Latest modi government News | Top modi government News Headlines Today | Today India news | Breaking modi government News Today | English modi government News Headlines - TheDailyGuardian

‘Systematic Conspiracy of Modi Govt’: Kharge on Amendment of Election Rules

December 22, 2024, 4:33 pm

After the National Democratic Alliance on Sunday amended the Conduct of Election Rules, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge slammed the Centre for undermining the integrity of the Election Commission of India (ECI).

He claimed the government is now stonewalling crucial electoral information despite a High Court order, in a post on X. Kharge also highlighted previous actions, such as the removal of the Chief Justice of India from the ECI selection panel.

Kharge called it a systematic conspiracy, “Modi Government’s audacious amendment in the Conduct of Election Rules is another assault in its systematic conspiracy to destroy the institutional integrity of the Election Commission of India. Earlier, they had removed the Chief Justice of India from the Selection panel which appoints Election Commissioners, and now they have resorted to stonewall electoral information, even after a High Court order,” he said.

Kharge’s X post:

Modi Govt’s audacious amendment in the Conduct of Election Rules is another assault in its systematic conspiracy to destroy the institutional integrity of the Election Commission of India.

Earlier, they had removed the Chief Justice of India from the Selection panel which… pic.twitter.com/c1u7pNdlif

— Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) December 22, 2024

“Every time the Congress party wrote to the ECI, regarding specific poll irregularities such as voter deletions and lack of transparency in EVMs, the ECI has responded in a condescending tone and chosen not to even acknowledge certain serious complaints. This again proves that the ECI, even though is a quasi-judicial body is not behaving independently. Modi Govt’s calibrated erosion of ECI’s integrity is a frontal attack on the Constitution and Democracy and we will take every step to safeguard them,” Kharge added.

This came in the wake of a recent Punjab and Haryana High Court directive in the Mahmoud Pracha vs ECI case, where the court ordered the sharing of all documents related to the Haryana Assembly elections, including CCTV footage under Rule 93(2) of the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961.

The amendment by the Centre now restricts public scrutiny of certain electronic documents, including CCTV footage, based on a recommendation from the ECI. The Union Law Ministry recently amended Rule 93(2) to specify which documents are open to public inspection.

However, a senior ECI official clarified that the candidate already has access to all the documents and papers, and no amendments have been made to the rules in this regard.

The ECI official noted that while the rule refers to “election papers,” it does not explicitly address electronic records. The ambiguity in the rule and concerns over potential misuse of CCTV footage inside polling stations, especially with advancements in artificial intelligence, prompted an amendment to safeguard voter secrecy and prevent its misuse.

The official emphasized that sharing CCTV footage inside the polling stations from sensitive areas such as Jammu and Kashmir or Naxal-affected regions could compromise voter safety. “Lives of voters may be at risk, and the secrecy of the vote must be protected,” the official stated. All other election-related documents and papers remain accessible for public inspection.

Jharkhand Assembly Elections: BJP Pledges To Refund Sahara Investors

November 7, 2024, 7:53 pm

The Sahara Group once stood as one of India’s top enterprises, with a presence across various sectors, including Sahara Airlines, Sahara Media, and Sahara Homes. Sahara also introduced a chit fund scheme that attracted millions of Indians from lower-income groups, who invested small amounts daily, typically between Rs 10 to Rs 100, with the hope of securing better returns and a stable future. However, when the Sahara Group refused to return the investors’ money, its troubles began, and the Supreme Court intensified its scrutiny. The Court ordered Sahara to repay Rs 24,000 crore to investors. Due to Sahara’s failure to make these payments, then-chief Subrata Roy was jailed on March 4, 2014, marking the start of the group’s gradual decline.

Watch:

भाजपा का प्रण

भाजपा सरकार बनते ही वापस होगी सहारा निवेशकों की पाई-पाई। pic.twitter.com/NixmYDOH9x

— BJP JHARKHAND (@BJP4Jharkhand) November 6, 2024

The scheme’s fraudulent nature came to light when a letter, signed by Roshan Lal, reached the National Housing Bank. The letter alleged that bonds issued by Sahara Real Estate Corporation and Sahara Housing Investment Corporation did not comply with regulations. This letter was forwarded to SEBI for further investigation. Subrata Roy claimed publicly that Sahara was being scrutinized because he stated that India’s Prime Minister should be of Indian, not Italian, origin. According to him, following this statement, top agencies began targeting Sahara.

Watch:

Under the initiative of the Ministry of Cooperation, a total of ₹241 crore has been refunded to 2.5 lakh investors of the Sahara Cooperative Societies.

सहकारिता मंत्रालय की पहल पर अब तक सहारा की सहकारी समितियों में निवेश करने वाले लगभग ढाई लाख निवेशकों को ₹241 करोड़ वापस मिले। pic.twitter.com/P59HVi8kxJ

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) January 17, 2024

The NBFC, previously lauded by the UPA government, soon faced further questioning. In 2008, the Reserve Bank of India took action, prohibiting Sahara India Financial Corporation from accepting deposits and directing it to return investors’ money. Reports suggest that the UPA government’s support enabled Sahara’s chit fund schemes to flourish, but this left many low-income investors stuck. Following the change in government at the Centre, investors’ hopes began to rise.

Also read: SC Declines Transfer of Kolkata Doctor’s Rape-Murder Case Despite Plea, Awaits CBI Update

The Modi government has now committed to returning every penny invested in Sahara’s chit fund. A framework has been established to allow investors to apply for refunds within a specified timeframe. The BJP has openly stated that every rupee will be returned, making it a major campaign promise in Jharkhand. This pledge is expected to provide the BJP with a significant advantage, potentially serving as a game-changer in the upcoming Jharkhand elections.

Modi Govt Eases Early Retirement Rules

October 25, 2024, 7:29 pm

The Modi government recently introduced significant updates to voluntary retirement rules for central government employees under the National Pension System (NPS), a move aimed at enhancing flexibility for eligible civil servants. According to the Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare (DoP&PW), government employees who have completed 20 years of service can now apply for voluntary retirement by providing three months’ written notice. This new regulation, issued on October 11, 2024, will grant early retirees similar pension benefits as those given at the standard retirement age under the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) guidelines.

Employees covered by these new provisions will be eligible for a streamlined retirement process, provided that the appointing authority does not deny their request within the notice period. Notably, employees who seek early retirement with less than three months’ notice can also make a special written request for a reduced notice period. The appointing authority may grant this request if it does not disrupt administrative operations. However, once notice is given, employees cannot withdraw their retirement application unless specifically permitted by the authority, with withdrawal requests required at least 15 days before the planned retirement date.

An essential element of these updated guidelines is the continued entitlement to NPS-related benefits. Employees who retire voluntarily will have options such as continuing their individual pension accounts or deferring the benefits payout, in line with existing NPS regulations. This ensures that early retirees will not miss out on benefits that are typically offered at full retirement age, such as access to a pension corpus and other retirement-related advantages.

However, the policy comes with limitations. Employees retiring under a Special Voluntary Retirement Scheme (SVRS) specifically designed for surplus personnel, or those who transfer to public sector undertakings, are not eligible under this new rule. This exception aims to maintain uniformity in retirement provisions for surplus employees managed under separate voluntary schemes and public sector retirees.

Also read: Tech Millionaire Bryan Johnson Reveals Posture Fix That Transformed His Brain Health After Alarming MRI Scan

The government’s move aligns with broader pension reform goals, as demonstrated by the potential introduction of the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS), which aims to ensure a guaranteed pension payout of up to 50% of the last basic salary for government employees. The combination of the revised NPS guidelines and anticipated pension reforms highlights the administration’s approach to ensuring financial security for retirees while providing greater flexibility for early retirement.

