DailyWorld News - The First International Newspaper From India https://dailyworld.in/ Fri, 27 Feb 2026 17:04:27 +0530 en https://dailyworld.in/politics/king-charles-iiis-birthday-celebrated-in-bengaluru-ktaka-ministers-attend-event-662934.html Bengaluru Feb 26 Karnataka Ministers MB Patil and MC Sudhakar attended a reception in Bengaluru to mark the birthday of King Charles III highlighting the ties between Karnataka and the UK The event was organised on Thursday by the office of the British Deputy High Commissioner Chandru Iyer at the Taj West End and was attended by government officials industry representatives and members of the diplomatic communitySpeaking at the event Minister for Large and Medium Industries MB Patil said Karnataka and the UK share a long history of engagement particularly in industry and investmentHe added that during his recent visit to London he met industrial leaders and encouraged them to invest in KarnatakaPatil noted that several British companies have established operations in the state and are contributing to its economic activityHe also said discussions were held with representatives of academic institutions including the Imperial College London and the University of LiverpoolHe added that British companies and universities are expected to participate in the proposed Knowledge Wellbeing and Innovation KWIN City project near Dabaspet which is aimed at creating opportunities for youthMinister for Higher Education MC Sudhakar said Karnataka maintains cooperation with the United Kingdom in higher education through twinning programmes that facilitate student exchanges and academic collaborationHe added that 30 students are benefiting from the programme this year similar to last year enabling them to pursue studies abroadSudhakar added that the state government is focusing on skill development and international academic partnerships to expand global opportunities for students from KarnatakaKing Charles III was born on November 14 1948 at Buckingham Palace in London England He is the eldest child of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh His birth occurred during the reign of his grandfather King George VISince founding the Princes Trust in 1976 using his Â7500 of severance pay from the Royal Navy King Charles III has established 16 more charitable organisations and now serves as President of eachKing Charles III has been known to donate his blood to raise awareness for health causes IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/king-charles-iiis-birthday-celebrated-in-bengaluru-ktaka-ministers-attend-event-662934.html Fri, 27 Feb 2026 07:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/melania-trump-to-be-first-spouse-of-president-to-preside-over-unsc-662935.html United Nations Feb 27 US First Lady Melania Trump is to preside over a meeting of the Security Council when the US takes over its presidency for the month SecretaryGeneral Antonio Guterresâs Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said on Thursday that this would be the first time that the spouse of a president takes the gavel at a session of the Council He said that UnderSecretaryGeneral Rosemary DiCarlo will brief the Council session that will deal with education The First Ladyâs office said she will preside over a session that will discuss education technology and advancing tolerance Melania Trump a former model who was born in Slovenia is the third wife of Trump As First Lady she has promoted initiatives focusing on children One of them is the Be Best campaign that seeks to protect children against cyberbullying and to promote responsible social media use and their health She has also campaigned to improve the educational and career prospects of children raised in foster care US Permanent Representative Michael Waltz said that her leading the session meshed with her advocacy for children He told Fox News that it is fitting that the first lady a passionate and tireless advocate for children will preside over the first day of Americaâs presidency of the Security Councilâ âHer message of helping the helpless through education and technology fits exactly with our mission at the UN to achieve meaningful and lasting peaceâ he added On Sunday the US will take over the rotating presidency of the Council for March from the United Kingdom and its first session will be on Monday Trump who has had harsh words for the UN saying it is not living up to its potential has lately moderated his criticism even as he claimed last week that the Board of Peace would âalmost be looking over the United Nations and making sure it runs properlyâ The Board was set up with the concurrence of the Council to ensure the ceasefire takes hold in Gaza and to facilitate its reconstruction However Trump is trying to give it an openended agenda beyond the Councilâs mandate But Trump also said that the UN has âtremendous potentialâ and there are âsome very good people at the United Nationsâ and offered help to strengthen it After withholding the US dues to the UN of about 4 billion Trump released 160 million last week towards the arrears for last year Dujarric said Melania Trump presiding over the session is a âsign of the importance that the US feels towards the subject of education and children and the Security Councilâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/melania-trump-to-be-first-spouse-of-president-to-preside-over-unsc-662935.html Fri, 27 Feb 2026 07:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/cbi-to-challenge-delhi-courts-decision-to-acquit-kejriwal-sisodia-in-hc-662985.html New Delhi Feb 27 IANS The CBI will submit an appeal to the High Court challenging the order issued by the Rouse Avenue court on Friday which acquitted former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and former Deputy CM Manish Sisodia along with others in connection with the 2022 Delhi excise policy casenbspThe agency added that several aspects of the investigation were either ignored or not adequately considered in the trial courts judgmentThe CBI had registered an FIR on August 17 2022 against the then Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia excise officials and liquor businessmen based on a complaint from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs The allegations included irregularities in the formulation and implementation of the excise policy modification of provisions extension of undue favours to licensees waiver or reduction of licence fees and extension of L1 licences without approvalMeanwhile Arvind Kejriwal became emotional after being discharged by the Rouse Avenue Court in the excise policy case and broke down while addressing the media for the first time after the verdictnbspManish Sisodia was seen hugging Kejriwal wiping his tears and consoling him as party supporters gathered aroundnbspAddressing reporters Kejriwal said The way they kept repeating Delhi excise scam and making allegations against us today the court has dismissed the charges and discharged the accused We always said that truth prevails and that we have faith in the Indian judicial systemHe added I want to thank the judges for delivering the verdict I have always believed that God is with usnbspKejriwal further alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah orchestrated a major political conspiracy to weaken the AAPnbspIt was a completely bogus case Television debates repeatedly portrayed me as corrupt he saidnbspEarlier in the day the Delhi court refused to frame charges against former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal former Deputy CM Manish Sisodia and others in the corruption case linked to the alleged liquor policy scamAllowing the discharge plea the Rouse Avenue Court held that no sufficient evidence had emerged during the investigation to proceed against the accused and did not disclose the commission of any criminal offence including criminal conspiracynbspBoth Kejriwal and Sisodia had earlier been arrested in connection with the liquor policy investigation but were granted bail by the Supreme Court in 2024nbspThe alleged scam relates to the Delhi governments 202122 excise policy which was subsequently withdrawn amid allegations of irregularities in licensing and pricing mechanismsCentral agencies had alleged that leaders of the Aam Aadmi Party AAP including Kejriwal and Sisodia accepted kickbacks from a cartel known as the South Group in exchange for policy concessions benefiting select liquor licenseesnbspInvestigators claimed that irregular implementation of the policy caused significant losses to the public exchequer and involved manipulation of licensing norms and exemptionsnbspIn September 2024 the Supreme Court granted bail to Kejriwal in the CBI corruption case while directing him to cooperate fully with trial proceedings and refrain from making public comments on the merits of the matterEarlier the top court had also granted interim relief in the related money laundering proceedings emphasising the primacy of the Right to Life and Personal Liberty under Article 21 of the ConstitutionnbspManish Sisodia was granted bail by the apex court in August 2024 after nearly 17 months of incarceration noting that the trial involving hundreds of witnesses and extensive documentary evidence was unlikely to conclude in the near future and prolonged detention would violate the right to a speedy trialIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/cbi-to-challenge-delhi-courts-decision-to-acquit-kejriwal-sisodia-in-hc-662985.html Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/v-p-radhakrishnan-union-minister-vaishnaw-to-attend-iimc-convocation-today-662986.html New Delhi Feb 27 Vice President CP Radhakrishnan will give away awards to topperforming students of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication IIMC at its 57th Convocation Ceremony for the 2024â25 batch to be held here on Friday The event will also see Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw who is also the Chancellor of IIMC presiding over a function to lay the foundation stone for the new Academic Block and Hostel Block of the instituteThe convocation will also be attended by Sanjay Jaju Secretary Ministry of Information and Broadcasting R Jagannathan Chairman IIMC Society Dr Pragya Paliwal Gaur Vice Chancellor IIMC and L Madhu Nag Registrar IIMC an official statement saidFaculty members and staff of the institute will also be present marking this important academic milestone and celebrating the achievements of the graduating students it addedStudents of different programmes including postgraduate diploma programmes in Journalism English Hindi Radio and TV Digital Media Odia Urdu Marathi and Malayalam Advertising and Public Relations across different campuses who have passed their examinations in 2024â25 will be awarded diplomas it saidAt the convocation ceremony apart from the diplomas 35 medals including 23 carrying cash prizes will be awarded to toppers of each course from all six campusesThe Vice President will lay the foundation stone of the new Academic Block and Hostel Block at IIMC in the presence of senior dignitaries including the Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting and the SecretaryOn this occasion the Creators Lounge at the Incubation Centre will also be inaugurated by the Union Minister in the presence of senior officials of the Ministry and the instituteEstablished on August 17 1965 the IIMC has five regional centres across the country that cater to journalism courses in English and regional languagesThe first regional centre was set up at Dhenkanal Odisha in 1993 to cater to the needs of the eastern region Two regional centres were established at Amravati in Maharashtra for the western region and at Aizawl in Mizoram for the northeastern region from the academic year 2011â12Regional centres were set up in Jammu Jammu and Kashmir to cater to the needs of the northern region and at Kottayam Kerala for the southern region from the academic year 2012â13 according to information available on the official website IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/v-p-radhakrishnan-union-minister-vaishnaw-to-attend-iimc-convocation-today-662986.html Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/jd-vance-attacks-democrats-says-nov-polls-will-decide-if-us-puts-american-citizens-first-662989.html Washington Feb 27 US Vice President JD Vance has used a visit to the politically crucial state of Wisconsin to mount a sharp attack on Congressional Democrats arguing that Novemberâs election would determine whether America prioritises âAmerican citizensâ over what he described as open borders fraud and rising costs of living Speaking at Pointe Precision Inc on Thursday a manufacturing facility in Plover Wisconsin Vance repeatedly invoked President Donald Trumpâs State of the Union address and criticised Democrats for their reaction to stories highlighted during the speechâIf anything the State of the Union should have shown us that we cannot give power back to Congressional Democratsâ Vance told a few hundred workers and supporters gathered on the shop floorHe pointed to a moment involving a sixyearold girl who survived an assault by an undocumented immigrant and questioned why Democrats did not applaudâWhat kind of a person canât stand up and cheer for an innocent young girl whoâs doing well whoâs showing the entire country strength and resilienceâ he askedFraming the upcoming election in stark terms Vance said âThe question in November is not do we want low taxes And of course we do Itâs not do we want to secure the border And of course we do Itâs a more fundamental question in that do we want to give power back to the people who opened our border who raised your taxes who wonât even cheer for a sixyearold girl who was wounded because of their bad policiesâThe vice president sought to project economic momentum under the Trump administration He said inflation had fallen to â24 the lowest in five yearsâ and added that âthe average American has seen a 1700 increase in takehome payâ in the past yearOn housing costs he said âHousing prices are down Apartment rents are down Four months in a row we came in saying we wanted to make housing more affordable and weâre starting to make good progress on thatâ He added that âthe annual cost of a new mortgage in just a year is down by 5000 a yearâResponding to a question about affordability a top concern for voters Vance said âWe want people to be able to afford a good life Nothing breaks my heart more The idea that youâve got somebody who goes out they bust their rear end they come home they want to give their kids a nice meal maybe once or twice a year They want to take their kids on a nice vacation We want people to be able to afford that so long as they work hard to play by the rulesâHe acknowledged that âsome of the policies that weâve already put in place take a little bit of time to work their way through the systemâVance also defended the administrationâs crackdown on fraud and illegal immigration âThe job of your government is to shut the border and shut off the fraud and thatâs exactly what weâre doingâ he saidOn technology and energy he described data centres as vital to the countryâs future âThose data centres are like the gasoline of the technology revolution weâre gonna see over the next 75 years And I donât know about you all but I want America to win that technology revolution I donât want China or some other country to win itâAt the same time he said facilities must ensure that âelectricity costs come down for American citizens instead of going up for American citizensâ stressing they should be âgood neighboursâWisconsin remains one of the most closely contested states in US politics and is seen as pivotal to the outcome of national elections The state has swung between Republicans and Democrats in recent presidential cycles IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/jd-vance-attacks-democrats-says-nov-polls-will-decide-if-us-puts-american-citizens-first-662989.html Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-extends-birthday-wishes-to-union-minister-virendra-kumar-662994.html New Delhi Feb 27 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday extended warm birthday wishes to Union Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Dr Virendra Kumar PM Modi wrote on X âBest wishes to Union Minister Dr Virendra Kumar Ji on his birthday His extensive work towards furthering societal progress and transforming the lives of people is appreciable May he be blessed with a long life and wonderful healthâUnion Home Minister Amit Shah also took to X to share his greetings loosely translated from Hindi âHeartfelt birthday wishes to Union Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Dr Virendra Kumar I pray to God for your good health and long lifeUnion Minister Nitin Gadkari shared his message on the platform as well âTo my colleague in the Union Cabinet Dr Virendra Kumar heartfelt birthday wishes I pray to God for your excellent health long life and a blessed lifeâMadhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav also extended wishes posting on X âHeartfelt birthday greetings and best wishes to the Honourable Union Minister Shri Dr Virendra Kumar Ji May the grace of Shri Ramrajya Government remain upon you may you be healthy and longlived this is my auspicious wishâUttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath joined the chorus of wishes tweeting âHeartfelt birthday wishes to the Honourable Union Minister Dr Virendra Kumar Ji May Lord Shri Ram bless you with excellent health long life and a glorious life this is my prayerâDr Virendra Kumar born on this day in 1954 is serving as the Union Cabinet Minister in the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment under Prime Minister Modiâs administration where he has been focused on policies aimed at the upliftment and empowerment of marginalised communitiesHe represents Madhya Pradeshs Tikamgarh SC Lok Sabha constituency and has had a long parliamentary career spanning multiple terms since first being elected in 1996 IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-extends-birthday-wishes-to-union-minister-virendra-kumar-662994.html Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bengal-sir-soft-copies-of-draft-voters-list-to-be-shared-with-registered-political-parties-662995.html Kolkata Feb 27 With the final votersâ list in West Bengal to be published on Saturday the Election Commission of India ECI has decided to share soft copies of the list with the registered political parties in the state for transparency At the same time the ECI is keeping multiple options open for the voters to check the status of their names in the final list which will have names under two additional categories of under adjudication and deleted apart from those enlisted as genuine voters of the stateThe first option is to visit the main website of the Election Commission of India ecigovin and check on the site by entering the voters name along with their EPIC numberAnother way to check the names is to visit the official website of the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officers office at ceowestbengalwbgovinThe third option is to visit the websites of the respective district electoral officers DEOs and check namesBesides these three ways of online checking the ECI has also decided to keep different options open for offline checking Since copies of the final votersâ list will also be shared with the boothlevel officers BLOs the voters can contact their respective BLOs and check with themAt the same time the ECI will display hard copies of the final votersâ list at polling booths in different areas so that voters can visit the booths and check their namesAs already clarified on Thursday the final votersâ list will have names under two additional categories of under adjudication and deleted apart from those enlisted as genuine voters of the stateThis means that the names in the final voters list will be specified under three categoriesThe under adjudication category will have the names of those voters whose identity documents will continue to remain under the process of adjudication by the judicial officers appointed specially for the purpose as per the order of the Supreme Court In the final votersâ list these voters will be enlisted in the âunder adjudicationâ categorySupplementary lists will be published in due course These will have the names of the under adjudication category voters once cleared by the judicial officers after due adjudicationThe third category in the final votersâ list will be those voters who have been excluded during the entire course of the Special Intensive Revision SIR exercise that started in November last year The names of these excluded voters will appear in the final votersâ list under the âdeletedâ category IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bengal-sir-soft-copies-of-draft-voters-list-to-be-shared-with-registered-political-parties-662995.html Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/demand-for-anti-conversion-law-echoes-on-last-day-of-bihar-budget-session-662996.html Patna Feb 27 IANS The issue of enacting stricter laws against religious conversion resonated in the Bihar Legislative Assembly on the final day of the Budget Session as several ruling party members raised the matter through a calling attention motionnbspEighteen MLAs from the ruling alliance including Maithili Thakur Mithilesh Tiwari Virendra Kumar Janak Singh Sanjay Kumar Singh Jivesh Kumar Tar Kishore Prasad and Baidyanath Prasad spoke on the issue calling for a law similar to those enacted in other statesThe MLAs stated that states such as Uttar Pradesh Madhya Pradesh Uttarakhand and Gujarat have implemented laws against religious conversionAccording to them these laws provide for stringent punishment including imprisonment ranging from one to 10 or even 20 years in cases involving alleged fraudulent conversion child marriage or inducementMembers also claimed that demographic changes in certain parts of Bihar warranted legislative interventionThey alleged that religious conversions were being carried out on a large scale and expressed concern over the situation in border districts and the Seemanchal regionMithilesh Tiwari MLA from the Bharatiya Janata Party said Uttar Pradesh has strict laws and a similar law should be enacted in Bihar In Buxar alone 1000 Dalit families have converted The demographics of Seemanchal have changed Therefore this law is needed the government should consider itSome MLAs cited figures regarding population growth and the establishment of churches in the state alleging that conversions were taking place through inducementBJP MLA Sanjay Singh termed it not just religious conversion but national conversion while another member Anil Singh demanded strict legislation to curb the practiceCertain members also raised questions about reservation benefits following religious conversion and referred to constitutional provisions in their argumentsResponding to the debate Tourism and Arts ampamp Culture Minister Arun Shankar Prasad clarified that the Bihar government currently has no proposal to introduce legislation related to religious conversionThere is no proposal to enact any legislation related to this at this time the minister stated in the HouseWhen some BJP members continued to press the issue Assembly Speaker Prem Kumar intervened stating that the calling attention motion had been admitted and that the government would review the matter if necessary He ruled that there would be no further discussion on the issueIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/demand-for-anti-conversion-law-echoes-on-last-day-of-bihar-budget-session-662996.html Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/india-to-protect-its-interests-in-trade-deal-with-us-amid-evolving-situation-piyush-goyal-662997.html New Delhi Feb 27 IANS Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Friday that India would go in for a rebalancing of the proposed trade agreement with the United States if required to protect its interests in view of the changed situation following the US Supreme Court annulling the tariff hikes announced earlier by the Donald Trump administrationnbspGiven the evolving situation on US tariffs we will wait and watch and ensure Indias best interests are protected Goyal said at a media event hereIts an evolving situation The Trump administration has made some comments they have other tools that they can use Next week they can increase tariffs to 15 per cent Various dialogues are going on I had said that if the circumstances change the deal will be rebalancedThe minister pointed out that the IndiaUS joint statement says that should circumstances change the deal will be rebalancedHe further stated that bilateral trade discussions with the United States are continuing amid the changing situationIn an oblique reference to President Trumps announcements after the Supreme Court verdict Goyal said There are many tools that the Trump administration can use in this evolving situation one of them is the move to levy a 10 per cent tariffGoyal was optimistic about the outcome of the trade deal with the US There are so many positives in the US deal let us see how the situation moves forward International trade deal is about competitive advantage he remarkedHe reiterated that sensitive dairy and farm sectors have been protected in the proposed arrangementNo GM foods will come into India Dairy maize soybean and poultry are exempt from the US trade deal We have preserved the interests of farmers dairy The deal preserves our interests the minister saidHe further stated that despite the global headwinds Indias exports are poised to increase this yearIndia and Washington have decided to reschedule the official meeting over the interim bilateral trade agreement so that both sides can factor in the implications of the US Supreme Court judgment striking down the Trump administrations tariff hikesA threeday meeting between teams headed by the chief trade negotiators of the two countries was earlier slated to take place in the US on February 23 A decision will be taken to fix a new date for the meeting that is convenient for both sidesIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/india-to-protect-its-interests-in-trade-deal-with-us-amid-evolving-situation-piyush-goyal-662997.html Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/clean-the-system-not-just-booths-shiv-sena-662998.html Mumbai Feb 27 Shiv Sena Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray UBT has responded to the Supreme Courtâs recent observations on mandatory voting by questioning the very foundation of Indiaâs current electoral system It acknowledged the courtâs intent to strengthen democracy and argued that such measures are futile as long as the system remains trapped in the jaws of a dictatorial and corrupt regime An editorial in the partys mouthpiece Saamana on Friday follows comments from Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Bagchi who suggested that mandatory voting might be necessary to ensure democratic robustness The judges noted a concerning trend where educated and affluent voters in urban centres participate less frequently than their rural counterpartsThe Thackeray camp agreed that the courts observation of the voting paradox is realistic noting that despite decades of electoral reform programmes the turnout gap has not significantly changed However it raised a sharp counterpoint âWill democracy in our country be strengthened just by making voting mandatoryâThe credibility of the Election Commission has declined Due to confusion in voter lists manipulation of voting figures and percentages theft of votes and EVM scams the transparency of the election process in our country has been lost and the breath of democracy is being stifled The Supreme Courts idea of making voting mandatory is not wrong but what about the fact that elections from Delhi to the local lanes are trapped in the jaws of a dictatorial and corrupt systemâ asked the editorialThe Uddhav Thackerayled Shiv Sena asserted that for democracy to be truly empowered the election process must be completely cleaned It called for a return to ballot papers instead of Electronic Voting Machines EVMs posing a direct question to the judiciary My Lord will this happenâSince independence every small or large election has seen debates over the difference between urban and rural voting and the fact that the voting percentage does not increase beyond a certain limit Despite implementing many programmes and initiatives for electoral reforms this picture has unfortunately not changed much Therefore it is not wrong to link the constitutional right to vote with the necessity of strengthening democracy There is nothing wrong with thinking that making voting mandatory will empower democracyâ observed the editorialThe editorial further criticised the ruling party for its alleged Sama Dama Danda Bheda persuasion temptation punishment and division tactics It accused the government of branding anyone who opposes the BJP as a traitor and systematically working to ensure no opposition party remains in the countryToday neither democracy nor its four main pillars remain intact stated the editorial lamenting that legal challenges to these issues often result in nothing more than Tariqh pe Tariqh endless court datesThe Thackeray camp argued that while mandatory voting is a noble dreamy idealism it cannot be effective until the hammer falls on the current corrupt system where machinery including the Election Commission is perceived to be in the pockets of the rulers IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/clean-the-system-not-just-booths-shiv-sena-662998.html Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/farmers-interests-fully-protected-says-shivraj-singh-chouhan-on-india-us-trade-deal-row-663000.html Gwalior Feb 27 IANS Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has accused the opposition Congress of attempting to mislead people through baseless allegations and false narrative regarding the interim trade deal between India and the US and said the interests of farmers are fully protectednbspDuring an interaction with media persons in Gwalior Madhya Pradesh on Friday he said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi a capable glorious prosperous strong selfreliant and resurgent India is being builtResponding to Congress allegations on the IndiaUS trade agreement Minister Chouhan took a jibe at the opposition saying Congress leaders have nothing to talk about which is why they are trying to mislead the peoplenbspWhen questioned about the possible impact on the agriculture sector from the interim IndiaUS trade agreement Chouhan reiterated that the framework of the trade agreement with the US will not harm Indian farmers He assured that farmers interests have been fully protected in the trade dealI am saying this responsibility that farmers interests will be fully protected I am saying this not just as Agriculture Minister but also as a farmer Chouhan said responding to growing confusion among farmers amid a row over Indias interim agreement with the USnbspThe Union Minister attended a Yuva Samvaad programme at ITM University and after that moved towards Jhansi to attend another eventNotably the Congress the main opposition in the Centre has launched a scathing attack on the ruling BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the IndiaUS trade deal and has also started a nationwide movement to oppose this proposed trade agreementnbspTo mobilise the people the Congress has started Kisan Maha Panchayats in different parts of the country and one such event was organised in Madhya Pradeshs capital city Bhopal on February 24nbspDuring his visit to Bhopal Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi signed an agreement with the US under pressureIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/farmers-interests-fully-protected-says-shivraj-singh-chouhan-on-india-us-trade-deal-row-663000.html Fri, 27 Feb 2026 15:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/accept-medal-of-the-knesset-with-humility-pm-modi-662804.html Tel Aviv Feb 26 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that he accepts the Medal of the Knesset with utmost humility and gratitudeâ Israels Parliament the Knesset conferred the Speaker of the Knesset Medal on PM Modi making him the firstever recipient of this prestigious award âKnesset Speaker Amir Ohana presented the medal to PM Modi immediately after his address to the lawmakers in Jerusalem ââThis honour is not a tribute to an individual but to the enduring friendship between India and Israelâ PM Modi wrote on XâThe Knesset citation highlighted PM Modis role in deepening bilateral ties across defence technology agriculture innovation and economic cooperation ââI am deeply honoured to receive the Medal of the Knessetâ said PM Modi âThe honour described as the highest recognition bestowed by the Knesset acknowledges PM Modis exceptional personal leadership in significantly strengthening and elevating the strategic partnership between India and Israel ââI accept it with humility and gratitudeâ PM Modi informed on XâThe Prime Minister also said that Israelâs highest award reflects the shared values that guide our two nationsâThe award comes at a time when PM Modi is on a visit to Israel where he delivered a historic speech to the Knesset the first by an Indian Prime Minister receiving a standing ovation from members âIn his remarks he expressed gratitude for the honour calling it a recognition of the enduring friendship between the two democracies âThis distinction adds to PM Modis rare global stature as he remains one of the few leaders honoured at the highest level by both Israel and Palestine IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/accept-medal-of-the-knesset-with-humility-pm-modi-662804.