jao, meri feelings ko samjho. Bidding farewell to beautiful Kashmir! This is Karan Johar signing off, with camera person @shaunagautam!”

riti Sanon made her Bollywood debut in 2014 with Sabbir Khan's Heropanti. Despite not coming from a film family, Kriti Sanon has acknowledged that the public has a poor opinion of the entertainment industry. Recently when asked if people told her the film industry wasn’t for her when she was about to join. Kriti replied, “Of course bola hai. Not only because of where I come from. I don’t think that was always the thing. But ye duniya ka perception hi bohot alag tha. Alag as in, bohot positive perception nahi tha.” She also mentioned that a few people in her age group told her that "no one wants to marry an actress," and while she laughed it off, she couldn't help but be surprised by the idea that someone in her generation could hold such an opinion.

Celeb Galore at Hansa Singh's Birthday Party!

Actress Hansa Singh turned a year younger on 2nd March and she threw a special birthday bash at Amethhyyst Lounge and Bar, Andheri. She said, "Celebrations are always on my mind when it’s my birthday. Since childhood, I believe this is one day that truly belongs to YOU. My philosophy is to celebrate even if you are alone or with an intimate circle of friends or with the world, just celebrate your being on this earth to cover another 365 days.” So what is it that you are gifting this year to yourself? “This year I am not gifting myself. As I keep gifting myself throughout the year. I celebrated my birthday with my close friend circle in Mumbai.

Hansa also wishes for good work on her birthday prayers. She said, "To work with the best directors in OTT and Films. Holistically- May I have good health as that’s all I desire.”

“For the first time in the history of staying in this city, I am celebrating life with all my friends who stood by me through thick & thin. Those who know my journey I had planned for this so many times. But

couldn’t materialize for many reasons. But let’s say now it’s time.”

Celebrities who attended include Roopal

Shaina khan and Anjali Arora

Yohani and Tony Kakkar

Ashish Tiwari and Soundarya Sharma

Ashish Tiwari and Khalid Ansari

Kriti Sanon

Vaani Kapoor

Tyagi, Kamal Sadanah, Munisha Khatwani, Charrul Malik, Pradeep Rawat, Rishina Kandhari, Neha and Adhvik Ma-

hajan, Neelu Kohli Ridhiema Tiwari, Aditya Singh Rajput, Shweta Kandhuri and Mehul Nisar.

Hansa Singh, Aditya Singh Rajput and Neelu Kohli Hansa Singh and Munisha Khatwani Hansa Singh with a friend Hansa Singh and Roopal Tyagi

Riddhiema Tiwari, Neha & Adhvik Mahajan and Charrul Malik Siddharth Kannan, Ashish Tiwari, Hansa Singh and Divya Solgama