First India-Mumbai Edition-19th January 2023

1.423

age

bn

population is expected to grow

CAN’T ALLOW ISLAMIC RULE IN INDIA: GOVT

‘SIMI has links with Al Qaeda, LeT, JeM, ISIS’, Centre tells SC

First India Bureau

New Delhi: The central government filed a counter-affidavit in SC justifying its eighth successive ban on the SIMI as an ‘unlawful association’.

Centre told SC that ‘any organisation that has objective of establishing Islamic rule in India cannot be permitted to exist. They should not be allowed to be perpetuated in our secular society.’ The Centre has filed an affidavit pertaining to a petition challenging the ban on SIMI saying, “SIMI objectives are contrary to the country’s laws as it aims to mobilize students and youth in the propagation of Islam and

support for ‘Jehaad.’

READ Crucial

MALIK’S DAUGHTERIN-LAW BOOKED

Mumbai:

YOGI ORDERS ROADMAP FOR PRAYAGRAJ

MAHAKUMBH

COURT GRANTS BAIL TO KAMAL NATH’S NEPHEW

New

UP, with a projected population of 230 mn people, is country’s most populated state, while Lakshadweep, with only 68k people, is least populated.

l The use of family planning methods in India increased to 66.67% in 2019-21, up from 53.5% in 2015-16.

l India’s total fertility rate - the number of children per woman - fell to 2 in 2019-2021, down from 3.4 in 1992-93

MODI IN MUMBAI, to 'gift' projects worth `39k Crore

Chhota Shakeel’s

relatives “visited

Karachi”:

NIA

Mumbai: Fugitive underworld gangster Dawood Ibrahim’s gang member Salim Qureshi’s family entered Pakistan illegally three times since 2013 via United Arab Emirates to attend Chhota Shakeel’s functions, a NIA chargesheet has revealed. Sazia Qureshi said that they were allowed entry and exit to and from Pakistan’s Karachi Airport without the stamp of their arrival or departure on their passports. The NIA has come to know during interrogation that Karachi airport is under the control of D-company.

Modi govt doesn’t make policies to please people: Amit Shah

First India Bureau

New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah took a sharp dig at previous Central governments and said that, unlike predecessors whose every step was ruled by vote bank politics, the policy-making principles of the Centre under Narendra Modi is not dictated by the need “to please people” rather their betterment is BJP government’s only aim.

The Home Minister noted that some decisions of Central government might appear to be “tough” but were for “people’s good”.

“There has been a big change in this country after Narendra Modi became

the Prime Minister. Earlier, policies were made with a view at the vote banks.

The Narendra Modi govt has never made policies to please the people, but for the good of the people,” Shah said addressing a function. Citing the instances of some of the moves by the government including Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Direct Benefit Transfer, the Home

Minister said that opposition to these decisions was obvious and understood.

“When we bring GST, our opposition is natural. When we brought DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer), there was big opposition. It was obvious as the middlemen would not like it. Similarly, all the decisions which have been taken, they might be tough, but were for the good of the people,” he said.

“I’m saying this because if you have to understand the policy, the basic principles will also have to be understood while making policies. We have never thought about vote bank while making policies but solutions to the problem,” Shah added.

Former minister Manpreet Singh Badal quits Congress, joins BJP

Chandigarh: Former Punjab finance minister Manpreet Badal joined the BJP in New Delhi on Wednesday, owing to differences with the current state party leaders, having resigned from Congress. Manpreet had differences with Punjab Cong chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring. Addressing his resignation to Rahul Gandhi, he said that seven years ago, he “merged the People’s Party of Punjab with the Congress with hope, and expectation of being integrated into an organisation, that

would allow me to serve both the people of Punjab. Initial enthusiasm gradually gave way to disillusionment.”

“Man

First India Bureau

Mumbai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be on a one-day visit to Mumbai on Thursday, January 19. Along with the inauguration of Metro-2A and Metro-7, he will perform Bhumi Pujan and inaugurate many projects related to Municipal Corporation. he will also address a public meeting at Bandra’s BKC. State’s ruling party BJP and Shinde faction of Shiv Sena are excited about PM Modi’s visit to

PM MODI CAN TRAVEL IN METRO

Prime Minister Modi will inaugurate Metro-2A and Metro-7 during his visit to Mumbai. According to information received from sources, PM can also travel in Metro after the inauguration. After this, he will do Bhoomipujan and inauguration of all the

projects through virtual Will do through

Mumbai and in order to make the public meeting a success, BJP and Shinde faction leaders have started meeting at different places and strategizing. Efforts are being made to bring maximum number of workers in the rally.

Mumbai BJP President Ashish Shelar himself is meeting with district and assembly level officials. According to the information received from the sources, Shelar has given a target to all the district presidents and assembly presidents of the party, in which they have been instructed to bring maximum number of workers. A target has been given to BJP leaders to bring one lakh BJP workers and 50 thousand workers is the target set for Shinde faction.

LEADER

obtain

PAKISTAN-BASED HARKAT-UL ANSAR PLANNED TERROR ATTACKS IN DELHI

New Delhi: Two terror suspects arrested recently by Delhi Police for allegedly planning targeted killings in India were in direct contact with Pakistan-based terror organisation Harkat-ul Ansar and Hizbul Mujahideen. Both Naushad Ali and his associate Jagjit Singh alias Jagga arrested last Thursday, were in touch with Nazeer Bhat, Nasir Khan and Nazeer Khan and Nadeem. The two arrested terrorists were tasked to carry out targeted attacks on “right-wing Hindu leaders,” Delhi Police had said.

Mumbai police have registered a cheating case against NCP leader Nawab Malik’s son, Faraz, in a case of submission of fake documents for his wife Hamleen’s visa extension.

Delhi: A Delhi court on Wednesday granted bail to Ratul Puri, nephew of former MP CM Kamal Nath, in money laundering case linked to an alleged fertiliser scam for which Rs 685 crore was claimed to have been paid as kickback.

2025 Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday directed officers to prepare a roadmap for holding the Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj. The CM issued various directions while reviewing preparations for the Mahakumbh.

India won the opener ODI against New Zealand riding high on opener Shubhman Gill’s knock of 208 runs, accumulating 349 runs. However, Kiwis fought hard and fell short by merely 12 runs.

A target has been given to BJP leaders to bring one lakh BJP workers and 50K workers is target set for Shinde faction for PM’s rally

CLOUDS CLEARED:

J-K CONGRESS

Amit Shah

PM Narendra Modi

PM Modi to launch projects worth `38K cr

Mumbai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate and lay foundation stones for a string of projects worth more than Rs38,000 crore aimed at developing infrastructure, easing urban travel, and strengthening healthcare during his visit to Mumbai on Thursday.

He will also dedicate to the nation the Mumbai Metro Rail Lines 2A and 7, worth around Rs12,600 crore. The PM is also slated to lay the foundation stones for seven sewage treatment plants, a road concretization project, and redevelopment of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) at a function to be held on the MMRDA grounds in the Bandra Kurla Complex, an official release said.

The 18.6km-long Mumbai Metro Rail line 2A connects suburban Dahisar (East) with the 16.5km-long DN Nagar (yellow line) while the Metro line 7 joints Andheri (East) with Dahisar (East).

Interestingly, the foundation stones of these lines were laid by PM Modi in 2015.

He will also launch

MUMBAI 1 Mobile App and National Common Mobility Card (Mumbai 1). The app will facilitate ease of travel which can be shown at the entry gates of Metro stations. It supports digital payment to buy

tickets through UPI. Commuters will not need to carry multiple cards or cash as the Mobility card will enable quick, contact-less digital transactions, easing the process with a seamless experience.

In an effort to strengthen healthcare infrastructure in Mumbai, the prime minister will inaugurate 20 “Hinduhridaysamrat Balasaheb Thackeray Aapla Dawakhana” clinics.

Meanwhile, flying activities will not be allowed under the limits of police stations at Bandra Kurla Complex and nearby areas in Mumbai on the day when Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate and lay foundation stones for several projects, police said.

Use of drones, paragliders, and remotecontrolled micro-light aircraft will not be allowed from noon till midnight under the jurisdictions of four police stations, namely BKC, Andheri, Meghwadi, and Jogeshwari.

Mumbai: The civic body recently demolished a part of the compound wall of Mumbai University’s Kalina Campus to allow the space within to be used for parking of around 5,000 cars during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s public meeting at the MMRDA grounds in the Bandra-Kurla complex on Thursday.

The Yuva Sena former senators have strongly protested the demoli tion.

The Bri hanmum bai Mu nicipal Corporation

(BMC) has promised to rebuild part of the demolished compound wall after the PM’s visit but the university is skeptical about the assurance. The protective wall on the north side of the substation of the Rajiv Gandhi Center building was demolished by the H East Ward office.

Govt wasting public money on PM’s visit: Cong’s Patole

Mumbai (PTI): Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole on Wednesday alleged the state government comprising the Eknath Shinde faction of Shiv Sena and the BJP is wast ing public mon ey for promoting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Mum

Shraddha Walkar’s father demands action against cops for not acting on complaints

Palghar: Vikas Walkar, father of Shraddha Walkar, met Mira Bhayandar-Vasai Virar (MBVV) police chief Madhukar Pandey and demanded action against the policemen who did not act swiftly on two complaints. This was the second meeting between the two. Pandey has assured action against the officials at fault, Vikas said.

Mumbai: Police have registered an FIR against former Maharashtra minister Nawab Malik’s son and the latter's second wife for allegedly submitting fake documents with her visa application, an official said on Wednesday.

The Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO), during the scrutiny, found the documents submitted by Faraz Malik and his wife Hamleen were fake. The FRRO subsequently informed Kurla police, he said.

On the basis of primary information, the police registered the FIR late Tuesday night against Faraz Malik and his wife under various Indian Penal Code sections including 420 (cheating), 465 (forgery), 468 (forgery for purpose of cheating), 471 (using as genuine a forged document) and 34 (common

FFRO found that the documents submitted by Faraz and Hamleen Malik were fake

intention) and provisions of the Foreigners Act, the official said. No arrest has been made so far, he said, adding an investigation is on into the case.

A former Bharatiya Janata Party youth wing functionary in a tweet on Wednesday said the police have registered the FIR against Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Nawab Malik's son Faraz Malik for "fake documents" made for the visa application of the latter's second wife who is a French resident.

“Those who accuse others of cheating, how fake they themselves are,” the functionary tweeted targeting Nawab Malik.

Aaftab Poonawala allegedly strangled Shraddha and cut her body into 35 pieces which he kept in a fridge at his residence in south Delhi in May last year. He dumped them across the city

over time. Aaftab was arrested from Delhi in November and confessed to his crimes.