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 08:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/vp-radhakrishnan-to-address-at-kashmir-university-convocation-today-662808.html Srinagar Feb 26 Vice President CP Radhakrishnan will be the chief guest on Thursday at the 21st convocation of the University of Kashmir and all arrangements including security are in place for the event A civic reception was given to the Vice President at the Lok Bhawan in Srinagar on Wednesday evening The reception was followed by a cultural programme showcasing the traditional folk dances and the music of Jammu and KashmirHe will deliver the address at the Universityâs 21st convocation at the main campus in the Hazratbal area of Srinagar cityLt Governor Manoj Sinha as the chancellor will preside at the convocation while the chief minister Omar Abdullah who is the prochancellor will be the guest of honourJampK minister for higher education Sakina Itoo vice chancellor Nilofer Khan senior officers of civil and police administration deans of various faculties heads of departments and teachers of the university in addition to scholars scheduled to receive their degree certificates will attend the convocationKU vice chancellor Prof Nilofer Khan said the presence of the countryâs Vice President reflects the growing national recognition of the Universityâs academic and research contributionsA total of 59558 degrees including 44910 undergraduates 13545 postgraduates and 620 PhD scholars will be conferred with certificates during the convocationUniversity of Kashmir is the oldest university in JampK It has NAAC A accreditation and is ranked 34th in the NIRF rankings The University is among the top eight State Public Universities in the countryAdequate arrangements of security are in place to secure the presence and movement of the VVIPs in Srinagar cityAll vehicles entering the city are being checked after frisking the occupants Dry runs have been held all along the route to be taken by the cavalcade Makeshift âNakasâ and drop gates have come up at many places along the route to ensure foolproof security on the occasionThe traffic department has issued a detailed advisory for the day and restrictions and diversions have been detailed to ensure the event is secured while putting the public to the least possible inconvenienceMedical emergencies have been exempted from traffic restrictions The restrictions will remain in place from 7 am to 2 pmThis is CP Radhakrishnanâs maiden visit to the union territory after he took over as the Vice President of the country IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/vp-radhakrishnan-to-address-at-kashmir-university-convocation-today-662808.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 08:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/cpi-leader-nallakannus-body-to-be-donated-to-medical-college-will-be-accorded-full-state-honours-662811.html Chennai Feb 26 The mortal remains of veteran CPI leader R Nallakannu will be donated to the Chennai Medical College Hospital on Thursday in accordance with his longexpressed wish to support medical education The 101yearold leader who passed away in Chennai on Wednesday will be accorded full State honours by the Tamil Nadu government before his body is handed over Chief Minister MK Stalin announcedDeclaring that Tamil Nadu would bid farewell with the highest respect CM Stalin said Nallakannuâs life of sacrifice and public service deserved to be honoured by the stateThe body has been kept for public homage at Balan House the CPIâs office in Thyagaraya Nagar and will remain there until 3 pm after which party cadres will take out a procession before donating the body to the medical college hospitalNallakannu had been undergoing treatment at the Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital after being admitted on February 1 due to agerelated ailments Hospital authorities said his condition worsened over the past two days as his body gradually stopped responding to medication He succumbed to multiple organ failure at 155 pm despite intensive careLeaders across political parties paid rich tributes Chief Minister Stalin and Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin were among the first to offer floral respectsAIADMK leaders including former Minister D Jayakumar and former Chief Minister O Panneerselvam Congress State president K Selvaperunthagai PMK president Anbumani Ramadoss Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam president Vijay BJP leaders L Murugan and Nainar Nagendran VCK leader Thirumavalavan and Naam Tamilar Katchi chief Seeman also paid homagePrime Minister Narendra Modi in a condolence message said Nallakannu was admired across social and political lines and had lived not for himself but for othersAIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami described him as a man of rare integrity and moral strengthProminent film personalities including Rajinikanth Kamal Haasan Nassar Sathyaraj Vijay Sethupathi and Sivakarthikeyan also paid tributes remembering him as a symbol of simplicity ideological commitment and unwavering dedication to the people IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/cpi-leader-nallakannus-body-to-be-donated-to-medical-college-will-be-accorded-full-state-honours-662811.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 09:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bengal-polls-eci-to-depute-assembly-wise-central-observers-to-oversee-pre-poll-nomination-phase-662822.html Kolkata Feb 26 The Election Commission of India ECI has decided to depute one Central observer for each of the 294 Assembly constituencies to oversee the prepoll nomination phase in West Bengal Insiders from the office of the Chief Electoral Officer CEO West Bengal said that all the 294 Central observers to be appointed to oversee the prepoll nomination phase will be either Central government officers or officers from other statesâCurrently a total of 1444 officers are undergoing training provided by the ECI At the end of the training period they will be deputed by the Commission to oversee matters in the various pollbound states and Union Territories Of these 1444 undertraining officers 294 will be earmarked for the Assembly constituencies in West Bengal the CEOâs office source saidAccording to him the ECI has noted that in the last few elections there have been reports of regular violence from different corners of the state from the prepoll nomination phaseâThe maximum complaints of such prepoll violence in the nomination phase relate to the intimidation of voters and threatening the opposition party workers and their polling agents There had been complaints about the nonutilisation of Central Armed Police Force CAPF personnel deputed in the prepoll nomination The Commission intends to strictly address these complaints surfacing in the prepoll nomination phase this time and hence it has decided to depute one Central observer for each of the 294 Assembly constituencies in the prepoll phase the CEOâs office insider saidHe also said that these 294 Central observers will be given their respective authorities in the matter by the ECI from the moment the polling dates are announced and the enforcement of the model code of conductThe final votersâ list in West Bengal minus those âlogical discrepancyâ cases referred for judicial adjudication will be published Supplementary lists will be published in due course as per the progress of the judicial adjudicationMeanwhile the ECI is expected to announce the polling dates immediately after the Holi festival on March 4 This time there is a possibility of conducting the polls in fewer phases than they were in the last few electionsThe office of the CEO West Bengal has already recommended a singlephase poll this time but maintained that the final decision in the matter will be taken by the ECI IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bengal-polls-eci-to-depute-assembly-wise-central-observers-to-oversee-pre-poll-nomination-phase-662822.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 10:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/tn-to-develop-jawadhu-hills-as-eco-tourism-hub-with-glamping-camping-facilities-662828.html Chennai Feb 26 In a move aimed at boosting ecotourism and attracting modern travellers from within India and abroad the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation TTDC has proposed the development of camping and glamping facilities at Jawadhu Hills in Tiruvannamalai district Spread across 765 acres the lesserknown hill destination is set to receive a facelift as part of the state governmentâs push to promote experiential and sustainable tourism The initiative seeks to position Jawadhu Hills as an attractive getaway for visitors looking to spend more time amidst nature while minimising environmental impactA senior TTDC official said the state is focusing on tourism models that allow travellers to connect more closely with natural surroundings without causing ecological harm âExperiential and sustainable tourism is the way forward Glamping and campingbased accommodation are lowimpact models that appeal to todayâs travellers who seek authentic outdoor experiencesâ the official saidAs part of this strategy TTDC has identified scenic locations across Tamil Nadu for the development of camping infrastructure equipped with essential amenitiesJawadhu Hills with its serene landscape and tourism potential has been selected as one of the key sites Basic infrastructure has already been developed at the 765acre siteTTDC has floated a tender to appoint a concessionaire to prepare a detailed project report and execute the projectThe selected private partner will develop semipermanent accommodation facilities such as luxury tents safari tents glamping domes prefabricated wooden or bamboo cottages modular cottages and containerbased unitsThe project will be implemented under the PublicPrivate Partnership PPP model The concessionaire will be responsible for financing operations management and maintenance of the camping siteOfficials emphasised that all proposed infrastructure will be developed without disturbing the natural resources in and around Jawadhu HillsThe focus will remain on ecofriendly construction practices and sustainable operationsThe project is likely to be completed within the current year marking a significant step in Tamil Naduâs efforts to diversify its tourism portfolio and promote environmentally responsible travel experiences said officials IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/tn-to-develop-jawadhu-hills-as-eco-tourism-hub-with-glamping-camping-facilities-662828.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 10:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/prez-murmu-on-two-day-rajasthan-visit-from-tomorrow-to-attend-op-vayu-shakti-in-jaisalmer-662845.html Jaipur Feb 26 The Indian Air Forces largest military exercise Vayu Shakti2026 will be held on Friday at the Pokhran Field Firing Range Jaisalmer in Rajasthan near the Pakistan border The Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces President Droupadi Murmu will also be present at the exerciseAccording to the schedule the President will fly a Light Combat Helicopter LCH Prachand on Friday During this she will conduct an aerial survey of the exercise area This will be the first time the President will copilot a combat helicopter in the border airspace of Jaisalmer Following the event she will interact with officers and soldiers at the Air Force Station and boost their moraleIn the evening the President will arrive at the Pokhran Range where the exercise will commence in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Chief Minister Bhajanlal SharmaDuring this period the Air Force will showcase its lethal capabilities through aerial fire and precise strikesIn addition to Prachand aircraft Rafale Sukhoi30 MKI and Apache will also showcase their might at Vayu Shakti2026 This visit of the President is considered extremely important from a strategic perspective Tight security arrangements have been made in Jaisalmer The entire area from Chandan to Pokhran has been declared a nofly zonePresident Murmu has a long and deep association with the aircraft of the Indian Air ForceShe is not only the supreme commander of the armed forces but has also personally flown frontline fighter jets to boost the morale of the countrys soldiersShe has flown in a Sukhoi and a Rafale President Murmu created history on October 29 2025 by flying in a Rafale aircraft of the Golden Arrows squadron based in Ambala She became the first President of the country to fly in two different fighter aircraft Sukhoi and RafaleShe experienced the power of the Rafale at a speed of approximately 700 kmh at an altitude of approximately 15000 feetPresident Murmu flew for approximately 30 minutes in a Sukhoi30 MKI on April 8 2023 from the Tezpur base in AssamShe assessed the aircrafts firepower and the Air Forces preparedness while flying over the Himalayan peaks and the Brahmaputra ValleyShe became the second woman President of the country to fly in a Sukhoi after Pratibha Patil IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/prez-murmu-on-two-day-rajasthan-visit-from-tomorrow-to-attend-op-vayu-shakti-in-jaisalmer-662845.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 11:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/jaishankar-calls-for-overarching-approach-to-human-rights-rather-than-polemics-662858.html United Nations Feb 26 External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has called for an overarching approach to human rights that includes development and capacitybuilding leading to âtangible improvements in the daily lives of the most vulnerableâ and confronting terrorism rather than engaging in polemics of âpoliticisation selectivity or double standardsâ Speaking through a video link to the Human Rights Council in Geneva on Wednesday he said âIn a world marred by conflict polarisation and uncertainty India seeks to find and expand common groundâ âWe have consistently underlined dialogue over confrontation consensus over division and humancentric development over narrow interestsâ he said For the UN and Human Rights Council to fully realise their commitment to human rights they must âadvocate zerotolerance for terrorist actsâ he saidâTerrorism is among the most egregious violations of human rights and there can be no justification especially when innocent lives are targetedâ he said India was elected for the seventh time to the Human Rights Council in October with a pledge to be a âbridgebuilderâ It received an overwhelming mandate with 177 of the 188 votes cast at the General Assembly âOur mandate reflects the trust and expectations of the international community especially of partners in the Global Southâ Jaishankar said âIndia approaches this Council with the conviction that human rights are best advanced through dialogue capacitybuilding and genuine partnerships and not by politicisation selectivity or double standardsâ the EAM said On the Council he said âas the worldâs largest democracy India remains firmly committed to working with all members and observers to promote and protect all human rights for all people on the basis of equality openness and respectâ Indiaâs vision of human rights he said âis rooted in the understanding that the insecurity of any region or the marginalisation of any group eventually undermines the rights and wellbeing of allâ His speech was seeded with implied criticism of the narrow focus on human rights that some Western countries and institutions haveExplaining Indiaâs sweeping view of human rights Jaishankar said âWe speak from our experience as a developing country that has known poverty and external shocks and yet has chosen the path of democracy pluralism and social justiceâ Amid the ongoing debates about technology and human rights and the risks of worsening the global divide Jaishankar declared âTechnology can and must be a force multiplier for human rights not a new fault lineâ Giving the example of Indiaâs Digital Public Infrastructure DPI he said the country âhas been investing in developing human capacities at an unprecedented scaleâ This has âenabled hundreds of millions to access welfare benefits financial services and public schemes with transparency and minimal leakageâ and India is sharing its knowhow for the global public good he said Emphasising the importance of development for people to truly enjoy human rights he said âthe devastating impact of pandemic climate change geopolitical tensions and economic stress have exacerbated existing inequitiesâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/jaishankar-calls-for-overarching-approach-to-human-rights-rather-than-polemics-662858.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 12:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/hm-shah-to-address-badlav-rally-in-punjab-on-march-14-662868.html Chandigarh Feb 26 Set to launch election campaigns ahead of the Assembly polls slated in early 2027 Union Home Minister Amit Shah will address a âBadlav Rallyâ in Punjabâs Moga town on March 14 State BJP working President Ashwani Sharma said on Thursday that every section of Punjab distressed on all fronts has made up its mind to oust the Aam Aadmi Party AAP from power and they now consider the BJP a reliable and credible alternative for changeâOn March 16 the AAP government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann will be completing four years in officeThe BJP said in these four years far from fulfilling electoral guarantees and promises the government has failed to ensure the rule of law in the stateSharma alleged the government has taken Uturns on every promise made before coming to powerHe told the media that the law and order situation in Punjab is in shambles while corruption linked to the drug and mining mafia is rampantâThe health and education systems are deteriorating and employees are not receiving salaries and pensions on time Due to pending reimbursements under free schemes the Power Board and Punjab Roadways are facing heavy losses and have been unable to pay salaries for monthsThe culprits in sacrilege cases have not been punished while AAPâs own leaders MPs and MLAs are accusing their party colleagues of collusion with the mafiaâHe said CM Mann not only failed to fulfill the promise of providing Minimum Support Price MSP on every crop but in the past four years farmers have allegedly faced reductions even in the MSP for wheat and paddy sent by the CentreTraders are distressed by what Sharma described as âtax recovery terrorâ of the state governmentIn four years the AAP government has neither built new roads in cities towns and villages nor even repaired potholesSharma said incidents of chain snatching are occurring daily across villages towns and cities in PunjabâExtortion calls are now being made not only to big businessmen but even to small grocery shopkeepers selling flour and pulsesKabaddi players are being killed in broad daylight Gangsters are openly firing shots and killing at will and now even incidents are taking place fearlessly outside police stations and SSP officesâ he saidSharma alleged the Punjab Police which once eradicated terrorism from the state has been kept so busy by Arvind Kejriwal and Bhagwant Mann in settling political scores with opponents that it has failed to prevent grenade attacks on its own police stationsSharma said in the 2027 Assembly elections the people of Punjab will get rid of the AAP government and form a BJP âdoubleengineâ government putting the state back on the path of development IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/hm-shah-to-address-badlav-rally-in-punjab-on-march-14-662868.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 13:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/rajasthan-govt-moves-sc-seeking-postponement-of-elections-to-113-urban-bodies-662869.html Jaipur Feb 26 The Rajasthan government has approached the Supreme Court seeking a postponement of elections to 113 municipal bodies citing the need to redo the ward delimitation process after it was struck down by the High Court A Special Leave Petition SLP filed by the state government states that the Rajasthan High Court had quashed the ward delimitation exercise carried out for 113 of the 309 urban local bodiesAs a result the Rajasthan government has sought additional time to complete the process afresh before conducting electionsAs per the SLP there are many reasons for the government seeking more time According to the SLP the High Court found the delimitation exercise in 113 urban bodies to be flawed While the total number of wards in these civic bodies remained unchanged their internal boundaries were alteredThe court cancelled these revised ward boundaries necessitating a fresh delimitation exerciseThe Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharmaled government has argued that conducting polls without completing the revised delimitation process would not be legally sound and therefore the election schedule should be extendedOn November 14 last year the Rajasthan High Court while disposing around 439 petitions directed the state government to complete the delimitation process by December 31 and conduct panchayat and municipal elections by April 15Subsequently while hearing related petitions challenging the High Courtâs order the Supreme Court also directed that elections be held by April 15The Supreme Court will now consider the state governmentâs plea seeking more timeThe outcome of the hearing will determine whether the April 15 deadline for holding elections remains in place or is extended said sourcesThe matter is significant as it affects election timelines for over one hundred urban local bodies across RajasthanIncidentally the last ward reorganisation in Rajasthan was carried out in 2019 when the state had 196 urban local bodies In the past six years 113 new bodies have been created where elections will be held for the first time IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/rajasthan-govt-moves-sc-seeking-postponement-of-elections-to-113-urban-bodies-662869.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 13:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/upset-over-not-getting-salary-for-past-three-months-hundreds-of-sanitation-workers-protest-in-ayodhya-662879.html Ayodhya Feb 26 Clouds of crisis loom over the sanitation system in Ram Nagari ahead of Holi as hundreds of sanitation workers upset over not receiving their salaries for the past three months have stopped work and started protest on Thursday Workers staged protests at various locations from Sahadatganj to Lata Mangeshkar Chowk expressing their anger over the delay in payment of wages They alleged that despite repeatedly raising the issue with concerned authorities their salaries have not been credited to their bank accountsAccording to the workers officials have been giving repeated assurances saying It will come today or It will come tomorrow but the payments have still not been processed Employees claimed that they have now been promised that their salaries will be credited by March 2 However they question how this will be possible if there is a bank holidayWith Holi falling on March 4 hundreds of families are facing uncertainty about how they will celebrate the festival without money The prolonged delay in salary payments has caused deep resentment among the workers who have made it clear that they will continue their strike until their pending dues are clearedHundreds of sanitation workers are currently on strike in Ayodhya due to the nonpayment of salaries for the past three months raising concerns about the citys sanitation systemSpeaking to IANS a sanitation worker said If we do not receive our salary we will not resume work We havent been paid for three months so we are on strike Officials have said that the salary will be paid tomorrowAnother worker said It has been two to three months since we received our wages Some of our workers are ill If they do not get their money how will they afford treatment at the hospitalA third worker said We are responsible for cleaning the city but we have not been paid for the last three months The dates are being extended repeatedly First they said the wages would come today but they did not Now they are saying the salary will be paid in MarchAnother worker added We have not received our full salary either Sometimes we get Rs 8000 sometimes Rs 9000 The festival is near yet we have not been paid Today we are not working and are on strike There are more than 3000 workers and many of them are facing the same issue IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/upset-over-not-getting-salary-for-past-three-months-hundreds-of-sanitation-workers-protest-in-ayodhya-662879.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 13:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/amit-shah-inaugurates-ssb-border-projects-in-bihars-araria-announces-campaign-against-infiltration-in-seemanchal-662886.html Patna Feb 26 IANS Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday inaugurated and laid the efoundation stones for several infrastructure projects of the Sashastra Seema Bal SSB at the Border Outposts Leti and Indarwa in Araria BiharnbspAddressing SSB personnel and local residents the Home Minister stressed the importance of heightened vigilance along the IndiaNepal border despite India sharing friendly relations with the neighbouring countryIt is true that we are guarding a border with a friendly nation But it is not necessary that antinational elements or enemies of the country will not try to use this route to enter India Therefore the Sashastra Seema Bal must remain alert and further strengthen its intelligence network HM Shah saidEmphasising grassroots intelligence HM Shah underlined the need for strong communication between SSB personnel and residents of border villagesOnly when there is effective interaction between our jawans officers and border villages can we receive accurate and timely information he notedReiterating a key poll promise the Union Home Minister announced that the Central government is preparing to launch a decisive campaign against infiltration in the Seemanchal region of BiharWe had promised the people of Bihar that we would free the state from infiltrators This does not merely mean deleting names from the voter list We are determined to remove every infiltrator from Indian soil HM Shah declaredHe said the campaign would begin soon and would include the demolition of all illegal encroachments within 10 kilometres of the international border along with the identification and deportation of infiltratorsHe alleged that infiltrators not only influence elections but also deprive the poor of welfare benefitsInfiltrators steal the poors share of the ration reduce employment opportunities for our youth and pose a serious threat to national security It is time for the entire country to address this issue decisively he saidRecalling his election campaign Shah said he had personally spent four days in Seemanchal and sought the peoples continued support to fulfil the promise made during that periodThe Home Minister claimed that demographic changes due to infiltration have significantly affected West Bengal Jharkhand and BiharReferring to elections in West Bengal he expressed confidence that the BJP would form the government there Once the BJP government is formed in Bengal completing border fencing and expelling infiltrators will be among the top priorities he saidHM Shah concluded by stating that the NDA government in Bihar has received a clear public mandate on this agenda and that ensuring border security and addressing infiltration remain central to the governments vision for Bihars welfareIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/amit-shah-inaugurates-ssb-border-projects-in-bihars-araria-announces-campaign-against-infiltration-in-seemanchal-662886.