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BJP-Ruled States Offer Job Reservations For Agniveers Amid Criticism Of Agnipath Scheme

July 27, 2024, 6:08 pm

As the BJP-led government faces criticism over the Agnipath scheme, several BJP-ruled states are stepping up to support it by offering job reservations for Agniveers (those who have served under the scheme) in state jobs.

Support from BJP-ruled States

मुख्यमंत्री श्री भजनलाल शर्मा ने कहा कि प्रधानमंत्री श्री नरेन्द्र मोदी की दृढ़ इच्छाशक्ति से देश की सेना को सशक्त बनाने का संकल्प अग्निपथ योजना के माध्यम से पूर्ण हो रहा है। उन्होंने कहा कि राजस्थान सरकार भी अग्निवीरों हेतु राज्य के पुलिस विभाग, जेल प्रहरी व वन रक्षक भर्ती में… pic.twitter.com/YuWrWcqFhK

— CMO Rajasthan (@RajCMO) July 27, 2024

Several states have announced reservations for Agniveers. Rajasthan will provide job reservations for Agniveers in the state police, jail guard, and forest guard positions. However, the exact percentage of reservation was not disclosed. Arunachal Pradesh will offer training to local youths for recruitment under Agnipath and give retired Agniveers preference in the state’s police, emergency, and fire services.

The Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh will facilitate training for local youths to prepare them for recruitment as Agniveers under the AGNIPATH Scheme.

Additionally, retired Agniveers from Arunachal Pradesh will be given preference in recruitment for the Arunachal Pradesh Police, AP… pic.twitter.com/yMmi5g8BMI

— Pema Khandu པདྨ་མཁའ་འགྲོ་། (@PemaKhanduBJP) July 26, 2024

Other States Announce Similar Measures

Earlier, BJP-led states such as Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha also announced reservations for Agniveers.

– Uttar Pradesh: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced that Agniveers will get priority for jobs in the police service and the Pradeshik Armed Constabulary (PAC).

अग्निवीर जब अपनी सेवा के बाद वापस आएंगे, उत्तर प्रदेश सरकार पुलिस सेवा में, पीएसी में इन नौजवानों को प्राथमिकता के आधार पर समायोजन की सुविधा देगी।

उनके लिए एक निश्चित आरक्षण की सुविधा उत्तर प्रदेश पुलिस में उपलब्ध कराएंगे… pic.twitter.com/7T5VorcpVa

— Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) July 26, 2024

– Madhya Pradesh: Chief Minister Mohan Yadav revealed that his government would provide reservations for Agniveers in police and armed forces recruitment.

आज कारगिल दिवस के अवसर पर हमारी सरकार ने निर्णय किया है कि यशस्वी प्रधानमंत्री श्री @narendramodi जी की मंशानुसार अग्निवीर जवानों को पुलिस एवं सशस्त्र बलों की भर्ती में आरक्षण दिया जाएगा। #KargilVijayDiwas #DrMohanYadav #CMMadhyaPradesh pic.twitter.com/HSrT2Qkyvg

— Dr Mohan Yadav (@DrMohanYadav51) July 26, 2024

– Uttarakhand: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami pledged to create provisions for Agniveers in government services, emphasizing the use of their skills and discipline.

आदरणीय प्रधानमंत्री जी आपकी दृढ़ इच्छाशक्ति से ही देश की सेना को सशक्त बनाने का संकल्प अग्निपथ योजना के माध्यम से पूर्ण हो रहा है। आपके कुशल नेतृत्व में केंद्र सरकार द्वारा सदैव राष्ट्र प्रथम की भावना से निर्णय लिए गए हैं और अग्निपथ योजना इसका प्रमुख उदाहरण है।

प्रदेश सरकार भी… https://t.co/Zaxy4QHHfa

— Pushkar Singh Dhami (@pushkardhami) July 26, 2024

– Odisha: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced a 10% quota and a five-year age relaxation for Agniveers in uniformed services.

Haryana has also joined in, offering 10% reservation for Agniveers in various state positions.

Central Government’s Support

The Home Ministry has announced a 10% reservation and a three-year age relaxation for Agniveers in the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and Assam Rifles. Union Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed these changes, adding that the first batch of Agniveers would receive a five-year age relaxation.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) decides to reserve 10% vacancies for recruitment in CAPFs and Assam Rifles for Agniveers.

— गृहमंत्री कार्यालय, HMO India (@HMOIndia) June 18, 2022

Opposition Criticism

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has vowed to cancel the Agnipath scheme within 24 hours if his party comes to power. He criticized the scheme for compromising national security and the future of soldiers.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor also criticized the scheme, arguing that it undermines the quality of military training by allowing soldiers to serve for only 3-4 years after just six months of training.

सत्ता में आते ही 24 घंटे में रद्द होगी, देश के सुरक्षा से समझौता करनेवाली और सैनिकों के भविष्य से खिलवाड़ करनेवाली अल्पकालिक ‘अग्निवीर’ सैन्य भर्ती।

‘अग्निवीर’ पर यही माँग हमारी
पुरानी भर्ती की फिर हो बहाली pic.twitter.com/UiETODhWiH

— Akhilesh Yadav (@yadavakhilesh) July 27, 2024

PM Modi’s Defense

Prime Minister Narendra Modi defended the Agnipath scheme during the Kargil Vijay Diwas celebrations, describing it as a necessary reform to keep the military youthful and fit for war. He dismissed claims that the scheme was designed to cut pension costs and emphasized that the goal is to address the aging issue within the Indian armed forces.

#WATCH | On the Agnipath scheme, PM Narendra Modi says, “I don’t know what has happened to the thinking of some people. They are spreading the misconception that the government has come up with this scheme to save pension money… For today’s recruits, the question of pension… pic.twitter.com/vnEWy2YhDC

— ANI (@ANI) July 26, 2024

Explore Uttar Pradesh: 7 Unique GI-Tagged Treasures to Bring Home

July 13, 2024, 5:26 pm

Uttar Pradesh is a colorful mix of cultures and traditions. When you visit this amazing state, you can find special GI-tagged products that show its rich heritage. These items not only reflect local craftsmanship but also help support the artisans who make them. Here are seven unique products to consider bringing home from Uttar Pradesh.