Shraddha’s father had said he was satisfied

Shraddha had filed a complaint with the Tulinj police in 2020 accusing Aaftab of abusing, threatening and assaulting her, while he himself had approached the Manikpur police after his daughter went missing last year. He alleged that both police stations, which come under the jurisdiction of the MBVV, did not act on the complaints in time.

bai on Thursday. Patole wondered whether issues like suicide by farmers, unemployment, inflation etc. would find a mention in the prime minister’s adPM Modi will inaugurate and lay

foundation stones for several projects worth more than Rs38,000 crore during his one-day visit. "The state government is wasting the public money in promoting the visit of the prime minister," he alleged.

Patole said the people are reeling under inflation but the Central government is not ready to address this issue.

Cracks form in Surya dam canal; blacklist contractor: MP Gavit

Palghar (PTI): MP Rajendra Gavit has demanded that the contractor responsible for the maintenance of a canal of the Surya dam be black-listed after the walls of the canal developed cracks and water flooded nearby fields.

Gavit also pulled up irrigation engineers over the incident.

"The contractor concerned should be black-

listed. The engineers had said water will be released from dam only after the canal walls were repaired but they failed to do so," he told reporters on Tuesday. According to the preliminary estimates, last month after the cracks appeared, more than 220 acres of land was submerged under water damaging the crops.

with the investigation done by Delhi police and demanded maximum punishment for the accused.

According to Vikas,

Vikas was informed that a deputy commissioner of police from Vasai is carrying out an internal investigation based on his allegations along with the formation of a special investigation team (SIT) in the case.

Tribals continue to protest over Indravati river bridge

the environment and affect the interests of local inhabitants.

Gadchiroli (ANI):

Tribals continued their protest at the border of Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh for the 15th day on Wednesday against the construction of a bridge on the Indravati river which, they say, would benefit the mining companies, but harm

Government officials feel that tribals would end their protests once the benefits of the bridge are explained to them. Shubham Gupta, Additional Collector of Bhamragarh, said the bridge would bring connectivity between Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh over the Indravati river which acts as a natural border between the states. But members of tribal communities of these states are camping on the border for the

last two weeks to protest against the construction of a bridge across the Indravati river.

According to them,

a dharna on the exposed bed of the Indravati river which acts as the natural boundary between Maharashtra and Chhat-

tisgarh. Activists and agitators fear that the bridge will only benefit corporates and will destroy the local environment and ecosystem.

Activist Lalsu Nogoti said, “The protesters feel the bridge will help mining projects and huge companies that seek to profit from the exploitation of local natural resources. People from 20-25 villages from Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra are here.”

The tribals are staging

There are no basic facilities here even after 75 years of independence, he added.

First India Bureau

Nawab Malik’s son, his wife booked over fake docs for visa

First India Bureau

“with no basic facilities here, this will facilitate loot of Jal-Jungle-Zameen.”

‘FIRMS TO BENEFIT’

Protesters at the Maharashtra-Chattisgarh border.

Express worries that move will only facilitate loot of ‘JalJungle-Zameen’

First India Bureau

Vikas Walkar (center), Shraddha Walkar’s father. —FILE PHOTO

Shraddha had filed a complaint with the Tulinj police in 2020 accusing Aaftab of abusing, threatening and assaulting her, said her father Vikas

First India Bureau

Flying activities banned in 4 police jurisdictions, traffic expected to be hit in Mumbai

A cut-out of Prime Minister Narendra Modi put up ahead of his rally at Mumbai's Bandra Kurla Complex, on Wednesday.

—PHOTO BY PTI

METRO SERVICES TO BE AFFECTED, BKC OFFICES TO WRAP EARLY

Mumbai crime rises 9%, DETECTION FALLS BY 14%

Pench Tiger Reserve: Survey reveals 226 species of birds

First India Bureau

Nagpur: A total of 226 bird species have been spotted at the Pench Tiger Reserve (PTR) during a recent survey conducted as part of the “citizen science” model to create baseline data of bird diversity and density, an official said.

Mumbai: The crime detection rate in Mumbai dipped by 14% in 2022 compared to 2021 even as the overall crime graph went up by 9%, stated the latest crime report released by the police. The poor detection of cybercrime cases could have pulled down the overall Mumbai crime detection rate in 2022, it said.

Post the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of cases of thefts swelled three-fold to 14,818 the previous year compared to 4,534 such cases registered in 2021.

Overall, street crimes which include theft, attacks, molestation, robbery, and chain snatching rose by nearly 100% in 2022, the report said.

The overall detection of crime dipped by 14%

to 68% in 2022 from 82% in 2021.

“Overall crime in Mumbai rose by 9% in 2022, which is mainly because of prompt registration of street crimes such as theft, assault, chain snatching, robbery, and molestation,” it said.

The number of serious offences like dacoity, rape, and extortion rose marginally but at the same time, crimes like murder, housebreaking, and riots dipped in 2022. Overall,

CRUCIAL READ

100 TONNES OF UREA SEIZED IN GODOWN RAID

Thane: Around 100 tonnes of urea after raiding a godown in Thane district, an official said on Wednesday. Based on a tip-off that the urea was stored illegally, the police raided the godown at Purna in Bhiwandi town and seized the stock, the official said. A sample of the seized stock has been sent to Nashik for testing, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Zone-2 Bhiwandi, Navnath Dhavle said. Action will be taken if the stocking is found illegal.

POWER COMPANY ENGINEER HELD FOR TAKING BRIBE

Thane: The Anti-Corruption Bureau(ACB) has arrested an engineer of the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) for allegedly taking a bribe of Rs15,000. The 47-year-old accused, posted at the MSEDCL’s Vashi sub-division office in Navi Mumbai, had allegedly demanded Rs20,000 from an employee of a firm for making “satisfactory” remarks on its bills submitted for payment, the ACB said in a release.

CASE FILED AGAINST THANE HOSPITAL FOR ILLEGAL FELLING OF PEEPAL TREE

Thane: A case has been registered against a hospital for chopping a peepal tree without the permission of a civic body in Thane, an official said on Wednesday. During an inspection, officials from Thane Municipal Corporation found that the decades-old tree had been cut to facilitate the construction of the compound wall of Kalpana Hospital, said a police official. Following the complaint by civic officials, a case was registered against the hospital management under relevant acts, said the station house officer of Naupada police station.

serious offences as a category have seen a marginal increase in registration, the report said.

Meanwhile, the number of registration of cases for crimes against women and children has risen from 5,497 in 2021 to 6,133 in 2022, according to the report.

The 6,133 cases include 1,157 offences registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and 1,155 cases of kidnapping of minor boys and girls.

CYBER CRIME CASES RISE BY MORE THAN 63% IN 2022

Mumbai (PTI): Registration of cyber offences, including online frauds under the pretext of offering jobs, gifts etc and payment of electricity bills, rose by 63.7% to 4,718 in 2022 compared to 2,883 cases in 2021, according to the Mumbai Crime Report. However, the detection of cases remains poor. The cyber crime cases in 2022 rose by 112% compared to 2,225 cases registered during the pre-COVID period in 2019. As far as detection is concerned for the 2019-2022 period, 1,292 cases were solved, including 346 in 2022, out of the 12,261 registered cases, the report said. Post the COVID pandemic, crimes such as part-time job fraud, cheating in the name of cryptocurrency investment, insurance fraud, sextortion, and electricity bill fraud have risen, as per the report released on Tuesday.

Some of the prominent bird species spotted in the reserve included Malabar pied hornbills, grey-headed fish eagle, emerald dove, Indian nuthatch, longbilled vulture, black eagle, great thick-knee, orange-headed thrush, white-rumped vulture and the Egyptian vulture, Dr Prabhunath Shukla, Deputy Director, PTR said. A detailed scientific report on the data collected during the survey, conducted from January 13 to 15, will be published soon, he said.

“A total of 6,000 individual entries were collated on the Kobo app and a total of 226 species of birds were recorded from a 741 sq km area of PTR spread in seven ranges, with the highest of bird diversity found in the Chourbauli range (154 species), followed by east Pench (138 species),”

the press release stated.

The inferences drawn from the data and ecological modelling will be used for management interventions of the reserve, it said.

More than 125 volunteers from 11 states participated in the threeday survey. “These sort of surveys are important for conservation awareness and bring citizens from the tigercentric conservation and tourism to landscape-level conservation and tourism,” the official said.

He claimed it was one of the largest bird survey in central India as it covered a 741 sq km area of the Pench tiger Reserve including 78 beats.

A baseline checklist of 310 species in the Pench

Maha facing shortage of 1 crore eggs per day: Official

Aurangabad (PTI): Maharashtra is facing a shortage of one crore eggs per day and the Animal Husbandry Department has chalked out a scheme to increase its production in the state, a senior official has said. More than 2.25 crore eggs are consumed in Maharashtra per day.

The state has a capacity to produce 1 to 1.25 crore eggs per day and the department has been chalking out a plan to meet the need,

MBA student held for hacking female medic's social media accounts in city

Dr Dhananjay Parkale, Additional Commissioner, Animal Husbandry Department said on Tuesday.

Currently, eggs are procured from Karna-

taka, Telangana and Tamil Nadu to overcome the shortage, he said.

“The Animal Husbandry Department plans to give 50 White Leghorn chickens at a subsidised

IN PREPARATION

rate of Rs21,000 along with 1,000 cages to each district in an attempt to increase the production,” the official said.

The department has sent proposal to state government for further sanctions, he added. Recently, eggs were being sold for Rs90 per dozen in Andheri, Lokhandwala and Bandra (W), and Rs84 in Borivali, Dadar and Kurla. In Sion, Vikhroli and Kandivli areas, eggs were priced between Rs78-80.

on Tuesday from Daund in Pune district, he said.

BMC’S 1ST HALF MARATHON TO BEGIN ON

FEB 26

Mumbai: The BMC will organize a promo run as a part of preparations for its first ‘Fit Mumbai BMC Half Marathon’ on Feb 26 in Mumbai. The pre-Marathon is divided into three parts – 3km, 5km and 10km. Nearly 5,000 people are expected to partake in it. The concept behind the half marathon is to create awareness about health and fitness. Various slogans pertaining to health and public services will be displayed during the run. The promo run will begin at 7 am from Selfie Point of the BMC Headquarters.

HARASSING WOMAN LANDS COP BEHIND BARS

Aurangabad: An assistant commissioner of police from Aurangabad who was arrested for allegedly harassing a woman, has been suspended, an official said. The suspension order of ACP Vishal Dhume has been passed and he is asked not to leave the city. Dhume has been booked under Indian Penal Code sections pertaining to “stalking, assault or criminal force on woman with intent to outrage her modesty”, the official said. Earlier, AIMIM had warned of a “bandh” in case of no action against the cop.