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 14:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/never-say-mera-tumhara-kashmir-always-say-hamara-kashmir-vp-radhakrishnan-to-jk-students-662887.html Srinagar Feb 26 IANS Vice President CP Radhakrishnan addressed the 21st convocation of Kashmir University on Thursday at the Hazratbal main campus in Srinagar citynbspHe started his address by speaking in Kashmiri and asked the audience if everyone was okaynbspI ask you not to say Mera Kashmir Tumhara Kashmir but always say Hamara Kashmir Vice President advised the graduating studentsnbspHe told the audience that both the Lt Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah have been his friends for over three decadesI am today the happiest person for three reasons our education minister of the state is a woman second the vice chancellor of the university is a woman and third the majority of gold medal winners are also women My additional joy is that this is my first visit here as the Vice President of the country When my good friend Lt Governor Manoj Sinha invited me to come to address the convocation I immediately said yes The real legacy of the University is its graduating students the character they impart and the contribution they make to society he saidThe Vice President said the university alumni include high court judges civil servants doctors engineers and Dr Karan Singh first Chancellor of Kashmir University The university has completed 78 years of its historic journey I may be there or I may not be there you will soon be celebrating your centenary yearHe said that with its Anantnag Baramulla and Kupwara campuses the university has extended its reach The university has an A plus plus NAAC accreditation It is ranked number eight among the public universities in the country Since 2019 over 10700 research papers from the university have been publishedDear graduates the day belongs to you but it also belongs to your parents who have put in all their resources to see that you reach to this stage Convocation is not merely a ceremony but is a day built with patience hope and opportunity You are graduating at a time when the world is changing very fast Twentyfive years ago the change was not so fast The world you are stepping into in 2026 is different from the world when you entered the University The world is changing and change is the only constant India is emerging not as an innovation seeker but as an innovation provider The purpose of technology is not progress alone he saidHe also spoke about Prime Minister Narendra Modis innovative ideas of startups Make in India etc The one thing I ever ask you is to focus on Swadeshi innovations We need not worry We have to give up our colonial mindset The Prime Minister gave us the slogan of Mera Bharat Mahan In the outside world initially the Covid vaccination cost not Rs 7500 but 7500 US dollars We made the vaccine available free to our people and also to outside countries Modiji did not aim for patents he saidThe Vice President appealed to the graduating students to keep away from narcotics and also ensure that people around them are free from the scourge of drug abuseHe also advised the youth not to be addicted to digital screens Everything must have its limit You are stepping into life and life will ask you questions that will not be from the syllabus or something you were taught in university Challenges will test your patience you must be patient failures will test your courage and you must be courageous he told the graduating studentsIn the end he wished everyone well and thanked the Lieutenant Governor the chief minister the vice chancellor and also those who made this day possible and memorableEarlier Vice Chancellor Nilofer Khan said in her convocation report that the university was established in 1948 as the JampampK University and was bifurcated into Jammu University and Kashmir University in 1969In its 78year long history the university has undertaken a journey of ambition achievement and excellence At todays convocation 59558 degrees 44910 undergraduate 13545 postgraduate 465 degrees in MD MSMCh 638 MPhil degrees 168 PhD have been awarded A total of 239 gold medals have been awarded Out of these186 medals have gone to female scholars The university has 14 schools 84 teaching departments and three satellite campuses of Anantnag Baramulla and Kupwara There are 209 affiliated and constituent colleges in medicine engineering and other degreesUniversity of Kashmir is the oldest university in JampampK It has NAAC A accreditation and is ranked 34th in the NIRF rankings The University is among the top eight State Public Universities in the country The alumni of the university include Padma awardees high court judges civil servants journalists and other professionals Recently one of our teachers and alumni Prof Shafi Shauq was honoured with the Padma Shri award We have students from foreign countries including those from Nigeria Ethiopia Malaysia and other countries the Vice Chancellor said in her reportIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/never-say-mera-tumhara-kashmir-always-say-hamara-kashmir-vp-radhakrishnan-to-jk-students-662887.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 14:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/up-govt-inks-mou-in-japan-on-green-hydrogen-technology-cm-yogi-invites-investors--662889.html TokyoNew Delhi Feb 26 IANS The Uttar Pradesh government on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding MoU with Japans Yamanashi Prefecture on green hydrogen technologynbspChief Minister Yogi Adityanath elaborating on the MoU on green hydrogen technology said that under the agreement students from higher technical institutions of Uttar Pradesh will receive training in Japan and the technology will be implemented in the states industry public transport and energy sectorsnbspnbspThis initiative will prove to be an important step towards achieving Prime Minister Modis Net Zero target he pointed outnbspThe Chief Minister on the second day of his visit presented the states new development policies and investment potential to the global industrial community during the UP Investment Road Show held in Yamanashi He stated that Uttar Pradesh has transformed its governance approach from reactive to proactive and this transformation has become the foundation of the states rapid economic progressCalling robotics a major technology of the future the Chief Minister said the UP government has made provisions in the budget to establish a Centre of Excellence for Robotics and voiced confidence that expanded cooperation will take IndiaJapan relations to new heights giving strength to selfreliance in energy and also making technology accessible to the common peoplenbspnbspBoasting about Uttar Pradeshs demographic advantage and natural abundance CM Yogi said the state has the countrys most fertile land abundant water resources vast human capital and over the past nine years it has scaled new heights of development and therefore offers abundant growth opportunities for the investing entities as wellnbspnbspThe Chief Minister further stated that governance in the state has undergone a transformational shift from a reactive to proactive model of governanceThe government is continuously taking initiatives to attract investment facilitate industries adopt new technologies and expand global partnerships With this vision a highlevel delegation from Uttar Pradesh has visited Japan to convert possibilities into opportunities CM Yogi told a gathering of tech leaders and investorsThe UP CM also made note of a prior incident stating that the Governor of Yamanashi had visited Uttar Pradesh in December 2024 and since then continuous dialogue followups and exchanges of delegations between the two governments have taken this cooperation in a new directionnbspHe said that following the study and report of the business delegation the Uttar Pradesh delegation arrived in Yamanashi at the Governors invitation where this cooperation has taken concrete shapenbspIANSnbsp https://dailyworld.in/politics/up-govt-inks-mou-in-japan-on-green-hydrogen-technology-cm-yogi-invites-investors--662889.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 15:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/i-dont-want-to-create-further-confusion-says-karnataka-home-minister-on-cm-post-demands-662890.html Bengaluru Feb 26 Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara on Thursday stated that he doesnt want to create confusion with regards to the matter of leadership in the state He further stated that he cant do much about his supporters demanding the Chief Ministers post for him however the decision has been left to the high command It can be recalled that amid the leadership tussle within the Congress party G Parameshwara had stated on Wednesday that there was nothing wrong with his supporters demanding the Chief Ministerâs post for him He claimed that he had proved beyond doubt that he is capableI am not ready to create more trouble Many people will ask me questions like you have asked My supporters and fans will demand the CMâs post for me and raise slogans in this regard The answer to all this is that the high command will take a decision at an appropriate time Hence there is not much use in analyzing the matter further HM Parameshwara maintainedYou will not get answers now Only when the high command makes a decision will everyone get answers I have not done any lobbying and I have not gone to Delhi for this purpose My wellwishers have demanded it but many times I have asked them not to do it he statedI have even scolded them but somewhere they will express their feelings and we cannot do much about it I will not join hands in creating confusion in the state he statedThere have been expressions by party workers and people but I do not want to add to that confusion Already some confusion has been created over the matter by people and I do not want to join them Whatever needs to be done our high command will take a decision whenever necessary he statedIt is not necessary for us to express everything in the media It is up to the high command If someone expresses their opinion I do not want to join them he reiteratedWhen asked about the demand for a Dalit CM he said That is okay People express their feelings and that is fineTalking about protest by government job aspirants HM Parameshwara stated The Cabinet may discuss filling up vacancies as it is a serious matter On one hand we want our youth to join universities and acquire skills but when they do not get jobs they are naturally disappointed We will discuss this issue Due to internal reservation the recruitment process has slowed down We will discuss how this can be rectifiedIn our manifesto we stated that there are 25 lakh vacancies in government jobs and these will be filled in a phased manner We have carried out some recruitments but the issue of internal reservation came in between In the Home Department alone there are 15000 vacancies We have received clearance and will issue notifications We will fill them he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/i-dont-want-to-create-further-confusion-says-karnataka-home-minister-on-cm-post-demands-662890.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 15:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/mumbai-sessions-court-acquits-sanjay-raut-in-medha-somaiya-defamation-case-662892.html Mumbai Feb 26 A Mumbai Sessions Court on Thursday acquitted Shiv Sena UBT leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut in a criminal defamation case filed by Medha Somaiya wife of BJP leader Kirit Somaiya The Special Sessions Court pronounced its verdict after reserving the order in Rautâs appeal challenging his conviction by a Magistrates Court last yearWith Thursdayâs ruling Raut has been granted relief and stands acquitted in the caseThe dispute stemmed from allegations made by Raut in the media in which he accused Medha Somaiya of involvement in an alleged Rs 100 crore scam related to the construction of public toilets under the MiraBhayander Municipal Corporation Somaiya had strongly refuted the charges terming them false and defamatoryIn September last year a Mazagaon Metropolitan Magistrate Court had found Raut guilty of defamation and sentenced him to 15 daysâ simple imprisonment along with a fine of Rs 25000 The sentence however was stayed after Raut filed an appeal before the Sessions CourtMedha Somaiya a professor of Organic Chemistry at Mumbaiâs Ruia College had approached the court claiming that Rautâs public statements had damaged her and her husbandâs reputation Prior to filing the complaint in court the Somaiyas had lodged a complaint at Mulund Police Station They maintained that ânot even a single rupee scam has been committedâ and sought legal action against what they described as baseless allegationsRaut on the other hand consistently argued that his statements were based on certain official documents and that he had merely raised questions regarding the alleged irregularities in the toilet construction project He maintained that the issue had also been discussed in the Maharashtra AssemblyWith the Sessions Court overturning the Magistrate Courtâs conviction it is a significant legal victory for Raut in a matter involving leaders from rival parties in Maharashtra IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/mumbai-sessions-court-acquits-sanjay-raut-in-medha-somaiya-defamation-case-662892.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 15:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/no-space-for-invaders-as-heroes-cm-fadnavis-on-shivaji-maharaj-tipu-sultan-comparison-662894.html Mumbai Feb 26 IANS Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday in a scathing rebuttal addressed the controversy surrounding Tipu Sultan asserting that years of tempered history have misled the nationnbspHis remarks came in response to statements made by Congress Maharashtra State President Harshvardhan Sapkal who had reportedly suggested that Tipu Sultan should be considered on par with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj He criticised what he called the distortion of historical facts for political mileage He asserted that while India respects all patriotic citizens invaders would never be accepted as national icons in MaharashtraIn his reply to the debate on the Governors address the chief minister said Unfortunately the true history of this land was never taught correctly We have no objection to the many patriotic Muslims in this country However those who consider antinational elements and invaders as heroes are choosing a fight with us and we will not back downnbspCM Fadnavis clarified that the primary objection was not whether Tipu Sultan was a good or bad ruler but the attempt to equate him with the Maratha legend Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Our objection is to the claim that Tipu Sultan was as great a king as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj or that he should be glorified in the same manner For years history was manipulated to teach us that Tipu Sultan was a great king while conveniently omitting that he was responsible for the massacre of 75000 Hindus and 33000 Nayars he stated He further argued that Tipu Sultans fight against the British was a matter of selfpreservation to save his own kingdom rather than a struggle for national liberationCM Fadnavis highlighted a significant shift in the educational narrative under the current Central government He pointed out the disparity in previous textbooks between the past and current curriculum In the past curriculum Mughal history was allotted 17 pages while the history of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was relegated to a single paragraph In the current curriculum under the Modi government the history of the Marathas and Shivaji Maharaj has been expanded to 20 pages in NCERT books he saidIf the correct history had been taught at the right time not a single Muslim in this country would have considered Aurangzeb a hero he remarkednbspHe emphasised that while the country is home to many patriotic Muslims against whom there is no grievance the government will firmly oppose those who idolise invaders and enemies of the nationnbspCM Fadnavis emphasised that Shivaji Maharaj fought for Swarajya selfrule whereas Tipu Sultans legacy is marred by the documented slaughter of thousands of HindusnbspHe noted that the comparison had deeply hurt the sentiments of the people leading to the recent clashes in Pune and Mumbai As Home Minister he warned that the government would not tolerate any glorification of figures that incite communal tension under the guise of historical reverenceIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/no-space-for-invaders-as-heroes-cm-fadnavis-on-shivaji-maharaj-tipu-sultan-comparison-662894.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 15:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/jagan-voices-concern-over-diarrhea-outbreak-in-srikakulam--662622.html Amaravati Feb 25 Former Chief Minister and YSR Congress Party president YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Tuesday expressed serious concern over the outbreak of diarrhea in Srikakulamâ He criticised the government for negligence and said public health was being compromised due to administrative failureâThe YSRCP chief stated that poor road repair work and a lack of proper precautions in the drinking water supply had led to the present situation and added that failure to protect public health exposed weaknesses in governance âHe said in a statement that the government has a responsibility to ensure safe drinking water and proper sanitation managementâYS Jagan emphasised that the victims currently receiving treatment must be provided with the best possible medical care He demanded that special medical teams monitor patients who are on ventilator support and that senior specialists be appointed if required âHe said no effort should be spared in saving lives He also called for a thorough inquiry into the incident and strict action against those responsible âThe former Chief Minister urged the authorities to take immediate steps to ensure water purification chlorination and proper drainage management to prevent further spread He warned that if the government fails to protect peopleâs health the public will respond accordingly âHe also demanded immediate financial assistance for the families of the deceased and affected victimsâMeanwhile YS Jagan Mohan Reddy interacted with party workers supporters and members of the public during his visit to his constituency Pulivendula in YSR Kadapa district âAt the Bhakarapuram camp office he met people who had gathered in large numbers to see him and present their concerns âAccording to a party statement he enquired about the wellbeing of party workers and listened patiently to their problemsHe assured them that difficult times would not last forever and that better days were ahead He told them not to lose courage and promised to stand by anyone facing trouble âSeveral leaders and cadres complained about harassment and attacks by TDP leaders under the coalition government In response he advised them to remain strong and continue their struggle democraticallyâHe also spoke to Kadapa MP YS Avinash Reddy regarding certain issues and suggested steps to resolve them YS Jagan expressed concern about what he called the deteriorating governance and the misuse of institutions âHe said that any government should work for public welfare and not for vendetta He recalled that during the YSRCP tenure benefits were delivered to all eligible persons without discriminationâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/jagan-voices-concern-over-diarrhea-outbreak-in-srikakulam--662622.html Wed, 25 Feb 2026 08:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/govt-official-arrested-for-taking-bribe-in-odishas-cuttack-662623.html Bhubaneswar Feb 24 The Odisha Vigilance on Tuesday arrested a senior government official for allegedly accepting a bribe from a licensed coal vendor in exchange for facilitating the complainant to run his business smoothly According to the Vigilance sources the accused officer Debabrata Mohanty Cuttack Deputy Director of Mines was apprehended by the Vigilance sleuths while he was taking a bribe of Rs 30000 from the licenced coal vendor in exchange for allowing smooth running of his coal depot and to grant permission to transport coal The police also seized the entire tainted bribe money from the possession of the accused Deputy Director of MinesFollowing the trap simultaneous searches are underway at three locations associated with Mohanty to ascertain whether the accused Deputy Director has possessed any disproportionate assets DA A case has been registered under Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Amendment Act 2018 against Mohanty at the Bhubaneswar Vigilance Police Station in this regard on MondayNotably Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday told the State Assembly that the Vigilance Department has registered a total 416 cases against government officers and employees in the state for taking bribes committing financial irregularities in government fund and possession of disproportionate assets between January 1 2024 and December 31 2025 He also added that of this 244 cases are pending investigation and in 172 cases after completion of investigation final forms have been submitted and the cases are subjudiceThe state government has established 22 Vigilance Courts in the state including two Special courts and two courts of authorised officers for prompt trial of various Vigilance cases and confiscation proceedings As per reports a new Vigilance Court has also been established in Bargarh district recently This apart the Odisha government has recently taken several other initiatives to strengthen the Vigilance department IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/govt-official-arrested-for-taking-bribe-in-odishas-cuttack-662623.html Wed, 25 Feb 2026 08:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/chennai-fishers-to-hold-human-chain-protest-on-march-2-against-blue-flag-project-expansion-marina-rope-car-662649.html Chennai Feb 25 Tension is mounting along Chennaiâs coastline as fishermen from 12 hamlets between Ayodhya Kuppam in Triplicane and Srinivasapuram in Santhome gear up for a largescale human chain protest on the evening of March 2 The agitation is aimed at urging the state government to drop plans to expand the Blue Flag beach project along the Marina and to halt the rope car project on the sandsLeaders representing Ayodhya Kuppam Mattankuppam Nochikuppam and Srinivasapuram according to fishermen leaders deliberated on what they termed âserious livelihood threatsâ posed by recent coastal development initiativesApart from the Blue Flag expansion the fishing community is opposing the proposed removal of shops along the Marina Loop Road and beachfront areas The protesters say that while they are not against development any expansion of tourism infrastructure should not come at the cost of traditional fishing rights vending spaces and access to the shore They have demanded structured consultations with officials before further work proceedsSelvaraj a fisherman from Ayodhya Kuppam said the community had already made concessions for earlier phases of the project âWe gave up space and shifted our boats when the Blue Flag proposal first came But when bamboo fences were erected in the little space we had left we lost even that After pressure from us they removed it We have 30 boats and 10 catamarans here Fishing near the coast is already badly affected due to sewage and garbage Now even our parking space for boats is shrinkingâ he saidResidents fear that further expansion of the Blue Flag scheme will push fishing families out of the beach altogetherAccording to community members space traditionally used for docking boats and drying nets is gradually being restricted Concerns are also mounting among vendors who depend on evening beach commerce A woman vendor said that nearly 2000 families rely on the eateries and small shops that operate along Marina and Loop RoadâHow can only 300 shops be allowed What will happen to the rest If the government provides alternative space or another means of livelihood we can consider moving Otherwise this is a question of life and death for usâ she saidCommunity leader K Bharathi questioned what he called âunequal enforcementâ He alleged that while fishermen are prevented from putting up temporary thatches to mend nets civic authorities are installing bamboo fences cabanas changing rooms toilets and even undertaking rope car construction on the sandsThe fishermen have urged the government to hold consultations before proceeding further warning that development without livelihood safeguards will severely impact Chennaiâs traditional coastal communities IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/chennai-fishers-to-hold-human-chain-protest-on-march-2-against-blue-flag-project-expansion-marina-rope-car-662649.html Wed, 25 Feb 2026 09:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/security-tightened-across-kashmir-as-vp-radhakrishnans-visit-begins-today-662659.html Srinagar Feb 25 Vice President CP Radhakrishnan is arriving here on Wednesday evening on his maiden twoday visit to the Kashmir Valley Officials said the Vice President will land at the Srinagar Airport in the evening and drive to the Lok Bhawan in Chashma Shahi area of Srinagar city where he will spend the nightJampK Lt Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah will receive the Vice President on his arrival hereHe will be the chief guest at the 21st convocation of the University of Kashmir being held at the Hazratbal campus on ThursdayThe LG is the Chancellor while the Chief Minister is the ProChancellor of this universitySecurity has been tightened ahead of the Vice Presidents arrival The security forces carried out a dry run of the entire route the Vice President is scheduled to use during his stay in SrinagarMakeshift check posts have come up at a number of places while checking vehicles and frisking of occupants entering the city has also started to ensure foolproof security for the VVIPThe traffic department has issued an elaborate advisory asking people to strictly follow the alternate routes made available to ensure free passage of the VVIP cavalcade during the visitAccording to the advisory no motorist will be allowed to ply towards Nishat Shalimar Harwan and adjacent areas via Badyari Chowk and Gupkar on Thursday Similarly traffic movement from Ram Munshibagh towards Hotel Grand Palace will remain suspended and vehicles will be diverted towards Dalgate Sangermal and Ikhwan Chowk for onward movementAuthorities said that no traffic will be allowed on the Dalgate Khayam Khanyar Rainawari Saidkadal and Hazratbal road stretch during the restriction period Motorists intending to travel from Harwan Shalimar Nishat Ganderbal and adjoining areas towards Lal Chowk have been advised to take the Burzahama route via Chandpora Tailbal Zakoora Malbagh Illahibagh and 90 Feet Road and vice versaThose travelling from Dalgate Lal Chowk and nearby areas towards Harwan Shalimar and Nishat have been directed to use the Sangermal Ikhwan Chowk Nowhatta 90 Feet and Malbagh road route to reach their destinationsMotorists heading towards Srinagar Airport from Harwan Shalimar and Nishat will be permitted to move through Burzahama Chandpora Tailbal Zakoora Malbagh Illahibagh and 90 Feet Road Vehicles travelling from Panthachowk and Pandrethan towards R M Bagh will be allowed via Peaks Motors Nowgam and the Bypass Officials said that medical emergency cases will be facilitated after due verificationCitizens requiring assistance may contact the Traffic Police Control Room at 103Meanwhile VK Virdi IGP Kashmir took a detailed security review meeting of the VVIP visitThis is CP Radhakrishnanâs maiden visit to the union territory as the Vice President of the country IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/security-tightened-across-kashmir-as-vp-radhakrishnans-visit-begins-today-662659.html Wed, 25 Feb 2026 10:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ktaka-bjp-chief-accuses-cm-siddaramaiah-of-misleading-public-on-recruitment-figures-662673.html Bengaluru Feb 25 Karnataka Bharatiya Janata Party BJP President and MLA BY Vijayendra on Wednesday accused Chief Minister Siddaramaiah of misleading the public regarding the number of government posts filled during the Congress governmentâs tenure in the state In a statement Vijayendra alleged that the state government had presented contradictory information inside the Legislative Assembly and outside He said official data provided by the government in the Assembly showed that only 8157 government recruitments had been completed during the three years of the current administrationHowever Vijayendra claimed that the Chief Minister had publicly stated that 40000 posts had been filled which he described as false and misleading Vijayendra questioned how long the government would continue to mislead the people and said such claims amounted to a betrayal of the unemployed youth of the stateHe further stated that as one of the longestserving Chief Ministers Siddaramaiah had a responsibility to present accurate information to the public Misleading statements he said could worsen the frustration and anger among unemployed youthVijayendra urged the Congress government to immediately complete the pending recruitment processes and address the concerns of job aspirants He called on the government to stop spreading false claims and ensure justice to unemployed youth by filling vacant government posts without further delayReacting to the protest by government job aspirants in Dharwad Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday had urged students to focus on education and assured faster recruitment When we assumed office more than 264 lakh government posts were vacant This massive backlog did not arise overnight it was the result of prolonged inaction under the previous Bharatiya Janata Party BJPled state government which failed to initiate timely recruitments or create a structured roadmap to fill vacanciesCM Siddaramaiah further stated In the last 25 years alone more than 40000 job recruitments have been completed across departments We are also conscious that many job aspirants have waited for years due to delays beyond their control Recognising this hardship the state government has relaxed the age criteria by more than five years for upcoming recruitments ensuring that deserving candidates are not unfairly excluded because of systemic delaysIt can be recalled that thousands of students BJP activists members of the All Karnataka State Student Association AKSSA and unemployed youths staged a massive protest in Dharwad on Tuesday demanding that the Karnataka government immediately fill vacant posts in various state departmentsLeader of Opposition R Ashoka commenting on the protest while speaking to the media alleged in Chitradurga that the state government has failed to address unemployment despite having clearance to fill thousands of vacant postsHe said that more than 25 lakh government posts are currently vacant in Karnataka and the finance department had cleared recruitment for 65000 posts nearly six months ago However no interviews have been conducted so far IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ktaka-bjp-chief-accuses-cm-siddaramaiah-of-misleading-public-on-recruitment-figures-662673.html Wed, 25 Feb 2026 11:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/kerala-to-be-renamed-keralam-bjp-welcomes-decision-congress-flags-dual-policy-on-bengal-662680.html New Delhi Feb 25 The Union Cabinet has cleared the proposal to rename Kerala as Keralam paving the way for a constitutional amendment in Parliament and triggering a fresh political debate While the BJP welcomed the decision as recognition of the stateâs cultural and linguistic identity the Congress alleged a âdual policyâ questioning why a similar longpending demand to rename West Bengal has not received the Centreâs approval Reacting to the development BJP National Spokesperson Syed Shahnawaz Hussain on Wednesday said âThe people of Kerala had a longstanding demand for the name to be changed to âKeralamâ Now the change has been made Once it is approved by the Vidhan Sabha the official name of Kerala will become âKeralamââThe Union Cabinetâs approval came on Tuesday just months ahead of the Assembly elections in Kerala The state Assembly had earlier passed unanimous resolutions in August 2023 and again in June 2024 urging the Centre to amend the Constitution to reflect the name Keralam which is the Malayalam pronunciation of the stateâs nameWhile Keralaâs proposal has now moved forward the issue has reignited debate over similar demands from West Bengal In Uttar Pradesh Congress spokesperson Surendra Rajput criticised the Centreâs decision alleging inconsistency in its approachâThis is part of the BJPâs dual policy The BJP should answer â for electoral reasons you are ready to rename Kerala to âKeralamâ for political reasons but you are not changing the name of West Bengal On a serious note Amit Shah and PM Modi should answer Mamata Banerjeeâs fair questionsâ Rajput told IANSWest Bengal has sought a name change multiple times dating back to the tenure of former Chief Minister Jyoti Basu and continuing under current Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Over the years the state has proposed names such as âPashchim Bongoâ âBongoâ and most recently âBanglaâ However none of these proposals has received approval from the Centre The latest proposal in 2018 to rename the state âBanglaâ remains pendingWith the Union Cabinet clearing Keralaâs proposal the renaming process now moves to the next constitutional steps The President of India will send a Bill to the Kerala Assembly to seek its views After the Assembly formally expresses its opinion the Centre will introduce a Bill in Parliament to amend the First Schedule of the Constitution which lists the names of statesThe proposed