1. Amrona Dholak

The Amrona Dholak is a traditional drum from Amroha. Made from mango and sheesham wood, and covered with goat skin, it produces a unique sound that is important in folk music. Skilled artisans create these drums, making each one a piece of local art.

2. Mahoba Gaura Patthar Hastashlip

In Gaurahari village, artisans create sculptures from Gaura Patthar, a beautiful white stone. The process involves careful carving and polishing, resulting in stunning art pieces that represent the region’s culture. These sculptures are perfect for decoration.

3. Mainpuri Tarkashi

The Mainpuri Tarkashi technique involves inlaying brass, copper, and silver wires into wooden items. This detailed work produces beautiful jewelry boxes and decorations, showcasing traditional artistry. Each piece is unique and adds a special touch to any home.

4. Sambhal Horn Craft

Sambhal Horn Craft uses materials from deceased animals to create various handicrafts. Artisans skillfully turn horn into beautiful decorative items and jewelry, featuring intricate designs. This craft is eco-friendly and highlights the creativity of local artists.

5. Baghpat Home Furnishings

Baghpat is known for its handwoven home textiles, like curtains, table covers, and bed linens. The area’s rich agriculture supports a busy textile industry, where artisans make high-quality, attractive products. Each item tells a story of tradition and craftsmanship.

6. Barabanki Handloom Products

With a long history of weaving, Barabanki produces comfortable and durable handloom fabrics. Skilled weavers create beautiful cotton clothing that blends modern style with traditional techniques. This craft helps support local livelihoods and keeps cultural traditions alive.

7. Kalpi Handmade Paper

Kalpi is famous for its handmade paper, made using traditional methods that focus on sustainability. This versatile paper is great for art projects and stationery. The revival of this craft has made Kalpi a creative center, showing the importance of keeping traditional practices alive.

Why Is Bhole Baba Not in Police custody?

July 4, 2024, 6:09 pm

The Uttar Pradesh police on Thursday announced their first arrests in the stampede that occurred at the Hathras religious event. Of those arrested, six were taken into custody; however, one significant person was left out: Bhole Baba, also known as Narayan Saakar Hari, the self-styled godman, in whose honor the ‘satsang’ was held.

The officer stated, “We will make arrests based on what the investigation reveals…,” hinting that they would not rule out placing Pal under arrest. Although it’s too soon to declare or speculate on the baba’s involvement, we will investigate him if needed. The FIR, which has held the organizers accountable, does not include his name. Members of the panel have been arrested, and the organizing group obtained authorization.”

The official stated that the permit was obtained under the name of Ved Prakash Madhukar and that teams have been assigned to find him. They also declared that information leading to his arrest would earn a prize of ₹ 1 lakh.

In response to a question concerning the other charges against the “godman,” who has reportedly also been accused of sexual assault, the officer stated that, as far as they are aware, Pal was a head constable with the UP police and had accepted voluntary retirement from service in 2000 while serving in Agra.

Hathras Stampede: Noida Woman Loses Mother In Surge Of Opposing Crowds

July 4, 2024, 12:03 pm

Kamlesh a lady from Noida with her mother Premvati had gone to Hathras satsang where she lost her mother in the worst stampede ever.

Just when the satsang got over Kamlesh and Premvati got up to exit the tents there was a huge crowd running towards the exit and suddenly another group started running towards them to get Babs’s “dust of feet” from the stage as the consider it very powerful. All this created a panic as both groups were pushing each other which lead to a stampede.

In this running crowd Kamlesh got seprated from her mother, anyhow Kamlesh managed to exit the tent but her mother couldn’t make it. “I survived, but died a hundred times seeing my mother get crushed by the crowd” Kamlesh said at her house in Dadri.

She also added “Everyone just ran to get out of the tent. Several people had fallen on my mother, i couldn’t even see her. For more than Half a hour she was entrapped.

Police Probe Into Hathras Stampede Finds Serious Lapse

July 3, 2024, 11:54 am

Several flaws were discovered in the way the entire religious celebration in Hathras was planned, resulting in the terrible stampede that killed 121 people and injured several others on Tuesday. From no entry-exit points to a lack of emergency routes, Uttar Pradesh Police sources have identified serious blunders that contributed to the disaster, even as VVIP arrangements were made for religious preacher ‘Bhole Baba’.

According to the permission and the norms a gathering of 80,000 people should have different entry-exit points which was not followed at this event, even there were no entry exits found. At such a large gathering there was no medical team at the spot nor there were enough fans amid such hot and humid weather.

Also there was no barricading near the cavalcade of Baba because of which started running trying to get close to Baba.

According to police sources, the organisers failed to disclose the specific facts in their request for approval from the administration. According to insiders, the investigations thus far have revealed extreme carelessness in the manner in which approvals were granted by both the administration and the organisers.

A search operation was carried out at Ram Kutir Charitable Trust in Mainpuri district to find Baba Narayan Hari, also known as Saakar Vishwa Hari Bhole Baba. ‘We were unable to locate Baba ji on campus. He’s not here.’ Deputy Superintendent of Police Sunil Kumar said.

“BJP Is Winning 80 Out Of 80 Seats…” Says UP Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak

May 24, 2024, 2:32 pm

As the 2024 Lok Sabha elections enter its final phase, Deputy CM of Uttar Pradesh Brajesh Pathak said that BJP will win all 80 seats in Uttar Pradesh.

Expressing confidence in his party’s victory, Pathak said on Friday, “The elections are in the final phase. BJP is winning all the seats in the final phase. Voting for the sixth phase will happen tomorrow. BJP will win all the seats in the seventh phase as well. BJP is winning 80 out of 80 seats.”