PROSTITUTION CASE: 39-YEAR-OLD WOMAN GETS 3-YEAR RIGOROUS IMPRISONMENT

Thane: A 39-year-old woman was sentenced to three years of rigorous imprisonment by a Thane court for forcing women into flesh trade. Special Public Prosecutor Rekha Hiwrale told the court that the accused used her residence in Turbhe for prostitution and pushed women and minor girls into it. Twelve prosecution witnesses were examined to prove the charges against the accused, she said. The judge in her order pronounced the accused guilty under provisions of the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act while imposing a fine of Rs2,000 on her along with the jail term.

Mumbai (PTI): The Mumbai Police have arrested a 22-year-old MBA student for allegedly hacking the social media accounts of a female medical student and sending her pictures clicked with her boyfriend to her family members, an official said on Wednesday. He was arrested late at night

‘’The accused was nabbed after the victim, who is a medical student in a college attached to the KEM hospital, lodged a complaint. The incident came to light after the victim realized that someone had hacked her email account, Ins-

tagram and Google password and sent her pictures clicked with her boyfriend to her family members,” Jitendra Pawar, Senior Inspector, Bhoiwada police station said.

During investigation, the police came to know that the girlfriend of the accused was studying with the victim, he said.

Infant malnutrition deaths rock Palghar village

30, 2022, after being taken to three hospitals by family members.

The other infant, Renuka Suraj Mukne, who was barely four months old, succumbed on January 11.

their home to the primary healthcare centre in Khodala, where she was rushed at the family’s expense.

First India Bureau

Mumbai: In Savarde village of Palghar district, two infants have died of malnutrition within a gap of two weeks. One of the deceased, 11-month-old Durva Kalpesh Nimbare, died on December

Located 60 km from Mokhada taluka in Palghar district, Sarvade is plagued by crumbling health infrastructure and lack of access to nutritious food.

According to a local activist, Durva’s parents could not avail of an ambulance to cover the 30-km distance from

The infant deaths have forced local politicians to make a beeline to Savarde over the past few days.

Hanumant Padir, Deputy Sarpanch of the village, alleged that government officials are trying to bury the matter. “They are asking me not to speak to the media as the matter defames the village. But I cannot remain silent

when two tribal children have died of malnutrition. This is because as no nutritious food is being distributed by anganwadi (kindergarten) workers

among new mothers and their babies in the village,” Padir said.

a dozen children die of malnutrition in this vil lage,” he added.

The medical cause of death of these children is severe pneumonia but the root cause of their death is malnutrition.” “The question arises: why did the deceased lack resistance to fight pneumonia? The answer: there was no proper nourishment.

—Vivek Pandit, Chairman, Maha Tribal Development Review Committee

Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra has already been created by the Central India Bird Academy, a Nagpur-based NGO,

Animal Husbandry Department plans to give 50 White Leghorn chickens at a subsidised rate of Rs21,000 along with 1,000 cages.

First India Bureau

Street crimes like theft, attacks, molestation, chainsnatching increased by 100% in 2022: Report

Post the COVID-19 pandemic, the number thefts cases swelled three-fold to 14,818 last year. —FILE PHOTO

‘CHALKING OUT PLAN TO MEET THE NEED’

Savarde deputy sarpanch says officials trying to cover up the matter, alleges corruption in ration system

Workers hold a huge Indian flag at a workshop ahead of the Republic day, in Mumbai on Wednesday.

—PHOTO BY BHUSHAN KOYANDE

VETERANS & THE SOCIETY

COL ANUPAM JAITLY (R) Defence Expert, Motivational Speaker and Corporate Trainer

Talking of veterans, I am reminded of a quote from Aristotle “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence is therefore not an act but a habit.”

Since India achieved independence 75 years back, the Armed forces in general and the army in particular, have been accepted as the guardians of our borders. The army has not only fought the wars against the external enemy but has successfully helped the nation in natural calamities when the civil administration was rendered inoperative.

Nearly sixty thousand personnel of the defence forces retire annually and revert to the civil society they belong to. But when they join back the same stream as a veteran their values are 180 degree diverse to what is prevalent in the society.

There is no doubt that veterans bring with them a lot of talent needed for the nation building, but the irony is, they find no takers for their expertise in the civil arena. Actually, the values, skills, discipline and integrity what they imbibed in military service should have made them to fit the role of an outstanding leader, manager or administrator. However, the expectations of the society and the rampant corruption prohibited or at best restricted the employment opportunities for a retired soldier.

So, where does the problem lie if lakhs and lakhs of trained, skilled and patriotic to the core man power is getting wasted year after year?

In my opinion the blame is to be apportioned to all the three stake holders, Army, the government, and the society.

their ranks. And lastly, consider making up of massive shortfall of strength by select veterans found physically fit and mentally robust. If services shy away in employing their own people in sheltered and protected appointments, it is futile to expect other industries offering them opportunities. Can veterans makeup for shortfall in training centres, static headquarters and specialised appointments where continuity remains a major requirement? I strongly feel they can. Though, there will be teething troubles, but these are easily resolvable by contractual employment on specific terms.

Both the central and the state governments need to work in unison and find lateral absorption of this highly trained, disciplined, motivated and skilled manpower in CAPFs and state-run machineries. In fact, absorption of veterans into the system will improve the ethos and culture in these organizations

few veterans were quite a trouble. And after I joined the ranks of the veterans, this view, instead of lessening, got further compounded.

First and foremost is that the veterans should accept that they are no longer in service and accordingly there has to be a reduction of perks and privileges. My next advice would be to remain a soldier, sailor or airman and do not succumb, in areas of character, turnout, time planning and disciplined approach in life. Our society holds high respect for both serving and veterans amongst the citizens of this country and we need to be worthy of this respect by our actions.

Veterans bring with them a lot of talent needed for the nation building, but the irony is, they find no takers for their expertise in the civil arena. Actually, the values, skills, discipline and integrity what they imbibed in military service should have made them to fit the role of an outstanding leader, manager or administrator

At the Army Level, my recommendations would be firstly, to foster stronger ties between the veterans and serving personnel in terms of camaraderie, consultations and concern for their welfare so that, the sense of belonging stays with them. Secondly, there is a need for the army to aggressively market the competence of all ranks for employment into civil and ensure a tie up with various corporates for employing a percentage of veterans into

PAKISTAN’S TALKS OFFER VIA DUBAI

Now talking of the initiatives at the govt level. Both the central and the state governments need to work in unison and find lateral absorption of this highly trained, disciplined, motivated and skilled manpower in CAPFs and state-run machineries. In fact, absorption of veterans into the system will improve the ethos and culture in these organizations which are not holding a high respect in the eye of a common man.

Yes, the third stake holder and the most important one is

the society at large. Each city and locality need to pick on these veterans in guiding the youth in sports, life skills and values to build a strong nation. Its not always the money that attracts the veterans, it is a purpose and the respect that drives them.

Having highlighted what the three stake holders need to do, I would fail in my writing if I do not appropriately caution the veterans. During active service in the army, I sometimes articulated that a

Having learnt its lessons from three wars with India, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reached out to India for peace talks with a message to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “We have fought three wars with India, and they have only brought more misery, poverty and unemployment to the people. We have learnt our lesson, and we want to live in peace with India, provided we are able to resolve our genuine problems,” Sharif told a Dubaibased TV channel. Sharif also told the channel that he wanted “serious and sincere talks” and that he had asked United Arab Emirates’ President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed to help bring the two

Given India’s increasing global heft, thanks to its economy’s gradual ascent to the top, Pakistan government would do well to recalibrate its policy towards India from one of stubbornness to rapprochement

sides to the negotiating table. Prime Minister Sharif seems to be serious about a fruitful dialogue with India but does he have the go-ahead from Pakistani army and Inter-Services Intelligence? These two establishments are the biggest roadblocks in better ties between the two coun-

It is unfortunate that the Nation has not been able to utilise the veterans for lack of will and focus. We must realize that correct employment of veterans may help build the national security in all its manifestations as achieved by many developed countries and provide humanitarian relief in rural and difficult terrain where civilian is hesitant to serve due to vagaries of weather.

IN-DEPTH

STATESMAN-LIKE ADDRESS BY PM TO BJP WORKERS FOR 2024 POLL

tries. Kashmir is another hurdle which Pakistan is obsessed with, although one of its analysts wrote, “Pakistan was politically outmanoeuvred by India on Kashmir by rescinding Article 370 of the Constitution which gave a special if not disputed status to the region.”

Given India’s increasing global heft, thanks to its economy’s gradual ascent to the top, Pakistan government would do well to recalibrate its policy towards India from one of stubbornness to rapprochement. Sharif should convince his defence establishments that they have not won a war against India and there’s no chance they ever will. They should also be warned that any move to revive terrorism will be suicidal.

requent cases of assault on Muslims and vandalizing of churches have made minorities suspicious of BJP’s intent. In view of this mistrust Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address to the BJP’s national executive is of immense significance for communal harmony. He asked his party workers to connect with the marginalised in every community and find out if they are getting the benefits of the Central government’s policies. “We should do this not only for considerations of vote. We should build robust bridges with them also because there are marginalised and poor in all communities,” the prime minister said. He is reported to have said that “…We should be in front of a church on Sunday when the mass gathering takes place. Similarly we should reach out to the Sikh community. Among Muslims, Modi specially mentioned Pasmandas and Bohras, Muslim professionals and educated Muslims.

This approach would give the prime minister the stature of a statesman. If only the minorities get convinced.

MAHENG/2022/14652

Printed and published by Anita Hada Sangwan on behalf of First Express Publishers. Printed at Dangat Media Pvt Ltd, No.22, Dighe MIDC, Vishnu Nagar, TTC Industrial Area, Dighe, Navi Mumbai-400701. Published at Plot No. 3 Scheme C of Manglorean Garden Home, CHS Limited, Survey No. 5, 6C (Part) Ville Parle East, Mumbai 400057. Phone 022-46031417.

Editor-In-Chief: Dr Jagdeesh Chandra

Editor: Kartikey Dev Singh responsible for selection of news under the PRB Act

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHOR ARE PERSONAL

Dr S. Jaishankar @DrSJaishankar

Warm and productive meeting with Foreign Minister @abdulla_shahid in Manadhoo today afternoon. Discussed the full spectrum of our special bilateral partnership with focus on development cooperation, capacity building and people to people ties.

Smriti Z Irani @smritiirani

Joined a session on ‘Economics of Women’s Health’ at @Davos. Underscored the impact of Ayushman Bharat & paradigm shift in India’s healthcare systems which has resulted in women being at the forefront of availing as well as facilitating health services. #IndiaAtDavos2023

SPIRITUAL SPEAK

You should perform your duty with a view to guide people and for universal welfare.

Bhagavad

Gita

Prez delegates fresh powers to Delhi LG amid stalemate with Kejriwal

New Delhi (ANI):

President Droupadi Murmu has delegated 2 fresh powers to Delhi

Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena under the Industrial Relations Code, 2020 and the Occupational Safety, Health & Working Conditions Code, 2020 to formulate the rules only in the areas of the Union territory of the National Capital Territory of Delhi where it is required.