Modi Government Moves to Modify Indus Waters Treaty, Citing Major Changes Since 1960

September 18, 2024, 1:08 pm

In a significant move reflecting its frustration with the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, India formally notified Pakistan on August 30, 2024, requesting a review and modification of the agreement. This action is based on Article XII (3) of the Treaty, which allows for changes through a ratified Treaty agreed upon by both governments.

Indian officials contend that Pakistan has persistently obstructed projects on India’s side of the Indus River and has exploited India’s goodwill under the Treaty. The formal notification cites several fundamental changes since the Treaty was established, necessitating a reassessment of its obligations. Three main concerns were highlighted: first, the significant changes in population demographics and their impact on agricultural and other water uses; second, the urgent need for clean energy development to meet India’s emission targets; and third, the effects of ongoing cross-border terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, which have hindered the effective implementation of the Treaty and the exercise of India’s rights.

These developments arise amid ongoing controversies surrounding the Ratle and Kishenganga hydropower projects. Indian officials believe that Pakistan has obstructed these initiatives, taking unfair advantage of India’s concessions under the Treaty. Complicating matters, the World Bank has activated both the Neutral Expert mechanism and the Court of Arbitration.

Experts suggest that this decision by the Indian government reflects growing irritation over Pakistan’s uncooperative stance regarding water sharing, alongside frustration with continued terrorist attacks. There is a sentiment that the Treaty was established with an overly optimistic view of India’s relationship with Pakistan, which has since been marred by hostility and support for terrorism. In Jammu and Kashmir, there are calls for a review of the Treaty, as many feel their rights were compromised without adequate consultation. Additionally, there is strong sentiment in Punjab and Haryana regarding water rights, where residents believe they could benefit from new projects and technologies.

Sources indicate that the notice for modification was issued after extensive discussions within the government, symbolizing the Modi administration’s commitment to rectify what is seen as a historical oversight.

THE POLITICS OF A COMEBACK

September 4, 2024, 2:15 am

Why is there so much focus on the coming state elections, and how will they impact the politics of the Centre. Each state election is important in itself, but there is also a larger impact that this will have on the Central government. There is a psychological impact that is felt when the ruling government at the center wins or loses a state election, more so in the era of Modi when the Prime Minister has emerged as the party’s star campaigner and made each election a referendum on his leadership credibility.

Unfortunately for the BJP, the coming spate of state elections in Haryana, J&K and later on in Maharashtra and Jharkhand seemed veered towards the opposition more than the BJP. The BJP is in power in Haryana and Maharashtra and there is governor’s rule in J&K. Hence the first problem will be that of anti-incumbency. In the past the BJP under Narendra Modi has successfully warded off the perils of anti incumbancy but that has also been there has been a strong CM at the helm of the state. Here, the Haryana CM has not had much time to consolidate himself against a two term anti-incumbency while Maharashtra is a coalition government with a non BJP CM at the helm. It is not going to be easy for the party specially at a time when the Congress and its allies fancy their chances for a comeback.

Having said that, should the BJP fare poorly in the coming elections, how will it impact the Prime Minister. Here again, a lot depends on the individual. Any other Prime Minister would be affected by the optics of a resurgent opposition but so far Narendra Modi has shown no such qualms. He wasted no time in calling the newly elected BJP government as an NDA government and then went to fill the cabinet with his own team. Likewise with the Speaker of the Lok Sabha. Yes there have been some rollbacks on key issues but they have been dealt with swiftly as coalition compulsions. And since the PM did not dwell on them much but moved on to the next order of business it did not impact the governance optics all that much.

That, in a nutshell, is the secret of Narendra Modi. Go with the flow, manage the optics and bide your time for a comeback. Because if there is anyone who knows how to come out of a corner, it is Modi. It is now up to the Opposition led by a resurgent Rahul Gandhi to figure out how to contain this phenomenon. All in all, it does make for some interesting politics

Rahul Gandhi Criticizes Modi Government For Muslim Attacks Over Beef Allegations: ‘Intolerance Will Not Be Accepted’

September 1, 2024, 10:21 pm

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi tore into the Bharatiya Janata Party government on Sunday over recent incidents of Muslims being targeted with violence over alleged beef consumption. Gandhi also had a thing or two to say about it on X: what he views as an increasing climate of fear and lawlessness under the current administration.

“Those who have climbed the ladder of political power by spreading hatred are constantly establishing a regime of fear in the country,” Gandhi said in a post on X.

“Hateful elements lurking in the form of mobs are openly spreading violence and defying the rule of law,” he further wrote, sharing screenshots of videos from both incidents.

A 72-year-old man was beaten up on a train over an accusation that he was carrying beef in Maharashtra’s Thane. Ashraf Ali Syed Hussain, a resident of Jalgaon, was traveling on the Dhule CSMT Express when the dispute began over a seat and escalated into accusations of carrying beef. In the viral videos, Hussain is seen being kicked and slapped by a group of men questioning him about the meat containers he carried.

The police have arrested three out of six accused and booked them for unlawful assembly, rioting, and criminal intimidation.

In another incident in Charkhi Dadri of Haryana on August 27, a migrant worker, Sabir Malik, was beaten to death by members of the cow vigilante group. Malik, from West Bengal, was lured under false pretenses and accused of eating beef. Seven people, including two juveniles, have been arrested in connection with Malik’s death.

Rahul Gandhi slammed the BJP government for giving these “miscreants” a free hand and noted due to that, violence against minorities has gone up.

“These miscreants have got a free hand from the BJP government, that is why they have got the courage to do this. Attacks on minorities, especially Muslims, are continuing and the government machinery is watching as a mute spectator,” Gandhi said.

“The rule of law must be established by taking the strictest action against such anarchic elements. Any attack on the communal unity of India and the rights of Indians is an attack on the Constitution, which we will not tolerate at all. No matter how much effort BJP makes, we will win this historic battle to unite India against hatred,” he added.

Modi Government to Appoint New External Members to RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee

August 23, 2024, 1:43 pm

The Narendra Modi government is in the process of appointing new external members to the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), according to multiple media reports on Friday.

Bloomberg and CNBC-TV18 reported that these appointments are expected to be finalized before the October MPC meeting. The MPC consists of six members, including three from the central bank and three external members.

The committee is headed by RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das. Typically, the external members are distinguished economists or financial experts. The current external members are Ashima Goyal, Jayanth R. Varma, and Shashanka Bhide. Goyal is a well-known economist and a professor at the Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research, Varma is a professor at IIM Ahmedabad, and Bhide serves as a senior advisor at the National Council of Applied Economic Research in Delhi, as reported by CNBC-TV18.

All three were appointed in October 2020, and since the RBI Act does not allow for extensions, the government will need to appoint new members by the end of their term.

The tenure of the current external members ends on October 4, while the next MPC meeting is scheduled for October 9. According to the Bloomberg report, the names of the new members are expected to be announced by the end of September or in the first week of October.

Budget for an Empowered and Developed India

August 16, 2024, 2:16 am

India, now the world’s most populous nation with over 1.4 billion people, boasts a significant working-age demographic, with about 65 percent of its population between 15 and 64 years. Recognizing this demographic dividend, the Modi government has consistently focused on youth empowerment through initiatives like the Skill India Mission, StartUp India and targeted provisions in the Union Budgets. The Union Budget 2024 explicitly emphasizes on job creation and youth empowerment, crucial for propelling India’s economic growth. Key initiatives include the Production Linked Incentives (PLI) scheme to boost manufacturing and job creation, along with Industry-linked Incentives and the Employment Linked Incentives. Schemes like Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, Startup India, Make in India, and Atma-nirbhar Bharat aim to equip youth with skills and opportunities for entrepreneurship. Investments in infrastructure, digital advancements, and education reforms further align with market needs, preparing young Indians for a competitive global economy. The Union Budget 2024 delineates a roadmap to harness India’s demographic dividend, aiming to transform the country’s youthful energy into a powerful driver of economic prosperity and realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a Viksit Bharat—an empowered and developed India.