Till now, voting has been completed up to the fifth phase. The sixth phase, covering 14 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh, is scheduled to be held on May 25.

In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerged as the winner by securing the majority of seats. Of 80 seats, the BJP won 62, followed by the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) with 10 seats, the Samajwadi Party (SP) with 5 seats, and the Apna Dal with 2 seats.

Uttar Pradesh sends the maximum number of MPs,80, to Parliament is voting in all seven phases. The result will be out on 4 June.

Earlier, in a fierce attack on the Opposition, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath said on Thursday that Congress and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) want to bring ‘Taliban rule’ in the country.

Yogi Adityanath made these remarks during an election rally at Motihari, supporting former Union Minister Radha Mohan Singh, the party candidate for the East Champaran Lok Sabha seat.

Cautioning people against the opposition’s agenda, CM Yogi said, “Under such a regime, daughters would be deprived of education, women would be restricted from going to markets, and they would be forced to wear burqas.”
“The INDI alliance’s manifesto includes a provision for granting Muslims the freedom to choose their food and drink, implying that it seeks to allow Muslims to consume beef. This would provoke anger among Hindus, who revere the cow as a sacred entity,” he added.

IMD Alerts Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, MP, and Rajasthan for Rainfall and Thunderstorms

April 14, 2024, 7:39 pm

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a warning about a current spell of rainfall accompanied by moderate thunderstorms expected across regions including Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, western Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan on April 14th.

According to the weather department on the social media platform X, it was forecasted that thunderstorms, accompanied by light to moderate intensity rain and gusty winds with speeds ranging from 30-50 Km/h, are expected to affect isolated areas, including Delhi, NCR (Bahadurgarh, Noida, Greater Noida, Gurugram, Manesar), and Meham, and their adjoining regions.

The weather department tweeted, “Ongoing rainfall spell with moderate thunderstorms, lightning, gusty winds and hail over Northwest India is likely to continue during next 48 hours and abate thereafter.”

Ongoing rainfall spell with moderate thunderstorms, lightning, gusty winds & hail over Northwest India likely to continue during next 48 hours and abate thereafter. pic.twitter.com/PdNUE3ONPg

— India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) April 14, 2024

The IMD additionally forecasted isolated hailstorms in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand on April 14th and 15th.

In another tweet, the IMD mentioned the likelihood of hailstorms occurring at isolated locations in Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim on April 16th.

According to the IMD, an intense western disturbance, manifested as a cyclonic circulation, is situated over northeast Iran, accompanied by an embedded trough in the middle and upper tropospheric westerlies, extending approximately along Long. 55°E to the north of Lat. 26°N. This disturbance has induced a low-pressure area over southwest Rajasthan.

A cyclonic circulation is present over northeast Rajasthan, along with an east-west trough extending from this circulation to Gangetic West Bengal across south Uttar Pradesh, south Bihar, and north Jharkhand in the lower tropospheric levels. Additionally, there is a likelihood of high moisture feeding from the Arabian Sea into Northwest India on April 14th and 15th, as per the IMD.

IMD reported that a new Western disturbance is expected to impact Northwest India on April 18. Under the influence of these weather systems, widespread light to moderate rainfall/snowfall with thunderstorm, lightning, and gusty winds (30-40 kmph) are likely over Jammu-Kashmir-Ladakh-Gilgit-BaltistanMuzaffarabad, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand on April 14 and 15, 2024. Moreover, scattered to fairly widespread rainfall with thunderstorm, lightning, and gusty winds (30-40 kmph) is expected over West Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana-Chandigarh-Delhi, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh on April 14 and 15, 2024.

The IMD predicts that isolated hailstorms are highly likely over Jammu Division, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand on April 14th and 15th, as well as over Punjab, Haryana-Chandigarh-Delhi, West Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh on April 14th, 2024.

Isolated heavy rainfall/snowfall is highly probable over Jammu-Kashmir-Ladakh-GilgitBaltistan-Muzaffarabad and Himachal Pradesh on April 14th and 15th, 2024. Furthermore, strong surface winds (30-40 kmph) are expected to prevail over Haryana, Chandigarh, and Uttar Pradesh on April 16th and 17th, 2024.

In the previous month, the IMD issued a hailstorm alert and predicted the possibility of rainfall in isolated areas of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

Five Youngsters Drown in Uttar Pradesh Canal Tragedy

April 13, 2024, 2:39 pm

In Uttar Pradesh’s Kasganj, five young individuals perished in a canal, according to police reports on Saturday. The victims, named Shahid, Abhishek, Salman, Asif, and Jahid, ranged in age from 16 to 22 and were all from the Etah district.

The police reported that the tragedy occurred when nine youths went for a swim in the Hazara canal in Nadrai area on Friday. They unexpectedly slipped into deeper waters and began to drown because of the strong current. While four managed to escape, the others were not so fortunate. The screams alerted nearby locals who then notified the authorities.

Subsequently, local police and SDRF teams initiated a rescue operation, recovering two bodies on Friday. The operation resumed on Saturday, resulting in the retrieval of three additional bodies, which were then sent for post-mortem examination. SHO Kotwali Ramvakeel Singh verified the occurrence on Saturday, and the police continued their investigation into the incident.

No Negligence in Addressing People’s Concerns, CM Yogi says To Officials

March 9, 2024, 1:42 pm

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath cautioned officials against any complacency or negligence in addressing people’s concerns, emphasizing that resolving these issues promptly, transparently, and satisfactorily is his government’s top priority, as per an official statement on Saturday.

CM Yogi conveyed these instructions to officials while listening to the grievances of approximately 500 individuals during the Janata Darshan held outside Mahant Digvijaynath Smriti Bhawan in the Gorakhnath temple complex.

Referring the people’s applications to the relevant authorities, he urged for the swift resolution of all their concerns, assuring them of fairness and justice under his administration.