It is directed that the Delhi LG will exercise

the powers and discharge the functions of the appropriate government or state government under these rules until further order, mentions two separate notifications issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs on January 16.

As per the notifications, administrators & the Lieutenant Governors of five other Union Territories, including Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Chandigarh,

Puducherry and Lakshadweep, were also delegated similar powers by the President.

“In pursuance of clause (1) of article 239 of the Constitution, the President hereby directs that the adminis-

trator or Lieutenant Governor of the National Capital Territory of Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Chandigarh, Puducherry and Lakshadweep shall,

subject to the control of the President and until further order, exercise the powers and discharge the functions of the appropriate Government or State Government under the Industrial Relations Code,

CHIEF SLAMS BJP GOVT AT BRS RALLY

BJP will be out of power after 399 days, says Akhilesh Yadav

Khammam (ANI): Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav on Wednesday launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) at the centre from Khammam rally of Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) in Telangana and said BJP is counting its days in power and has only 399 days remaining.

“Yesterday, BJP accepted that only 400 days are left for them in power now. Those who start counting their days, can’t remain in power. Now, only 399 days are remaining,” the Samajwadi Party chief said at the rally. Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, and CPI General Secretary

Khammam

Left. “Those in power at the centre today were not in power during the national freedom struggle and thereby do not know the values that the country has been built on”, said Kerala CM

Navy’s IL 38 aircraft to fly first and last time over Kartavya Path

New Delhi (ANI): After completing 44 glorious years of service to the nation, IL 38 aircraft of the Indian Navy will be flying over the Kartavya Path for the first and last time on Republic Day this year.

The Republic Day flypast will comprise 45 Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft, one from the Indian Navy and four helicopters from the Indian Army, said Wing Commander Indranil

Nandi. Among the different formations by the IAF officers, Bheem formation will be new this year.

It will be comprised of 40 deg Pitch-UP and SU-30 streaming fuel by

three aircraft.

There will be a total of 13 formations like an arrow, abreast, arrowhead, diamond and others by aircraft like Mig29, Rafale, Jaguar, SU30 etc, he said.

New Delhi (ANI): The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Adani Airport Holdings Ltd Arun Bansal today while speaking to ANI stated that Adani Airports is very ambitious to acquire more airports through government bidding. The Adani Airport CEO stated that this is the policy agenda but we are keen to acquire new airports.

Why is Congress scared of Shashi Tharoor?

Sharat K Verma

New Delhi: Congress is also a wonderful party.

Shashi Tharoor went to meet Sonia Gandhi before contesting the election of the National President of the Congress and contested the election after taking her approval.

Earlier also several Congress leaders used to contest elections when the party’s national President was elected.

It is also a fact that Mallikarjun Kharge’s election got democratic le-

gitimacy only when Tharoor contested. Congress is thumping its chest and saying that Congress is the only party which has a democratically elected president. Had Kharge been elected unopposed, the

Congress would not have been in a position to say this. Yet the leaders of the Congress party are after Tharoor.

Whenever Tharoor is going on a tour of his home state Kerala, the leaders of the state become perplexed and engage themselves in an attempt to fail his every program and the most surprising thing is that it is happening on the instructions from ‘above’.

The question is who is giving instructions from above? Are instructions being given from the

level of Rahul or Priyanka, or is KC Venugopal, the general secretary of the organisation of the Congress, who is from Kerala, doing something, or is Tariq Anwar, in-charge being forcefully apprehensive?

Tharoor hinted that he may contest the 2026 assembly elections.

That too when asked by the journalists, he said this but at the same time also said that 2026 is still far away. Keep in mind that before that the Lok Sabha elections are to be held in 2024.

D Raja were also present at the BRS rally.

Akhilesh Yadav further said that the BJP was not addressing the major problems in the country.

“There is inflation, unemployment, and apart from that several wealthy people are leaving the country because the government is not letting them stay.”

“The BJP has not fulfilled its promise to the farmers. Our farmers are in trouble, and help is not being provided to them,” he added.

The Samajwadi Party Chief also targeted BJP for fooling the people in the name of investment.

He said, “The BJP is trying to play the people through investment meets. The youth remains unemployed. I cannot see anything significant happening during India’s G20 presidency.”

2020 (35 of 2020), to formulate the rules only in the areas where the Union territory of the National Capital Territory of Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Chan-

digarh, Puducherry and Lakshadweep are required to formulate rules either as appropriate Government or State Government,” states one of the notifications.

Under Industrial Relations Code, 2020, the

appropriate government may exempt any new industrial establishment or class of establishments from the provisions of the Code in the public interest.

Another notification mentions regarding delegation of powers of state government and appropriate government under the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 to the administrator and Lieutenant Governor of these six UTs.

India, Maldives play key role for regional peace, security: EAM

New Delhi: (PTI): India will face a tsunami of chronic diseases such as cancer due to globalization, growing economy, ageing population and changing lifestyle, warns a leading oncologist, making it imperative for the nation to embrace technology-driven medical techniques to prevent health catastrophes in an effective manner.

Cancer vaccines for prevention and treatment, expansion of Artificial Intelligence & data digital technology, and cancer diagnosis from liquid biopsies are among the 6 trends that will reshape cancer care in this century, says Dr Jame Abraham, Chairman, of the Department of Haematology Cleveland Clinic, Ohio, USA.

Male: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday said India and the Maldives are good neighbours and strong partners as he underlined that the two countries also together have responsibility for peace and security in the region.

Jaishankar, who is here on the first leg of his three-day visit to the Maldives and Sri Lanka to further expand bilateral engagement with the two key maritime neighbours of India, made the remarks after his “productive discussions” with his Maldivian counterpart Abdulla Shahid.

“We are good neighbours. We are strong partners. We have mutually invested in development and progress. But we also together have responsibility for peace and security in the region,” the minister said in a joint press appearance along with Shahid.

IN THE COURTYARD

BY ANI

Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar being welcomed by the Maldives Foreign Minister, Abdulla Shahid on his arrival, in Maldives on Wednesday.

INDIA GIFTS TWO SEA AMBULANCES TO MALDIVES

Male (ANI): India handed over two Sea Ambulances to Maldives on Wednesday that were procured under the Indian Grant Assistance scheme. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid attended the handover ceremony held at Noonu Manadhoo. A number of significant Memorandums of Understanding were exchanged between Maldives and India. As part of the close cooperation between India and Maldives, Maldives’s Defence Ministry has procured two Sea Ambulances.

SC TO HEAR PLEA AGAINST HC ORDER ON PUBLIC MEETING

New Delhi (ANI): The Supreme Court on Wednesday agreed to hear on Thursday (today) Andhra Pradesh’s petition challenging the High Court order staying the state government’s decision restricting public meetings on roadsides. A bench of Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud agreed to hear the matter tomorrow. The matter was mentioned by a lawyer seeking an urgent hearing on the Andhra Pradesh government plea. The State of Andhra Pradesh has moved the Supreme Court against the interim order dated January 12, 2023, by the High Court of Andhra Pradesh, at Amaravati.

EXTEND BENEFITS OF

New Delhi: The JD(U) on Wednesday claimed that there is no decision to make Tejashwi Bihar Chief Minister in the near future. Interacting with media persons in Ranchi, Bihar minister and JD(U) leader Ashok Chaudhary said: “Nitish Kumar has become chief minister because of his own capacity and not because of the mercy of any other party or leader.” Chaudhary, who is also Construction Minister of the state, said: “Nitish Kumar has the ability to become chief minister of

New Delhi (ANI): A petition has been moved in the Delhi High Court seeking direction to the Union of India to conduct an identification exercise qua non-Ujjwala subscribers that are eligible for the beneficial scheme introduced under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) on May 21 last year and extend the benefits to the eligible people after said identification from the beginning of the financial year 2022-23. The plea challenges the constitutional validity of the beneficial scheme introduced under the PMUY(LPG Cashback) in view of the financial hardships being faced by the poor people after the global crude prices surge due to the Russia-Ukraine war. The Petition challenge is limited to the Cash Transfers made under the LPG Cashback qua the Provision of Rs 200 Transfer to a Bank Account per cylinder refill for upto 12 cylinders in FY2022-23, exclusively to customers under PMUY.

New Delhi (ANI): The Delhi High Court Wednesday issued summons to payment app BharatPe’s former MD Ashneer Grover on a suit by the company’s co-founder seeking to reclaim the shares he transferred to his erstwhile colleague. Justice Prateek Jalan noted Grover’s counsel’s submission that he will file a reply to the suit and not create any third party rights to the 16,110 shares in question. “Defendant no. 1 (Grover) is bound down to this statement and is directed to file an undertaking in this regard within a week from today. Reply to the application be filed in four weeks and rejoinder in two weeks thereafter,” the high court said. It listed the suit for further hearing on March 16.

state whether in the NDA or the Mahagathbandhan governments.” He trumpeted the increased budget allocations compared to pre-2005 state budget of the Lalu government.

New Delhi (PTI): The Supreme Court today heard the matter related to alleged fake encounter cases in Gujarat from 2002 to 2006 for whose monitoring it had set up a committee under former top court judge H S Bedi. Justice Bedi was appointed as the chairman of the monitoring committee probing 17 alleged fake encounter cases from 2002 to 2006 and had submitted a report to the top court in a sealed cover. The committee, which submitted its report in 2019, recommended prosecution of

police officials in three out of the 17 cases it probed. The matter came up for hearing on Wednesday before a bench comprising Justices S K Kaul, A S Oka and J B Pardiwala.

Delhi LG Vinai Kumar Saxena

President Droupadi Murmu Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal

Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav with Chief Ministers Bhagwant Mann (Punjab), Arvind Kejriwal (Delhi), at the BRS (Bharat Rashtra Samithi) party’s rally, in Khammam, on Wednesday.

KERALA CM CALLS FOR ‘NEW RESISTANCE’ AGAINST BJP

MANN, KEJRIWAL, YADAV & KCR VISIT TEMPLE TOGETHER

(ANI): Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that BRS rally at Telangana’s Khammam is the “beginning of a new resistance” against BJP. BRS, after it got national recognition, is holding its first mega rally in the presence of leaders of other regional parties like the AAP, SP and

Vijayan.

Khammam (ANI): Telangana CM K Chandrasekhar Rao along with his Punjab and Delhi counterparts Bhagwant Mann and Arvind Kejriwal visited the Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple in Khammam. They were accompanied by Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav raising speculation about a third front ahead of 2024 general elections. In a video posted by Telangana CMO’s Twitter handle, KCR along with Kejriwal, Mann, and the SP chief were seen offering prayers.