The focus of the Union Budget 2024 was to empower youth by job creation, hence, emphasis was laid on creating 8 million jobs annually until 2036. It introduced three ‘Employment Linked Incentive’ schemes: Scheme A -First-time Employment-providing a salary benefit for new EPFO-enrolled employees; Scheme B – Job Creation in Manufacturing-offering EPFO-based incentives to manufacturing employers; and Scheme C – Support to Employers- reimbursing EPFO contributions for workforce expansion. With a total outlay of Rs. 107,000 crores, these schemes highlight the government’s focus on employment generation. The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme, pivotal in boosting manufacturing and reducing imports, is further strengthened, anticipating over 7 lakh new jobs and fostering innovation and productivity across more sectors. The PLI scheme also supports the MSME sector and women entrepreneurs, contributing to inclusive and equitable growth. These initiatives collectively support PM Modi’s vision which aims to create a dynamic workforce, enhance manufacturing, and boost India’s economic prosperity.

Apart from Incentive linked job creation, the Budget emphasized on skilling and workforce development, which will eventually aid the youth to be self-employed. It introduced a scheme to train 2 million youth over five years and upgrade 1,000 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) through a hub-and-spoke model. This initiative, in partnership with state governments and industry, aims to align training with industry needs and emerging technologies like AI and IoT. By enhancing ITI infrastructure and curricula, and focusing on high-demand skills, the Budget focused on fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among youth. This modernization aims to address the evolving job market needs by equipping students with practical skills and knowledge relevant to emerging technologies. By fostering collaboration between industry and educational institutions, supporting research, and encouraging private sector investment, the initiative seeks to bridge the gap between education and employment, enhance job creation, and contribute to economic growth.

Not only this, but also the Budget addressed the need to enhance apprenticeships by introducing an initiative to offer internships to 10 million youth across 500 top companies. These year-long internships will provide hands-on experience, industry-relevant skills, and professional development, with interns receiving a monthly stipend of Rs 5,000 and a one-time aid of Rs 6,000. Companies will contribute through their CSR Budgets, aligning with Section 135 of the Companies Act 2013. The aim of this program is to bridge the skills gap, improve employability, and foster a culture of experiential learning, ensuring young people gain valuable experience and skills that meet industry needs. By integrating CSR funds and involving diverse sectors, the initiative supports the transition from education to employment and contributes to the vision of Viksit Bharat by creating a skilled, adaptable workforce for future economic growth.

Education has always been a prime focus of the Modi Government and therefore the Union Budget introduced the Model Skill Loan Scheme which aligns with the vision of Viksit Bharat. The Scheme offers loans up to Rs 10 lakh for higher education with government-backed guarantees and interest subvention of 3% through e-vouchers. This initiative aims to make higher education more accessible and affordable by reducing financial barriers and providing substantial support to 100,000 students annually. By enabling access to quality education across various fields, the scheme addresses educational inequality and fosters a skilled, versatile workforce. The Union Budget 2024-25 underscores the pivotal role of research and innovation by increasing support for private sector-led initiatives. The Budget allocates substantial funding for research across various fields, establishes new research centers and incubators, and introduces incentives such as tax breaks and grants for companies investing in R&D. These measures aim to foster a culture of innovation, support high-impact research, and encourage private sector participation. The Budget also introduces a dedicated venture capital fund for the space economy, recognizing the potential of space research to drive economic and technological progress. By fostering a culture of discovery and equipping the youth with essential resources, the government aims to position India as a global leader in science and technology, empowering the next generation to lead the country’s future advancements. By creating an environment conducive to breakthroughs and scaling startups, the Budget seeks to enhance India’s global competitiveness and drive economic growth, aligning with the broader vision of making India a leader in technological and economic advancements.

In alignment with its Viksit Bharat vision, India is enhancing international collaboration through the Union Budget 2024-25 by forming partnerships with top global universities and research institutions, initiating joint research projects, and establishing exchange programs for students and faculty. A key proposal is the creation of a Higher Education Commission to oversee and elevate these international collaborations, ensuring that Indian institutions meet and exceed global standards. This focus on global engagement is expected to boost education quality, provide valuable international experience, and expand professional networks for Indian students and researchers. These initiatives are designed to prepare young Indians for a competitive global job market, ultimately strengthening India’s international position and driving innovation and economic growth.

In response to the need for continuous adaptation and skill development, the Union Budget 2024-25 introduces several initiatives to promote lifelong learning. These include funding for adult education programs, online learning platforms, and new skill development opportunities. The Budget supports flexible learning pathways, such as micro-credentials and short-term courses that can be combined into larger qualifications, and recognizes informal and non-formal learning. By investing in lifelong education, the government aims to ensure that all citizens, including the youth, are prepared for future challenges and can contribute to and benefit from India’s progress. This will not only provide job opportunities to the youth in the country but also help them to sustain in their jobs for a longer period of time as well as gain increments and job promotions.

The Budget 2024-25 seemed as a starting point of PM Modi’s vision for 2047 as it dealt with the problem of the youth- the torchbearers of tomorrow’s India. With a strong emphasis on job creation, skill development, and entrepreneurship, the Budget sets a solid foundation for future prosperity through initiatives like the Production Linked Incentive scheme, Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, Startup India, and Atma -nirbhar Bharat. By investing in infrastructure, digitization, and vocational training, and focusing on aligning educational outcomes with industry needs, the Budget aims to prepare the youth for an evolving job market and foster innovation. This comprehensive approach positions India to become a global economic powerhouse, ensuring long-term national growth and development.

The author is National Office in Charge, Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha

Modi Government Plans Major Overhaul And Security Boost

August 3, 2024, 3:01 pm

The Modi government is set to make significant changes to strengthen governance and security in Jammu and Kashmir. Despite criticism that the government has been slow to act, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is preparing for decisive moves.

Key Points:

– Continuity Over Change: In his third term, Modi has chosen to maintain continuity rather than making dramatic changes in his Cabinet and bureaucracy. This approach contrasts with some expectations that the government might be hesitant due to coalition pressures.

– Upcoming Changes: August is expected to be a pivotal month for the Modi administration. Recent decisions, such as the repatriation of BSF DG Nitin Agarwal, suggest a major overhaul in the bureaucracy is imminent. With senior officials like Rajiv Gauba and Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla completing four years in their roles, new appointments may be on the horizon.

– Security Focus: The Modi government is keen to address national security issues, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir, to prevent a return to the situation before August 5, 2019. Plans are in place to enhance the intelligence and security networks.

– Political Strategy: The Modi government is also preparing to counter opposition efforts, particularly from the INDI alliance, which aims to consolidate Muslim votes and divide Hindu votes. UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s recent strong stance against the INDI alliance signals the government’s aggressive strategy.

– State Elections: The BJP faces challenges in Maharashtra and Haryana, with concerns about Muslim clerics supporting Uddhav Thackeray to influence the outcome. Despite internal power struggles and opposition attacks, Modi’s leadership remains strong.

– Future Plans: Modi’s speech on August 15, 2024, is expected to highlight a commitment to transformational change, focusing on merit and effectiveness.

Overall, the Modi government is preparing for significant adjustments and assertive actions in the coming months.

Sonia Gandhi Criticizes Modi Government on Census, Economic Policies, and National Security

July 31, 2024, 2:05 pm

New Delhi: At a Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) meeting on Wednesday, Congress Chairperson Sonia Gandhi launched a scathing critique of the Modi government, accusing it of deliberately avoiding the overdue Census, which was scheduled for 2021. She argued that this delay will obstruct an accurate population count, particularly affecting scheduled castes and tribes, and deny over 12 crore citizens access to benefits under the National Food Security Act.