legislation will require a simple majority in both Houses of Parliament Once passed it will be sent to the President for assent Upon approval the change will be notified in the Gazette of India after which the name Keralam will officially come into use IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/kerala-to-be-renamed-keralam-bjp-welcomes-decision-congress-flags-dual-policy-on-bengal-662680.html Wed, 25 Feb 2026 12:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/rjd-targets-nitish-govt-over-liquor-smuggling-and-lathi-charge-on-chowkidars-662693.html Patna Feb 25 The Opposition on Wednesday intensified its attack on the Bihar government over alleged largescale liquor smuggling despite prohibition in the state while also condemning the recent lathi charge on protesting Chowkidars and Dafadars in Patna Speaking to the media RJD MLA Bhai Virendra alleged that prohibition exists âonly on paperâ and that the illegal sale of liquor including spurious liquor continues unchecked across the stateHe claimed that large consignments of liquor from neighbouring states are entering Bihar daily raising serious questions about the role of the administration and law enforcement agencies Responding to concerns earlier flagged by Chirag Paswan over incidents involving toxic liquor Bhai Virendra alleged that such smuggling could not take place without the connivance of officialsâLiquor is crossing state borders frequently It is impossible without the involvement of certain government officialsâ he said further alleging that some leaders associated with the NDA were complicit in facilitating the illegal tradeThe RJD legislator also expressed concern over the rising consumption of locally brewed and spurious liquor claiming that youths between 15 and 20 years are increasingly falling prey to addiction thereby jeopardising their futureApart from the prohibition issue Bhai Virendra strongly condemned the recent police lathi charge on Chowkidars and Dafadars who were protesting in Patna over their demands Terming the action âbarbaric and inhumanâ he said the Grand Alliance had raised the issue prominently in the Bihar Assembly and demanded that the legitimate demands of the protesting employees be addressedReferring to the alleged lathi charge near a government office he claimed that the employees were brutally beaten and that the matter was raised directly with the Chief Minister on the floor of the HouseâThe lathi charge on Chowkidars and Dafadars is barbaric Strict action must be taken against the officials who ordered and carried it out The responsible officers should be immediately suspendedâ he saidHe further alleged that while the Grand Alliance raised the matter sincerely some other parties were attempting to derive political mileage from the incident instead of focusing on justice for the affected employees IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/rjd-targets-nitish-govt-over-liquor-smuggling-and-lathi-charge-on-chowkidars-662693.html Wed, 25 Feb 2026 14:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/rs-349-crore-citizen-360-digital-platform-to-transform-public-services-in-chennai-662695.html Chennai Feb 25 In a major step towards techdriven urban governance the Greater Chennai Corporation GCC has approved a Rs 349crore project to build an integrated Citizen 360 Digital Engagement Platform aimed at fundamentally reshaping how residents interact with the civic body The decision was cleared at a recent council meeting marking one of the cityâs most ambitious digital transformation initiativesThe proposed platform will be developed by upgrading the existing Integrated Command and Control Centre ICCC into a unified engagement and analytics hubCivic officials said the system will use artificial intelligence to create a consolidated profile of each citizenâs interactions with the Corporation ranging from tax payments to grievance redressal enabling faster datadriven decisionmaking At present citizen services operate in departmental silos meaning each complaint or request is handled independently This fragmented structure makes it difficult for officials to identify recurring civic problems or patterns of complaints across neighbourhoodsUnder the new framework all service requests feedback and grievances will be brought onto a single dashboardOfficials said the AIpowered interface would securely store complaint data and generate analytics to detect persistent issues such as garbage accumulation repeated road damage drainage failures and floodingprone stretchesBy analysing trends over time administrators will be able to address root causes rather than merely resolving isolated complaintsThe Corporation has floated a Request for Proposal RFP for the design development integration and longterm maintenance of the platformThe selected system integrator will manage the project endtoend including cloud hosting cybersecurity disaster recovery and highavailability architecture The project will be executed in two phases The first phase scheduled for completion within eight weeks includes deployment of 50 to 150 user licences integration with ICCC and departmental systems and rollout of an AIdriven chatbot powered by a large language model The second phase will focus on operations and maintenance after golive including AI model refinement uptime assurance and deployment of dedicated technical staffImportantly the upgraded system will enable seamless communication across WhatsApp email web portals and mobile applications Beyond integrating data from 22 GCC departments the platform will also connect with agencies such as Metro Water Chennai Metro Rail Limited CMRL and the Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation creating a unified civic data ecosystem designed to enhance transparency and improve service delivery across the city IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/rs-349-crore-citizen-360-digital-platform-to-transform-public-services-in-chennai-662695.html Wed, 25 Feb 2026 14:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/govt-wont-tolerate-bid-to-disturb-academic-events-ktaka-hm-on-action-against-abvp-in-premji-univ-unrest-case-662701.html Bengaluru Feb 25 Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara on Wednesday defended the police action against the members of the Akhila Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad ABVP in connection with the controversy at Azim Premji University stating that the government would not tolerate attempts to disrupt academic events or take the law into oneâs hands Speaking to reporters HM Parameshwara said the university had planned to conduct a seminar and emphasised that academic institutions must be allowed to hold discussions on various subjectsâThey were preparing to conduct a seminar Let them take any subject What else will happen in a seminar apart from discussion There will be arguments both in favour and againstâ he saidReferring to the incident in which protesters allegedly entered the campus and attempted to disrupt the programme the Home Minister said such actions were unacceptable He questioned whether the police should remain silent when individuals take the law into their own hands and attempt to prevent an event or attack studentsHM Parameshwara made it clear that the government would take a strict view of the matter and initiate disciplinary action against those involved in disrupting the programmeHe reiterated that there was no scope for such incidents and assured that the authorities would act firmly to maintain law and order and ensure the safety of students and educational institutionsMeanwhile former Deputy Chief Minister and BJP MLA CN Ashwath Narayan stated that Azim Premji University is a prestigious institution that has rendered significant service in the field of education and its role in the development of the countryâs education sector is commendableHowever organizations such as SPARK which is sponsored by the All India Students Association AISA and is allegedly involved in activities against national interest must be banned from operating in universities Such programmes should not be permitted in the future he demandedAn immediate investigation must be conducted into the matter of providing a platform for the AISAsponsored SPARK programme Prestigious educational institutions should serve as centres of nationbuilding and must not become hubs for antinational activities Ashwath Narayan appealedProtests broke out at Azim Premji University in Sarjapur on Tuesday evening after members of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad ABVP accused a student collective of attempting to host an âantinationalâ seminar related to Jammu and KashmirâThe university clarified that it had not authorised any such eventâIt can be noted that a group of ABVP activists barged onto the campus after forcefully opening the gate raising slogans and staging demonstrations both outside the university gates and within the premisesâThe demonstrators vandalised property smeared ink on the universityâs main signage and spraypainted graffiti reading âBan SPARKâ on campus walls They also demanded disciplinary action against the organisers and called for a ban on the student collectiveâThe activists displayed posters condemning the organisation of the seminar and waved the national flag and ABVP banners They staged a dharna inside the premises and ABVP banners stated that the protest was against antinational Kashmir separatist forces at Azim Premji University in BengaluruâAccording to ABVP activists the controversy stemmed from a programme allegedly organised by a student collective named SPARK to mark the anniversary of the alleged Kunan Poshpora mass rape incident of February 23 1991âThe ABVP claimed that the proposed seminar was derogatory towards the Indian Army and promoted separatist ideologies Protesters also alleged that the event portrayed Jammu and Kashmir as separate from India IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/govt-wont-tolerate-bid-to-disturb-academic-events-ktaka-hm-on-action-against-abvp-in-premji-univ-unrest-case-662701.html Wed, 25 Feb 2026 14:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/nothing-wrong-in-supporters-seeking-cm-post-for-me-have-proved-my-capability-ktaka-home-minister-662702.html Bengaluru Feb 25 Amid the leadership tussle within the Congress party Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara has stated that there was nothing wrong with his supporters demanding the Chief Ministerâs post for him He claimed that he had proved beyond doubt that he is capable He made the statement while speaking to reporters in Bengaluru on Wednesday When asked about demands that he be given an opportunity in case of a leadership change as he hails from the Dalit community and has served twice as State Congress President Parameshwara said âIf there is anything wrong in it convey it to me and I will rectify itââI have repeatedly stated that this is not a matter to be discussed on the streets Matters related to the selection or replacement of the Chief Minister will be discussed in closeddoor meetings by the high command Opinions have to be sought in the Congress Legislative Party CLP meetingâ he saidâAfter weighing the pros and cons the high command will take the final decision This is the procedure at our party and I have made statements in this regard many times They may propose my name but merely proposing my name or someone expressing their opinion will not change anything However no one can say that such a demand is wrongâ he addedThe minister said he was a disciplined soldier of the party and I will abide by the decision of the high command If I make a statement before the media saying that I should become Chief Minister will it happen That would only lead to public discussion The matter will be decided by the high commandâResponding to claims by his supporters about his capability Parameshwara said âHow many times do I need to prove my capability I worked with the Pradesh Congress Committee PCC for eight years Could I have functioned without the capability I helped bring the party to power twice Would that have been possible without capabilityââI have also served as Deputy Chief Minister of the state Can anyone function in that post without the capability No one can question my capability I have proved beyond doubt that I am capable But decisions depend on circumstances and the partyâs leadershipâ he saidHe also stated that he had not met Public Works Department Minister Satish Jarkiholi or former Minister KN Rajanna and was unaware of their discussionsResponding to Rajannaâs reported remarks that Parameshwara deserved recognition for his hard work he said âThat is why I asked what is wrong with such a demandâAnswering a question Parameshwara said he would travel to Delhi when required âDelhi is not new to me I go whenever necessary I do not need permission to visit Delhi I run educational institutions and have worked with bodies such as the UGC and other authorities If there is any official work related to the police department I will make an official announcement and goâ he saidâIf I feel there is a need to discuss political matters with the high command I will definitely go I have also served in the partyâs working committee and know the leaders there If I want to meet Rahul Gandhi or Sonia Gandhi I will go to Delhi depending on their availability If I want to meet AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge I will meet him when he is in Bengaluruâ he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/nothing-wrong-in-supporters-seeking-cm-post-for-me-have-proved-my-capability-ktaka-home-minister-662702.html Wed, 25 Feb 2026 14:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-chief-blasts-nehru-gandhi-family-labels-lop-rahul-poster-boy-of-negative-politics-662705.html Patna Feb 25 IANS BJP National President Nitin Nabin on Wednesday launched a scathing attack on the Congress party alleging that the NehruGandhi family has historically carried out compromised missions that prioritised their personal and political interests over those of the nation Nabin referred to Congress MP and Leader of the Opposition LoP in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi as the poster boy of negative politics and accused the family for what he described as decades of compromising Indias national interestsnbspSpeaking at a press conference in Patna Nabin said I am presenting before you the compromise story of the NehruGandhi familyhow the family carried out a compromise missions compromising the interests of the countrys people while always protecting their own interests There was a time when Jawaharlal Nehru himself said 45 crore people of the nation are my liabilityHe added that such remarks coming from a Prime Minister were a huge deception of the people and questioned the Nehru familys historical relationships with foreign powers History shows how Nehrus secretariat functioned almost as an open book for the CIA and other foreign agencies In 1954 Indias rights in Tibet were handed over to China without any tangible reward Nabin allegedTurning to Rajiv Gandhi Nabin alleged misuse of defence services to protect personal financial interests In the Bofors scandal efforts were made to obstruct the Swedish investigation to protect a friend The Bhopal gas tragedy further revealed his compromise when Warren Anderson responsible for the deaths of thousands was safely sent out of the country on a government plane he saidOn Sonia Gandhi Nabin claimed that she effectively acted as a super Prime Minister between 2004 and 2014 running a parallel government through the National Advisory Council and influencing Cabinet decisions He also alleged that during this period the Rajiv Gandhi Foundation received funding from the Chinese government and George Soros network raising questions about potential secret agreements with foreign powersHighlighting Rahul Gandhis foreign engagements Nabin said Rahul Gandhi undertook more than 247 foreign trips but in most cases security agencies were not informed He met close associates of foreign powers including Ilhan Omar and George Soros and conducted political activities in line with their influence Even in sensitive border areas of Ladakh foreign national Shakir Mohamed Nurali Merali with links to Chinese and Pakistani agencies were reportedly presentNabin claimed that Congress compromised legacy under Rahul Gandhis leadership posed a threat to Indias youth Mobilising young people with a positive mindset is crucial If they are misled onto the wrong path under the compromise mission of Sonia and Rahul Gandhi it becomes a matter of concern for everyone The public has already understood their compromised missions and will ensure accountability in the future he saidThe BJP leader concluded by asserting that while the Congress party may continue to strike deals against national interests the people of India will punish them when the time comes and only then will they truly understand the consequences of their actionsIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-chief-blasts-nehru-gandhi-family-labels-lop-rahul-poster-boy-of-negative-politics-662705.html Wed, 25 Feb 2026 14:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/hm-shah-begins-three-day-bihar-visit-to-review-border-security-in-seemanchal-nda-leaders-welcome-move-662706.html New Delhi Feb 25 IANS Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to begin a threeday visit to Bihar on Wednesday focussing on border security administrative preparedness and ongoing development initiatives in the states Seemanchal region which shares proximity with Nepal and BangladeshnbspReacting to the visit Bihar Minister Ashok Chaudhary said He Amit Shah is coming to review our border areas with Nepal and Bangladesh because reports are coming that drug peddlers have become active from Nepal Our resources are for our Muslims not for Muslims of other countriesDuring his visit HM Shah is scheduled to review security arrangements in border districts and hold highlevel meetings with officials regarding issues along the IndiaNepal borderHe is set to reach Purnia around 400 PM before proceeding to Kishanganj where he will chair a review meeting at the CollectorateJDU spokesperson Neeraj Kumar emphasised the developmental aspect of the visit stating Amit Shah is the countrys Home Minister The Seemanchal region includes the agriculture college named after APJ Abdul Kalam the airport of Purnia the development of Waqf properties as well as other bordering areasLJP MLA Raju Tiwari welcomed the visit saying The Home Minister regularly visits the Seemanchal region and his visits are always welcome Especially in Seemanchal it shows the responsibility the government has towards the people His arrival along with the Prime Ministers is a good signRLM MLA Madhav Anand added Home Minister Amit Shah remains consistently concerned about the people of Bihar All the central government schemes being implemented in Bihar are regularly reviewed personally by him and by the Prime Minister His current visit is part of this engagement a threeday tourOn February 26 HM Shah will visit Araria and participate in a programme at the Letti border outpost followed by further security assessments and a review of development initiatives under the Vibrant Villages Programme The tour will conclude on February 27 after additional meetings in Purnia before his return to New DelhiExtensive security arrangements have been put in place ahead of the visit https://dailyworld.in/politics/hm-shah-begins-three-day-bihar-visit-to-review-border-security-in-seemanchal-nda-leaders-welcome-move-662706.html Wed, 25 Feb 2026 14:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/lights-camera-campaign-left-turns-to-cultural-icons-seeking-3rd-term-for-cm-vijayan-662714.html Thiruvananthapuram Feb 25 As Kerala moves closer to the Assembly polls the ruling CPIM is leaving little to chance in its bid to secure a rare third consecutive term for Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan Stung by an unexpected drubbing in the December local body elections the Left has recalibrated with a conspicuous pivot towards the stateâs influential cultural sphereAt the centre of this outreach is the partyâs Rajya Sabha MP John Brittas widely seen as devising a strategy to harness the persuasive power of cinema and literatureThe most highprofile move was bringing in superstar and Dadasaheb Phalke award winner Mohanlal who was âflownâ out of a shooting schedule in Thodupuzha for a twoday programme culminating in a televised interaction with the Chief MinisterDirected by filmmaker TK Rajeev Kumar the exercise followed structured discussions on tone and content underscoring the meticulous planning behind the opticsSignificantly this came months after Mohanlal and Kamal Haasan skipped the state governmentâs âExtreme Poverty Freeâ declaration ceremony held on November 1 2025 in Thiruvananthapuram despite being listed as special guestsOnly Mammootty attended marking his first public appearance after months of medical treatmentPolitical observers note that Mohanlalâs subsequent decision to interview CM Vijayan restored visible proximity recalling a similar interaction he once had with former Chief Minister Oommen ChandyEarlier Mohanlal had featured in a promotional film for the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation directed by Priyadarshan under Transport Minister KB Ganesh Kumar further blurring the line between governance messaging and celebrity endorsementThis intensified engagement with film personalities also unfolds against the backdrop of the controversial Hema Committee report which had sent ripples through the Malayalam film industrySenior officials in the Vijayan government are understood to have examined the report in detail including the sensitive names it referencesWhile the government has maintained procedural discretion political observers note that the timing of cultural outreach cannot be entirely divorced from this contextAttention has also turned to actor Jayaram questioned in the Sabarimala gold heist case and whether he will once again campaign for CM VijayanWith Culture Minister Saji Cherian roping in rap singer Vedan and actress Bhavana for a cultural event in Chengannur his home turf on Saturday the message is clear the Left is tapping every strand of Keralaâs cultural capitalAs the highstakes Kerala Legislative Assembly election approaches the lingering question is whether this is astute image management or a sign of a party determined not to leave narrative control to chance IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/lights-camera-campaign-left-turns-to-cultural-icons-seeking-3rd-term-for-cm-vijayan-662714.html Wed, 25 Feb 2026 15:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/president-murmu-hails-ayush-medicines-role-in-health-662728.html Buldhana Feb 25 IANS The President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday said Ayush systems of medicine have made an invaluable contribution to citizens health Systems like Yoga Ayurveda and Siddha have been serving people since the dawn of modern medicine she said In her speech after inaugurating the National Arogya Fair at Shegaon in Buldhana district she noted that healthy citizens play an important role in strengthening the countryThe President said that our farms kitchens and forests contain a valuable treasure trove of medicinal plants and healthprotecting herbs Conserving and enhancing this valuable wealth is crucial for providing raw materials for medicines and maintaining environmental balance Cultivating medicinal plants not only improves the economic conditions of farmers but also contributes to soil health and conservation Therefore promoting AYUSH systems not only improves peoples physical and economic health but also supports environmental conservation she saidThe President said that Ayurveda yoga and other AYUSH systems offer guidance on leading a healthy balanced life Today the world is recognising the importance of integrative medicine in disease prevention People worldwide are adopting yoga for a stressfree and healthy lifestyle and benefiting from Ayurvedic treatments and medicines she saidAccording to the President steps such as evidencebased research standardisation of medicines and quality control will further enhance the recognition and acceptance of AYUSH systems She said that the Ministry of AYUSH is continuously striving in this directionGeneral guidelines for research and drug development have been established in accordance with international standards Numerous scientific efforts are underway to establish Ayurveda Yoga and other AYUSH systems as reliable scientific solutions to modern health challenges she said She expressed confidence that by making traditional systems of medicine more accessible and popular through modern scientific interventions innovations and global collaborationWe will be successful in making them an integral part of the holistic healthcare system stated the PresidentIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/president-murmu-hails-ayush-medicines-role-in-health-662728.html Wed, 25 Feb 2026 19:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/manipur-cm-meets-pm-modi-seeks-support-for-peace-harmony-women-empowerment--662539.html New DelhiImphal Feb 24 IANS Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Tuesday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi and briefed him on the initiatives taken by the new state government to restore peace and harmony in the state officials saidAn official of the Chief Ministers Office CMO in Imphal said that the Chief Minister accompanied by the two Deputy Chief Ministers Nemcha Kipgen and Losii Dikho met the Prime Minister at his office at Seva Teerth in New DelhiThis was the first meeting between Chief Minister Khemchand Singh and Prime Minister Modi since the former assumed office on February 4According to the CMO official the Chief Minister apprised Prime Minister Modi of the steps undertaken by the new state government to promote peace stability and social harmony across ManipurHe also urged Prime Minister Modi to give special attention to women empowerment initiatives in both the hill and valley regions of the stateDuring the meeting the Chief Minister and the two Deputy Chief Ministers formally invited Prime Minister Modi to visit ManipurChief Minister Khemchand Singh has been in New Delhi since February 21 marking his first visit to the national capital after taking oath as the new Manipur Chief MinisterDuring his visit the Chief Minister met several Union Ministers and senior BJP Central leaders holding discussions on a range of issues related to the states development and welfareOn Monday night Chief Minister Khemchand Singh accompanied by the two Deputy Chief Ministers held a meeting with the Union Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan who has approved the construction of 5000 new houses for the rehabilitation of Internally Displaced Persons IDPs affected by ethnic violence in ManipurThese houses will be constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Awas YojanaGramin PMAYG officials said on TuesdayOn Monday the Chief Minister met the Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region DoNER Jyotiraditya Scindia who assured that his Ministry would coordinate with other Union Ministries to address key issues concerning ManipurChief Minister Khemchand Singh also met the Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman who assured him of all possible assistance to revive the states financial health and economyThe Chief Minister held discussions with the Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh who assured full cooperation and support from his Ministry for all initiatives of the Manipur governmentAccompanied by the two Deputy Chief Ministers Nemcha Kipgen and Losii Dikh the Manipur Chief Minister also separately met the BJP President Nitin Nabin and the partys National General Secretary Organisation BL Santhosh during which partyrelated matters concerning Manipur were discussedEarlier on February 22 Chief Minister Khemchand Singh along with the two Deputy Chief Ministers met the Union Home Minister Amit Shah to discuss a range of issues including the rehabilitation of internally displaced persons officials saidAccording to the CMO official the Union Home Minister discussed with the Manipur leadership the steps initiated by the new state government to remove barriers between different communities and to restore peace and harmony across the stateIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/manipur-cm-meets-pm-modi-seeks-support-for-peace-harmony-women-empowerment--662539.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 19:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ai-impact-summit-panipat-academic-backs-pm-modis-vision-calls-iyc-protest-unwarranted-662432.html Panipat Feb 23 Conversations about Indiaâs technological future took centre stage at the recently organised AI Summit held in New Delhi The event which drew attention from across the country and international delegates became a platform to showcase Indiaâs growing ambitions in artificial intelligence and digital innovationâ Among those expressing strong support for the initiative is Panipatbased academician Prof Dr Sushil Kumar Mishra He openly praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his longstanding vision of integrating technology into governance The Prime Minister has consistently emphasised the use of digital systems to enhance transparency and efficiency in public administration Dr Mishra said in an interview with IANSâHe pointed to Aadhaarlinked welfare schemes improved tax collection mechanisms and reforms in the public distribution system as examples of how technology has reduced leakages and strengthened service delivery âIf India aspires to become a global superpower it must lead in technologyâ Dr Mishra remarked stressing that artificial intelligence represents the next frontier of growthâCalling AI the most transformative technology of the future he noted that India which once lagged in emerging technological domains is now positioning itself as a leader Hosting such a largescale summit he said sent a strong message to the world about Indiaâs capabilities and longterm visionâDr Mishra also spoke about the governmentâs commitment to ensuring that the benefits of digital innovation reach all 14 billion citizens âThrough Direct Benefit Transfer DBT systems and digital banking welfare schemes are being delivered directly to beneficiariesâ he addedâWith widespread smartphone penetration the expansion of 5G connectivity and preparations underway for 6G he believes AIpowered systems can soon operate effectively at the grassroots levelâDr Mishra also shared his perspective from the hospitality sectors point of view Mishra maintained that global events like the AI Summit strengthen Indiaâs image on the international stage By welcoming foreign delegates and demonstrating technological strength the country reinforces its position as a forwardlooking digital economy he addedâOn the Indian Youth Congress workersâ protests during the summit he suggested that while democratic debate is essential major international platforms should be viewed as opportunities for national unity Domestic political disagreements he said have appropriate forums such as Parliament At times when India presents itself as a global leader cooperation across political lines would better serve the national interestâDr Mishra is of the view that artificial intelligence and digital transformation are not merely policy initiatives He said AI is also like pathways that are shaping the future of 14 billion people Rising above political differences and prioritising national development is crucial as India advances into the next era of technological leadership he remarked IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ai-impact-summit-panipat-academic-backs-pm-modis-vision-calls-iyc-protest-unwarranted-662432.