Shashi Tharoor

NO DECISION ON MAKING TEJASHWI BIHAR CM IN NEAR FUTURE, SAYS JD(U) LEADER

SUPREME COURT HEARS PLEA ON GUJARAT FAKE ENCOUNTER KILLINGS FROM 2002-2006

HC ISSUES SUMMONS TO GROVER ON PLEA RECLAIMING SHARES

PLEA IN DELHI HC SEEKING DIRECTION TO

PMUY SCHEME

India to face ‘tsunami’ of chronic diseases like cancer: USbased oncologist

Adani may acquire new airports through govt bids

—PHOTO

SIMILAR POWERS TO OTHER UTS

—PHOTO

BY PTI

CM Dhami gives detailed info of situation in Joshimath to Shah

New Delhi (ANI): Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday met Union Home Minister Amit Shah here and gave him detailed information about the current situation in Joshimath, a town in Uttarakhand facing land subsidence affecting lives of hundreds of families residing in the region. In the nearly half-an-hour meeting at the Ministry of Home Affairs, Dhami said he gave detailed information about the situation in Joshimath, the condition of people in the region and other points.

After the meeting, Dhami announced that "Char Dham Yatra will be starting in the next four months". Char Dham of Uttarakhand includes Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath

and Badrinath Dham.

"Today, I gave detailed information to the Home Minister about the situation in Joshimath and the way people are living there in the disaster relief camps," Dhami said after the meeting with Home Minister. "I also gave information about the search for new places and other works being done by

WESTERN DISTURBANCE

Cold wave over Northwest India likely to abate today

the state government," he said.

Dhami also said that the Home Minister assured him to give whatever help can be provided from the Centre.

Asked if any report was submitted, Dhami said input will be submitted after the complete report is received.

He said there was no talk about financial assistance. "A tentative in-

formation I have shared with the Home Minister. This matter will be discussed later when the full report comes."

Replying to allegations made by some political parties that the Uttarakhand government is suppressing the reports of various agencies related to Joshimath, the Chief Minister said “there is nothing like this.”

WATER DISCHARGE IN JOSHIMATH REDUCED TO 100 LPM: DMS

Joshimath: Giving some positive news for the sinking town of Joshimath, Disaster Management Secretary Ranjit Kumar Sinha said that the water discharge in the town has reduced to 100 litres per minute (LPM) from 540 LPM. Addressing the media about the works being done related to relief and rescue, permanent/temporary rehabilitation after the land subsidence and landslides in the Joshimath town area, Shina said, "The water discharge in Joshimath presently reduced to 100 LPM from 540 LPM. This is positive news." He informed that Uttarakhand Chief Secy Sukhbir Singh Sandhu has urged the directors and scientists of various technical institutes working in Joshimath to study the affected area on an immediate basis and make the study report available at the earliest.

WFI prez called me ‘khota sikka’: Vinesh Phogat

New Delhi (ANI): Indian wrestler and Commonwealth Games medalist Vinesh Phogat on Wednesday alleged that coaches who are favourites of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) misbehave with women and harass them. She also accused the wrestling federation chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexually harassing girls and calling her a 'khota sikka' after her defeat at Tokyo Olympics 2020. On the sidelines of a sit-in protest against the WFI near Delhi's Jantar Mantar, Phogat said, "Coaches are harassing women and some coaches, who are favourites of the Federation, misbehave with women coaches as well. They sexually harass girls. The WFI president has sexually harassed many girls." "Af-

INDIAN PARLIAMENTARY DELEGATION

‘India & Tanzania have friendly relations’

Tanzania: Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla met Kenya’s President Dr William Samoei Ruto at the Kenyan State House on Tuesday.

Birla, who is currently leading an Indian parliamentary delegation to Kenya and Tanzania, congratulated Kenyan President Ruto on assuming the top post in the country.

The Lok Sabha also met the Speaker of the Kenyan Senate, Amason Jeffah Kingi and discussed matters related to Parliamentary

New Delhi (ANI): IMD on Wednesday informed that fresh western disturbances would affect the western Himalayan region from the night of January 20 to January 26, as a result, cold wave conditions over Northwest India are likely to abate from January 19.

“The western disturbances are likely to affect the Himalayan region from the night of January 20 to January 26 while the plains of the northwest will be affected from January 23 to January 25,” tweeted IMD. Under

its influence, light or moderate isolated to scattered rainfall or snowfall is expected on January 20 and January 21 over Jammu- KashmirLadakh- Gilgit-Baltistan-Muzaffarabad, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.

Light or moderate isolated to scattered rainfall or thunderstorm is likely to take place over Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh, north Rajasthan and West Uttar Pradesh between January 23 to January 25 and over Delhi from January 23 to January 25.

New Delhi (ANI): Union Civil Aviation minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Wednesday said the emergency exit door of an IndiGo flight last year was opened by “mistake” and BJP MP Tejasvi Surya has already apologised for it.

“It is important to look at the facts. The door was opened by him by mistake when the flight was on the ground and after all checks, the flight was allowed to take off. All protocols were followed and DGCA has investigated the matter,” Scindia told reporters.

affairs and their functioning.

While expressing hope that India-Kenya

bilateral relations will thrive under the new President’s leadership, Birla vouched for ex -

pansion in avenues like innovations and health between the two countries and also acknowledged how India and Kenya were victims of terrorism and were battling a common fight to mitigate the same.

Speaking about India’s rapid economic growth and its emergence as the world’s fifth largest economy, Birla underlined that India is one of Kenya’s most important economic and trade partners.

ter my defeat in the Tokyo Olympics, WFI president called me a 'khota sikka'. The Federation mentally tortured me. I would entertain thoughts of ending my life every day. If anything happens to any wrestler, the WFI president will be to blame," she added.

WRESTLERS’

PROTEST AGAINST WFI PRESIDENT’S ‘DICTATORSHIP’

New Delhi (ANI): 2022 Commonwealth Games gold medalist Bajrang Punia said that the wrestlers will not tolerate the ongoing dictatorship in the sports and will hold a press conference to reveal everything related to the protest.

Ace Indian wrestlers Bajrang Punia, Sakshee Malikkh, Vinesh Phogat and others staged a protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), alleging "harassment of wrestlers by WFI through its arbitrary rules and regulations." Bajrang Punia said that the wrestlers will not tolerate the ongoing dictatorship in the sports and will hold a press to reveal everything related to the protest.

SAANSAD KHEL MAHAKUMBH

Set targets, achieve new records: PM Modi asks athletes

First India Bureau

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wedneday said that the sporting environment in the country has significantly improved, adding that sportspersons should now scout for new targets to script new records in the field of sports.

BY ANI

Hailing the performances of the country’s sportsmen in international tournaments, the Prime Minister remarked that Indian sportspersons performing well in the international arena is only the beginning and said that India has a long way to go in the field of sports.

PM Modi’s remarks came during the inauguration of the second phase of Saansad Khel Mahakumbh 2022-23 organized in Basti district of Uttar Pradesh, via video conferencing.

“India gave its best performance in the Olympics and Paralympics till date. Our performance in various

KHEL MAHAKUMBH WILL BRING NEW OPERATIONS: MODI

“Such events in sports motivate athletes to grow. In this Mahakumbh, over 40,000 youths are participating. Another speciality of Sansad Khel Mahakumbh is that our daughters are participating in it in large numbers who will similarly show their strength in national and international competitions,” Modi said.

tournaments is becoming a topic of discussion. This is only the beginning. We have to travel a long distance. We have to achieve new targets. We have to make numerous new records. Sports is a skill and a nature, sports is a talent and also a commitment,” he said.

OIL PRICES DROPPED

Governments & oil companies making moolahs

Sharat K Verma

New Delhi: Petrol and diesel prices in India have been stable for several months. After the results of the five state assembly elections in March last year, the prices had increased for a month, but since then the prices have re-

mained stable. They are neither increasing nor decreasing. Petrol prices are stable around Rs 100 and diesel prices are around Rs 90 per litre. But during this time there has been a huge reduction in the price of crude oil all over the world and at the same time India has made a record of buying cheap crude oil from Russia. It is wonderful that after Russia’s attack on Ukraine where the whole world is keeping

distance from Russia, India has made record purchases from Russia last year. By the time of

December, India started buying more oil from Russia than Iraq and Saudi Arabia every day.

In October and November, India bought a little over nine lakh barrels of crude oil from Russia every day. But in December, India bought close to 1.2 million barrels of oil every day. This is much more than the purchases from Iraq and Saudi Arabia. In the international market, the price of crude oil has come down to $75 per barrel and it is being bought from Russia at $60 per barrel. Despite this, the

price is not being reduced in the retail market in India. Governments and companies are earning huge sums by keeping high prices. The profit of oil companies has increased by 82 percent in the quarter ended in December. In the current financial year i.e. 2022-23, the Government of India will earn eight lakh crore rupees from oil, while the state governments will earn three lakh crore rupees.

Karnataka: Actor Amala Paul has alleged that she faced discrimination on the grounds of her religion in Kerala. According to various reports, the actor was denied entry at Thiruvairanikulam Mahadeva temple in Ernakulam. The temple, like many others in Kerala and a few other states, admits only Hindus into its premises. While she hasn’t made any public statement on the incident yet, which took place on Monday, she is said to have registered her displeasure in the temple’s visitors’ book. “It is sad and disappointing that religious discrimination still exists in 2023. I couldn’t go near the Goddess but could feel the spirit from a distance. I hope there will be a change in religious discrimination soon,” Amala wrote in the visitors’ book.

SERUM INSTITUTE OF INDIA SEEKS INCLUSION OF COVOVAX VACCINE IN COWIN PORTAL

New Delhi: The National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI) is likely to meet soon to discuss inclusion of Covid vaccine Covovax on the CoWIN portal as a heterologous booster dose for adults to boost uptake of booster doses, said official sources. As per sources, the Serum Institute of India has also written a letter to the Union Health Ministry seeking the inclusion of Covovax on CoWIN portal.

Uttarakhand CM Dhami announced that ‘Char Dham Yatra will be starting in the next four months’

Pushkar Singh Dhami met Amit Shah in New Delhi on Wednesday. —PHOTO BY ANI

‘Surya opened emerg exit door of flight by mistake’

Govts & companies are earning huge sums by keeping high prices

AMALA PAUL ‘DENIED’ ENTRY TO KERALA TEMPLE, ALLEGES RELIGIOUS DISCRIMINATION

Shubhman Gill celebrates after completing his double century during the first ODI against New Zealand at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, in Hyderabad on Wednesday.

Vinesh Phogat speaks to the media accusing WFI president.

A BSF personnel walks on a snow-covered road in Baramulla on Wednesday.

—PHOTO BY ANI

Om Birla held fruitful discussions with H.E. Dr. Tulia Ackson & H.E. Zubair Ali Maulid in Tanzania on Wednesday.