During her speech, Gandhi remarked, “It is evident that the Government has no intention of conducting the Census, which was due in 2021. This delay will prevent us from having an updated population estimate, especially for scheduled castes and tribes. Consequently, it will deny at least 12 crore citizens their rightful benefits under the National Food Security Act of 2013, now rebranded as PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana,” according to a statement from the All India Congress Committee.

Gandhi also expressed her condolences for the victims of the recent Wayanad landslide and other natural disasters. “First, let me extend our deepest sympathies to the families affected by the devastating landslide in Wayanad. The scale of destruction has been immense. Our colleagues in the state are actively assisting, and we also extend our condolences to those affected by floods in other parts of the country. Additionally, the ongoing railway accidents, attributed to mismanagement, continue to claim lives. Our thoughts are with these victims as well,” she said.

Criticizing the 2024-25 budget, Sonia Gandhi took issue with the Modi government’s approach to economic and social challenges, particularly concerning farmers and youth. She asserted, “The government remains detached from reality as millions of families grapple with rising unemployment and inflation. The needs of farmers and youth have been disregarded. Allocations in crucial sectors fall short, and despite official claims of success, the public remains disillusioned. The government’s top leaders are out of touch with the harsh realities faced by millions.”

Sonia Gandhi further condemned the state of the education system under Modi’s administration, citing failures in competitive exams and damage to key institutions like NCERT, UGC, and UPSC. “Education has suffered significantly in recent years. Instead of advancing, our educational system is increasingly flawed and manipulated. Issues with competitive exams have shattered the hopes of many young people and undermined the credibility of institutions like NCERT, UGC, and even Constitutional bodies like UPSC,” she said.

She also criticized the government’s handling of national security and terror attacks, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir. “Recent weeks have seen at least eleven terror attacks in the Jammu region alone, with similar incidents in the Valley. The loss of security personnel and civilians undermines the government’s claims that all is well in J&K. The situation in Manipur remains dire, and despite the Prime Minister’s international travels, he has failed to address the situation in the state,” Gandhi remarked.

Looking ahead to upcoming state elections, Gandhi emphasized the importance of maintaining the momentum from the Lok Sabha elections. “With elections approaching in four states, we must continue to build on the goodwill generated in the Lok Sabha elections. It is crucial to avoid complacency and work together with a clear sense of purpose. If we perform well, we could see significant changes in national politics,” she concluded.

Did Mamata Banerjee’s Mic Get Turned Off? NITI Aayog Responds To Controversy

July 27, 2024, 10:24 pm

The NITI Aayog meeting on Saturday, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, sparked a major controversy when West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee claimed that her microphone was turned off while she was speaking. Here’s what happened and the responses from various officials.

Mamata Banerjee’s Allegations:

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleged that she was allowed to speak for only a few minutes before her microphone was turned off. She walked out of the meeting in New Delhi, expressing her frustration and claiming discrimination. Banerjee stated, “I was speaking, my mic was stopped. This is not only the insult of Bengal but also of all regional parties.”

BJP’s Response:

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders, including Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, rejected Banerjee’s claims. They stated that all participants were given equal time to speak, and that Mamata’s reaction was “premeditated.” According to the BJP, each chief minister was allotted seven minutes to speak for their respective states.

NITI Aayog’s Explanation:

#WATCH | After the NITI Aayog meeting, CEO B.V.R. Subrahmanyam says, “…We had 10 absentees and 26 participants. We had absentees from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Bihar, Delhi, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand and Puducherry. The chief minister of West Bengal… pic.twitter.com/dedCuQOHca

— ANI (@ANI) July 27, 2024

During a press conference after the meeting, NITI Aayog CEO BVR Subrahmanyam clarified the situation. He explained that every chief minister had a seven-minute speaking slot, with the time displayed on a screen. He stated, “After her allotted time was up, Mamata said, ‘I would like to speak for a few more minutes but I would not.'”

Subrahmanyam also mentioned that Mamata had requested to speak before lunchtime due to her travel schedule, and her slot was adjusted accordingly. “The chief minister of West Bengal had made a request to be given a turn before lunchtime. We adjusted and the Defence Minister called her in just before Gujarat,” he said.

Absentees and Boycotts:

The meeting had 26 participants and 10 absentees. Chief ministers from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Bihar, Delhi, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Puducherry did not attend. Subrahmanyam noted that not all absentees were due to boycott reasons, citing last-minute dropouts.

Participants’ Observations:

Chief ministers who participated in the meeting told News18 that once Mamata’s seven-minute time was over, a bell rang, and she quickly left. They noted that other chief ministers who exceeded their time were given extensions by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

Conclusion:

The controversy surrounding Mamata Banerjee’s mic at the NITI Aayog meeting has led to differing accounts from various officials. While Banerjee claims discrimination, NITI Aayog and BJP leaders assert that she was given her allotted time and that her early departure was unplanned.

Key Takeaway:

The conflicting narratives highlight the ongoing tensions between state and central governments in India, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and procedural fairness in high-stakes political meetings.

Kharge Accuses PM Modi Of Doing Petty Politics

July 26, 2024, 11:32 pm

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Friday hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his comments on the grand old party on the ‘25 year of Kargil Vijay Diwas’ accusing him of doing petty politics and said no Prime Minister has ever done this before.
Hitting back at the Prime Minister, he also urged the government to scrap the Agnipath scheme as it has been opposed by sever quarters.

In a post on X, while slamming the Prime Minister, Kharge, who is also the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha said, “It is very unfortunate and deplorable that Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji is doing petty politics even on occasions like paying tribute to martyrs on Kargil Vijay Diwas.”

“No Prime Minister has ever done this before,” he said.
Taking a swipe at the Prime Minister, the Congress chief said, “Modi ji is saying that his government implemented the Agnipath scheme at the behest of the Army, this is a blatant lie and an unforgivable insult to our valiant Armed Forces.”

Training his guns, he said, “Modi ji, it is you who are spreading lies!” He said that former Army Chief (Retd.) General MM Naravane has said on record that 75 per cent of recruits were to be taken for permanency in the ‘Agnipath Scheme’ and 25 per cent of people were to be let go after four years. “But the Modi government did the opposite, and forcibly implemented this scheme for all three Armed Forces,” he said.He claimed that according to news reports, former Army Chief (Retd) General MM Naravane in his book which the Modi government, has stalled from being published, has also said, that the ‘Agnipath Scheme’ was shocking for the Army, and for the Navy and Air Force, it came like a “bolt out of the blue”.“Are we creating professional soldiers, only by 6 months of training? Soldiers join the Army out of patriotism, not to earn a living,” he said. Kharge also said that many retired officers have strongly criticised Agnipath and said that it is endangering National Security and the aspirations of the rural youth, demanding that this scheme should be completely scrapped.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Hits Out At Modi Government’s Durbar Hall Name Change With ‘Shahenshah’ Remark

July 25, 2024, 4:34 pm

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra criticized the Narendra Modi government on Thursday regarding the renaming of Durbar and Ashok Halls at Rashtrapati Bhavan, asserting that the notion of “shahenshah (king)” still persists in India.

“There is no concept of Durbar but there is a concept of Shahenshah,” she remarked.

President Droupadi Murmu recently announced the renaming of the Durbar Hall and Ashok Hall to Ganatantra Mandap and Ashok Mandap, respectively. This change aims to move away from the colonial connotations associated with the original names.

The President’s Secretariat explained that the renaming is part of an effort to align the ambiance of Rashtrapati Bhavan with Indian cultural values and ethos. The term ‘Durbar’ historically refers to the courts of Indian rulers and the British Raj and lost its relevance after India became a republic. The term ‘Ganatantra’ reflects the republic’s ideals, making ‘Ganatantra Mandap’ a fitting name for the venue where significant ceremonies and national awards are presented.

The statement also highlighted that renaming Ashok Hall helps remove traces of anglicisation. Originally a ballroom, ‘Ashok’ evokes notions of being ‘free from all sufferings’ and is linked to Emperor Ashoka, a symbol of unity and peaceful coexistence. The name ‘Ashok Mandap’ maintains the core values associated with Ashoka while eliminating English influences.