Additionally, CM Yogi instructed officials to take stringent legal action against those harassing the impoverished and illegally encroaching on land, as per the release.

For those seeking financial assistance for medical treatment, CM Yogi assured the government’s full support, directing officials to expedite the cost estimation process and submit it promptly.

He also instructed officials to handle revenue and police-related matters with transparency and impartiality, stressing zero tolerance for injustice and the importance of providing compassionate assistance to all affected individuals, according to the release.

UP: Fire Breaks Out in RRTS station which was under construction in Meerut

February 28, 2024, 5:25 pm

A massive fire broke out on Wednesday, in RRTS station that was still under-construction, under Pallavpuram Police Station limits in Meerut.

Visuals taken from the location showed flames engulfing the RRTS project’s under-construction area.

To put out the fire, the fire tenders could be seen arranging to go to the top of the platform.

The construction of the Delhi-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) aims to enable seamless transportation between the two cities.

The Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) was introduced in the nation last October when Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the RapidX train that connected Sahibabad to Duhai Depot and opened the priority section of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS Corridor at Sahibabad RapidX Station in Uttar Pradesh.

The National Capital Region (NCR) will be connected by the Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), a high-speed, high-frequency rail-based regional commuter transit system.

By providing better access, addressing issues of social and economic exclusion, and encouraging balanced and sustainable economic development in the National Capital Region, it seeks to empower citizens.

IPS Prashant Kumar appointed as acting DGP of Uttar Pradesh

January 31, 2024, 1:42 pm

Prashant Kumar has been named the acting Director General of Police for Uttar Pradesh, succeeding the outgoing acting DGP, Vijay Kumar, who is retiring today. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended his congratulations to Kumar, recognizing his appointment. Kumar, a 1990 batch IPS officer, previously held the position of Director General, Law and Order in Uttar Pradesh, notably during the Ayodhya Ram Temple Pran Pratishtha.

Over the course of his career, Prashant Kumar has consistently demonstrated dedication and commitment to his duties, earning acclaim and awards from various organizations such as the CISF, ITBP, and UP Police. His notable achievements include being awarded the DG CISF DISC in 2011, as well as receiving Silver and Gold Disc commendations from DGs ITBP. The UP Police DGs have also honored him with several accolades, including Silver, Gold, and Platinum Disc awards. Among his prestigious recognitions are the CMOS Service Police Medal and the Kumbh Seva Medal. Additionally, he was honored with the 1st and 2nd Bars to PMG awards in 2021 and 2022.

However, the appointment of Prashant Kumar as the acting DGP has faced criticism from the Samajwadi Party. The party has raised concerns about the recurring practice of appointing acting DGPs in Uttar Pradesh, with Akhilesh Yadav expressing skepticism. In a post on X, Yadav questioned whether the repeated appointments of acting DGPs were a result of conflicts between Delhi and Lucknow or due to a perceived nexus between the government and criminals.

Dense fog envelopes Delhi-NCR

January 31, 2024, 8:04 am

Wednesday morning witnessed Delhi-NCR enveloped in a thick layer of fog, causing visibility challenges and adding to the difficulties faced by commuters in the bone-chilling winter. Responding to the situation, Delhi Airport issued a passenger advisory, stating, “While landing and takeoffs continue at Delhi Airport, flights that are not CAT III compliant may get affected. Passengers are requested to contact the airline concerned for updated flight information. Any inconvenience caused is deeply regretted.”

Images from various locations in Delhi depicted people gathering around bonfires to combat the cold. A resident in the Red Fort area, speaking to ANI, highlighted the hardships faced by individuals due to delayed buses and, in some areas, the unavailability of public vehicles in the freezing weather.

The previous day, Tuesday, witnessed a similar scenario as dense fog covered the national capital and extensive regions of North India, significantly impacting visibility and disrupting flight and train services. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) reported very dense fog in isolated pockets of Punjab, Haryana, Northwest Rajasthan, and eastern Uttar Pradesh.

Meanwhile, flight operations were remained also disrupted at the Delhi airport on account of the thick fog across the national capital on Tuesday morning.

#WATCH | Flight operations affected as a thick layer of fog grips the national capital.

(Visuals from the airport area) pic.twitter.com/wez0ssOxLP

— ANI (@ANI) January 31, 2024

PM Modi Set to Address Ram Temple Consecration from ‘Singh Dwar’

December 28, 2023, 11:50 am

As the historic consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya approaches, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address attendees at the grand event from the ‘Singh Dwar,’ the primary entrance to the temple, according to official sources on Thursday. The consecration ceremony, scheduled for January 22, will witness the Prime Minister inaugurating the grand temple and opening its gates to the public.

With lakhs of devotees expected to converge in Ayodhya for the momentous occasion, preparations are in full swing. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust, responsible for the construction and management of the temple, is convening a crucial meeting today. Discussions will revolve around the installation of the idol of Lord Ram inside the sanctum sanctorum during the consecration ceremony.

The meeting will delve into the intricate details of the consecration ceremony’s preparations, including the selection of the idol of Ram Lalla. Trust secretary Champat Rai revealed earlier that a 51-inch tall idol of Lord Ram, resembling a five-year-old Ram Lalla, will be chosen from three designs based on divineness and a child-like appearance.

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, partaking in a cleanliness campaign in Ayodhya, emphasized the collective effort to maintain the cleanliness of the revered city ahead of the grand event. The campaign, themed “Swachh Rahe Shri Ram Ka Dham” (Lord Ram’s place should be cleaned), aims to ensure the pristine surroundings of Ayodhya.

In a briefing, trust secretary Champat Rai outlined the monumental construction of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple. He detailed the utilization of 21-22 lakh cubic feet of stone in the entire structure, emphasizing its unprecedented scale in North and South India over the past 100-200 years. The temple’s foundation comprises a 56-layered artificial rock, while the plinth incorporates 17,000 granite blocks. The temple structure features five lakh cubic feet of pink-coloured sandstone from Bharatpur, Rajasthan, and the sanctum sanctorum is crafted from pure white Makrana marble.