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 00:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/andhra-milk-adulteration-deaths-cm-announces-rs-10-lakh-compensation-662433.html Amaravati Feb 23 The Andhra Pradesh government on Monday announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh each to the families of four persons who died due to consumption of adulterated milk in Rajahmundry Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu made the announcement in the Legislative AssemblyHe also declared that the government will bear the medical expenses of those undergoing treatment in the hospitalsTerming the incident as painful the Chief Minister expressed deep sympathy for the families of the deceasedHe told the Assembly that the affected people were undergoing treatment in hospitals with symptoms like vomiting stomach pain and dialysis problems Doctors found increased levels of urea and serum creatinine in the blood during clinical testsThe Chief Minister stated that Varalakshmi Milk Dairy of Narasapuram village of Korukonda mandal supplies milk to 106 families in two areas of Rajahmundry dailyOfficials have confirmed that the victims fell ill after drinking milk from this dairy Four people died in the incident Ten others are undergoing treatment and two of them are on a ventilator Three of the deceased were aged over 70 years while the fourth one was 58 years oldThe Chief Minister said that blood samples have been taken from the affected and sent to labs in Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam for testsHe revealed that the dairy manager Addala Ganeswara Rao has been detained by the police and is being interrogated A case has been registered based on the complaint filed by the family members of the deceasedIf anyone indulges in this adulteration out of greed for money we will take it seriously We will take action against the culprits after the investigation the Chief Minister saidHe warned that the government will not remain indifferent to anyone in the state who commits adulteration or acts in a way that causes trouble to the peopleEarlier after learning about the incident of locals falling ill and several deaths due to consumption of adulterated milk in Chowdeshwari Nagar and Swaroop Nagar areas of Rajahmundry Chief Minister Naidu held a review with officialsIn a review meeting with the District Collector the SP Medical and Health Department and Food Safety officials and enquired about the details of the incident He also enquired about the medical assistance being provided to the victimsThe Chief Minister ordered that the best medical services be provided to those undergoing treatment Officials said that samples have been collected from 75 people in the families who consumed the milk while samples were being taken from the remaining peopleNaidu ordered that senior officials of the Food Safety and Medical and Health Departments should immediately go to Rajahmundry and monitor the situationHe again reviewed the situation in his chamber in the Assembly with ministers and officials in the afternoon IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/andhra-milk-adulteration-deaths-cm-announces-rs-10-lakh-compensation-662433.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 00:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/fm-launches-national-monetisation-pipeline-20-aimed-at-raising-rs-1672-lakh-crore-662435.html New Delhi Feb 23 Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday launched the second phase of the asset monetisation pipeline of Central ministries and public sector entities the National Monetisation Pipeline 20 NMP 20 with an estimated monetisation potential of Rs 1672 lakh crore in the next five financial years The second phase of the pipeline has been developed by NITI Aayog in consultation with infrastructure line ministries based on the mandate for âAsset Monetisation Plan 202530â as announced in the Union Budget 202526The NMP 20 estimates aggregate monetisation potential of Rs 1672 lakh crore including private sector investment of Rs 58 lakh crore under the asset monetisation pipeline of Central ministries and public sector entities over the fiveyear period from FY 2026 to FY 2030Sitharaman also noted that the ambitious fiveyear asset monetisation target for NMP 20 is over 26 times higher than that under NMP 10 and added that the Ministries and Departments must aim to surpass the indicated targets through proactive effortsThe sectors included in the monetisation plan are highways including MMLPs ropeways railways power petroleum and natural gas civil aviation ports warehousing and storage urban infrastructure coal mines telecom and tourismNMP 20 was released in the presence of the NITI Aayog CEO and Secretaries of infrastructure line ministries included under the pipeline â Road Transport and Highways Railways Power Petroleum and Natural Gas Civil Aviation Ports Shipping and Waterways Telecommunications Tourism Food and Public Distribution Mining Coal and Housing and Urban Affairs â along with the Secretaries of Ministry of Finance Secretary Law and the Chief Economic AdviserIn her address at the launch the Finance Minister complimented all the ministries and departments of the government and NITI Aayog for meeting nearly 90 per cent of the target of Rs 6 lakh crore set for 4 years in the implementation of NMP 10Sitharaman said that the NMP 20 is aligned with the mission of achieving Viksit Bharat through accelerated infrastructure development and that the NMP has the potential to fuel Indiaâs growth momentumThe Finance Minister observed that NMP 10 was the first of its kind of pipeline at a large scale and best practices learnt by the authorities concerned should be leveraged in NMP 20 She underscored that the learnings and experiences of NMP 10 will serve as a guide to ensure that resources and opportunities are optimised to achieve results in a timebound manner She exhorted all the departments to focus on process simplification and standardisation so that monetisation becomes a seamless experienceHighlighting the significance of asset monetisation the Finance Minister said that the NMP enables recycling of productive public assets thereby unlocking resources for reinvestment in new projects and capital expenditure She noted that this approach facilitates efficient mobilisation of funds for CAPEX in public assets while minimising the budgetary outgo of the governmentNMP 20 is a culmination of insights feedback and experiences consolidated through multistakeholder consultations undertaken by NITI Aayog Ministry of Finance and line ministries Several rounds of discussion have been held by NITI Aayog with the stakeholders This is a wholeofgovernment initiative according to an official statement IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/fm-launches-national-monetisation-pipeline-20-aimed-at-raising-rs-1672-lakh-crore-662435.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 00:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bihar-pappu-yadav-consoles-kin-of-slain-minor-662437.html Patna Feb 23 Purnea Lok Sabha MP Rajesh Ranjan alias Pappu Yadav on Monday visited the residence of Ankit Anand a Class 7 student who was shot dead by criminals in Saharsa on February 18 to express his condolences to the bereaved familyâ The MP met Ankitâs parents offered his sympathies and assured them of full support during their time of griefâTerming the incident extremely heartbreaking Pappu Yadav questioned how a 13yearold child could have any enmity with anyoneâFamily members told him that they had no dispute or rivalry with anyone yet the child was targetedâThe MP expressed shock over what he described as the growing audacity of criminals stating that even children are no longer being sparedâTargeting the Bihar government Pappu Yadav alleged that criminal activities have become rampant across the stateâHe said that while incidents of brutal crimes against girls and daylight murders are being reported from different districts the government and administration remain silent spectatorsâHe further alleged that whenever voices are raised for public rights attempts are made to suppress themâExpressing dissatisfaction with the local police investigation the Purnea MP said that the probe so far appeared inadequateâHe strongly demanded a CBI inquiry into the murder asserting that only an independent and impartial investigation could expose the real perpetrators behind what he termed a conspiracyâThe incident has further fueled the ongoing political debate over law and order in BiharâLeader of the Opposition Tejashwi Yadav on Monday criticised the state government describing its 21year rule as a period marked by crime and corruptionâThe killing of Ankit Anand has once again raised questions over the governmentâs claims of good governance in the stateâIt remains to be seen how the state government responds to the demand for a CBI probe and what further action is taken in the caseâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bihar-pappu-yadav-consoles-kin-of-slain-minor-662437.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 00:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/indian-american-voter-atlas-launched-662439.html Washington Feb 23 An Indian American civic data initiative was launched on Monday ahead of the midterm elections later this fall The platform aims to map and understand the communitys political footprintIt describes itself as the first open nonpartisan effort of its kind focused on Indian AmericansAnnouncing the launch community leader Anang Mittal called it the first nonpartisan open civic data platform built specifically for and about the Indian American communityTaking to his official X account Mittal repeated that it is the first nonpartisan open civic data platform built specifically for and about the Indian American communityThe platform accessible at voteratlasio seeks to provide structured civic data on Indian Americans in the USThe launch statement did not outline detailed featuresIt stressed that the initiative is nonpartisan and communityspecificThe timing is significant Indian Americans are one of the fastestgrowing immigrantorigin communities in the US They are increasingly visible in elections public policy debates and campaign financingDatadriven tools now play a key role in modern political campaignsDiaspora communities are also using such tools to strengthen civic engagement and representationBy branding the platform as open and nonpartisan Mittal signalled that it is not aligned with any political party He framed it as a publicfacing data resourceThe emphasis on being built specifically for and about the Indian American community points to a targeted effortIt seeks to gather and present information relevant to the communitys civic presenceThe announcement on February 23 drew attention onlineThere is growing interest in tools that track voter data demographic trends and political participationPublic civic data platforms in the US often rely on federal state and local election records They also use census data and other publicly available datasetsThe launch statement did not provide methodological details about the Indian American Voter AtlasAccording to US census estimates Indian Americans number more than four millionOver the past two decades their political presence has expanded steadilyMembers of the community now serve at city state and federal levelsIndian Americans have also held senior posts in presidential administrationsPolitical analysts say the communitys high median income and educational attainment increase its influenceIts geographic concentration in key states also makes it an important electoral blocIn recent election cycles both major parties have stepped up outreach to Indian American voters IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/indian-american-voter-atlas-launched-662439.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 00:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/compassionate-and-decisive-pm-modi-pays-tributes-to-jayalalithaa-on-her-birth-anniversary-662453.html New Delhi Feb 24 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday remembered former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa on her birth anniversary saying that she has secured a special place in the hearts and minds of countless people as a charismatic leader and exceptional administrator PM Modi also said that she embodied both compassion and decisiveness PM Modi took to social media and posted on X Remembering Jayalalithaa Ji on her birth anniversary She has made a place in the hearts and minds of countless people as a charismatic leader and outstanding administrator Her life journey was one of immense grit and determination As the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu she championed welfaredriven governance with a strong focus on women empowerment social justice and inclusive development She was both compassionate and decisive I recall with great joy my interactions with herPrime Minister Narendra Modi also shared a video clip from his monthly radio programme âMann Ki Baatâ in which he praised Jayalalithaa as a âwidely admired and beloved leaderâ recalling her administrative legacy and their personal friendship during the 131st episodeThe Prime Minister described Jayalalithaa as a towering figure in Tamil Nadu politics whose contributions would be remembered as a powerful symbol of womenâs leadershipJayalalithaa was a great leader who was deeply loved by the people My friendship with her is like a sacred tree in my heart PM Modi said during the broadcastHighlighting her governance style the Prime Minister noted that Jayalalithaa had taken firm steps to maintain law and order in Tamil Nadu and had earned the peoples trust through decisive leadershipHe said her public service would always be remembered as an example of womens empowerment in Indian politicsPM Modi said he continues to feel the affection the people of Tamil Nadu hold for her whenever he visits the stateEven today when I travel to Tamil Nadu I can sense the deep connection the people have with Jayalalithaa When her name is mentioned one can see a special spark among the people he saidRecalling his tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister PM Modi said Every meeting and every conversation with Amma Jayalalithaa is still fresh in my mind She also attended two of my swearingin ceremonies in Gujarat in 2002 and 2012 When we were both Chief Ministers of our respective states we often discussed topics like good governance Her thinking was crystal clear and her thoughts were uncluttered This was a significant characteristic of hers Many years ago she invited me to Chennai over lunch on the auspicious occasion of Pongal That affectionate gesture will remain unforgettable for mePM Modi said Jayalalithaa had extended strong support to Gujarat during his time in officeâShe had great devotion to the nation and worked with commitment for its progressâ he addedUnion Home Minister Amit Shah also paid tribute to Jayalalithaa and said Tributes to former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and peopleâs leader J Jayalalithaa Ji on her Jayanti Through her commitment to the welfare of the poor and empowerment of women she reshaped Tamil Naduâs development and ensured governance reached the last person Her dedication to public service will always remain an inspirationJayalalithaa fondly called âAmmaâ by her supporters remains an influential figure in Tamil Nadus political landscape even years after her passing IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/compassionate-and-decisive-pm-modi-pays-tributes-to-jayalalithaa-on-her-birth-anniversary-662453.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 09:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/major-reshuffle-in-rajasthan-21-ips-officers-transferred-662489.html Jaipur Feb 24 The Bhajanlal government has issued transfer and promotion orders for 21 IPS officers affecting major changes in key positions across Rajasthan Most of the reshuffle follows recent promotions within the cadre In a latenight order on Monday night the Police Commissioner of Jodhpur and the Special Police Commissioner of Jaipur have been replaced Inspector General IG SOG Sharat Kaviraj has been appointed as the new Police Commissioner of JodhpurJodhpur Police Commissioner Om Prakash has been transferred as Special Commissioner of JaipurJaipur Special Police Commissioner Rahul Prakash has been posted as IG Jaipur RangeRange IGs of Jaipur Jodhpur Bikaner and Kota have been reshuffled Satyendra Singh has been transferred from IG CIDCB to IG Jodhpur RangeOm Prakash has been moved from the Police Armed Battalion to IG Bikaner RangeHemant Kumar Sharma IG Bikaner Range has been posted as IG SCRB JaipurAjay Pal Lamba has been transferred from IG SCRB Jaipur to IG SOG JaipurSeveral senior IPS officers have been promoted and assigned new responsibilities ADG Crime Branch Hawa Singh Ghumaria has been promoted to ADG Headquarters Vipin Kumar Pandey has been promoted from ADG Police Recruitment and Promotion Board Headquarters to ADG Crime Branch Rajasthan Prafull Kumar has been promoted from IG Intelligence to ADG Intelligence Jaipur Range IG Raghavendra Suvasa has been promoted to ADG Training Jodhpur Range IG Rajesh Meena has been transferred as IG Home Guard Jaipur S Parimal has been shifted from IG Personnel Police Headquarters to IG ACBVikas Kumar who was handling both ATS and AntiNarcotics Task Force will now serve as IG AntiNarcotics Task Force The ATS charge has been withdrawn from himRajesh Singh has been appointed IG ATS Jaipur from IG ACBSatyendra Kumar has been appointed CEO of the Rajasthan Institute for Transportation and Innovation RITI from IG SCRB Jaipur The post is considered equivalent to that of an IASlevel administrative positionPreeti Chandra has been appointed IG Law and Order Administration Jaipur from DIG Armed Battalion First JaipurHarendra Kumar Mahawar has been posted as IG CIDCB Jaipur from DIG SSB JodhpurRahul Kotki has been transferred from DIG JDA to IG Personnel Police Headquarters JaipurKaluram Rawat has been appointed IG Police Housing Jaipur from DIG Civil Rights and AntiHuman TraffickingThe latenight reshuffle is being seen as a significant administrative overhaul aimed at strengthening the stateâs policing and investigative framework following the latest round of promotions IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/major-reshuffle-in-rajasthan-21-ips-officers-transferred-662489.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 13:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/on-last-day-of-kerala-assembly-cm-vijayan-snubs-guv-for-deviating-from-cabinet-approved-address-662491.html Thiruvananthapuram Feb 24 A constitutional disagreement between the Kerala government and Governor Rajendra V Arlekar over the policy address has escalated with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday asserting that only the Cabinet approved version of the address holds authority under established rules and conventions CM Vijayan told the Assembly that according to existing rules and conventions the Cabinetapproved policy decision is the one that is acceptedHe also said former governors including Arif Mohammed Khan had once read the policy address for 1 minute and 22 seconds but the entire policy address was accepted pointed out CM VijayanFollowing this the Speaker AN Shamseer accepted Vijayanâs statement causing a dent to the Governorâs demandThe latest flashpoint followed a letter from the Governor to Speaker Shamseer stating that the version he read in the Assembly on January 20 should be treated as the official address not the text cleared by the Council of Ministers and subsequently publishedIncidentally what happened on January 20 was Vijayan immediately after seeing off the Governor on the opening day of the session informed the House regarding the deviations from the Cabinet approved textHe said certain clauses had been omitted or altered and stressed that the government approved address must remain the authoritative policy statementAccording to the Chief Minister Clause 12 which referred to Keralaâs severe financial stress arising from adverse Union government actions affecting fiscal federalism was omittedIn Clause 15 the last two sentences relating to pending state Bills and the governmentâs move to approach the Supreme Court and a Constitution Bench were removedClause 16 dealing with the statesâ constitutional rights over tax revenues and Finance Commission grants was retained but with the addition of the phrase âmy government believesâCiting Article 176 of the Constitution CM Vijayan said the Governorâs address at the first session of the year is based on the aid and advice of the Council of MinistersHe noted that past rulings by the Chair have consistently upheld the Cabinetapproved text as the valid document placed before the HouseSpeaker Shamseer on that day also backed the Chief Minister stating that any deviation from the Cabinetapproved text goes against legislative convention and that the official version circulated to members and the media would be the one cleared by the governmentThe episode adds to the evolving friction between the Raj Bhavan and the elected government raising fresh questions over constitutional practice and CentreState dynamics IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/on-last-day-of-kerala-assembly-cm-vijayan-snubs-guv-for-deviating-from-cabinet-approved-address-662491.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 13:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/entire-money-returned-to-govt-accounts-haryana-cm-informs-assembly-on-idfc-first-bank-fraud-case-662493.html Chandigarh Feb 24 IANS Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Tuesday informed the Assembly that the entire money in the fraud involving state government accounts at the Chandigarh branch of IDFC First Bank has been returned to the governments accountsnbspA total of Rs 556 crore including Rs 22 crore of interest was returned to the government account within 24 hours he saidThe Chief Minister said the involvement of fourfive employees of the banks Chandigarh branch has been revealedNo one whether a bank employee a private individual or a government official will be spared in the case he saidSaying the country has a strong watchman like Prime Minister Narendra Modi the Chief Minister assured the House No one can even look at the hardearned money of 28 crore people of the state Today the governance system in Haryana has changed and every penny of the publics money is accounted forHe said the government has formed a committee headed by the Finance Secretary to investigate this matter This committee will not only investigate the entire matter but also make recommendations to prevent such incidents from recurring in the future he addedEarlier IDFC First Bank identified Rs 590 crore of fraudulent activities at its Chandigarh branch according to the banks Exchange FilingThe state Vigilance and AntiCorruption Bureau has registered an FIR against bank officials public servants and other individuals under Section 13 2 of the Prevention of Corruption Act and Sections 316 5 318 4 336 3 338 340 2 and 61 2 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita BNSIn a protest outside the Assembly by the opposition Congress on the bank scam state party President Rao Narendra Singh told the media This is not an ordinary scam it is more than a Rs 590crore scam and I demand a CBI investigation into it as big players are involvedA day earlier CM Saini had informed the House that the fraud came to light due to the alertness of state government departments following which the government immediately deempanelled the bankStatements provided by the bank did not match the records maintained by the departments concerned and directions have also been issued to constitute a highlevel committee to conduct a detailed probe he had saidThe Chief Minister had informed the House during the Budget Session of the Vidhan Sabha that IDFC First Bank had written to SEBI acknowledging irregularities committed by certain bank employeesThe bank has also initiated action against the employees concernedHe had said the bank wrote a letter on February 21 However even before the government took cognisance of the matter on February 18 it depanelled the bank and directed that the entire amount along with interest be transferred to a nationalised bankThe Chief Minister had said a significant portion of the governments funds deposited with IDFC First Bank had been invested in fixed deposits FDs He had said the practice of departments keeping funds in banks is not new This has been happening earlier as well Even during the Congress tenure departmental funds were kept in banks Banks are empanelled from time to time and new banks continue to be added he had saidIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/entire-money-returned-to-govt-accounts-haryana-cm-informs-assembly-on-idfc-first-bank-fraud-case-662493.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 13:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/sc-permits-deputation-of-officials-from-jharkhand-orissa-high-courts-in-west-bengal-sir-exercise-662494.html New Delhi Feb 24 IANS The Supreme Court on Tuesday permitted judicial officers from the neighbouring High Courts of Jharkhand and Orissa to be deputed to West Bengal to expedite the adjudication of voter claims and objections arising from the ongoing Special Intensive Revision SIR of electoral rolls in the pollbound statenbspnbspA Bench of Chief Justice of India CJI Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipin Pancholi issued the directions after the Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court informed the Apex Court about the massive pendency of cases involving logical discrepancy and unmapped category votersAs per the communication placed before the Top Court nearly 80 lakh applications require adjudication while only about 250 judicial officers primarily District Judges and Additional District Judges are currently engaged in the exerciseThe Calcutta High Court estimated that even if each officer disposes of 250 matters daily the process would take around 80 days to concludeTaking note of the deadline for the final electoral roll scheduled for February 28 2026 the CJI Kantled Bench allowed the Calcutta High Court to additionally deploy Civil Judges Senior Division and Civil Judges Junior Division with at least three years of experience to assist in the SIR workIt further permitted the Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court to seek assistance from neighbouring High Courts if additional manpower is requiredThe Supreme Court said that judicial officers serving as well as retired from the Jharkhand and Orissa High Courts may be deputed to West Bengal for the limited purpose of completing verification of pending claimsIt directed that expenses towards travel boarding lodging and honorarium of such officers would be borne by the Election Commission of India ECIThe CJI Kantled Bench clarified that the ECI may proceed with publication of the final electoral roll on February 28 even if adjudication of certain cases remains pendingInvoking its powers under Article 142 of the Constitution the Supreme Court ordered that voters whose names are included in subsequent supplementary electoral lists would be deemed to be part of the final electoral roll published on February 28IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/sc-permits-deputation-of-officials-from-jharkhand-orissa-high-courts-in-west-bengal-sir-exercise-662494.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 13:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/assam-to-make-40-lakh-women-lakhpati-cm-himanta-sarma-662495.html Guwahati Feb 24 IANS Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday said that the BJPled government has set a target of making 40 lakh women in the state lakhpati as part of its broader vision to economically empower women through sustained livelihood supportnbspAddressing a cheque distribution programme for women beneficiaries under SelfHelp Groups SHGs at Bokajan in Karbi Anglong district the Chief Minister said women empowerment remains a central pillar of the state governments development agendaHe added that financial independence among women is key to strengthening families and accelerating Assams overall economic growthThe BJP government has taken a firm resolve to ensure that at least 40 lakh women in Assam become lakhpatis Through structured support financial assistance and skill development women are being enabled to stand on their own feet Sarma saidHighlighting the success of government initiatives such as Orunodoi Assam State Rural Livelihoods Mission ASRLM and other SHGbased programmes the Chief Minister said thousands of women have already started earning sustainable incomes through agriculture animal husbandry weaving and small enterprisesSarma said the cheque distribution drive is aimed at providing direct financial support to women entrepreneurs so that they can expand their activities and improve household incomesHe asserted that the government is ensuring transparency and direct benefit transfer so that assistance reaches genuine beneficiaries without delayThe Chief Minister further said that the state government has been working to create an ecosystem where women are not dependent on subsidies alone but are encouraged to become contributors to the economyOur focus is not charity but empowerment he added Sarma also appealed to women beneficiaries to make effective use of the financial assistance given to them and assured them of continued government support in the form of training market linkage and credit accessSenior officials of the district administration public representatives and a large number of women SHG members were present at the programmeIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/assam-to-make-40-lakh-women-lakhpati-cm-himanta-sarma-662495.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 14:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/hm-shahs-3-day-seemanchal-visit-to-focus-on-demographic-changes-infiltration-in-bihar-662496.html Patna Feb 24 IANS Union Home Minister Amit Shah will embark on a threeday visit to Bihar from Wednesday to review security measures administrative preparedness and ongoing development initiatives in the states border districts with particular emphasis on areas along the IndiaNepal bordernbspSenior officials from the Union Home Ministry accompanying HM Shah are expected to hold consultations with top state functionaries on the factors behind the demographic changes reported in the Seemanchal region and measures to address themThe visit is being seen as a significant move by the Home Minister in the context of what the government has described as population imbalance in certain parts of the countrynbspAs per the itinerary HM Shah will arrive in Purnea at 4 pm on February 25 and proceed by helicopter to Kishanganj He is scheduled to chair a review meeting at the Collectorate from 5 pm to 7 pm and will stay overnight in KishanganjnbspOn February 26 the Home Minister will travel to Araria where he will attend a programme at the Letti border outpost at 11 amHe will subsequently convene a highlevel review meeting at the Collectorate with Superintendents of Police and district officials from border areas to assess issues related to the IndiaNepal bordernbspThe same day he will also take part in an event organised under the Vibrant Villages programme before returning to Purnea for an overnight staynbspOn February 27 HM Shah will once again meet officials in Purnea to deliberate on matters concerning border districts After concluding the final round of review meetings he will leave for New DelhiThe visit is regarded as crucial for bolstering border security overseeing the progress of development schemes and ensuring administrative coordination in sensitive districtsnbspAuthorities have completed logistical preparations and elaborate security arrangements have been put in place ahead of the tournbspThe Seemanchal region is expected to be a key focus of the visit The exercise is being viewed as the next major priority of the Home Ministry following its NaxalMukt Bharat initiative with particular attention on making Seemanchal infiltratorfree HM Shah has toured Seemanchal several times in recent yearsDuring the previous Bihar Assembly elections he had repeatedly alleged that efforts were underway to build a vote bank through illegal immigrants in the region and asserted that the NDA government would not allow such practicesnbspHe had said that every infiltrator would be identified and deported and that all illegal activities would be brought to a complete haltIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/hm-shahs-3-day-seemanchal-visit-to-focus-on-demographic-changes-infiltration-in-bihar-662496.