Chidambaram Criticizes ELI Scheme, Accuses Government Of Copying Congress Manifesto

July 24, 2024, 3:55 pm

Senior Congress leader and former finance minister P. Chidambaram on Wednesday voiced mixed reactions to the newly proposed Employment-Linked Incentive (ELI) scheme, while taking a swipe at the government for copying his party’s poll manifesto.

“I am particularly happy that she (finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman) had an opportunity to read the Congress manifesto. I would urge friends on treasury benches to read the Congress manifesto so that in your party meetings, you can persuade the prime minister and the finance minister to take some more ideas from our manifesto,” Chidambaram said in the Rajya Sabha. “Copying is not prohibited in this house, in fact, copying is encouraged, rewarded in this house. Please copy a little more,” he added.

Questioning the Government’s Strategy

Chidambaram expressed scepticism about the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme’s impact on job creation, suggesting the shift to ELI might be an admission of PLI’s shortcomings.

“When you introduced the employment-linked incentive – it must be for some reason. I suspected the PLI scheme didn’t create the kind of jobs you wanted to create,” he said.

The Congress leader called on Sitharaman to disclose the PLI scheme’s outcomes to provide context for evaluating the ELI’s potential.

Chidambaram said his primary concern revolved around the lack of clarity and confidence in the ELI’s execution and its ambitious targets. “Neither I nor any of my learned colleagues are able to get a whole picture of the ELI. It is an interesting idea but it does not inspire confidence that you’ll be able to place 290 lakh people under the ELI,” he warned, urging the government to avoid making the ELI another “election jumla” akin to the unfulfilled promise of 2 crore jobs.

Sitharaman’s Budget Speech

In her budget speech, Sitharaman outlined three key schemes under the ELI, aimed at benefiting 290 lakh individuals. The schemes include direct benefit transfers to new employees, incentives for the manufacturing sector, and reimbursements to employers for additional employment, with a focus on supporting first-time employees and formal sector engagement. The detailed plans involve direct benefit transfers of up to ₹15,000, incentives linked to EPFO contributions, and reimbursements up to ₹3,000 per month to employers for each additional employee.

Criticism of Government’s Approach to Inflation

Chidambaram also took issue with the finance minister’s brief mention of inflation, criticising the government’s seemingly casual approach. “The finance minister dismissed the subject of inflation in 10 words. Is inflation such a trivial subject you can deal with it casually and dismiss it in 10 words? WPI inflation is 3.4%, CPI inflation is 5.1%, food inflation is 9.1%. Go into the hinterlands of India, the inflation is much higher,” he said.

He referenced the Chief Economic Adviser’s (CEA) economic survey, which claimed that “India’s inflation continues to be low, stable and moving towards the 4% target.” Chidambaram questioned this assertion, noting that if inflation was indeed moving towards this target, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) would have revised the bank rate set in June 2023.

“This is the 13th month of 6.5% bank rate. Bank rate is a good measure of where inflation is moving. If inflation is moving towards the 4% target, why is the RBI keeping the bank rate at 6.5% for the last 13 months?” he asked.

“I think what the CEA said in his economic survey is injury and the finance minister dismissing the subject in 10 words is adding insult to injury,” he added.

Jairam Ramesh Criticizes Modi Government’s Economic Performance

July 8, 2024, 4:37 pm

New Delhi, July 8 – Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Monday criticized the BJP-led NDA central government, stating that every day in the “Modi-made ‘anyaay kaal'” is a new record of economic failure. He accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of failing to recognize the economic challenges facing India.

Key Economic Failures Highlighted

Sharing his statement on X, Ramesh said, “Every day in the Modi-made Anyay Kaal is a new record of economic failure.” He pointed to diminishing corporate investments, which have hit a 20-year low.

In his statement, Ramesh noted several key economic failures:

A 45-year high unemployment rate.
A 50-year low in household savings.
The first-ever decrease in real rural consumption.

He cited a report from The Hindu indicating that in the April-June quarter of the 2024/25 fiscal year, fresh investments announced by corporates amounted to just Rs 44,000 crore, marking a 20-year low.

Comparison with Manmohan Singh’s Tenure

Ramesh compared the current government’s performance with that of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh:

Investment as a percentage of GDP averaged 33.4% during the UPA era, compared to 28.7% under Modi’s tenure.
FDI as a percentage of GDP rose from 0.8% in 2004 to 1.7% in 2014 under Singh, but has declined to 1.5% by 2022.
Manufacturing as a percentage of GDP fell from 16.5% under the UPA to 14.5% under the current government.

He also highlighted that Gross Fixed Capital Formation (GFCF) has been lower during Modi’s regime compared to the UPA, with GFCF averaging 32% under the UPA but remaining below 29% for the past decade under Modi.

Critique of Government Policies

Ramesh criticized several government policies, including demonetization, the GST rollout, and increasing oligopolization. He argued that random policy changes and an atmosphere of fear and intimidation have damaged investor confidence.

“Investment, as John Maynard Keynes reminded us, is not just a financial decision—it is a psychological decision as well,” Ramesh said. He added that the last ten years have severely damaged investor psychology and there is no evidence that Prime Minister Modi recognizes this issue.

Agniveer Controversy: Rahul Gandhi’s Latest Attack On Centre Over ‘Insurance vs Compensation’

July 6, 2024, 10:52 am

Congress MP and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, took another swipe at the BJP-led government on Friday regarding the ongoing Agniveer controversy. He highlighted that the family of Agniveer member Ajay Kumar, who perished in a landmine explosion in Naushera, Jammu & Kashmir in January, has yet to receive any compensation. Gandhi emphasized, “there is a difference between compensation and insurance,” and accused the Modi government of “discriminating” against the Agniveers who sacrificed their lives for the nation by not providing adequate support.

Rahul Gandhi’s Statement On X

Taking to X, the Rae Bareli MP wrote, “The family of martyr Agniveer Ajay Kumar has not received any compensation from the government till date. There is a difference between ‘Compensation’ and ‘Insurance’; the payment has been made to the family of the martyr only by the insurance company. The family of martyr Ajay Kumar has not received the assistance that they should have received from the government. The family of every martyr who sacrifices his life for the country should be respected but the Modi government is discriminating against them. Whatever the government says, this is a matter of national security and I will keep raising it. INDIA will never allow the coalition forces to weaken.”

Watch Here:

शहीद अग्निवीर अजय कुमार जी के परिवार को आज तक सरकार की ओर से कोई Compensation नहीं मिला है।

‘Compensation’ और ‘Insurance’ में फर्क होता है, शहीद के परिवार को सिर्फ बीमा कंपनी की ओर से भुगतान किया गया है।

सरकार की ओर से जो सहायता शहीद अजय कुमार के परिवार को मिलनी चाहिए थी वो… pic.twitter.com/FG99h72rhX

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 5, 2024

Origins Of The Latest Agniveer Controversy

The latest Agniveer controversy began on July 3, when Rahul Gandhi released a video featuring the father of an Agniveer. The father alleged that the family had not received any compensation or assistance from the Centre following his son’s death in the January landmine explosion in Naushera, Jammu and Kashmir.

Gandhi stated on X, “Defence minister Rajnath Singh lied in Parliament about the assistance given to the family of the martyred Agniveer. Martyr Agniveer Ajay’s father has himself told the truth and exposed their lies. The defence minister should apologise to the Parliament, the country, the army and the family of the martyr.”

In the video shared by Gandhi, Ajay Kumar’s father is heard saying, “We have got nothing from the Centre but some help from the Punjab government. The defence minister said in Parliament that Rs. 1 crore is given to the family if an Agniveer dies, but we have received nothing. Rahul Gandhi is raising the issue…this scheme should be scrapped.”