Adding to the significance of the Prime Minister’s visit, Narendra Modi is expected to arrive in Ayodhya on Saturday to inaugurate the revamped Ayodhya airport and railway station, designed in alignment with the temple’s architecture. The city is buzzing with anticipation as it prepares to witness this historic moment.

CBI to quiz officials of West UP sugar mill, bank officials

December 27, 2023, 4:35 am

In the politically-active sugar belt of western Uttar Pradesh, Simbhaoli Sugars’ alleged financial wrongdoings have come under the CBI scanner with the federal probe agency preparing a list of officials of the company and different banks whom it plans to question over a fraud involving Rs 1,300 crore, including Rs 900 crore principle amount and Rs 400 crore interest.

The debt-ridden mill, whose cane purchases from farmers in Western Uttar Pradesh are considered critical for keeping the local economy moving and countering farm distress, is believed to have colluded with top bank officials to swindle the public money.
The probe into the scam, which has shown signs of possible money laundering, is also likely to shed light on the politician-industrialist nexus due to which a company in default continued to get loan after loan and cheat cane farmers whose dues were never cleared in total.

Farm leaders and politicians have always made unpaid dues of cane growers an election plank ahead of elections in the state. Sugarcane hub Shamli is the leading cane producing district in the state, with 843 quintal per hectare production. Meerut and Muzaffarnagar have 832 and 828.5 quintal per hectare yield respectively.
A senior CBI official hinted that investigators will also look into the specific roles of bank officials who facilitated loans for the company without any guarantee.
The scam spanning across two decades, starting 2003, revolves around the company siphoning off loan money amounting up to Rs 1,000 crore. The banks from which the company took loans include SBI, UCO, Punjab National, ICICI, Oriental Bank of Commerce, BOI and BOB.

An initial complaint against the company indicated that some bank officials first gave unsecured loans to the company, knowing very well that it would never be able to repay the loan, and later helped the debt-ridden firm get more loans from other banks.
CBI investigators said that their probe into the case will look to find the money trail and the route through which bank loans were either siphoned off or parked in save havens or sister concerns.

While hearing a related matter, the Allahabad High Court also criticised Uttar Pradesh’s commissioner, cane and sugar, for allowing the company to purchase cane from farmers despite the fact that the company had not cleared Rs 279-crore dues of farmers related to the 2022-23 season.

The court expressed shock and surprise that the banks had advanced hundreds of crores of rupees to the petitioner company knowing the fact that the firm had already defaulted with the loans taken by other banks previously and been declared NPA, still the banks went ahead and approved loans running into several hundred crores and the entire loan was disbursed without following the mandatory steps/procedures, which banks are supposed to take before disbursing the loan.

Dense to very dense fog likely in UP today: IMD

December 27, 2023, 2:14 am

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said that dense to very dense fog (visibility 50-200 meters) is likely at some pockets over Uttar Pradesh during December 26 and 27.
According to the IMD, dense fog is likely to continue over the northwest and parts of adjoining central India during the next three to four days.
“Dense to very dense fog is likely to continue over Northwest & parts of adjoining Central India during next 3-4 days,” the IMD said in a post on X.

Meanwhile, as the winter chill continues to grip parts of North India, tourists in UP’s Agra faced difficulties on their visit to the historical monument Taj Mahal as the city on Tuesday morning was engulfed by a dense layer of fog, significantly affecting visibility.
As per the IMD data, the minimum temperatures over most parts of Punjab, Haryana-Chandigarh-Delhi, and West Uttar Pradesh stand in the range of 6-10 degrees while most parts of Rajasthan, East UP, Madhya Pradesh and some parts of north Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand stand in the range of 11-12 degrees.

Minimum temperatures are normal or above normal over most parts of the country, according to the IMD data.
The IMD released satellite images on Tuesday morning showing a layer of fog spreading over Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.
Delhi-NCR region woke up to dense fog on Tuesday, with a temperature as low as 7 degrees.

Visuals from Delhi’s India Gate, Sarai Kale Khan, AIIMS, Safdarjung, and Anand Vihar area showed thick fog hovering over the region with visibility almost zero.
The visibility due to the dense layered fog was so low that tourists faced difficulties in capturing the Taj Mahal from the Royal gate as well as the Lady Diana Bench.
Other parts of North India too experienced winter chills on Tuesday morning, as cities such as Prayagraj, Ghaziabad and Meerut in Uttar Pradesh and Moga in Punjab faced cold waves, engulfed in dense fog. The temperature in Prayagraj
on Tuesday at 8:30 am was recorded at 12.4 degrees Celsius, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Due to the cold wave in the city, people gathered around bonfires for warmth on the streets. The Moga city in Punjab also witnessed conditions of almost zero visibility as dense fog engulfed the city and the temperature dipped further.
The IMD released satellite images on Tuesday morning showing a layer of fog spreading over Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.
Meanwhile, the Delhi airport experienced delays in both arrivals and departures for about 30 flights, including international, due to dense fog, as per the Delhi Airport Flight Information Display System data on Tuesday morning.

The IMD also warned of possible health impacts on people due to the dense fog in the national capital.
“Dense fog contains particulate matter and other pollutants and in case exposed it gets lodged in the lungs, clogging them and decreasing their functional capacity which increases episodes of wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath,” IMD said in a release on Monday.
The IMD release further stated that the fog conditions may tend to irritate the membranes of the eye causing various infections leading to redness or swelling of the eye.

North India’s Deep Freeze: Dense Fog Causes Disruptions in Uttar Pradesh

December 23, 2023, 11:43 am

The icy grip of winter tightened its hold on Uttar Pradesh this Saturday, as Noida, Aligarh, and Ghaziabad were shrouded in dense fog, causing a further drop in mercury levels. Locals were spotted gathering around bonfires on the streets to seek respite from the chilling temperatures.