—PHOTO

New Delhi: Richest Indian Gautam Adani-led group’s flagship firm on Wednesday filed an offer letter with stock exchanges for a proposed `20,000 crore follow-on public offer (FPO). Of the `20,000 crore proceeds of the FPO, `10,869 crore will be used for green hydrogen projects, work at the existing airports and construction of a greenfield expressway. Another `4,165 crore will go towards repayment of debt taken by its airports, road and solar project subsidiaries. —PTI

CENTRAL BANK’S Q3

India open for business 24/7: Irani

Davos (PTI): Union Minister Smriti Irani said India is open for business round the clock and so is the Indian government, as she invited global businesses to tap the huge potential available in the country.

The minister said, “We believe in working in partnership with the industry and every other stakeholder.” The minister for women and child development also said that India runs the largest healthcare system in the world in the form of Ayushman Bharat that covers 100 million families.

It provides healthcare

facilities across geographic boundaries and though it was not designed as a gendered programme, it has ended up benefitting a vast majority of women,

Sensex up 390 points to settle above 61,000

she added.

Irani further said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also launched a programme that would ensure every district in the coun-

MAJOR HIGHLIGHTS

z The minister also said that India runs the largest healthcare system in the world in the form of Ayushman Bharat that covers 100 million families.

z She said the government has ensured that each sector has got a skill council

try gets a hospital. On skilling needs, she said the government has ensured that each sector has got a skill council that is led by an industry cap-

tain, while the government has also set up the first ever skills ministry. She also said when the world talks about the requirement for reskilling hundreds of millions of people, India is capable of reaching that target alone.

She said India engaged with the world for building its own indigenous Covid vaccines but it was not done with a commercial intention but with compassion. “We also offer business opportunities to the entire world also in the form of nutraceuticals,” she added.

Indians’ trust increases in government and business, dips in media & NGOs

India can lead the world with resilience:

Chandrasekaran

New Delhi: State-owned Central Bank of India on Wednesday reported 64% jump in profit at `458 crore for December quarter 2022-23, aided by a decline in bad loans and improvement in Net Interest Income (NII). The Mumbai-based bank had posted a net profit of `279 crore in the year-ago period. The bank’s total income increased to `7,635.71 crore in October-December 2022-23 from `6,523.78 crore a year ago, it said in a regulatory filing. —PTI

TaMo REPOSITIONS

Mumbai (PTI): Equity benchmarks extended their rally for the second straight session on Wednesday amid buying in index heavyweights HDFC twins and foreign funds inflows. Recovery in most of the Asian markets and positive start in European equity exchanges also added to the momentum.

The 30-share BSE Sensex climbed 390.02 points or 0.64% to settle at 61,045.74. During the day, it jumped 454.53 points or 0.74% to 61,110.25. The broader NSE Nifty rallied 112.05 points or 0.62% to end at 18,165.35.

From the Sensex pack, Tata Steel, Larsen & Toubro, HDFC, Wipro, HDFC Bank, Bharti Airtel, NTPC, ITC, Axis Bank and ICICI Bank were the prominent gainers.

Tata Motors, UltraTech Cement, IndusInd Bank, Nestle, Bajaj Finserv,

` GAINS 44 PAISE TO CLOSE AT 81.25 AGAINST US DOLLAR

Mumbai (PTI): The rupee pared its initial losses and settled 44 paise higher at 81.25 (provisional) against the US dollar on Wednesday. At the interbank foreign exchange market, the local unit opened weak at 81.80, but pared the losses and settled for the day at 81.25 (provisional), registering a rise of 44 paise over its previous close. During the trading session, the local unit witnessed an intra-day high of 81.25 and a low of 81.82 against the American currency.

State Bank of India and Reliance Industries were the laggards.

Davos (PTI): Indians’ trust in the government and business sector has gone up, but declined in media and NGOs, a new survey showed on Wednesday.

As per the annual Edelman Trust Barometer report released here on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2023, India continues to remain at the fourth place on the index with an

TOP TALKING POINTS

z As per Edelman Trust Barometer report, India continues to remain at the fourth place on the index with an average 73% trust in the govt, businesses, NGOs

average 73% trust in the government, businesses, NGOs and media.

LUXURY PROPERTY PRICES APPRECIATED 8-12% IN 2022

New Delhi (PTI): Prices of luxury properties appreciated by 8-12% during the last year across major cities and has breached the 2015 peak level, according to India Sotheby’s International Realty. 61% of High-Net-worth Individuals (HNIs) and UHNIs are looking to buy luxury real estate during 2023-24. The sample size of the survey is more than 500 HNIs and UHNIs.

80% Indian professionals planing job change

New Delhi: Tata Motors on Wednesday said it is repositioning its Nexon Electric Vehicle (EV) range in the market, with changes in pricing and the addition of new trims, to maintain the leadership position in the segment amid new launches by the competitors. The Nexon EV range now starts from `14.49 lakh. The Nexon EV Prime has now tagged between `14.49 and `16.99 lakh (all prices exshowroom). Similarly, the Nexon EV MAX range now starts from `16.49 lakh, with the introduction of a new entry-level trim, and goes up to `18.99 lakh. —PTI

New Delhi: Gold price declined `105 to `56,526 per 10 grams in the national capital on Wednesday, according to HDFC Securities. Silver, however, rose `52 to `69,694 per kilogram. “Spot gold prices in the Delhi markets traded at `56,526 per 10 grams, down `105 per 10 grams,” said an analyst at HDFC Securities. In the overseas market, both gold and silver were trading in green at $1,910/ ounce and $24.16/ounce, respectively. —PTI

New Delhi (PTI): As many as 4 in 5 Indian professionals are considering job change this year and are keen on switching to roles that offer the right wage, and allows for appreciable worklife balance and flexibility, says a report.

According to LinkedIn’s economic graph data, hiring level in India was 23%

OVER 6.36 LAKH IN ATTENDANCE

slower in December 2022 as compared to December 2021. “Indian workforce appears resilient in the face of economic uncertainty, with 4 in 5 (80%) professionals considering changing jobs in 2023,” it said.

88% of professionals aged 18-24 are considering a switch, compared to 64% of those aged 45-54.

“Despite tough economic

conditions, the Indian workforce is relying on their own abilities to grow and push forward. Since the pandemic, it’s clear that professionals have built up a bank of resilience, and we’re seeing this in their response to tackle the year ahead,” said Nirajita Banerjee, LinkedIn Career Expert & Head of Editorial for LinkedIn India.

z Trust in business has improved in eight countries including India. India is also among 11 countries where trust in govt has increased.

z Trust in NGOs has declined in 17 countries and trust in media has gone down in 16

China continues to top the list and is followed by Indonesia and UAE.

OTHER STORIES

Davos (PTI): Tata group chief N Chandrasekaran on Wednesday said India has gone through a major attitude transition in the recent years and is now in a position to take the lead in bringing resilience back to the global economy.

He said India produces the largest number of graduates, which is just one of the several factors putting the country in an advantageous position.

“For me, the three most important things are growth, growth and growth. The world needs resilience and India is in a position to take the lead, including on supply chain frameworks,” the Tata group chief said.

India has huge opportunity and potential to lead the world in areas like health, care economy and tourism, Chandrasekaran said.

January 17, 2023 to this effect, Adani Green Energy said in a regulatory filing. The remaining 50% of the equity shares will continue to be held by the government of Rajasthan. PTI

middle of February 2023, if not earlier,” a company spokesperson said. PTI

Auto Expo 2023 ends with record turnout of visitors

Greater Noida: Auto Expo - The Motor Show 2023 marked its ending on Wednesday after a successful weekly affair for automotive manufacturers and car enthusiasts. On January 13, 2023, the event opened its gates to business visitors and the public. Over the course of a week, the event witnessed an overwhelming response and a huge turnout.

The visitors came out in large numbers with their families, especially on the weekend, to expe rience the trans formation of the Indian automobile industry to a green er mobility ecosys

tem. The enthusiasm was apparent as people of all ages gathered around the outstanding lineup of automobiles shown by various manufacturers present at the 16th edition.

Kia India installed a gaming simulator at its stand, providing a virtual EV drive experience in its all-new KIA EV6. On the

experience to audiences, including metaverse and augmented reality experiences along with live musical band performance. The 2023 edition of the event also featured a Vintage Car Zone, housing attractive classic cars.

The expo also witnessed a short ride on the Go Kart, which drew GenZ in and

the vehicle before making a purchase. Additionally, kids had a dedicated zone wherein they could attend creative workshops along with participation in exciting activities.

At another corner, SIAM, in association with Rosmerta, developed the Surakshit Safar Pavilion on the sidelines of National Road Safety Week to raise awareness about road safety.

Garvit Narang

NEXON ELECTRIC VEHICLE PORTFOLIO

GOLD DECLINES BY `105 BUT SILVER PRICES RISE BY `52

GAUTAM ADANI’S GROUP FILES FOR `20,000 CRORE FPO

MUMBAI ROAD CONCRETIZATION

Dy CM takes a swipe at Aaditya Thackeray

‘SENA PAID `22 CR FOR POTHOLES’

Jammu visit: Sanjay Raut to join Kashmiri Hindu protests

First India Bureau

Jammu/Mumbai:

Shiv Sena - Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray leader, Sanjay Raut, will begin his three-day visit to Jammu on Thursday.

First India Bureau

Mumbai: In an attempt to turn the tables on Shiv Sena - Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT), Deputy Chief Minister and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday implied the former was ruing the loss of commissions taken from contractors hired for road work.

Shiv Sena - UBT’s Aaditya Thackeray had alleged tenders worth more than Rs6,000 crore were floated at a higher price for the concretization of 400km of roads in Mumbai for the benefit of contractors. He had demanded the same should be scrapped.

“Such criticism stems from the fact that they will not get a percentage (in commission) for sanctioning work to certain construction companies — a practice they have

engaged in the many years,” Fadnavis told reporters at the MMRDA ground in the Bandra Kurla Complex on Wednesday afternoon, ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the city.

“An inquiry I ordered in 2018 (when he was CM) found that 200 roads in Mumbai had no lower layer. This is how they (the Shiv Sena) used to issue work orders for road constructions every year and get a certain amount as percentage at the time of sanctioning,” he said.

“Once we construct concrete roads, they will remain for 40 years,” Fadnavis added.

Notably, the Shiv Sena had been in power in the Mumbai civic body for over two decades before the tenure of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation ended last year.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has set its eyes on the cash-rich civic body to dislodge the rival Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) faction from power in the civic elections, the schedule for which is yet to be announced.

BJP

leader Ashish Shelar also took a dig at Thackeraygroup leader Aaditya Thackeray over the latter’s criticism of the state government.

“There is no truth to Aaditya Thackeray’s criticism. In 25 years, Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena spent Rs22,000 crore on road asphalting. Yet, all we have now are potholes. Now, there are cement, concrete roads that will last 30-40 years, and that too with a liability period of 20 years.”

Aaditya Thackeray has targeted the Shinde government over a contract for 400km of cement-concrete roads in Mumbai worth Rs6,000 crore.