Indian Army’s Response

Hours later, the Indian Army responded by refuting the Congress leader’s claims. The Army stated, “It is emphasised that the Indian Army salutes the supreme sacrifice made by Agniveer Ajay Kumar. The last rites were carried out with full Military Honours. Of the total amount due, a family of Agniveer Ajay has already been paid Rs. 98.39 lakhs. Ex-Gratia and other benefits amounting to approximately Rs. 67 lakhs, as applicable according to the provisions of the Agniveer Scheme, will be paid on Final Account Settlement shortly post due Police verification. The total amount will be Rs. 1.65 Cr approximately.”

During his address in the first session of the 18th Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi criticized the Agnipath Scheme, asserting that it originated from the PMO rather than the Indian Army and was conceived by the Prime Minister. He likened it to demonetisation and stated that if the INDIA bloc comes to power, it will abolish the Agniveer scheme.

Decisive move by Modi Govt against exam underbelly

July 6, 2024, 5:35 am

The NEET paper leak has by default exposed the stark difference in intent between the government and the Opposition. While the Modi government has shown a determined intent to take the challenge head on, sadly the Opposition, particularly the RJD, appears as an enabler to the education mafia.

At one point of time, the country has witnessed the harrowing maze of college admissions to remember the nightmare it used to be: the endless forms to fill, the grueling exams to sit through, the frantic journeys from state to state—all in a desperate bid to secure entry in a prestigious, professional institution. This experience was not merely financially draining but emotionally excruciating.

The promise of a centralized admissions process came as a beacon of hope in this chaos. Imagine just one exam, a common merit list, and seamless admissions across the country. Such a system, which eventually took the form of National Testing Agency (NTA) in 2018, not only eased the burdens on students and parents, offering them the best opportunities nationwide, but also eradicated the arbitrage and corruption that have long plagued our education system. Having said that, if the NTA has been found lagging in its job, the time has come to take it to the cleaners. The NEET paper leak, the UGC-NET cancellation, among other lapses is unpardonable. That precisely explains the decisive and comprehensive, corrective measures initiated by Modi government over the weekend.
First and foremost, the government sacked the NTA Director General, Subodh Kumar Singh, putting him on ‘compulsory wait’ in DoPT. Pradeep Singh Kharola was appointed as the new DG.

Secondly, to ensure transparency and tangible revamp, the Ministry of Education has constituted a High-Level Committee of Experts under the chairmanship of Dr. K. Radhakrishnan, former Chairman of ISRO and Chairman of BoG, IIT Kanpur. This committee is tasked with making comprehensive recommendations to reform the examination process, enhance data security protocols, and restructure the NTA.
Thirdly, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has been entrusted with investigating alleged irregularities in the NEET (UG) Examination 2024. The fact that a CBI team investigating this case was attacked in Nawada on Sunday, once again raises questions over the actual political kingpins and handlers of this case.

Equally important was the prompt notification of the Public Examination Act, which imposes severe penalties for unfair practices and paper leaks, further demonstrating the government’s resolve to safeguard the integrity of the education system. This historic law passed in Parliament earlier this year, carries provisions of Rs 1 crore fine and jail term of up to 10 years for offenders.

The Modi government, which has executed the transformative National Education Policy (NEP) in the most seamless manner, remains unwavering in its commitment to bringing last-mile educational reforms and a fully sanitized examination mechanism in the country. It will walk the talk on issues concerning youth once again, as it has it the past.

However, while the government’s intent is clear, sadly, the NEET paper leak has once again exposed the nexus between the education mafia and certain political parties. This year’s paper leak has a strong Bihar imprint and seems to be the handiwork of RJD. The EOU in Bihar has been probing Preetam Kumar, the PS of Tejaswi Yadav who apparently acted as facilitator for Sikandar Yaduvendra, the key accused and a close associate of Tejaswi Yadav.

Sadly, Priyanka Gandhi tried to mislead the country through a video of another student Ayushi Yadav, whose claims and documents were found to be incorrect by the Allahabad High Court. Of course, the entitled Congress leader did not deem it necessary to take down her post.

Point it, India’s beleaguered Opposition, which has vilified the government ad nauseam over the paper leak issue, has no answers for RJD leader Tejaswi Yadav’s proximity with the key accused. Such brazen hypocrisy on this sensitive matter exposes the vile intent of our Opposition parties.

Let truth be told: Some of India’s political parties have been hand in glove with the education mafia for a very long time. While the BJP government in Uttar Pradesh had brought the stringent Anti-copying Act in 1992 when Rajnath Singh ji was the state’s education minister, the Samajwadi party scrapped the same act in 2013. Not just that, Akhilesh Yadav was found to be endorsing cheating in exams in one of his election rallies.
Again, if one goes by the Exam leak data from different states in the last 5 years, published in a leading daily, Rajasthan under Ashok Gehlot reported 5 major paper leaks, UP just 1. Point is while exam leak should never be politicized as it has occurred in both BJP and Opposition ruled states, why does the Opposition never feel responsible towards address the scourge in its own state?

The NEET paper leak has by default exposed the stark difference in intent between the government and the Opposition. While the Modi government remains determined to take the challenge head on, sadly the Opposition, particularly the RJD, appears as an enabler to the education mafia.

Tuhin A. Sinha is the national spokesperson of BJP, besides being a well-known author.

Mallikarjun Kharge Criticizes Modi Government Over NEET-UG Exam, Claims Future of 24 Lakh Students at Stake

June 13, 2024, 5:10 pm

Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi over alleged irregularities in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET), asserting that the future of 24 lakh students who took the NEET-UG 2024 exam is jeopardized by the actions of the Modi government.

Several petitions have been filed in the Supreme Court seeking to recall the NEET-UG 2024 results and conduct the exam afresh, alleging paper leaks and malpractices during the test held on May 5.

“Grace marks were not the only problem in the NEET exam. There has been rigging, papers have been leaked, and corruption has taken place. The future of 24 lakh students who appeared in the NEET exam is at stake due to the actions of the Modi government. A nexus of Exam Centre and Coaching Centre has been formed, in which the game of ‘pay money, take paper’ is being played,” Kharge said in a post on X.

Kharge also stated that the Modi government cannot shirk its responsibility by blaming the National Testing Agency (NTA). He called for a fair investigation under Supreme Court supervision into the entire NEET scam.

“The Modi government cannot escape its responsibility by putting the responsibility for its actions on the shoulders of NTA. The Congress party demands a fair investigation under the supervision of the Supreme Court in the entire NEET scam. After the investigation, the culprits should be given the harshest punishment and lakhs of students should be compensated to save their year from being wasted,” he said.

“In the last 10 years, the Modi government has ruined the future of crores of youth through paper leaks and rigging,” he added.

Amid nationwide outrage over the alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG 2024 examination, the National Testing Agency (NTA) on Thursday informed the Supreme Court that scorecards of 1563 candidates who received “grace marks” in the 2024 National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (Undergraduate) exam will be canceled and candidates will have the chance to reappear for the exam.

“The Committee has decided to cancel the scorecards of 1563 NEET-UG 2024 candidates who were given grace marks and these students will be given the option to take a re-test,” NTA said. “The exam will be conducted on June 23 and the result will be declared before June 30.”

“Counseling will go on and we will not stop it. If the exam goes then everything goes in totality so nothing to fear,” said the Supreme Court.

The NEET-UG examination, conducted by NTA, is the pathway for admissions into MBBS, BDS, AYUSH, and other related courses in government and private institutions across the country.

Modi government empowered people without any discrimination, says finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman

January 25, 2024, 2:33 pm

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, addressing an event at DU’s Hindu College, emphasized the need for the “economic independence” of the country. She underscored that the Modi government has empowered all sections of society “without any discrimination.”