Simultaneously, the national capital experienced a drop in temperature, with Palam registering a minimum of 14°C, while Safdarjung recorded 12.2°C on Saturday. Residents engaging in cycling or morning walks expressed the severity of the cold, stating that the mercury plummeted significantly in the early hours.

“The extreme cold is making morning strolls more challenging for us. The combination of fog and pollution is exacerbating the difficulties faced by commuters and walkers. We find ourselves stepping outdoors wearing masks to counter health issues arising from pollution,” remarked a local to ANI on Saturday.

According to SAFAR-India (System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi was classified as ‘Very Poor’ at 8:07 am on Saturday. The foggy conditions and heightened pollution levels are posing health concerns for the residents.

In response to the prevailing weather conditions, the national weather forecasting agency has predicted a 2-3 degrees Celsius increase in the minimum temperature across North India in the next three days. As winter intensifies, residents are advised to take necessary precautions to cope with the challenging weather conditions.

Six Killed in Muzaffarnagar as Car Rams Into Truck in UP

November 14, 2023, 11:43 am

In a tragic incident on Tuesday morning, six individuals lost their lives when their car collided with a parked truck on National Highway 58. The victims, identified as Shivam, Parsh, Kunal, Dheeraj, Vishal, and another resident of Shahdara, Delhi, were en route to Haridwar at the time of the accident.

The collision occurred at Rampur Tiraha in Muzaffarnagar around 4:00 a.m. Emergency response teams, including police and rescue workers, swiftly reached the scene to extract the deceased bodies trapped under the truck, deploying a crane for assistance.

Vinay Gautam, CO Sadar, reported, “We received information about an accident on Shahpur Cut, NH-58. All six deceased were residents of Shahdara, Delhi. The police have notified the relatives and sent the bodies for a post-mortem. The damaged vehicles were cleared from the spot, restoring smooth traffic flow. The current law and order situation at the scene is normal.”

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives in the road accident. The Chief Minister conveyed condolences to the bereaved family, urging district administration officials to promptly transport the injured to hospitals and ensure they receive appropriate treatment.

UP: ‘Kanya Poojan’ to be performed by CM Yogi at Gorakhnath Temple

October 23, 2023, 12:56 pm

Yogi Adityanath, the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, did a ‘Kanya Poojan’ on Monday at the Gorakhnath Temple.
The Maha Navami holiday is observed on the ninth day of Navratri. On this day, Maa Siddhidatri is worshipped by Maa Durga devotees.
Hindu legend states that on this day, Maa Durga slew the buffalo demon Mahishasura.

It is thought that Maa Siddhidatri bestows knowledge on her followers in exchange for removing their ignorance. She also supervises the planet Ketu, giving it direction and vitality.

On Navami, devotees engage in a variety of ceremonies.

On this day, many people engage in Kanjak or Kanya Puja. Many homes worship young, single girls who have not reached puberty as Durga. As their feet are cleansed and prasad is provided, they are invited to homes.

Some devotees take baths in holy rivers, others also perform Sandhi Puja and offer 108 flowers and bilva leaves to Goddess Durga.
Navami is followed by Dussehra, which marks the celebration of good over evil.

UP CM Yogi at Janata Darshan in Gorakhpur

September 18, 2023, 3:24 pm

On Monday, Yogi Adityanath, the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, held a Janata Darshan in front of the Mahant Digvijaynath Smriti Bhawan at Gorakhnath Temple and listened attentively to the complaints of almost 200 people from different districts.

Instructing the relevant authorities to address public issues with the utmost seriousness and sensitivity as well as to take stern legal action against those who illegally intrude on people’s land and attempt to damage or destroy the vulnerable, CM Yogi forwarded the prayer letters to them.

Yogi Adityanath has issued directives to guarantee that no one suffers and to ensure that all needy and qualified people receive benefits from government social programs.
CM Yogi instructed authorities to speed the process of estimating the cost of treatment for applications seeking financial aid for the treatment of critical diseases and make it accessible to the government as soon as possible so that the necessary money can be granted as soon as feasible.

The persons occupying the seats were approached by CM Yogi, who assured them that he would see to it that all of their problems were resolved.
He continued by saying that the government stands behind the poor and that there is always money available to treat the poor.

CM Yogi states, Uttar Pradesh has a great business climate

September 15, 2023, 5:06 pm

Yogi Adityanath, the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, stated on Friday that his state is tirelessly trying to serve as India’s growth engine. In a real sense, UP is now an essential component in India’s growth process.

The Chief Minister stated, “Uttar Pradesh offers an excellent environment for investment,” while speaking at a summit held by the Indian Steel Association at a hotel in Lucknow.

He gave investors the reassurance that the government of Uttar Pradesh assures the protection of their investments and is prepared to offer any sort of assistance.
The Uttar Pradesh law and order situation has significantly improved over the last six years, according to the Chief Minister.

According to Yogi Adityanath, there aren’t any riots or other disturbances now when the state celebrates holidays or other occasions. He said that VVIP visits are carried out in a very secure and tranquil manner.

Yogi Adityanath, the chief minister, also emphasized the smooth operation of the 2019 Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, which hosted 24 crore Hindus without any instances of disturbance. He noted that Uttar Pradesh has significantly increased its business friendliness.

Yogi stated that Uttar Pradesh now has improved air connectivity, stating that there were just two operational airports in the state prior to 2017. Nine airports are now in full operation, including three international airports. Ten additional airports will be open by the end of the year, including brand-new international airports in Ayodhya and Jewar.

Fire breaks out in UP plywood factory, 3 injured

August 16, 2023, 5:06 pm

According to authorities, a fire that started in a plywood factory in Lucknow resulted in burn injuries for three firefighters. Additionally on Monday morning, a private business in Sector 88 of Noida caught fire. Chief Fire Officer (CFO) Pradeep Kumar reported that the fire was put out with no casualties.