“People’s representatives were not involved in this process at all. This is an insult to councillors of every party,” Thackerary had said, adding that paying Rs17 crore per kilometer of road—rather than Rs10 crore/km would lead to financial crisis.

SKIN, NAILS SEIZED; 3 HELD

The Rajya Sabha MP will meet Kashmiri Hindus holding demonstrations in support of their demand of relocation from Kashmir to the Jammu region.

He (Raut) also plans to join Congress’s Bharat Jodo Yatra being led by Rahul Gandhi in Jammu on January 2021. Further, Raut will meet PoJK (Pakistan Occupied Jammu Kashmir) and Sikh representatives regarding status of minority communities and declaring Punjabi official language of J&K, informed

Manish Sahni, President J&K Shiv Sena, while talking to media persons in Jammu on Wednesday.

Local Sena leaders led by Sahni joined the ongoing dharna of Kashmiri Hindu employees posted in the Valley and extended full support to their demand of relocation.

ATS gets 15-day ext to file charge sheet against PFI members

Speaking to media persons, Sahni reiterated the demand and said the “government should come out of its obstinate attitude and provide relief to the protesting employees by transferring them to safer places.”

Highlighting their plight, he added, “Fearing targeted killings,

these employees have been on strike for the last 251 days demanding their transfer out of the valley. Instead of giving relief, the government is torturing them mentally and financially by stopping their salaries.”

Sahni termed it “unfortunate” that the government is hell-bent on making Kashmiri Hindus scapegoats, while the militant outfit ‘The Resistance Front’, believed to be a part of Lashkar-e-Taiba, is constantly threatening attacks armed with personal data of employees.

Not even his uncle trusts Ajit Pawar, BJP minister says

First India Bureau

Mumbai: A special court on Wednesday granted another extension, this time of 15 days, to the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) to file a charge sheet in connection with the arrest of five members of the banned Popular Front of India (PFI). The accused were held for engaging in unlawful activities, promoting enmity among communities and waging a war against the country. Special judge A M Patil said that the investigating officer has sought an extension only on the grounds of getting a sanction. He allowed the plea consid-

ering that the documents pertaining to the sanction were submitted to the 'mantralaya' (state secretariat) on January 3.

The agency had sought the extension of 15 days on the ground of obtaining sanctions from the state government after the court had granted a 30-day extension to it last month. It is to be noted that sanction from the authorities concerned is required to prosecute the accused.

Mumbai: The controversy over Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar’s comments on Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj shows no signs of dying down, with Bharatiya Janata Party leader and Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Ajay Kumar Mishra bringing it up again on Wednesday. Mishra addressed the press in Satara, where he is currently engaged in organizational building ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. “Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj sacrificed himself for religion. What can I comment on someone who said that the person who gave the supreme sacrifice for religion was not a

Dharmaveer?” he said, targetting the former deputy chief minister.

Mishra said, “Even his uncle (NCP chief Sharad Pawar) does not trust Ajit Pawar. Sharad Pawar was going to name the second leader of the party as the the leader of the opposition in the Maharashtra assembly. But Sharad Pawar made Ajit Pawar the leader of the opposition after receiving a threat at the right time.”

NCP chief Sharad Pawar made Ajit Pawar the LOP only after receiving a threat.

—Ajay Kumar Mishra, Union MoS for Home Affairs

Mumbai: More than 20 civic bodies across the state, including the cash-rich Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, will have to wait a bit longer before going to the polls. The Supreme Court will now hear pleas related to these elections, many of which are already overdue, in the first week of February.

Even if the apex court gives the green signal next month, the elections can only be held in April or May at the earliest.

The hearing on these petitions was meant to

have taken place on Tuesday, but was pushed back by Chief Justice Dhananjay Chandrachud on Wednesday.

Given that several of these petitions involve complex issues that need quick resolutions, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta has directed those appearing on behalf of the applicant, the state election commission (SEC), and the state government, to submit a draft.

Meanwhile, the state’s major political parties are also preparing for the elections to five seats in the Maharashtra Legislative

Council, slated for January 30.

State Congress president Nana Patole on Wednesday said that the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) allies, the Con-

gress, Shiv Sena - Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray, and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP)—would contest the polls together.

“Our goal is to end

the dictatorial system of the BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party), irrespective of which MVA ally takes a particular seat.

They BJP has not even fielded a candidate in

Nashik. We have a strategy, and we are deliberately delaying. The reason behind it will be known soon,” he said.

He also reiterated that the party would not support a “traitor” like Satyajit Tambe, the son of Congress veteran Sudhir Tambe who filed his nomination as an independent candidate.

On the other hand, Chief Minister Eknath

Shinde on Wednesday highlighted “a lack of harmony” in the MVA, adding, “There is nothing new in that.”

He also said, “We never work with elections in mind and never will. Development work has gained momentum since we (the Balasahebanchi Shiv Sena-BJP government led by Shinde and his deputy Devendra Fadnavis) came to power.”

Three residents of Gadchiroli district’s Kurkheda taluka have been arrested under the Wildlife Act, after officials seized a leopard skin and 11 nails from them, in a joint operation by Forest Department units in Nagpur and Wadsa (Gadchiroli), an official said on Wednesday. The accused are believed to be poachers involved in the trade of animal parts. —PHOTO BY PTI

Alleges Shiv Sena leader’s flak stems from pain over by ‘loss of commission’ from contractors

Dy CM and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis. —FILE PHOTO

Raut’s visit comes on the instructions of party chief Uddhav Thackeray. —FILE PHOTO

Will also join Bharat Jodo Yatra, meet PoJK, Sikh representatives

First India Bureau

ATS already got a 30-day extension for filing the charge sheet just last month

Jaipur Literature Festival 2023 is all set to begin today.

The inaugural ceremony will be addressed by Nobel Laureate Abdulrazak Gurnah in Front Lawn from 9:50 am onwards. The theme for this year is ‘Utsav’ celebrating the colours of Rajasthan. Indian weddings make statements with its vibrant colours, extravagant celebrations, resonating music and sharing the happiness of a new start.

An inaugural ceremony followed by a lavish dinner was held at Taj Rambagh Palace, Jaipur on Wednesday where 30 supermodels from across the globe showcased an exquisite collection by Rohit Kamra, one of the most celebrated menswear designers in the Indian Design Industry. His designs are the bespoke amalgamation of international

trends, Victorian tradi tions and Indian royalty. Show Director Ab himanyu Singh Tomar along with showstopper Gehna were the high light of the fashion se quences.

Jagdeesh Chandra graced the evening as a Special Guest and appre ciated the efforts of GM Rambagh, Ashok Rathore and the entire JLF team. RCA Presi dent Vaibhav Gehlot was also present on the occasion to make the evening more special.

K. Roy, Manag

Sanjoy

Arts, producer of the Jaipur Literature Festi val, introduced Indian pop, jazz, and playback

MITALI DUSAD mitalidusad01@gmail.com

The grand opening ceremony of Jaipur Literature Festival, 2023 edition followed by the inaugural dinner was held at the Taj Rambagh Palace, Jaipur on Wednesday. Celebrity Fashion Designer Rohit Kamra showcased his latest vintage collection for the esteemed audience!

Neha Shekhawat

—PHOTOS

BY SUNIL SHARMA

GM Ashok Rathore addressing the audience as Sanjoy K Roy looks upon

Jagdeesh Chandra with Vaibhav Gehlot

Usha Uthup during her live performance at Rambagh Palace

L-R Nethra Patel, Hillery and Park Sahani

(L-R) Parikshit, Jatin and Mohit

Abhimanyu Singh Tomar

Gehna Singh

The stunning orchestra at Rambagh Palace, Jaipur

Has winter sent your outdoor fitness habit into hibernation? Don’t wait until spring to get back outside. From the right clothing and socialising to signing up for challenges and tracking your progress, City First highlights ways to enjoy working out as the days continue to shorten!

SMASH YOUR GOALS... As fitness is a mindset!

connect with nature, break away from the digital and concrete world, and boost focus and creativity. If sometimes, the weather makes you feel sluggish and you can’t work out, at the very least maintain your nutrition through your winter diet. Avoid processed or comfort foods high in calories that the cold weather

t’s easy to get out

WEAR THE RIGHT ACTIVEWEAR

Normally in a humid climate, opt for cotton clothing as it absorbs moisture (sweat). But in winter, you want to avoid that because if your clothes are soaked in moisture, it will leave you feeling colder. So go for sports clothing made from cotton-mix or synthetic fibre since they soak 50 per cent less moisture compared to cotton.

DON’T MISS WARM-UP AND STRETCHING

Winter or not, a warm-up before a workout is super essential. But in the cold weather, it becomes mandatory. When exercising in colder temperatures, you’re at an increased risk for sprains and injuries. A warm-up will increase blood circulation and the core temperature of your muscles, which can prevent injuries during a winter workout. You can even do some warmup exercises at home before you leave for your workout. This way, you’ll be less likely to feel chilly the moment you step outside.

STAY HYDRATED DURING WINTER

Winter air isn’t just cold, it’s also dry. To keep your skin

from drying out, drink plenty of water during your workouts. It’s necessary to make this a forced habit since you may not feel very thirsty due to the cold weather but your body could still be dehydrated.

MAKE SUPER-SETS A PART OF YOUR WINTER WORKOUT

If you start feeling cold in between sets, do 10-20 repetitions of body weight squats between 2 exercises. Legs being the largest muscle group will generate the most heat. If you are not used to squats, you can do spot jogging for 60 seconds. This will maintain your blood circulation and prevent you from feeling cold or sluggish.

INVOLVE A WORKOUT BUDDY

If you wonder how to work out in winter mornings, try this! It’s easy to cancel your workout if you do it alone. Find a friend, neighbour or co-worker who loves to exercise. A motivated workout partner will help to keep your motivation levels high too.

DON’T GIVE UP

During winter, at times it can be difficult to muster the motivation to get dressed and leave the house to work out. If you find yourself in such a situation, work out at home. A good bodyweight workout is much better than missing your workout entirely. You can pick your favourite workout video online and follow along. As they say, the best workout is the one that happened! So keep this in mind instead of missing your workout altogether.

MITALI DUSAD mitalidusad01@gmail.com

—PHOTOS BY SANTOSH SHARMA

UTTKARSHA SHEKHAR uttkarsha.shekhar@firstindia.co.in

The singerturned-actress

Amika Shail donned her look with her brand new avatar in her recent song. Her previous single ‘Dhokha’ has clocked 2 million views already. Commenting on the same Amika said “The new song is untitled at the moment but it is quite a peppy number. Being a trained singer, I love upbeat and peppy tracks that uplift the listener’s mood. I am waiting to see the first rushes of the full video eagerly. I love shooting

dance numbers as the entire atmosphere on the sets is very lively. The way we have shot it, I am sure it is going to be quite a watch for the viewers.”