Sitharaman highlighted the contrast between the previous governments and the Modi government’s achievements in the last decade. She pointed out the improvements in infrastructure, such as the availability of telephones and gas cylinders without recommendations, as well as advancements in roads, airports, and engineering colleges.

While acknowledging that previous governments also provided essential services, Sitharaman noted the significant backlog in housing, electricity, and roads in 2014. She emphasized the sense of urgency with which the current government is addressing these issues.

Asserting that the Modi government does not discriminate among citizens, Sitharaman stated, “Today we don’t differentiate. I am not saying some should get some should wait for it.” She highlighted the Prime Minister’s focus on four key groups – youth, women, farmers, and the poor – covering every section of society without considering caste, community, or religion.

Sitharaman encouraged students to learn from the rich history of Hindu College and the contributions of their elders to India’s freedom movement. She urged them to play a role in achieving economic independence and ‘atmanirbharta’ for the country.

“Your history should be our future. Remember what your elders did for the country. For a college like Hindu, the glorious history that you played in India’s freedom movement. Today we have to repeat that role for economic independence or atmanirbharta,” she said, expressing confidence in the determination and spirit of the students to contribute to the country’s progress.

PM Modi’s ‘Wed in India’ Initiative Could Bring Rs 1 Lakh Crore Boost to Indian Economy

December 9, 2023, 2:52 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent call for “Wed in India” has the potential to redirect an estimated Rs 1 lakh crore back to the country, a move applauded by the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT). This visionary initiative, reminiscent of the successful “Make in India” campaign, aims to curb unnecessary outflows of currency from the nation, particularly related to expenditures on destination weddings abroad.

The “Wed in India” concept was introduced by PM Modi during his monthly “Man Ki Baat” on November 26, encouraging citizens to opt for destination weddings within the country. CAIT, since the announcement, has actively led a campaign to promote this idea among businesses and civil society across India.

While official surveys on destination weddings by Indians abroad are scarce, estimates suggest that approximately 5,000 such weddings take place each year, with expenditures ranging from Rs 75 thousand crore to Rs 1 lakh crore. CAIT National President BC Bhartia and Secretary Praveen Khandelwal emphasized that India has over 2,000 potential locations for grand destination weddings in approximately 100 major cities across various states. Among the notable options are Goa, Mumbai, Jaipur, Udaipur, Chennai, and Delhi.

Highlighting the economic impact, Bhartia and Khandelwal noted that redirecting destination weddings from foreign countries to domestic venues could keep a substantial business within India. They urged the affluent class to lead this shift, anticipating that others would follow suit, contributing to the growth of the country’s wedding industry.

India’s wedding industry has developed a robust network over the years, making wedding-related goods and services a significant economic contributor. The CAIT leaders stressed that hosting destination weddings in India would not only preserve Indian values but also provide a considerable boost to the nation’s business and economy.

The “Wed in India” initiative aligns with PM Modi’s broader vision to retain India’s wealth within the country, foster economic growth, and generate substantial employment opportunities. As this campaign gains momentum, it has the potential to significantly impact the wedding industry and related sectors, positively influencing the Indian economy. Further developments are expected as businesses and individuals respond to this call to support domestic events and celebrations.

Modi government sets up high power committee to review, redefine DRDO

August 23, 2023, 1:39 pm

To overhaul the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has formed a nine-member expert committee led by Prof K Vijay Raghavan to review and redefine the department’s role and submit a report within three months, as directed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Prof. Vijay Raghavan is a former Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India and a key architect of the National Research Foundation (NRF). Other members of the DRDO review committee include: Lt Gen (Retd) Subrata Saha, former Deputy Chief of Army Staff, Vice Admiral S N Ghormade, former Vice Chief of Navy Staff, Air Marshal B R Krishna, former Chief of Integrated Staff, Sujan R Chinoy, DG of MP-IDSA, Prof Manindra Agarwal of IIT Kanpur, S.P. Shukla, President SIDM, J D Patil of Larsen and Tou

The Modi government’s decision to review the functioning of the DRDO and the entire defense research and production eco-system was a much-anticipated development, as the Prime Minister himself was concerned about the lack of accountability and delayed research in the organization that typically functions as a government PSU and views the entire defense process from research to development to production as its own fiefdom.

Rather than supporting the private sector and assisting in the best procurement of hardware platforms for the Indian Armed Forces, the DRDO has frequently acted as a barrier in defence acquisitions in the name of indigenization and developing the very product that was being imported.

Centre “forcefully” stopped Pfizer’s COVID vaccine: KCR hits out at Modi-government

February 8, 2023, 1:48 pm

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao has alleged that the Central government did everything possible to “forcefully” prevent import of COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer, especially when people were ready to get the best vaccine. Rao claimed that he and several other Chief Ministers had lobbied for Pfizer in India, but the PM Modi Government stalled the entry of the US pharmaceutical giant into India.

‘We will go to jail for the public’ says TRS leader Kalvakuntla Kavitha

December 1, 2022, 2:25 pm

Firing a fresh salvo on Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Central government Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) leader Kalvakuntla Kavitha said they are conspiring against the ruling KCR government to bring it down.

Earlier on Thursday Kavitha addressed a press conference and said, “We will go to jail for the public. For eight years the opposition states have been targeted but we are not afraid and we will not stop exposing BJP.”

Meanwhile, Kavitha is a member of the Telangana Legislative Council and the daughter of Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR).

“We all are seeing what is happening in the country. At least nine states in the country where democratically elected governments were formed have been brought down and the BJP took the charge in all those states in the last eight years after the Modi government came to power in the Centre,” Kavitha said.

Moreover, the TRS leader also claimed that when there is elections are in any state ED arrives before the Prime Minister.

“ED arrives even before Modi Ji in those states. The same is happening with Telangana…The agencies have arrived here just before the elections,” Kavitha said.

At the end of 2023, the Telangana legislative assembly election is scheduled to elect all 119 members.

Kavitha further said, “We are not scared of anything…We welcome the agencies, and we will absolutely cooperate with them…but tell us what you (the Modi government) did for Telangana?”

Kevathi also responded to the reports mentioned in the report of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the alleged Delhi liquor policy scam

Through cheap politics BJP is conspiring against TRS leaders trying to defame them, said Kavitha.

“With all due respect, I would like to tell Modi Ji that we don’t care if you want to put us in jail. We are ready to go to jail, but we will not stop working for the people of the state,” Kavitha said.

However, talking about the KCR’s leadership Kavitha praised the Telangana government’s work and said the government is doing well.

“We exposed the BJP’s conspiracy to bring down the Telangana government and people of the state have already seen it. This action by agencies is only a reaction to it,” Kavitha claimed.

‘BJP and Modi government are deploying IT officers’ says Malla Reddy

November 23, 2022, 5:25 pm

Taking a dig at Bharatiya Janata Party and Prime Minister Narendra Modi government Telangana labor minister Malla Reddy slammed for “deploying Income Tax officers to create terror”.

“Am I doing hawala business? With K Chandrashekar Rao’s blessings, we serve people. Is it wrong? BJP and Modi government are deploying IT officers to 50 different places and houses to create terror,” Reddy said.

Meanwhile, at the properties belonging to him and his son-in-law, the Income Tax department conducted raids at multiple locations including Reddy’s residence.

Reddy alleged that the Central Reserve Police Force also beat up his elder son, “My elder son is in pain due to the beatings of CRPF.”

Talking to the media Reddy said, “I am a TRS minister. They are doing this purposefully on KCR and our ministers.”

In connection with an alleged illegal mining case, the Enforcement Directorate raided the residence of Telangana minister Gangula Kamalakar on 9 November in Karimnagar.

“ED officials have checked everything and went through all the documents, we will let the agencies investigate. We are cooperating with the government,” Gangula Kamalakar said.

Moreover, after conducting investigations under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act 2002 (PMLA) FIR and charge sheet filed by Tamil Nadu Police.