As soon as the fire department received the information, the fire brigade immediately reached the spot and doused the fire, he said.
According to a preliminary probe, the fire ignited from the transformer outside the company.

Jugal Kishore Tiwari, a deputy inspector general, visited the hospital where the hurt firefighters were being treated and asked how they were doing. The cause of the fire is being determined in the interim. We are anticipating more details.

Supreme Court urges Railways to maintain status quo in Mathura

August 16, 2023, 4:34 pm

On 16 August, the Supreme Court of India directed to maintain the status quo till any further orders on the demolition drive of reported advances on railway land near the Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi in Uttar Pradesh’s Mathura.

A bench of Justices Aniruddha Bose, Sanjay Kumar, and SVN Bhatti issued the order granting interim relief to the petitioner till further order. The court also passed notice to the respondents in the matter.

Senior Advocate Prashanto Chandra Sen, who appeared for the petitioner, said that the authorities started demolition on 9 August, and people have been residing there since the 1800s. Petitioners were represented by advocates Radha Tarkar and Aaron Shaw.

One petitioner filed a civil suit before the Civil Court Senior Division, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, asking for a permanent injunction against the railway authority, but meanwhile, the demolition work continued on 9 August.

According to the petitioner, they have approached the Civil Court as well as the High Court, but all the courts are closed and they could not put forward their issue. Taking advantage of this situation, the Railway Authority has started the process of demolishing the house of the petitioners in the most arbitrary manner, the petitioner claimed.

The petitioner has tried their best to stop the demolition but everything went in vain and now they are compelled to approach the top court and urge the apex court to issue a direction to stop the demolition where they have been staying since 1880.

Man shoots girl before killing himself in UP’s Rampur

July 16, 2023, 10:43 am

According to police, a guy shot and killed a girl before killing himself in the Rampur district’s Kotwali area.
The incident occurred on Saturday night, and preliminary inquiry revealed that the male was having an affair with the deceased girl, according to the police. Taiba, the deceased girl, and Talib, the deceased man have been identified. They were both neighbors in the Kotwali neighborhood. “Talib fired at Taiba’s forehead with his pistol before shooting himself dead. An argument had erupted between them before Talib fired at her. The deceased girl’s family members say that she was in a love relationship with Talib,” Rampur Superintendent of Police (SP) Ashok Kumar Shukla said.
The police officer said that the mobile phones of the deceased will be examined as part of the investigation to ascertain what led the incident. The police will also scrutinise the footage of CCTVs installed in the area where the crime has happened.

CBI arrests 2 persons, including passport assistant in UP’s Muzaffarnagar for accepting bribe

July 10, 2023, 9:58 am

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) announced on Monday that it had detained two people, including a passport assistant working at the Passport Seva Kendra in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, on suspicion of soliciting bribes in exchange for passport issuance. The arrested persons were identified as Ankush Kumar, an assistant at Passport Seva Kendra in Muzaffarnagar and Farhan, a private person. On July 4, Abhishek Kumar, a resident of Mirzatilla in Muzaffarnagar, filed a complaint with CBI that he had applied online for a passport on May 1 at the passport office in Muzaffarnagar. He got the appointment date and submitted his documents and completed other formalities on June 19.
“On July 3, when I went to the above office to inquire about my passport, Ankush and Farhan demanded a bribe of rupees 5000 and told me that I will get my passport at home in 10 days, otherwise the file will be stuck. I have already deposited my passport fee so did not want to pay the bribe,” the complainant said.
Passport Seva Kendra in Muzaffarnagar is an extension desk of the passport office in Ghaziabad.
The CBI laid a trap and nabbed the accused while accepting the bribe of Rs 5,000, the official said. The official stated that searches had been done at the accused’s residence.

UP: A lightning strike in Mainpuri resulted in 3 deaths and 3 injuries

July 9, 2023, 10:57 am

Three persons, including a woman, were killed while three others were injured after being struck by lightning in separate incidents in Uttar Pradesh’s Mainpuri district, officials said on Sunday.
Officials said that the incidents of lightning occurred on Saturday. “Three persons including a woman were killed, and three others were injured in the incidents. The injured are undergoing treatment,” Ramji Mishra, Additional District Magistrate, Mainpuri exclaimed.

He further stated that each of the deceased’s kin would receive an ex-gratia payment of Rs. 4 lakh. Earlier on Tuesday, lightning struck the Azamgarh district of the state, killing six people and injuring one child. Yogi Adityanath, the chief minister, expressed sorrow over the fatalities brought on by lightning strikes in the districts of Azamgarh and Ghazipur.

Education as tool for emotion understanding: CM Yogi

May 30, 2023, 5:03 pm

During an interaction with students from Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) Palakkad, Kerala and Lakshadweep, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed that education serves as a pathway to comprehend emotions.

As many as 45 students from the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) Palakkad, Kerala, and Lakshadweep met CM Yogi Adityanath for the ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat Yuva Sangam’ at his official residence, 5 Kalidas Marg.

According to an official statement, out of the total 45 students present, 10 of them hail from Lakshadweep while the remaining 35 are from Kerala. The statement further mentioned that among the attendees, there were 25 boys and 20 girls.

During his interaction with students, CM Yogi addressed all the concerns of students and said that with the inspiration of PM Modi, the Ministry of Education has started this novel experiment. “Shankaracharya, who is also from Kerala, where you are from, arrived here many years ago and established four ‘maths’,” said CM Yogi.

Teacher arrested in Uttar Pradesh for attempting to sex attack schoolgirls

May 15, 2023, 12:33 pm

In a horrific occurrence, a government school teacher from the Shahjahanpur district of Uttar Pradesh was detained after police reported that he had molested at least 18 girls.