The song is directed by Arun Vishwakarma and choreographed by Vicky Dadhich and Akanksha Tripathi. “The team has put a lot of effort into the song so that the audience can relate well to it. I am sure that people will love dancing to this upbeat song and it will be on the playlist of every party enthusiast. I hope the audience gives immense love to the songs and our movie”, said Amika as she signed off for the moment. Meanwhile, Amika’s fans cannot wait for the song to be out and raise the temperature on social media.

When asked about her journey as an actor, the actress replied,

“It’s been amazing, it has been more than 10 years in Mumbai, I came here to pursue singing but the acting pulled me in, though it was never in my plan.”

When asked about her experience in reality shows, she said, “it was amazing, as my whole childhood was busy actually. Saa Re Ga Ma

MUSIC HAS MY SOUL BUT

tainment.

was my first reality show and I still remember every emotion I went through during the audition days of that show. Getting selected and then coming to Mumbai for the real competition made me stronger, then I did many singing reality shows which led me into the world of enter-

When asked about her preference in career, the melodious diva shared, “Music has my soul, it’s my passion, and it is my dream though acting was never in my dreams as destiny planned its part and pulled me into the acting world, acting has given me everything and I am very grateful that I chose this golden path to walk on. So it’s difficult to choose any one over the other, both are equally important to me.

Kiara’s Prada bag is such an eye-catcher

Perfection at times does come with a price. Think luxe and be impressed with the mini accessory This triangleshaped bag just twins rightly with the Italian brand’s logo.

The iconic triangle shape has all the demand right now.

The Saffiano leather bag is nifty and can also be worn as a crossbody, a fanny pack, is something that is established.

With markings of sleek lines on it and more coolness in the form of all things re movable from a chain handle, and a zipper pouch, to a logoprinted and woven shoulder strap which can turn your look into a clutch or an arm candy. You can also style your party night outfits with this bag and also don’t forget that it comes with an enamelled metal logo.

An achiever

ollywood

of

set to

UK

it will be

the

UK Parliament. The India-UK Achievers Honours will celebrate the educational and professional achievements of Indian students who have studied in the UK, marking India’s 75th independence anniversary. Parineeti Chopra, who has studied in the UK, and also spends most of her time there, has been selected as an Outstanding Achiever for the category ‘Arts, Entertainment and Culture’ at the India UK Achievers Honours. Parineeti moved to England at the age of 17, before returning to India in 2009. The actress has a triple honors degree in business, finance, and economics from Manchester Business School. Now, the actress has been chosen as an Outstanding Achiever for the category ‘Arts, Entertainment and Culture’ at the India UK Achievers Honours, and it will be a special event for her as she will be representing India on the UK

HAPPY SONG!

If this year, we had to wrap our most-watched and mar velous songs, Shraddha Kapoor’s ‘Happy Is My Super power, Khush Raho Na Yaar’ is topping that list for sure! The peppy soundtrack that has kept us hooked deserves a big shout-out for not one but three BIG reasons! First, it shows our fav actress Shraddha Kapoor in a never-seen-before avatar. Second, it celebrates some awesome women who are badass, unapologetic, and unafraid to break some societal barriers! And third, lying underneath the entire track is a treasure trove of how ‘Happy’ is a Superpower for women. Who would have thought, right? But here it is!

Decked up not in a fancy designer outfit but a luxe lacey bralette and trendy jeans, Shraddha is humming the tune that’s both power-packed and groovy. While the music in itself is sure to stay in our heads for a long time, it is mainly the video that has become the biggest talk of the town.

Sara starts prep for Metro…Inn Dino

Sara Ali Khan is one of the best actresses of Bollywood from the current generation. Her choice of films has proved her versatility over the years. The actress has been enjoying a busy

shoot schedule as she is working on different films one after the other. Recently Sara was in London to shoot for Tiger Shroff’s ‘Mission Eagle’ and after that, she has now returned to Mumbai and kickstarted prep for her upcoming film ‘Metro...Inn Dino’ directed by Anurag Basu. The film will also see Aditya Roy Kapur opposite her. A source close

to the development revealed, “After wrapping up almost 3 films in 2023 and starting another shooting schedule of ‘Mission Eagle’ in December, Sara has now kickstarted her prep for ‘Metro...Inn Dino’ which is an Anurag Basu directorial. Since it’s a new genre for Sara, the actress is diving herself into preps making sure she is well prepared before the shoot.’

The singer turned actress Amika Shail shared her journey and aspirations in tete-a-tete with City First!

actress Parineeti Chopra is all

receive the prestigious India

Achievers Honours and

held at

end

this month at the

Sara Ali Khan

Kiara Advani

Parineeti Chopra

Kiara Advani special screening of Mission Majnu

Amika Shail

Still from the song

Shraddha Kapoor

Tina Datta and Shalin Bhanot, two Bigg Boss 16 contestants, got into a furious altercation inside the house. On Wednesday, ColorsTV shared a brief video of the pair yelling at one another. Shalin described Tina's persona and referred to her as 'dogla' and 'ladko se chipakne waali.' When Tina lost her composure, she referred to him as 'ganda aadmi' and threatened to strike him. She responded, “Mere character pe ungli uthaa raha hai, khud ki biwi ki dignity nhi rakha, Shalin Bhanot gande aadmi (He is doing my character assassination, he

could not maintained her ex-wife’s dignity properly, such a bad person).” The pro motional film re ceived a lot of feedback from fans.

The chan nel posted the ad with the description on their social media accounts, 'Tina aur Shalin ke beech hua war of words (Tina and Shalin got into an ugly argument).'

"I ONLY WANTED TO BE AN ACTION HERO!"

ASHISH TIWARI cityfirst.mumbai@firstindia.co.in

Shah Rukh Khan is all set to return to the cinemas after four long years with Pathaan and recently he revealed that he is releasing his 32-year-long dream of being an out-and-out action hero on the big

In a video released by the producers, Yash Raj Films, SRK says, “I came to the film industry 32 years ago to be an action hero but I missed the boat because they made me a romantic

hero instead. I've only wanted to be an action hero. I mean I love DDLJ and I love Rahul and Raj and all these good sweet boys but I always thought I was an action hero, so for me, it's my dream come true.”

About his character in Pathaan, the superstar reveals, “Pathaan is an easy guy, doing a lot of tough things and I think he's naughty, he's tough but doesn't wear it on his sleeve. He's honest and I think he very singlemindedly thinks of India as his mother.”

SRK is teaming up

Mesmerizing MALAIKA!

On Tuesday, choreographer Tushar Kalia wed his fiancée Triveni Barman in a grandiose ceremony.

Tushar was dressed in a cream sherwani, while Triveni wore a red lehenga.

On the day of their wedding, the couple looked beautiful. In a sentimental photo with his wife, Tushar

sported an off-white sherwani with a white turban and dupatta for the wedding photos. Triveni wearing a crimson lehenga and accessorised with substantial green and gold jewellery.

In addition to wearing a maangtika, she had on a bridal ensemble. They held hands and wore garlands as they stared at each other and

Malaika Arora is indeed the epitome of ageless beauty. She’s a celebrity everyone loves to talk about. She recently took to Instagram to share a behind-thescenes video from a photoshoot. She was seen donning a beautiful multi-coloured layered tasselled gown, which was designed by Naeem Khan. The gorgeous outfit consisted of golden thread and bead embroidery work on the bodice with a plunging neckline, that showed off the cleavage

While the actress ditched the jewellery, to not take away the attention from the gown, she opted for a dia-

with the gorgeous Deepika Padukone in Pathaan. He and Deepika are one of the biggest on-screen pairings in the history of Indian cinema given their epic blockbusters Om Shanti Om, Chennai Express and Happy New Year.

About DP and her impact in Pathaan, Shah Rukh says, “You need someone of the stature of Deepika to be able to pull off a song sequence like Besharam Rang and then you know, to be able to do action, where she takes a guy and pulls him right over herself and

beats him, she's tough enough to do that too. That kind of combination could have only been achieved with someone like Deepika. It's quite a layered character for an action film heroine so to say.”

Pathaan is part of Aditya Chopra’s ambitious spy universe and has the biggest superstars of the country Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone and John Abraham in it. YRF’s adrenaline-pumping film, Pathaan, is set to release on Jan 25, 2023, in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.

The hype around Pathaan is unprecedented. All the assets of the film that YRF has released so far have turned out to be superhits right from the teaser, the two songs - Besharam Rang & Jhoome Jo Pathaan - and the recently dropped trailer that has caused an internet meltdown!

The Indian Institute of Human Brands or IIHB's TIARA report, which analyses celebrities as brands have concluded ‘India Most Identifies With’ Ayushmann Khurrana! While South superstar Suriya ranks No. 1 among Southern celebs, Amitabh Bachchan was India’s Most Trusted & Most Respected, Alia Bhatt top scored on India’s Most Attractive & Virat was rated as Most Trendy & Most Handsome.

When contacted, Ayushmann says, “It is an honour to be considered as someone, India identifies with the most. I credit this to the kind

of films and the roles that I have chosen to do on screen. I have always maintained that I want to cause disruption and challenge the status quo of origi nality in my coun try.”

He adds, “I’m a restless entertainer who is forever looking for a script that thoroughly entertains the audience and yet delivers a message. I’m thrilled to be someone that my country and countrymen feel is doing his best to push the envelope of cinema.”

mond ring. She kept her hair open and completed her entire look with a full coverage nude makeup Malla often leads the headlines either for her personal life or her professional en deavours, including her fashion photoshoots. She knows how to stylise herself and make it look worth it. Whenever she steps outside in the city, she always makes sure to put her best fashion foot forward. On the work front, she was recently seen in her web se ries Moving in with Malaika, currently streaming on Disney+ Hotstar!

Anurag Kashyap’s Almost Pyaar with DJ Mohabbat has been cleared by the Censor Board with a U/A certificate and is all set to hit cinemas on February 3, 2023. Kashyap’s latest directorial is a look at modern-day young relationships and their exploration in a world plagued with prejudices, predatory behaviour and the unwillingness from older generations their acceptance. The film also marks the filmmaker’s reunion with Amit Trivedi, a partnership behind the music of Dev D, Manmarziyaan and other breakthrough albums. Almost Pyaar with DJ Mohabbat, starring Alaya F and Karan Mehta who marks his debut, was recently presented at Marrakech’s Jemaa El Fna Square this year. The film was screened along with other spectacular films by stalwarts like Guillermo Del Toro, Paul Schrader and James Gray. The film is touted to be Anurag Kashyap's ode to modern love. Presented by Zee Studios under the Good Bad Films production is slated to release on 3rd February 2023.

Shah Rukh Khan

Shalin Bhanot and Tina Dutta

Malaika Arora

Tushar Kalia with wife Triveni Barman

Ayushmann Khurrana

Anurag Kashyap

Still from the song

Malaika donning a multi-coloured gown by Naeem Khan