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 14:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/jharkhand-presents-rs-158-lakh-crore-budget-flags-rs-16-000-crore-shortfall-from-centre-662497.html Ranchi Feb 24 IANS Jharkhand Finance Minister Radha Krishna Kishore on Tuesday presented a Rs 158560 crore Budget for 202627 in the Assembly He described it as the Abua Dishom Budget which will carry forward inclusive sustainable and welfareoriented development in the statenbspCalling it a roadmap for Abua Jharkhand Our Jharkhand the Finance Minister said the Budget reflects the governments resolve to wipe the tears of the poor and bring smiles to every citizenThe Budget size marks an increase of about nine per cent over the previous one of Rs 145400 croreDuring his speech Kishore accused the Centre of not extending adequate financial support to the state He claimed Jharkhand received nearly Rs 16000 crore less in tax devolution and grants around Rs 5000 crore in tax share and Rs 11000 crore in grantsHe further said the state is losing nearly Rs 4000 crore annually due to GST rate rationalisation The implementation of the 6040 funding ratio under VB G RAM G he added has placed an additional burden of Rs 5640 crore on the state exchequer He also flagged outstanding dues of Rs 136 lakh crore on coal companiesDespite these constraints the Minister said the government ensured timely payment of employee salaries and spent Rs 13000 crore on the Chief Ministers Maiya Samman YojanaThe states own revenue is projected to rise from Rs 25521 crore in 201920 to Rs 66700 crore in 202627The fiscal deficit is estimated at Rs 1359596 crore or 218 per cent of GSDP while the debttoGSDP ratio is projected at 253 per centOf the total outlay Rs 12085190 crore has been earmarked for revenue expenditure and Rs 3770810 crore for capital expenditure Capital spending has been increased by 85 per cent which will boost road irrigation power and drinking water infrastructureWomens welfare and social security schemes received the highest allocation in the budget Rs 1406557 crore has been set aside for the Chief Ministers Maiya Samman Yojana which provides Rs 2500 per month to women aged 1850 Rs 351723 crore has been allocated for the Sarvajan Pension Yojana and Rs 146358 crore has been earmarked for the National Pension SchemeThe total outlay for the Women and Child Development Department stands at Rs 2299569 croreIn the health sector Rs 799030 crore has been allocated A Rs 200 crore special scheme for cancer treatment has been announced along with a target to open 750 Abua DispensariesFor agriculture the allocation for the Birsa Seed Production Scheme has been raised to Rs 145 crore Other provisions include Rs 47550 crore for soil and water conservation Rs 75 crore for solarbased irrigation Rs 80 crore for farm equipment distribution and Rs 400 crore for crop insuranceRural development has been allocated Rs 1234690 crore including Rs 4100 crore for the Abua Housing Scheme An allocation of Rs 66 crore has been made to promote products of Sakhi Mandals under the Palash brandIn education Rs 1625143 crore has been earmarked for elementary and secondary education and Rs 256445 crore for higher and technical education with a focus on schools of excellence and digital learning initiativesThe government said the Budget balances welfare commitments with capital expansion to sustain longterm growthnbspIANSnbsp https://dailyworld.in/politics/jharkhand-presents-rs-158-lakh-crore-budget-flags-rs-16-000-crore-shortfall-from-centre-662497.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 15:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/big-relief-for-vijayan-govt-as-sc-stays-hc-order-clears-way-for-nava-kerala-survey-662498.html New Delhi Feb 24 IANS In a significant relief to the Government of Kerala the Supreme Court on Tuesday stayed the interim order of the Kerala High Court that had halted the states proposed Nava Kerala Survey allowing the government to proceed with the exercisenbspNew Delhi Feb 24 IANS In a significant relief to the Government of Kerala the Supreme Court on Tuesday stayed the interim order of the Kerala High Court that had halted the states proposed Nava Kerala Survey allowing the government to proceed with the exerciseThe High Court had last week restrained the survey following petitions filed by leaders of the Kerala Students Union KSU who alleged that the data collection drive undertaken ahead of elections amounted to a politically motivated exercise funded by public moneyThe High Court struck down the controversial Nava Kerala Survey calling it unlawful and questioning how it was funded and executed The Court had made it clear that there was neither a proper budget allocation nor a financial sanction for the programmeChallenging the High Courts stay the state government moved an appeal in the Supreme CourtAppearing for the state senior advocate Kapil Sibal contended that the government has the authority to assess how effectively welfare schemes are reaching beneficiaries and to collect data for administrative evaluationAccepting the broad thrust of this argument the apex court observed that governments are entitled to undertake such surveys to evaluate the impact of schemes on which crores of rupees are spentThe Bench questioned the basis for halting the exercise asking what was wrong with gathering information to determine whether welfare programmes were yielding the intended resultsIt underlined that political criticism of a survey cannot be the sole ground to restrain a state from performing governance functionsThe court also made pointed remarks against unwarranted judicial interference in administrative matters stressing the need for restraint unless there is a clear constitutional violationWhile permitting the survey to continue the Supreme Court directed the state government to submit a report detailing the expenditure involved estimated at around Rs 20 croreThe case has been posted for further hearing on April 13The ruling marks a crucial legal victory for the Pinarayi Vijayan government and reinforces the executives authority to undertake policy evaluation exercises even in politically sensitive periodsIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/big-relief-for-vijayan-govt-as-sc-stays-hc-order-clears-way-for-nava-kerala-survey-662498.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 15:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/uproar-in-bihar-assembly-over-lathi-charge-on-chowkidars-nitish-kumar-snaps-at-oppn-662499.html Patna Feb 24 IANS The Bihar Legislative Assembly witnessed massive chaos on Tuesday over the police lathi charge on Chowkidars and DafadarsnbspOpposition members accused the Nitish Kumar government of suppressing democratic protests triggering sharp exchanges between the Treasury Benches and the OppositionRJD MLA Kumar Sarvjeet alleged that the Bihar government was ruling through forceA government of sticks and bullets will not work in Bihar he said leading to loud sloganeering by Opposition membersOpposition MLAs raised placards and shouted slogans such as Nitish government come to your senses and Down with the Nitish governmentAmid the uproar Nitish Kumar stood up angrily and directly targeted RJD MLA Bhai VirendraDont talk nonsense The government will not fall What are your numbers Look at our numbers we are 202 Nitish Kumar saidRecalling his past alliance with the RJD the Chief Minister added I was with you for three years but you kept creating trouble so I leftDuring your rule people were afraid to step out in the evening Today Bihar is progressing and everything is fine he claimedNitish Kumar also appealed to the Speaker to expel members who disrupt House proceedingsParliamentary Affairs Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary defended the governments action saying the protest had crossed limitsIf the government were against the protest it would have stopped it from the beginning No organisation has the right to disrupt public order or damage government property he saidHe described the governments decisions regarding Chowkidar and Dafadar service conditions as historic and accused the Opposition of shedding crocodile tearsMinister Bijendra Prasad Yadav said the government would hold talks with the ChowkidarDafadar organisation and consider their demandsMeanwhile LJP Ram Vilas state president and MLA Raju Tiwari stated that his party had already raised the issue with the Chief Minister and would seek action if any wrongdoing occurred during the lathi chargeSpeaking to the media outside the House Kumar Sarvjeet reiterated that the demands of the Chowkidars and Dafadars were justifiedThey come largely from the Dalit community The government is antiDalit We condemn the lathi charge and demand that their issues be resolved immediately he saidIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/uproar-in-bihar-assembly-over-lathi-charge-on-chowkidars-nitish-kumar-snaps-at-oppn-662499.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 15:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/delhi-hc-dismisses-pil-challenging-1980-waqf-board-notification-on-jahangirpuri-mosques-662501.html New Delhi Feb 24 IANS The Delhi High Court has dismissed a Public Interest Litigation PIL challenging a 1980 notification of the Delhi Waqf Board declaring certain mosques in Jahangirpuri as Waqf properties observing that the petition sought to unnecessarily rake up the past after a lapse of 46 years and was not filed with bona fide intentnbspA Bench of Chief Justice CJ Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia refused to entertain the plea filed by Save India Foundation which had questioned the validity of a notification dated March 24 1980 published in the Delhi Gazette on April 10 1980 listing several Waqf properties including mosques locally known as Jama Masjid Moti Masjid and Masjid JahangirpuriThe petitioner organisation contended that the land on which the mosques stand had already been acquired by the Delhi government in 1977 for planned development of the Jahangirpuri area under the Land Acquisition Act 1894 and compensation had been paid to landownersIt alleged that the structures were illegal encroachments on public land and that the Waqf notification violated the lawRejecting these submissions the Delhi High Court observed that the petitioner failed to produce any material establishing the identity of the land allegedly acquired or proving that the acquired land and the Waqf properties were the sameWe are of the considered opinion that the petitioner has unnecessarily attempted to rake up the past The motive behind filing the writ petition also does not appear to be bona fide the CJ Upadhyayaled Bench observedIt further held that any notification made about 46 years ago cannot be permitted to be challenged on flimsy grounds particularly when statutory remedies had long expiredReferring to the scheme of the Muslim Wakfs Act 1954 the Delhi High Court said disputes regarding inclusion of properties in the Waqf list could have been raised before a competent civil court under Section 6 of the Act within one year of publication of the notificationIf an ordinary civil remedy is barred entertaining a writ petition seeking declaration that the certain properties enlisted in the impugned notification are not Waqf properties that too after 46 years in our opinion would legally be impermissible the CJ Upadhyayaled Bench saidThe judgment also took note of the petitioner organisations litigation history observing that it appeared to be habitual of filing the petitions describing them as Public Interest Litigation petitionsStressing that PILs must not be allowed to become a tool for private gain or publicitydriven causes the Delhi High Court observed that a litigant invoking PIL jurisdiction must approach the court with clean hands clean heart clean mind and clean objectiveThe purity of the stream of Public Interest Litigation in the country should not at any cost be permitted to be undermined by any litigant the Bench said adding that courts must ensure that frivolous petitions styled as PILs are nipped in the budThe Delhi High Court warned that the attractive brand name of Public Interest Litigation should not be used for suspicious products of mischief and emphasised that only genuine causes involving substantial public interest deserve judicial interventionConcluding that the PIL neither disclosed bona fide public interest nor legal grounds to reopen a decadesold notification the CJ Upadhyayaled Bench dismissed the writ petitionFor the reasons aforesaid we are not inclined to entertain the instant petition which is hereby dismissed along with pending applications it orderedIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/delhi-hc-dismisses-pil-challenging-1980-waqf-board-notification-on-jahangirpuri-mosques-662501.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 15:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/jharkhand-budget-100-new-cm-schools-of-excellence-announced-ambedkar-university-proposed-662519.html Ranchi Feb 24 The Jharkhand government on Tuesday unveiled several initiatives in education health tourism infrastructure and womenâs empowerment in its 202627 Budget presented in the Assembly The state will establish 100 new CM Schools of Excellence where CBSEbased education will be introduced from the 202728 academic session Finance Minister Radha Krishna Kishore said 80 such schools are already operational across the stateA model school for dependents of martyrs has also been announcedIn higher education the government has proposed the establishment of Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar University in Chatra district Five new girlsâ residential schools will be opened two in Dhanbad and one each in Palamu Latehar and GarhwaUnder a new initiative called Mahila Kisan Khushali Yojana Rs 25 crore has been allocated to promote women farmers The scheme aims to connect them with integrated farming practices modern technology and both online and offline marketing platformsThe Budget also includes a Gender Budget of Rs 3421127 crore covering 232 schemes across 17 departmentsSignificant expansion has been planned in the healthcare sector The Sadar Hospitals in Latehar Sahebganj and SaraikelaKharsawan will be upgraded into medical colleges and hospitals under the PPP modelThe government has announced the addition of 220 MBBS seats in government medical colleges including RIMS by next year Currently the state has 1030 MBBS seats and the target is to raise this to 1325 over the next four yearsPostgraduate PG seats will increase from 225 to 325 next year with a longterm goal of reaching 750 seats within four yearsThe state also aims to open 750 Abua Dispensaries to ensure affordable and quality medicines across JharkhandA Budget of Rs 1079316 crore representing 107 per cent of the total plan outlay has been prepared based on 138 child development schemesTo strengthen air connectivity the government has signed an agreement with the Airports Authority of India to expand Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi The runway will be extended from 9000 feet to 12000 feet A greenfield airport has also been proposed in SahibganjSeveral tourism infrastructure projects have been announced in the Budget These include glass bridges and ropeways at Dasham and Jonha Falls in Ranchi a ropeway at Hundru Falls skywalks and solar boats at Rajrappa and Patratu a glass watch tower at Netarhat and development of Punasi Dam in Deoghar and Malay Dam in PalamuThe government said the Budget seeks to balance social welfare with infrastructure expansion focusing on longterm human development and economic growth IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/jharkhand-budget-100-new-cm-schools-of-excellence-announced-ambedkar-university-proposed-662519.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 16:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/duryodhana-like-fall-for-maharashtra-rulers-shiv-sena-662274.html Mumbai Feb 23 The Shiv Sena Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray UBT on Monday strongly criticised the Mahayuti government likening their political conduct to the hubris of the antagonist Duryodhana from the Mahabharata The Thackeray camp in an editorial titled Duryodhanaâs Ego No Need for a Leader of the Opposition in the partys mouthpiece Saamana claimed that there has been a democratic erosion caused by individual ego It paints a picture of a ruling establishment that views the role of Leader of Opposition LoP not as a constitutional necessity but as an annoyance to be eliminatedThe editorial coincides with the commencement of the stateâs Budget Session which is notably starting without a designated LoP in the Legislative Assembly and Legislative CouncilDrawing a historical parallel the editorial said that just as Duryodhana refused to grant the Pandavas even a needlepoint of land the current administration is unwilling to concede any constitutional space to the opposition It characterises this as the pinnacle of egoThe party questioned the sanctity of the legislature in the editorial asking whether the temple of democracy is being converted into a private firm for the rulers It asserts that the LoP is not just a party representative but the voice of the public essential for holding the government accountableThe editorial focused on recent parliamentary friction surrounding the Speaker of the Lok Sabha and the oppositionâs attempts to move a noconfidence resolution It claimed that the government is actively trying to isolate the Congress party by weaning away smaller allies effectively trying to break the INDIA bloc from withinThe Thackeray camp accused the Mahayuti government of trying to evade accountability by sidelining the opposition It referred to the recent clean chits given to political figures specifically Parth Pawar and Ajit Pawar and questioned the transparency regarding highprofile incidents It pointed towards structural issues in the Metro projects and alleged mismanagement within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority MMRDA suggesting that without a strong LoP these black deeds go unchallengedBy delaying local body elections and appointing administrators over municipal corporations the editorial claimed the state is transitioning toward a dictatorshipThe editorial firmly backed the Maha Vikas Aghadiâs MVA decision to boycott the customary tea invitation hosted by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday âIt is better to raise a voice against the governments black deeds than to drink their black tea the editorial said echoing a sentiment shared by Shiv SenaUBT leader Aaditya ThackerayThe editorial concluded with a grim historical reminder stating that ego is the root of destruction It warned the ruling alliance that history remembers the eventual downfall of Duryodhana suggesting that running a legislature without an opposition leader is equivalent to the murder of democracy IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/duryodhana-like-fall-for-maharashtra-rulers-shiv-sena-662274.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 10:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/jharkhand-municipal-elections-polling-underway-with-high-voter-enthusiasm-662275.html New Delhi Feb 23 Voting is currently underway for the 2026 municipal elections in Jharkhand on Monday with voters arriving early in the morning to cast their ballots Union Minister of State Sanjay Seth also exercised his franchise casting his vote for the local elections along with his familyCommenting on the turnout he said âThere has been great enthusiasm across the state since morning as the people are going to elect their third tier of government and I believe this time the previous record will be brokenâVoters expressed the importance of participating in the elections One resident said âWe want the cityâs municipal corporation to function properly and keep the city clean Even though we have work and duties to attend to at the Central government office we came early in the morning to cast our voteâJitender Chaudhary the first voter to cast his ballot from his ward urged fellow citizens to exercise their voting rights âMy message to society is to exercise your voting rights Vote first and then have refreshments Choose good candidates who will work for the welfare of our community better schools proper roads good drainage and overall safetyâ he told IANSOfficials said more than 4343 lakh voters including over 21 lakh women are eligible to cast their ballots in the municipal polls spread across nine municipal corporations 20 nagar parishads and 19 nagar panchayats in the statePolling began at 7âam and is scheduled to continue until 5âpm amid tight security arrangements and the establishment of more than 4300 polling booths some of which have been designated as sensitive or hyperâsensitive to ensure orderly votingThe municipal elections in Jharkhand are seen as a crucial exercise in strengthening local governance ensuring better urban management and improving civic amenities across the state Election officials have called for smooth and peaceful voting throughout the day with arrangements in place to maintain security and a fair electoral process IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/jharkhand-municipal-elections-polling-underway-with-high-voter-enthusiasm-662275.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 10:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/jnu-violence-abvp-students-claim-attack-by-left-affiliated-groups-662282.html New Delhi Feb 23 Violence erupted in Jawaharlal Nehru University JNU in the early hours of Monday as Leftaffiliated student groups clashed with members of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad ABVP The confrontation reportedly followed protests by Left groups over alleged casteist remarks made by the universityâs ViceChancellor While the Left groups have accused ABVP members of attacking protesters the latter have made countercharges of harassment further escalating tensions on campusAn ABVP student Prateek Bhardwaj described his experience during the attack âI donât know which floor I was on To save myself I ran around but only one restroom was open I went inside that restroom and locked myself in from the inside After about half an hour a group of at least 150 people arrived They saw that the door was locked and tried to break it They made a hole in the door and filled the restroom with smoke and powder from a fire extinguisher I even have photos I took at that timeâ he told IANSSpeaking about the background of the incident Bhardwaj added âThe ViceChancellor uses a CPO manual to define rules and disciplines in the university Under this when the Leftwing students were restricted which was also captured on video five people in total were restricted After this restriction they turned the matter into a purely political issueâFollowing the incident students reported no major injuries Two students visited a government hospital for medical leave certificates MLC and no formal complaints have been filed so far according to Delhi PoliceAnother ABVP student Vaibhav Meena said âIt was a march by the Left After the march they carried out what appeared to be a preplanned move that had not been made public A crowd of around 400 people many with their faces covered and wearing masks carrying sticks and rods entered the school area Upon reaching there they began locking the school buildingsâABVP Secretary at JNU Pravin Kumar Piyush added âLate at night a Leftwing organisation called for a march from Sabarmati TPoint to the JNU ViceChancellorâs residence After the march around 400â500 masked individuals entered the school area carrying hockey sticks rods batons knives and stones They then forced their way into the school where common students were studying in the reading rooms and allegedly pushed them out forciblyâAuthorities have initiated preliminary checks and further investigations are ongoing to ascertain the full circumstances of the violence and identify those involved IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/jnu-violence-abvp-students-claim-attack-by-left-affiliated-groups-662282.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 11:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/tn-final-electoral-roll-published-voter-strength-drops-to-543-crore-662300.html Chennai Feb 23 Tamil Naduâs final electoral roll has been officially published on Monday following an extensive Special Intensive Revision SIR undertaken in compliance with directions from the Election Commission of India and the Supreme Court The revision which forms a crucial prelude to the forthcoming Assembly elections has led to substantial changes in the stateâs voter database including largescale deletions and correctionsDistrict Election Officers who are also District Collectors have begun releasing districtwise figures across the stateTamil Nadu Chief Electoral Officer Archana Patnaik is scheduled to address a press conference in Chennai where she will formally present the updated electorate data and explain the key outcomes of the revision processThe comprehensive exercise has resulted in the deletion of 9737831 names from the draft electoral roll after the scrutiny of Special Summary Correction Enumeration FormsFollowing these deletions the total number of electors in Tamil Nadu now stands at 543 croreElection authorities clarified that a significant portion of the deletions involved deceased voters Of the 66 million names removed on various grounds eligible individuals were given an opportunity to reapply through Form 6 This provision enabled qualified voters including newly eligible electors to seek inclusion in the revised listIn addition notices were issued to 1243363 individuals whose entries lacked mandatory details or contained discrepancies They were instructed to submit supporting documents and selfdeclaration certificates within a stipulated period to retain their names on the rollThe revision process also followed a January 30 directive from the Election Commission issued pursuant to a Supreme Court order mandating that names deleted due to conflicting or inconsistent information be publicly displayed along with reasons for removalThese lists were exhibited at gram panchayat offices public places block and subdivision offices and ward offices in urban areasAffected individuals were given a 10day window to file objections or submit clarificationsMeanwhile nearly 8 per cent of voters were removed across nine states and union territories during the second phase of the SIRPuducherryâs final electoral roll published on February 14 recorded a total electorate of 944211The updated roll is expected to enhance transparency accuracy and credibility in Tamil Naduâs electoral process as the state prepares for the next democratic exercise of elections IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/tn-final-electoral-roll-published-voter-strength-drops-to-543-crore-662300.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 12:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/cong-govt-targeting-banjara-community-ktaka-bjp-chief-on-mlas-arrest-662321.html Bengaluru Feb 23 Karnataka BJP President and MLA BY Vijayendra on Monday said the Congressled government has been targeting the Banjara community in the state ever since it came to power He said this while reacting to the arrest of BJP MLA Chandru Lamani who belongs to the community Vijayendra claimed that the Congress government was unable to tolerate the fact that the Banjara community had stood firmly with the BJP He further alleged that since Siddaramaiah became Chief Minister the community has faced injustice and neglectReferring to a recent incident he said that when the Deputy Chief Minister attended a Banjara community event some youths from the community staged a protest and gheraoed him Instead of addressing their concerns the Deputy Chief Minister allegedly left the venue and filed an FIR against the protesting youths Vijayendra claimed that the Congress party has since been targeting the community and that MLA Chandru Lamani would face the legal process in courtnbspHe also stated that several audio clips have already been leaked and that their authenticity needs to be establishedIt can be recalled that BJP legislator Chandru Lamani who represents the Shirahatti constituency was taken into custody by the Karnataka Lokayukta last Saturday in connection with an alleged bribery case in Laxmeshwar town of Gadag district and later remanded to judicial custodynbspThe Lokayukta team reportedly caught the MLA while he was allegedly accepting Rs 5 lakh from a contractor as part of a larger bribe demand His government personal assistant Manjunath Valmiki and private assistant Guru Lamani were also detained and questioned during the operationAccording to Lokayukta Lamani had allegedly demanded Rs 11 lakh from a Class I contractor identified as Vijay Poojar in connection with the allotment of a contract under the Minor Irrigation Department The bribe was reportedly linked to the construction work at a roadside retaining wallnbspSpeaking about the Budget Session scheduled to begin in the first week of March Vijayendra said discussions are underway within the party regarding the upcoming sessionnbspVijayendra said he and Leader of Opposition R Ashoka would discuss how to conduct themselves in the House He said that after preliminary discussions they would consult senior party leaders and take a final decision on the partyâs strategyQuestioning Minister Priyank Khargeâs remarks on corruption Vijayendra asked whether he had the moral authority to speak about alleged corruption involving the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief MinisternbspThe state BJP chief alleged that scams such as the Valmiki Corporation scam and the MUDA scam took place soon after the government came to power He questioned whether funds from the Valmiki Corporation were used for electionsnbspComparing the situation to âthe devil quoting scriptureâ he said Congress had no moral ground to lecture others on corruption He added that corruption should not be given a caste colour and called for a proper investigation to bring out the truthnbspOn the issue of the Chief Minister allegedly playing the caste card and claiming that he is being targeted as he hails from a backward Shepard community Vijayendra remarked that Siddaramaiah does not have anger towards the BJP but is instead facing resentment within his own partynbspHe also appealed to the Chief Minister stating that while it was a matter of happiness that a person from a shepherd community had become Chief Minister funds should at least be released to backward class development corporations in the upcoming Budget He said the BJP would strongly press this demand IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/cong-govt-targeting-banjara-community-ktaka-bjp-chief-on-mlas-arrest-662321.