According to authorities, the accused, a computer teacher, was supported by the school’s principal and an assistant teacher, who have both been arrested. According to the police, the three suspects have been charged under the POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act), the IPC, and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

The three defendants have been identified as computer teacher Mohammad Ali, assistant teacher Sajia, and school principal Anil Pathak.

“Case of sexual harassment of minor girls in Tilhar police station of Shahjahanpur. As many as 18 girls have been sexually abused and are to be X-rayed today. The accused has been arrested,” Shahjahanpur Senior Superintendent of Police S Anand told source. He said that legal action is being initiated and the Child Welfare Committee has been informed.

The secondary school in Shahjahanpur district’s Tilhar police station is the subject of the case. A computer teacher named Mohammad Ali used to abuse young female students. Anil Pathak, the principal, and Sajia, another teacher, supported him, according to Tilhar Circle Officer Priyank Jain.

He said that the village head Pradhan Lalta Prasad filed a complaint against all the accused at Tilhar police station.

One of the girl confided with her parents about how her computer teacher had improperly touched both her and other female classmates in the past. Following a school raid. The parents of these girls then raided the school and also recovered used condoms from the school’s toilet. On social media, a supposed video of the incident appeared.

The principal and the assistant instructor have both been suspended by education department officials.

“A procedure has been started and will be finished soon for the departmental investigation against the computer teacher. Basic Shiksha Adhikari (BSA), Kumar Gaurav, stated that the principal and the assistant teacher were currently suspended. Kumar Gaurav further added that a case has been registered and the police are investigating the matter.

Baldev Singh Aulakh, a minister in Uttar Pradesh, denounced the incident and demanded that those responsible face harsh punishment.

When questioned about the alleged assault on the girls, the majority of whom are Dalit, the minister responded, “We respect all castes and communities, the matter isn’t about Dalits, but about the girls, and action should be taken against the accused as per law.”

Kumar Gaurav further added that a case has been registered and the police are investigating the matter.

Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh minister Baldev Singh Aulakh condemned the incident and said that strict action should be taken against the accused.

UP: Killers of Atiq Ahmed will be brought before a magistrate today in Uttar Pradesh

April 16, 2023, 10:55 am

Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India], April 16 : The three suspects who were apprehended after shooting dead gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf in Prayagraj will appear before a magistrate today. All three attackers were apprehended at the scene after voluntarily surrendering. They have been detained by the police and questioned. According to the law, any criminal apprehended in this manner must be brought before a remand magistrate within 24 hours.
Following the incident, the Uttar Pradesh Police imposed Section 144 across the state, and security was increased at key public installations and sensitive areas.Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf Ahmed were killed on Saturday while being taken for a medical examination in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, just days after their son Asad was killed in an encounter in Jhansi. Regular police patrolling has been happening in the area in the wake of the brazen killings. The Uttar Pradesh government on Sunday imposed Section 144 of CrPC in all the districts, in the aftermath of the killings, officials informed.
UP CM Yogi Adityanath also gave instructions for the formation of a three-member judicial commission. “Yogi Adityanath, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, took notice of the Prayagraj incident. He immediately convened a high-level meeting and ordered an investigation into the entire situation. He also directed the formation of a three-member judicial commission (Judicial Inquiry Commission) to investigate the matter “According to the officials.
A forensic team was called to the scene of the shooting to collect evidence.
In a late-night meeting, Chief Minister Adityanath directed state police officers to be on high alert in order to maintain law and order throughout the state.
“UP CM Yogi Adityanath has directed the police to be on high alert to ensure that peace, law, and order are maintained in the state and the public is not inconvenienced,” the Chief Minister’s Office said in a statement.

‘Uttar Pradesh is no longer known for crimes’: Yogi Adityanath

March 25, 2023, 4:34 pm

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took the oath for his second consecutive term on March 25, 2022. Addressing a press conference, CM Yogi said, “UP is not known for crimes anymore; it is known for its festivals.” The state will touch new heights of development, and words like ‘Jungle Raj’, and ‘Gunda Raj’ will remain in the past”.

Emphasizing the government’s achievements in the past six years, CM Yogi said, “UP has the best infrastructure.” Purvanchal Expressway, Bundelkhand Motorway, and Ganga Expressway (work should be completed before 2025 Kumbh). “The highest number of metros in the country are in UP, running in five districts, and soon Agra will also have metro connectivity,” he added.

Focusing on the total number of airports in the state, Yogi Quoted, “When our government came in 2017, only two airports were functional, whereas the airports in Gorakhpur and Agra were partial. Today, a total of 9 airports are functional while nine are in process.” “Work is in progress at Ayodhya and Jewar International Airport and by the end of 2023 it will also become functional,” he said.

Chief Minister Yogi also underlined the world’s longest river cruise and said, “UP got the gift of the world’s longest river cruise. Eastern Uttar Pradesh always regrets that there was no medium to connect with water, but today we have connected the eastern port from Banaras to Haldia.”

Speaking about the Global Investors Summit (UPGIS 2023), Adityanath said, “We started the Investor Summit with Rs 80 thousand crore groundbreaking projects, and so far more than Rs 5 lakh crore private development projects have been inaugurated.”
“An investment of Rs 35 lakh crore was received in the Global Investor Summit,” he added.

Yogi also emphasized on the number of toilets made under the Swachh Bharat Mission and said, “Under the Swachh Bharat Mission, earlier only 2.5 lakh toilets were built in UP, but from 2017, 2 crore 61 lakh toilets were constructed.”

Further talking on pension and employment, CM quoted, “We have doubled the per capita income, and almost 31 lakh women are getting the benefit of pension.”

“The unemployment rate which was 18 per cent in 2016 has come down to 3 to 4 per cent today,” he added. “Today, Uttar Pradesh is the number one state in the country in ethanol production. Medical colleges have been built, and some are being built, in all the districts of the state. The dream of One District One Medical College is coming true today. We manufacture the largest number of smartphones in the country,” said Yogi Adityanath at the press conference.