However, the charge sheet was against the company for “Criminally conspiring and indulging in illegal granite mining activities leading to losses to the government and wrongful gain to themselves.”

Modi government seeks details of Gandhian clubs, institutes

November 17, 2022, 11:19 am

An official statement states that the Union government has asked ministries for details about how Gandhian institutes, clubs, and conference centres operate.

According to reports, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has started an urgent review of all clubs, conference centres, and events they host in the national Capital.

The PMO demanded a complete list of the events that will be held in these locations in 2022 that have received government funding or land on which to erect clubs in a communication that was sent by the country’s highest office to important officials, including the home secretary and cabinet secretary.

The authorities were given two days and instructed to submit an exhaustive list by Wednesday night, per the communication examined by HT.

The email from PMO’s deputy secretary Amarapali Kata sent on Monday evening said, “It is requested the information sought as attached me shared. Details related to the ministry/ institutions/ autonomous bodies of the ministry may be shared by 16 November, 5pm.’’

According to the PMO officer, there are three attachments: Delhi clubs, Delhi conference centres, and Gandhian institutes.

In the clubs’ attachment, it is asked “whether the land given on subsidised rates” and, if so, what the terms and circumstances are.

Regarding conference centres, the government also wanted to hear specifics about all events hosted this year and the amenities offered there.

The ministries that might be associated with the conference rooms are also listed in a separate column.

Similarly, the Gandhian institutes’ attachment demands the authorities to provide specifics about the kinds of courses the institution offers.

“We are likely to see 500 events from now till next year,’’ said an official, who didn’t want to be quoted, according to a report published in Hindustan Times.

“A bulk of them is in Delhi and so we will need a lot of spaces. There is work on since the past month and so this could be part of that”, he said.

Mamata says, no politics on Morbi bridge collapse, but attacks CBI, ED

November 2, 2022, 4:45 pm

Trinamool Congress leader and chief minister of Bengal Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday conveyed her shock and pain over the bridge collapse incident in Morbi, Gujarat, which lost at least 135 lives.

She said she would not indulge in “politics” over the issue as “people’s lives were more important”.

A Supreme Court-monitored judicial panel should be constituted to investigate the incident, according to Banerjee, who was addressing to reporters at the Kolkata airport before departing for Chennai to meet Tamil Nadu CM and DMK chief MK Stalin.

“I won’t comment on it as people’s lives are more important than politics. I express my condolences. Many have died and many are still missing. A judicial commission should be made under the SC to probe the Morbi incident,” she said.

Banerjee added that accountability issues needed to be resolved and questioned why central agencies like the Enforcement Directorate and the Central Bureau of Investigation were not pursuing criminal charges against those responsible for the disaster.

“Why’re the ED and CBI not taking action against criminals involved in the Morbi incident? They take action against only common people. Accountability should be fixed.”

She, however, refrained from criticising Prime Minister Narendra Modi for calling the collapse of a bridge on a key Kolkata road a “act of fraud” in 2016. “Since it is the Prime Minister’s (Narendra Modi) state, I won’t say anything about him. I will refrain from talking politics,” she said.

On October 30, a century-old suspension bridge in Morbi, Gujarat, collapsed, killing at least 135 people. Four of the nine individuals arrested thus far in the case have been transferred to police custody, while the remaining five have been placed in judicial custody until November 5.

‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’ will spread message of “ahimsa and swaraj”: Rahul Gandhi

October 2, 2022, 3:48 pm

On the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi’s 153rd birth anniversary, Congress Rahul Gandhi paid tribute to him on Sunday and said while it is convenient for those in power to appropriate the legacy of the “Father of the Nation”, it is difficult to walk in his footsteps.

Rahul Gandhi also said amid the politics of violence and lies, the Congress’s ongoing ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’ will spread a message of “ahimsa and ‘swaraj”.

Rahul Gandhi visited to Khadi Gramodyaga Kendra that Mahatma Gandhi had previously visited at Badanavalu, Karnataka, in 1927.

“We remember and pay our respects to that great son of India. Our remembering is made more poignant by the fact that we are on the 25th day of the Bharat Jodo Yatra, a padyatra in which we are walking his path of ahimsa, unity, equality and justice,” the former Congress leader said in a statement.

“Just as Gandhiji fought the British Raj, we … (have) embarked on a battle with the very ideology that killed Gandhi. This ideology has delivered inequality, divisiveness and the erosion of our hard-won freedoms in the past eight years. Against this politics of himsa (violence) and ‘asatya’ (lies), the Bharat Jodo Yatra will spread the message of Ahimsa and Swaraj from Kanyakumari to Kashmir,” he added.

The ideology that killed Gandhi, according to the former president of the Congress, has reflected in inequity, division, and the erosion of hard-won freedoms over the past eight years.

Rahul Gandhi attended a prayer meeting after presenting flowers to the Gandhi statue at Khadi Gramodyog earlier in the day.

“With Gandhi ‘topi’ on his head, Bapu’s values in his heart and intention to unite India, Rahul Gandhi along with other participants of Bharat Jodo Yatra visited Khadi Village Industries at Badnavalu in memory of Bapu on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti,” tweeted Congress.

Gandhi also interacted with women weavers, talked about their professional struggles and difficulties. He planted trees with the help of Bharat Yatris Khadi Garmodyog, Badanavalu.

As ‘Bharat Jodo’ enters Karnataka, rattled BJP gives front-page ad that distorts history: Jairam Ramesh

October 1, 2022, 12:01 pm

As Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatra entered the BJP-ruled state, according to Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Saturday, the BJP placed a front page advertisement in a Kannada newspaper. Ramesh said in a tweet, “The advertisement mischievously distorts history as usual. Savarkar propounded two-nation theory & Jinnah ensured it got done. Syama Prasad Mukherjee, founder of Jan Sangh championed partition of Bengal.” BJP is rattled by the yatra’s success, the Congress leader continued.

The Bharat Jodo Yatra of Rahul Gandhi entered the election-bound state of Karnataka on Friday. There, the yatra will travel 511 kilometres across seven districts in 21 days.

Rahul Gandhi remarked in a statement at the beginning of the march’s Kerala leg that the Bharat Jodo Yatra is the voice of the nation and that no one can stop it.

“Entire control is lying with the (Central) government. If we speak in Parliament, they shut our microphones,” Rahul Gandhi said.

A new Rahul Gandhi and a new Congress party have emerged from the Bharat Jodo Yatra which forced the BJP and the RSS on the backfoot, Jairam Ramesh said on Friday. “People asked who is ‘thodoing’ (breaking) Bharat for Congress to do Bharat Jodo, our answer is Mr Modi’s ideology, policies, personality is thodoing Bharat. Because economic inequality is increasing, social polarisation is increasing and political over-centralisation is increasing, the Congress is doing this yatra,” Jairam Ramesh said.

On PFI ban, Lalu Yadav says ‘RSS should be banned as well’

September 28, 2022, 3:11 pm

The national president of the Rashtriya Janta Dal (RJD) and a former chief minister of Bihar, Lalu Prasad Yadav, responded to the central government’s move to outlaw the Popular Front of India (PFI) by saying that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) should also be banned.

“PFI is being investigated. All organisations like PFI, including RSS, should be banned and an investigation should be done,” said Prasad after filing his nomination papers for the post of national president.

Prasad claimed that Muslim organisations were being targeted by the government.

First of all, ban the RSS. It is a worse organisation than that. If you get anything, then take action,” he said.

He attacked the Modi government, saying the situation in the country has become worse due to unemployment and inflation.

“Efforts are being made to spread bigotry. Such a government has to be overthrown,” he said.

The JD (U), a partner of the RJD alliance, also questioned the PFI ban.

Party leader Ghulam Rasool Balyawi said, “Today in the country, only one party is giving the certificate of loyalty and branding people as traitors.”

“Does anybody know the source of funding for RSS?” he asked.