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 13:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/jagan-demands-action-over-deaths-due-to-milk-adulteration-662324.html Amaravati Feb 23 Former Chief Minister and YSR Congress Party YSRCP President YS Jagan Mohan Reddy expressed deep shock and anguish over the tragic incident in Rajamahendravaram where four persons have reportedly died after consuming adulterated milk while several others are undergoing treatment in hospitals He conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the speedy recovery of those hospitalisedYS Jagan stated that negligence in food safety enforcement has directly endangered public lives and demanded that the government take stringent action against those responsible for the adulterationHe emphasised that such incidents reflect serious lapses in monitoring and regulatory mechanisms and insisted that immediate corrective steps must be taken to ensure that similar tragedies do not recurThe YSRCP leader urged the Health Department to take swift control of the situation by ensuring the best possible medical care to all affected individuals closely monitor their health condition and if necessary deploy expert medical teams for comprehensive treatmentHe called for urgent administrative intervention to strengthen food safety inspections and restore public confidence in essential commodities like milkFour deaths have been reported in two days due to alleged anuria inability to pass urine suspected to be linked to milk adulterationTwo of those undergoing treatment in hospitals died since Sunday night They were identified as S Seshagiri Rao 72 and Radha Krishnamurthy 74The condition of three of those taken ill is stated to be criticalTwo deaths were reported earlier All the victims are from Laala Cheruvu and Chowdeswari Nagar areas of Rajahmundry Rajamahendravaram city in East Godavari districtAt least 14 people were admitted to various hospitals with symptoms of anuria since February 15 They include four members of the same familyAs the milk vendor for all the affected families is the same health authorities suspected milk adulteration resulting in anuria IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/jagan-demands-action-over-deaths-due-to-milk-adulteration-662324.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/prez-murmu-unveils-bust-of-c-rajagopalachari-statue-in-rashtrapati-bhavan-662325.html New Delhi Feb 23 IANS President Droupadi Murmu graced the Rajaji Utsav at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre on Monday and unveiled the bust of Chakravarti Rajagopalachari Indias first and only Indian GovernorGeneral at Rashtrapati BhavannbspIn a post on X the President stated The bust of Chakravarti Rajagopalachari situated at the Grand Open Staircase near Ashok Mandap replaces the bust of Edwin Lutyens This initiative is part of series of steps being taken towards shedding the vestiges colonial mindset and embracing with pride the richness of Indias culture heritage timeless traditions and honouring those who served Bharat Mata with their extraordinary contributionsThe President highlighted that the move symbolises a broader national effort to move beyond colonialera legacies and recognise eminent Indian leaders who played pivotal roles in shaping the countrys history Rajagopalachari popularly known as Rajaji was a prominent freedom fighter statesman and scholar who served as the last GovernorGeneral of India from 1948 to 1950Among the dignitaries present on the occasion were Vice President CP Radhakrishnan Minister of Health and Family Welfare and Chemicals and Fertilisers Jagat Prakash Nadda Minister of External Affairs Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar Minister of Education Dharmendra Pradhan Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Dr L Murugan and family members of RajajiVice President CP Radhakrishnans official X handle also shared a post Vice President Shri C P Radhakrishnan attended the Rajaji Utsav at Rashtrapati Bhavan today where the Honble President of India Smt Droupadi Murmu unveiled the bust of Shri C Rajagopalachari replacing that of Edwin Lutyens marking another significant milestone in our journey of breaking away from the colonial legacynbspThe event underscored the governments continued emphasis on honouring national icons and reinforcing Indias cultural and historical identity within key institutions of the RepublicIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/prez-murmu-unveils-bust-of-c-rajagopalachari-statue-in-rashtrapati-bhavan-662325.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/political-leaders-in-india-decry-talibans-new-penal-code-legalising-domestic-violence-662329.html New Delhi Feb 23 The Talibanâs new domestic violence code which permits women to be beaten as long as their bones do not break has sparked widespread outrage in India Critics describe it as an assault on basic human dignityâ and a chilling reminder of the dangers when power and religious edicts override basic rights The move has been condemned as a stark violation of womenâs rights an affront to justice and a signal that oppressive policies can be formalised under the guise of law Speaking to IANS BJP National Spokesperson Syed Shahnawaz Hussain reacted sharply saying âThe Taliban are not going to refrain from such actions They have returned to power and an atmosphere has formed that their actions can never be right The fatwa they have issued and the law they have made allows women to be beaten severely and these lawmakers should be held accountableâJDU Spokesperson Neeraj Kumar called the law a stark violation of democratic and human rights principlesâWhere democratic values are not protected and policies are driven by religion injustice is inevitable The mistreatment of women under religious pretexts is unacceptable No religion permits disrespecting daughters denying them education or discriminating against themâ he saidCongress MP Imran Masood criticised the Talibanâs justification for the penal code âI cannot understand which Islamic text they referred to while framing this According to the status of women in Islam this is not justifiedâ he addedJDU National Spokesperson Rajeev Ranjan Prasad noted the broader diplomatic implications âThis concerns relations between countries We support the central governmentâs decisions and policy measures regarding such international developmentsâThe Talibanâs 90page code signed by Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada also abolishes the 2009 law on the Elimination of Violence Against Women EVAW and imposes punishments based on social status allowing lighter penalties for the elite and harsher measures for lowerclass individualsHuman rights organisations including the UN Special Rapporteur on violence against women have called for immediate international intervention to halt the lawâs implementation IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/political-leaders-in-india-decry-talibans-new-penal-code-legalising-domestic-violence-662329.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/venugopal-satheesan-step-up-attack-on-cm-vijayan-over-sabarimala-tantri-arrest-662330.html Kochi Feb 23 AICC general secretary KC Venugopal on Monday questioned the State governmentâs handling of the arrest of the Sabarimala tantri alleging an undue eagerness to portray him as guilty despite the absence of evidence cited by the court Venugopal said that if credible evidence existed no one would object to the arrest However he pointed out that the Vigilance Court while granting bail had observed that there was not even a shred of evidence against the TantriâWhat is the intention behind disputing the courtâs findingâ he asked taking exception to remarks made by Law Minister P Rajeeve against the bail orderVenugopal said the Congress had never argued that the tantri should not be arrested if evidence warranted it âLet the law take its own course But the eagerness to brand him guilty without presenting evidence in court raises serious questionsâ he said adding that suspicions of a conspiracy emerged only after the courtâs observationsEchoing similar concerns Leader of the Opposition V D Satheesan intensified the Oppositionâs campaign against the government during his political yatra across the StateSpeaking at Adimali Satheesan said the Special Investigation Team SIT must clearly explain the grounds and evidence that led to the arrest âThe Opposition made its stand clear in the Assembly on January 11 the day after the arrest The SIT has a responsibility to inform the public what specific offence was committed and what role the tantri allegedly playedâ he saidThe Opposition has been boycotting the Assembly demanding the resignation of Devaswom Minister VN Vasavan and an end to what it alleges is interference by the Chief Ministerâs Office in the probeSatheesan also hit back at ministers who accused the Opposition of shielding the Tantri and criticising the judiciary He contended that it was the Law Minister who publicly criticised the court for granting bailBoth leaders maintained that while no special privilege is sought for the Tantri he is entitled to the same legal safeguards as any ordinary citizen and that the SIT must disclose the evidentiary basis of the arrest to restore public confidenceOf the 13 arrested by the SIT so far six have got bail while the bail pleas of the others will be heard in the coming days IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/venugopal-satheesan-step-up-attack-on-cm-vijayan-over-sabarimala-tantri-arrest-662330.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/shinde-pays-emotional-tribute-to-ajit-pawar-vows-to-carry-forward-development-vision-662342.html Mumbai Feb 23 IANS Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Monday delivered a poignant tribute to the late Ajit Pawar in the Legislative Council describing the leaders passing as a loss that has left millions of citizens orphanednbspMoving a condolence motion during the budget session Shinde reflected on the personal and political void left by the veteran leaders sudden demisenbspDada the court of the people has proven that many of your political decisions were accurate However your decision to bid farewell to this world is a mistake Take it back and return he said during the condolence motionHe added with resolve We will turn Dadas slogan Development will no longer be delayed Maharashtra will no longer stop into a reality stressing that fulfilling Pawars development vision would be the truest tribute to himRecalling their political partnership Shinde said Devendra ji Ajit Dada and I formed a solid Triangle of Stability for the state Because the three of us came together the geometry and progress of Maharashtra were moving at a rapid pace That black day of January 28 snatched our foundation away Dada was never late but on that day destiny played a cruel trick Seeing the visuals of that accident on TV sent shivers down my spinePraising Pawars administrative grip Shinde noted that he possessed remarkable command over governance He said Pawar could scan files within seconds and immediately spot mistakes often pulling up officials even for small lapses such as exposed wiring or poorly installed infrastructureShinde also pointed out that Pawar held the record for presenting the state Budget eleven times and had balanced finances even while allocating Rs 46000 crore for the Ladki Bahin schemenbspDada appeared tough like a jackfruit from the outside but he was incredibly softhearted on the inside he remarkedSharing personal memories Shinde recalled a meeting at a hotel during discussions on leadership change when Pawar had firmly said If it is Eknath Rao it is acceptable to usnbspThe deputy CM also remembered Pawar advising him like an elder brother to avoid working late into the night and to take care of his healthOffering support to Sunetra Pawar he said Tai despite facing grief as vast as the sky you are standing firm Both of us brothers stand strongly behind you Fulfilling the dream of development that Dada envisioned will be the real tribute to himIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/shinde-pays-emotional-tribute-to-ajit-pawar-vows-to-carry-forward-development-vision-662342.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 15:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ktaka-hm-downplays-dalit-cm-demand-praises-siddaramaiah-662346.html Bengaluru Feb 23 Karnataka Home Minister Parameshwara on Monday downplayed media queries regarding the demand for a Dalit Chief Minister and stated that such claims were being made by the Opposition He also praised Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and stated that he stood for social justice from the beginning âThe Opposition is making baseless allegations to cover up its own issues he chargedNotably Parameshwara is one of the senior most and prominent leaders hailing from the Dalit community and CM Siddaramaiahs camp has allegedly demanded that in case of leadership change in the state he should be made the CMSpeaking to the media in Bengaluru on Monday HM Parameshwara stated Is the Chief Minister not governing For the past 12 days he has been holding discussions with ministers and officials of various departments regarding the Budget The Opposition is unnecessarily bringing up the issue of a Dalit Chief MinisterâParameshwara added that if there is to be a Dalit Chief Minister it is for the Congress party to decide and the high command will take a decision when the time comesHe further said that social justice has been the foundation of CM Siddaramaiahâs politics from the very beginning and that there is nothing new about his commitment to the principleHe said Siddaramaiah has always been committed to social justice and has consistently pursued politics based on that ideology âThe foundation of his politics is social justice It is not something he has started doing todayâ he saidOn the occasion of Ramzan and Holi celebrations he said no one should be allowed to take the law into their own hands âFestivals must be celebrated peacefully and happily There is no scope for any other kind of conduct and we will not allow it Strict instructions have been issued to officials in this regardâ he saidSpeaking about the issue of banning mobile phones in educational institutions he said there has been discussion on imposing a mobile ban in schools and colleges Giving mobile phones to children below 16 years of age is affecting their education in different ways he saidâMany countries have conducted studies and imposed bans on mobile phones The Chief Minister has also deliberated on this issue A decision will be taken after studying its pros and consâ he addedReferring to the arrest of illegal migrants who were allegedly conspiring to carry out unlawful activities he said the stateâs internal security wing has been put on alert For the past one month operations have been conducted in every district to trace illegal migrantsOn the issue of conducting student elections in universities and colleges he said that during the tenure of KH Ranganath as Higher Education Minister clashes occurred during student elections following which they were banned The elections were stopped due to concerns that students were forming groups and engaging in violenceHe added that during his own tenure as Higher Education Minister syndicate elections were also banned âNow there is pressure to reconsider conducting student elections We will have to see what decision the Cabinet takes on this matterâ he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ktaka-hm-downplays-dalit-cm-demand-praises-siddaramaiah-662346.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 15:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/workers-attacked-inside-premises-abvp-activists-recount-jnu-campus-incident-662349.html New Delhi Feb 23 ABVP activists recounted the events that unfolded in the wee hours of Monday at the Jawaharlal Nehru University JNU campus and shared the actions they plan to take next Violence reportedly broke out at the JNU campus when a protest rally turned confrontational with student groups from opposing ideological sides accusing each other of initiating the aggressionABVP activist Vikas Patel said that around three months ago a facial recognition machine was proposed to be installed in the university library similar to the system used in Metro stationsHe alleged that members of the JNUSU vandalised the machine which he claimed was worth Rs 20 lakh Following an enquiry those allegedly involved were rusticated for two semesters and fined Rs 20000 According to Patel protests were allegedly being organised over this disciplinary actionHe further alleged that when the protesters did not receive adequate support from students they repeatedly attempted to disrupt classes Late on Sunday night a march was organised which was initially expected to conclude peacefullyHowever Patel alleged that after the march ended the crowd moved towards the school areas and attempted to lock reading rooms and libraries Students who were already studying there were allegedly forced to leave leading to tension and a scufflePatel also alleged that stone pelting took place and that an ABVP worker was attacked inside the premises He claimed the worker was sprayed with fire extinguisher powder and beaten before the police arrived and rescued him He added that ABVP would file formal complaints with the Delhi Police and the JNU administrationAnother ABVP activist Shikha Swaraj alleged that the march deviated from its planned route to the ViceChancellorâs residence and instead moved towards academic areas where students were allegedly harassed She said injured students would undergo MedicoLegal Case MLC procedures and file complaintsViolence broke out at Delhis JNU campus in the wee hours of Monday when a protest rally turned violent with two students groups accusing each other of being the first to strikeThe Jawaharlal Nehru University Students Union JNUSU had called for an Equality March demanding the resignation of ViceChancellor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit for her alleged casteist remarks made in a podcast on February 16 The Union also objected to her podcast comments regarding University Grants Commission UGC regulations Dalits and affirmative action Additionally they had sought the revocation of a rustication order against four student body officebearers over alleged vandalism of university property during a protestProtesters alleged the administration did not engage with the march and instead allowed the ABVP the student wing affiliated with the BJP members to confront themHowever the ABVP rejected the allegations and accused Leftbacked organisations of provoking clashes and spreading misinformation about the incidentLeftbacked groups including All India Students Association AISA claimed ABVP members threw stones at the JNUSU encampment and attacked unarmed students leaving several injuredThe protest focused on issues such as the implementation of UGC guidelines and the revocation of students rustication ordersABVP Secretary at JNU Pravin Kumar Piyush added Late at night a Leftwing organization called for a march from Sabarmati TPoint to the JNU ViceChancellors residence After the march around 400500 masked individuals entered the school area carrying hockey sticks rods batons knives and stones They then forced their way into the school where common students were studying in the reading rooms and allegedly pushed them out forciblyAccording to Vaibhav Meena JNUSU Joint Secretary ABVP the situation turned into a night of terror when a large group of masked individuals moved through the campus IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/workers-attacked-inside-premises-abvp-activists-recount-jnu-campus-incident-662349.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 15:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/indian-muslim-clerics-javed-akhtar-condemn-taliban-over-code-allowing-wife-beating-662351.html Lucknow Feb 23 Prominent Muslim clerics in India have sharply condemned the Talibanâs new penal code in Afghanistan that reportedly legalises domestic violence calling it a blatant misuse of religion and a violation of Islamic principles The law which allows husbands to beat wives âwithout causing bone fractures or open woundsâ and punishes women with imprisonment if they visit their parents without permission has sparked outrage among religious leaders and civil society All India Muslim Jamaat President Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi said âThe Taliban has come to power in Afghanistan for the second time The Talibans image has always been one of terror We have never accepted the Taliban and have always considered them involved in terrorist activities Now even if they claim to have changed their methods beating and violence are against Islamic principles Taliban authorities should ensure that such decrees are not issued that harm interpersonal relationsâMaulana Mohammad Mirza Yasoob Abbas cleric and speaker of the AllIndia Shia Personal Law Board AISPLB said âIt is very unfortunate that the Taliban are creating turmoil in the name of religion This new law is very wrong and should be strongly condemnedâShia religious leader Maulana Saif Abbas also criticised the Taliban stating âThe Talibanâs character is double standard On one hand they speak about Islam but on the other the law they have created allows beating wives and children There is no justification for domestic violence and we strongly condemn this Taliban lawâFormer Babri Masjid litigant Iqbal Ansari said âViolence is considered wrong in all societies regardless of religion We do not consider violence to be right we too are Muslims connected to our faith but violence should not be directed at anyoneâVeteran lyricist and poet Javed Akhtar taking to X called on Indian muftis and mullahs to unconditionally denounce the measure pointing out that the Taliban law reportedly allows wife beating âwithout any bone fractureâ and punishes women with three monthsâ imprisonment if they visit their parents without their husbandâs permission His post sparked widespread discussion on social mediaâThis is being carried out in the name of religion but it is completely unacceptableâ Akhtar saidThe remarks from Indian Muslim leaders come amid global criticism of the Talibanâs policies towards women highlighting concern over the misuse of religion to justify violence IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/indian-muslim-clerics-javed-akhtar-condemn-taliban-over-code-allowing-wife-beating-662351.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 15:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-reaches-out-to-bengal-voters-via-open-letter-promises-states-economic-revival-662358.html Kolkata Feb 23 IANS The West Bengal unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party BJP has commenced the mass distribution of an open letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi penned in Bengali and Hindi among voters as part of its campaigning ahead of the highstakes Assembly elections scheduled for later this yearnbspIn the letter the Prime Minister accuses the Mamata Banerjeeled government and the ruling Trinamool Congress of attempting to deprive people of benefits from centrally sponsored schemes He also claims that despite obstacles from the state administration many residents have still gained from these programmesJust a few months the electoral fate of West Bengal will be decided A structured decision on your part will decide the fate of the future generation in the state The people of West Bengal are victims of deprivation My heart is equally pained by that Hence from the core of my heart I want to make a promise today The promise is to rebuild a developed and prosperous West Bengal the letter states in its opening passageIn subsequent paragraphs the Prime Minister lists welfare and development schemes introduced since 2014 by the National Democratic Alliance government led by him asserting that these initiatives have benefited people across sectors in the state despite what he describes as noncooperation from the state governmentIn the postIndependence era West Bengal was the heart of Indias economy But today my heart bleeds because of the sick and wornout condition of the states economy West Bengal had continued to suffer for the last six decades because of the continuous misrule and encouragement of appeasement politics On the one hand the educated youths are forced to get settled elsewhere because of the lack of employment opportunities On the other hand the women of the state are in constant fear over the lack of safety against loss of dignity Modi wroteHe also invokes the legacy of figures such as Swami Vivekananda Sri Aurobindo Rabindranath Tagore and Subhas Chandra Bose stating that the state which once produced such icons is now facing challenges including alleged illegal infiltration concerns over womens safety and economic declineBut how long will you tolerate such things A change is inevitable now The livelihood of the people in other states has improved manifold now Several people in those states have been elevated above the poverty level The people of West Bengal deserve the same development So let us get united to rebuild a developed West Bengal the PM says in the letterIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-reaches-out-to-bengal-voters-via-open-letter-promises-states-economic-revival-662358.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 15:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/2026-polls-a-direct-fight-between-me-and-stalin-asserts-tvk-leader-vijay-662362.html Vellore Tamil Nadu Feb 23 Declaring that the upcoming Assembly election would be a direct fight between Vijay and MK Stalin Vijay on Monday intensified his attack on Chief Minister Stalin asserting that the battle in Tamil Nadu was not about Delhi politics but about corruption and governance within the state Addressing party cadres and midlevel leaders at a closeddoor meeting in Kollamangalam in Vellore district the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam TVK leader said To put it clearly this election is a war between Vijay and Stalin It is a war between the people of Tamil Nadu and corruption between the people and bribery between the people and the DMK government Our vote is our right No one can buy us Our vote is for the whistle symbol We will not withdraw our word and we will not be deceived again Using a parable to drive home his message Vijay compared Tamil Naduâs political landscape to a wild Jallikattu bull standing in the middle of a busy field untamed and intimidating While experienced handlers hesitated a young boy approached calmly with fodder in his pocket and subdued the animal by understanding its hungerIn that story the bull represents the political situation of Tamil Nadu The boy is not just me â it is all of us When people are hungry for change they need solutions not fear he said Vijay accused the ruling DMK of failing to deliver on promises including shifting electricity billing to a monthly cycle People were promised monthly bills Has it happened Paying once every two months is a burden Can this be called modern corruption he asked He also highlighted concerns about law and order womenâs safety inadequate bus services in hill villages and the lack of medical facilities forcing some women to consider home deliveries In our government the safety of girls and boys will come first Government schools will match private standards We will ensure clean toilets for girls create a drugfree Tamil Nadu and establish a welfare board for unorganised workers he promised Criticising what he described as opportunistic alliances Vijay said You cannot win with looted money or unstable coalitions This is a whistlestop election Stay confident â victory is certain He further challenged political leaders to disclose their assets before and after entering politics and questioned Stalin over past remarks that described him as a friend If I am your friend why mention my name in controversies he asked Asserting that the election would be historic Vijay said it would be unlike any other in the past five decades Everyone is opposing me because I oppose corruption But this time every polling booth must become a victory booth he declared urging cadres to mobilise voters in support of the partyâs whistle symbol The meeting was restricted to 4900 participants who had QRcoded entry passes Citing safety concerns TVK General Secretary N Anand had requested that pregnant women children school students senior citizens and persons with disabilities avoid attending A temporary roof structure was erected at the venue following a recent incident in Salem where a participant reportedly collapsed during a public event IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/2026-polls-a-direct-fight-between-me-and-stalin-asserts-tvk-leader-vijay-662362.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 16:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/mobile-ban-in-karnataka-schools-under-discussion-parents-also-exerting-pressure-deputy-cm-shivakumar-662365.html Bengaluru Feb 23 Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Monday said that the issue of banning mobile phones in schools is under discussion and that there is pressure from parents as well Many countries have implemented such measures The issue is also being discussed at the international levelâ he said in response to questions from the media near his residence hereAsked about restricting mobile phone usage by children in schools he said âIt is not appropriate to publicly disclose how mobile phones are being misused That is why discussions are being held on this issueOn the issue of banning mobile phones Home Minister G Parameshwara stated there has been discussion on imposing a mobile ban in schools and colleges Giving mobile phones to children below 16 years of age is affecting their education in different ways he said Many countries have conducted studies and imposed bans on mobile phones The Chief Minister has also deliberated on this issue A decision will be taken after studying its pros and cons he addedAsked about Minister Mahadevappa raising the issue of a Dalit Chief Minister Shivakumar said He is our national leader I offer him my greetings from hereResponding to a question about a report by the National Water Quality Standards Authority stating that Bengaluruâs lake water is not fit for drinking he said The government has never said that lake water in Bengaluru should be used for drinking or bathing These lakes exist to recharge groundwater Water from the Thippagondanahalli reservoir is treated by the BWSSB Bengaluruâs lake water is not meant for drinking or bathingOn the issue of protest by Congress against Viksit BharatâGuarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission Gramin Act he said the Central government has not issued any clarification or directiveEven wages for previous work have not been released The law has been rendered ineffective Atrocities are being committed against labourers and the poor We are organising a major protest against this A âNREGA Bachao Andolanâ protest has been organised in Chikkaballapurâ he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/mobile-ban-in-karnataka-schools-under-discussion-parents-also-exerting-pressure-deputy-cm-shivakumar-662365.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 16:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/jk-l-g-manoj-sinha-inaugurates-6th-edition-of-khelo-india-winter-games-662366.html Gulmarg Feb 23 IANS Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor LG Manoj Sinha on Monday while inaugurating the sixth edition of Khelo India Winter Games here said that from a simple sporting event these games have evolved into a true national festivalnbspLG Sinha welcomed and conveyed his best wishes to all participating athletes and team officialsnbspKhelo India Winter Games revive the sporting spirits ideals of peace equality and camaraderie In our vibrant diverse nation of myriad languages cultures and traditions the Winter Games at Gulmarg is serving as a universal language and shared heritageWinter Games at Gulmarg mirror lifes raw challenges building the resilience that propels future triumphs Falling analysing errors rising improved these are sports true lessons ones Skiers will live here the LG addedHe emphasised that the broader aim of Khelo India Winter Games is strengthening national unityThe LG said that the mega winter sports event is a celebration of our nations sporting legacy its unity and the transformative power of sports that binds every citizen and athlete igniting their drive and forging unbreakable characterIntense rivalry yields shared conversations and lasting friendships proving healthy competition and mutual respect coexist Our people need this ethos now more than ever As you race these Ski slopes remember diversity is our strength not division Khelo India reminds us our language may differ but our goals and values unite usWhen athletes from diverse states train together compete fiercely and cheer one another barriers of language culture and region dissolve before the sporting spirit LG Sinha addedHe said that Winter Games pit skiers against nature itself where excelling demands extraordinary prowess and over the coming days we will witness that prowess alongside technical mastery the poise from years of practice unyielding resolve and superhuman enduranceHe urged the participating athletes to uphold the highest standards of sportsmanship and encouraged them to give their best throughout the tournamentOn these Ski slopes of Gulmarg athletes identity hinges solely on performance every result reflects your skills discipline and grit crafting new championsIn disciplines like alpine skiing Nordic skiing snowboarding and ski mountaineering athletes rigorous training and unwavering dedication will shine through the LG addedLG Sinha also spoke on the transformation in the sporting sector across Jammu and Kashmir over the past few years under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra ModiHe said that the establishment of stateoftheart sports infrastructure under the Prime Ministers Development Package PMDP and 100 Khelo India Centres have redefined the sporting landscapeHe emphasised that modern infrastructure coupled with the talent and dedication of Jammu and Kashmirs youth and the proactive support of dedicated officials has provided a massive impetus to the sectorLG Sinha said the true character reveals itself not just in victory but in adversity and a real athlete remains humble in triumph and dignified in defeatOn February 26 at the closing ceremony of sixth Khelo India Winter Games success wont be measured by medals alone but by the spirit of unity mutual respect and relentless pursuit of excellence he addedThe fourday Khelo India Winter Games at Indias premier winter sports destination will witness the participation of around 1000 athletes and officials from various states and Union Territories in different disciplinesOmar Abdullah Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Satish Sharma Minister for Youth Services ampamp Sports Nasir Aslam Wani Advisor to Chief Minister Farooq Ahmed Shah Member of Legislative Assembly from Gulmarg Atal Dulloo Chief Secretary Shahid Iqbal Choudhary Commissioner Secretary to the government Youth Services and Sports VK Birdi IGP Kashmir Anshul Garg Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Major General Puneet Doval Commandant High Altitude Warfare School Minga Sherpa Deputy Commissioner Baramulla Nuzhat Gul Secretary JampampK Sports Council senior officials representatives of Sports Authority of India and various sports organisations prominent sports personalities and sports enthusiasts in large numbers attended the inaugural ceremonyIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/jk-l-g-manoj-sinha-inaugurates-6th-edition-of-khelo-india-winter-games-662366.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 16:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/aap-govt-in-punjab-announces-meri-rasoi-scheme-for-nutritious-food-to-40-lakh-people-662367.html Chandigarh Feb 23 IANS Ahead of the assembly elections slated for early 2027 the Aam Aadmi Party government in Punjab on Monday announced the Meri Rasoi scheme to provide nutritious food to 40 lakh blue card holders in the state from AprilnbspnbspThis was announced by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann after a meeting of the Council of Ministers herenbspMeri Rasoi will ensure that all blue card holders will get 2 kg dal 2 kg sugar 1 kg iodised salt 200 grams haldi and 1 litre of mustard oil along with the free wheat they are getting each monthnbspThe families will be provided the ration kit for three months from April the Chief Minister saidnbspOfficials said the Meri Rasoi scheme has a budget outlay of Rs 1000 crorenbspWhile the kits will be prepared by staterun Markfed the Food and Supplies Department will distribute them among the beneficiariesnbspFrom April onwards each cardholder under the National Food Security Act or Smart Ration Card Scheme will get a separate bag containing the food items The beneficiaries are eligible for 15 kg of wheat every month The wheat is given quarterly in a 45kg bagnbspCM Mann said it was ironic that Punjab has been feeding millions of people in the country but many families in the state get just one meal a daynbspOur children are undernourished and suffer from iron deficiency The meals they get are not rich in protein As a welfare government it is our duty to ensure that every citizen in the state gets wholesome meals he saidnbspMeanwhile the Cabinet decided to hold the Budget session from March 6 to 16 and the Budget will be presented on International Womens Day March 8 which falls on a SundaynbspIf Prime Minister Narendra Modi can get a Parliament session convened on a Sunday why cant we We can also table our budget on Sunday Mann saidnbspThe Chief Minister also said that investigations were underway into the killings of two security personnel at a border checkpoint in Gurdaspur on SundaynbspAssistant SubInspector Gurnam Singh and home guard Ashok Kumar were found dead close to the Pakistan bordernbspOn the Special Intensive Revision SIR revision CM Mann said the government would give full cooperation to the Election Commission But we will oppose any move to delete the voters he saidnbspIANSnbsp https://dailyworld.in/politics/aap-govt-in-punjab-announces-meri-rasoi-scheme-for-nutritious-food-to-40-lakh-people-662367.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 16:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/92-villages-selected-for-vibrant-village-programme-meghalaya-cm-662368.html Shillong Feb 23 Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Monday said that 92 villages in the state have been selected under the Vibrant Village ProgrammeII even as the Union Ministry of Home Affairs MHA is yet to notify the dates for the scheme implementation Replying to a question in the Assembly CM Sangma said that the programme will be implemented till 202829 and will be overseen by the stateâs Border Areas Development BAD departmentHe explained that the Vibrant Village Programme was introduced after the Centre discontinued the Border Areas Development Programme BADP in September 2022âThe Border Areas Development Programme was discontinued by the Government of India in September 2022 and it was decided that a new programme called the Vibrant Village Programme would be brought inâ the Chief Minister saidCM Sangma noted that several MLAs had raised concerns over the allocation of funds for border areas following the discontinuation of BADPâThe MLAs met with me regarding the sanctioning of some amount because of the discontinuation of BADP I had included some amount but it is not sufficient as we have to cover both interstate and international bordersâ he saidHe added that the state government would continue to make provisions to address development needs in border areas cautioning against assessing progress solely on the basis of BADP allocationsâOne cannot judge development of border areas from the amount spent under BADP aloneâ CM Sangma said pointing out that additional funding streams including Lafarge SPV support have contributed to development initiatives in areas such as Mawsynram and ShellaThe Chief Minister also flagged concerns over the composition of districtlevel committees under the Vibrant Village ProgrammeHe said that as per the Centreâs guidelines these committees do not include elected MLAs a matter that the state government has already raised with New DelhiâThese are areas where the final decision has to be taken at the Central level I will take up the matter personallyâ CM Sangma told the HouseHe further informed that the state government has sanctioned Rs 1499 crore specifically for interstate border development reaffirming Meghalayaâs commitment to improving infrastructure and living conditions in its border regions IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/92-villages-selected-for-vibrant-village-programme-meghalaya-cm-662368.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 17:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/traditional-crafts-by-women-adorn-corridors-of-gujarat-assembly-662371.html Gandhinagar Feb 23 The Women Art and Craft Festival was inaugurated at the Gujarat Legislative Assembly premises on Monday under the âHar Ghar Swadeshi Ghar Ghar Swadeshiâ campaign Assembly Speaker Shankar Chaudhary formally inaugurated the festival Deputy Speaker Purnesh Modi and Minister for Women and Child Welfare Dr Manisha Vakil were present at the ceremony along with Assembly Secretary Chetan Pandya senior officials of the Women and Child Development Department and citizensAddressing the gathering Chaudhary said women in Gujarat have earned international recognition for their craftsmanship particularly in embroidery and traditional handicraftsâThrough their dedication and skill the women of Gujarat have brought global recognition to our handicrafts Today these traditional arts have become a respected global brandâ he saidHe described the organisation of the exhibition within the Assembly premises as a meaningful initiative that would provide encouragement and visibility to women artisans across the stateCongratulating the Women and Child Welfare Minister on the initiative he suggested that Members of the Legislative Assembly should promote such crafts in their respective constituencies to expand their reachAppealing to the public to visit the exhibition Chaudhary said the stalls symbolise the hard work and selfrespect of women artisans âThese stalls are not merely centres of sale Each product reflects the effort of our sisters and the vision of a selfreliant India Even small support from citizens will give them renewed strengthâ he saidOn the occasion Dr Vakil said At this festival indigenous handicrafts and handmade products created by women selfhelp groups from across the state will be exhibited and made available for sale This initiative will encourage women towards selfreliance and create new employment opportunities The event will prove to be an important step towards the economic empowerment of women and will further strengthen the message of âVocal for LocalââThe exhibitioncumsale organised by the Gujarat Women Economic Development Corporation Ltd will run from February 23 to 28 within the Assembly complexTen stalls featuring handicrafts and indigenous products made by women artisans have been set up IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/traditional-crafts-by-women-adorn-corridors-of-gujarat-assembly-662371.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 17:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/v-p-radhakrishnan-to-attend-tripura-university-convocation-on-march-8-662377.html Agartala Feb 23 VicePresident CP Radhakrishnan will be the chief guest at the 14th Convocation of Tripura University scheduled to be held on March 8 officials said here on Monday A university official said that the convocation ceremony of the central varsity could not be held during the last two years 2024 and 2025 During the convocation certificates degrees gold medals and PhD degrees will be conferred upon eligible students The official said that at the forthcoming convocation 283 students from various departments will receive gold medals while 149 research scholars will be awarded PhD degrees The VicePresident will inaugurate the convocation ceremony at the university campus in Suryamaninagar on the outskirts of the state capital Agartala Tripura Governor Indra Sena Reddy Nallu Chief Minister Manik Saha and the University Chancellor Ahmad Javed will also address the convocation ceremony Earlier the universitys Acting ViceChancellor Shaymal Das and Acting Registrar Samir Kumar Shill held a meeting with the Governor at Lok Bhavan here and discussed various aspects related to the convocation arrangements Tripura University was established in October 1987 and was converted into a Central University on July 2 2007 under the Tripura University Act 2006 enacted by the Parliament The university official said that a large number of colleges are affiliated with Tripura University and that the current number of affiliated colleges stands at 64 Meanwhile the Ministry of Education is reportedly aiming to complete the entire selection process and appoint a new ViceChancellor soon However amid the ongoing selection process a strong demand has emerged across the Tripura University campus with teachers nonteaching staff students and members of academic circles urging the Ministry to appoint a genuine experienced and independent administrator as the next ViceChancellor As expectations continue to rise all eyes are now on the Ministry of Educations final decision which is being widely viewed as a crucial turning point for restoring academic excellence and ensuring administrative stability at Tripura University IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/v-p-radhakrishnan-to-attend-tripura-university-convocation-on-march-8-662377.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 18:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/centre-examining-rising-airfares-at-highest-level-sc-told-662382.html New Delhi Feb 23 The Central government on Monday informed the Supreme Court that the issue of volatile airfares and addon fees charged by private airlines during festive seasons and holidays is being examined at the highest level A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta was hearing a public interest litigation PIL challenging the opaque exploitative and algorithmdriven pricing practices in Indiaâs civil aviation sector as well as the reduction in complimentary checkin baggage limits for passengers Appearing for the Union government Additional Solicitor General ASG Anil Kaushik submitted that consultations are underway at the highest levels of the government to address the concerns raised in the petition The Solicitor General has also called a meeting We have taken the matter to the highest level We are in discussion with the highest authority Four weeksâ time may be granted and we will come up with a counter the Centreâs law officer said Taking note of the submission the apex court granted four weeksâ time to the Centre to file its response and listed the matter for further consideration on March 23 During the hearing the Justice Vikram Nathled bench observed that fluctuations in airfare and imposition of additional charges during peak travel periods raise a matter of very serious concern This is a very serious concern Otherwise we donât entertain Article 32 petitions the apex court remarked It also declined to entertain the Federation of Indian Airlinesâ FIA plea seeking to be impleaded in the proceedings observing that the Union government would engage with stakeholders before taking any policy decision The Union government will deal with you They will call you before making a decision They will constitute a committee and make a decision It is for the Ministry to decide If they donât we will consider that later the bench said In November 2025 the Supreme Court issued notice on a plea filed by social activist S Laxminarayanan who contended that air travel recognised as an essential service under the Essential Services Maintenance Act has become increasingly unaffordable due to unregulated unpredictable and exploitative fare mechanisms The petition filed through advocate Charu Mathur contended that sudden fare spikes sometimes doubling or tripling within hours during emergencies festivals or peak travel periods disproportionately affect passengers compelled to undertake urgent travel for medical educational or employmentrelated reasons It further argued that airlines have reduced complimentary checkin baggage allowance from 25 kg to 15 kg without adequate justification effectively converting a previously included service into an additional revenue stream through excessbaggage charges Terming such practices arbitrary and violative of Article 21 of the Constitution the plea urged the apex court to direct the Centre to frame a regulatory framework or establish an independent aviation tariff regulator with quasijudicial powers to oversee airfare structures monitor compliance and adjudicate passenger grievances IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/centre-examining-rising-airfares-at-highest-level-sc-told-662382.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 18:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/patna-court-rejects-transit-remand-of-bihar-fire-dept-ig-questions-andhra-police-662383.html Patna Feb 23 In a major legal setback for the Andhra Pradesh Police the Patna Civil Court on Monday refused to grant transit remand of Bihar Home Guard and Fire Service Inspector General IG M Sunil Nayak The court sharply questioned the procedure adopted by the Andhra Pradesh Police and termed the action legally flawedThe matter was heard in the court of Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate where the Andhra Pradesh Police sought transit remand to take IG Sunil Nayak to Andhra Pradesh in connection with a criminal caseDuring the hearing the court said that the Andhra Pradesh Police did not have a valid arrest warrant no updated case diary was produced before the court and mandatory legal procedures were not followedTaking strong exception to these lapses the court outright rejected the transit remand applicationEarlier on Monday a team of Andhra Pradesh Police reached IG Sunil Nayaks official residence located in the Shastri Nagar police station area of PatnaThe team conducted a search and preliminary investigation inside the IGs residence in the presence of local police officialsFollowing news of the action security around the residence was increased and a large number of Home Guard personnel reached the spotThe personnel alleged that the action against their senior officer was being taken in violation of established rulesAfter being produced in the Patna Civil Court advocate Rishikesh Narayan said the courts position saying that arrests must strictly follow legal proceduresAny arrest has a prescribed legal process Transit remand cannot be granted without proper documents In the case of IAS or IPS officers prior permission from the Central government is mandatory That permission was not sought in this case he addedHe said that IG Sunil Nayak now has the option to approach the Patna High Court for bail calling the courts decision a major interim relief for the IPS officerAccording to sources the court also objected to the fact that some Andhra Pradesh Police personnel appeared during the court hearing without uniformThe court reportedly expressed strong displeasure over this lapse and directed the concerned officers including three Andhra Pradesh Police personnel to remain present in the courtroom while making strict observations about their conduct and procedureA case has been registered against IG Sunil Nayak under Section 307 attempt to murder of the Indian Penal CodeThe matter is reportedly linked to K Raghurama Krishna Raju a former Member of Parliament from Andhra PradeshSources claim the case pertains to the alleged misuse of serious penal sections in a previous incidentWith the Patna Civil Court denying transit remand IG Sunil Nayaks immediate transfer to Andhra Pradesh has been stalled for nowHowever the case is expected to move forward through higher judicial forumsThe incident has triggered intense discussion within administrative and police circles raising serious questions about interstate police coordination arrest protocols and procedural compliance IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/patna-court-rejects-transit-remand-of-bihar-fire-dept-ig-questions-andhra-police-662383.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 18:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-urges-citizens-to-visit-rajaji-utsav-at-rashtrapati-bhavan-662387.html New Delhi Feb 23 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted the unveiling of a bust of C Rajagopalachari replacing that of British architect Edwin Lutyens during the âRajaji Utsavâ at Rashtrapati Bhavan urging citizens to visit the eventâ âRajaji Utsav is a wonderful initiative which brings out different aspects of Rajajis rich contribution to our nation I urge you all to visit it and get inspiredâ said PM Modi in a message on social mediaâIn his recent radio show âMann Ki Baat the PM had said âThe country is leaving behind the symbols of slavery and has begun to value symbols related to Indian cultureâHe had also signalled during the show on February 22 that the bronze bust of Edwin Lutyens the British architect who designed some of New Delhis most iconic structures around 192030 would no longer stand in the central courtyard of Rashtrapati BhavanâPrime Minister Modiâs message to citizens on Monday to visit âRajaji Utsavâ came within hours of the event and a social media message from Rashtrapati Bhavan shared photos of President Murmu examining exhibits related to Rajaji after unveiling his bustâThe Rashtrapati Bhavanâs message on X said âRajaji set an inspiring example of mental decolonisation His ideals are reflected in the national campaign adopted by the people of India to take pride in Indias heritage and eliminate the vestiges of the colonial mindset As part of Rajaji Utsav an exhibition on the life and work of Rajaji is being organised from February 24 to March 1 2026 at Rashtrapati BhavanââUnveiling the bust of Chakravarti Rajagopalachari Indiaâs first and only Indian GovernorGeneral the President said the replacement of the bust symbolises a broader national effort to move beyond colonialera legacies and recognise eminent Indian leaders who played pivotal roles in shaping the countryâs historyâRajagopalachari popularly known as Rajaji was a prominent freedom fighter statesman and scholar who served as the last GovernorGeneral of India from 1948 to 1950âShe said âThe bust of Chakravarti Rajagopalachari situated at the Grand Open Staircase near Ashok Mandap replaces the bust of Edwin LutyensââThis initiative is part of a series of steps being taken towards shedding the vestiges of colonial mindset and embracing with pride the richness of Indiaâs culture heritage timeless traditions and honouring those who served Bharat Mata with their extraordinary contributionsâ she saidâVicePresident C P Radhakrishnan emphasised that Indiaâs movement away from colonial influence is not a single event but an ongoing transformation across governance law education culture and national identity according to an official statementâRadhakrishnan noted that at the centre of these reforms is the vision of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi who has consistently called for freedom from the colonial mindset that shaped institutions and attitudes during British ruleâThe VicePresident stated that the vision of âGulami ki Mansikta se Muktiâ has been translated into action through several initiatives including the transformation of Raj Bhavans into Lok Bhavans the evolution of the PMO into a Sewa Teerth the renaming of the Central Secretariat as Kartavya Bhavan the replacement of colonialera criminal laws the installation of a statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose near India Gate and the construction of the National War Memorial among othersââThese changes are not merely symbolic they reflect the governmentâs spirit of Sewa Bhavnaâ he saidâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-urges-citizens-to-visit-rajaji-utsav-at-rashtrapati-bhavan-662387.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 19:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/mha-unveils-prahaar-indias-first-national-counter-terror-policy-662396.html New Delhi Feb 23 The Ministry of Home Affairs MHA on Monday unveiled Indias inaugural National CounterTerrorism Policy and Strategy titled PRAHAAR marking a major milestone in the countryâs longstanding efforts to combat terrorism in all its forms The Ministry of Home Affairs has introduced the nationâs first comprehensive counterterrorism policy titled âPRAHAARâ establishing a structured national framework to address evolving and complex security threats including crossborder terrorism dronebased attacks cyberenabled threats and organised terror networksThe document underscores Indiaâs decadeslong experience and leadership in combating terrorism firmly rejecting any attempt to link terrorism with any particular religion ethnicity nationality or civilisationIt reiterates the governmentâs unwavering zerotolerance approach towards terrorism and violence while emphasising support for victims and rejecting any justification for acts of terror under any circumstancesHighlighting regional instability the existence of ungoverned spaces and instances of statesponsored terrorism the strategy adopts a multilayered approach focused on prevention swift and proportionate response enhanced interagency coordination and strict adherence to human rights and the rule of lawThe eightpage policy document which has been made publicly available on the MHA website formalises a unified and institutionalised approach that has guided Indiaâs counterterror efforts over the years amid evolving threatsIndiaâs position remains unequivocal that terrorism in any form or manifestation cannot be justified under any pretext and the country does not associate terrorism with any religion ethnicity nationality or civilisationThe policy is rooted in a commitment to safeguarding citizens upholding human rights and ensuring accountability through established legal and judicial processes under the rule of lawThe term âPRAHAARâ meaning âstrikeâ represents seven core pillars of Indiaâs counterterrorism framework prevention of terrorist attacks swift and proportionate response capacitybuilding across security and intelligence agencies ensuring human rightscompliant operations addressing conditions conducive to radicalisation strengthening international cooperation and promoting societal resilience and recovery according to the documentThe threat assessment section presents a detailed overview of persistent and emerging challenges confronting Indiaâs security architectureCrossborder terrorism continues to pose a major threat with extremist groups and affiliated networks attempting to carry out attacks Global terrorist organisations such as AlQaeda and ISIS continue efforts to activate sleeper cells and incite violence within the countryForeignbased elements have also been accused of attempting to destabilise internal security while terrorist handlers increasingly exploit advanced technologies including drones particularly in sensitive regions such as Punjab and Jammu and KashmirThe document notes growing convergence between terror networks and organised crime groups which facilitate logistics recruitment and financial flowsDigital platforms have emerged as key enablers for terrorist activities allowing anonymous communication through social media encrypted messaging applications dark web platforms and cryptocurrencies for propaganda dissemination recruitment funding and operational coordinationConcerns have also been highlighted regarding attempts to gain access to chemical biological radiological nuclear explosive and cyber capabilities along with the rising threat of cyber intrusions by both nonstate actors and hostile entitiesPrevention remains the cornerstone of the policy with emphasis on intelligenceled operations and coordinated surveillanceInstitutions such as the Multi Agency Centre and the Joint Task Force on Intelligence have been designated as central nodes for realtime intelligence sharing threat assessment and coordinated actionSecurity agencies are tasked with dismantling terror support ecosystems including overground worker networks illegal arms supply chains and terror financing channelsBorder security measures include the deployment of advanced surveillance and detection technologies across land maritime and aerial domainsCritical infrastructure including power installations railways aviation networks ports defence facilities space assets and atomic energy establishments will receive enhanced protection under the frameworkUnder the response mechanism local police forces will act as first responders in terror incidents supported by specialised state counterterror units and elite national forces such as the National Security Guard in major operationsInvestigations into terrorrelated offences will be led by the National Investigation Agency NIA with a focus on ensuring effective prosecution and securing high conviction ratesThe policy also emphasises strengthening institutional capacity through modernisation of equipment training and infrastructure along with standardisation of counterterror mechanisms across states and addressing existing operational gapsThe framework stresses strict adherence to human rights and legal safeguards citing laws such as the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act newly enacted criminal codes and Indiaâs international legal commitmentsIt also outlines preventive and corrective measures to address radicalisation including community engagement outreach programmes involving civil society organisations and religious leaders youth engagement initiatives prison monitoring systems and socioeconomic interventions aimed at reducing vulnerabilityAt the international level India will continue to strengthen intelligencesharing arrangements pursue extradition of terror suspects and support global efforts at the United Nations to designate terrorist entities and deny safe havensThe policy adopts a wholeofgovernment and wholeofsociety approach encouraging cooperation between government agencies private sector stakeholders and civil society to enhance preparedness response and recovery mechanismsLooking ahead the strategy calls for periodic legal reforms strengthening of statelevel counterterror frameworks improved investigative expertise and enhanced investment in emerging technologies to counter future threatsOfficials described âPRAHAARâ as a dynamic and forwardlooking framework aimed at dismantling terror ecosystems safeguarding national security and ensuring longterm resilience through coordinated and sustained efforts IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/mha-unveils-prahaar-indias-first-national-counter-terror-policy-662396.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 19:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/punjabs-excise-reforms-directly-strengthening-public-welfare-says-finance-minister-cheema-662398.html Chandigarh Feb 23 IANS Projecting excise revenue of Rs 12800 crore for 202627 Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Cheema on Monday said the states excise reforms are now directly strengthening public welfare by funding schools hospitals and other propeople schemesnbspAnnouncing the new excise policy Cheema said the state has moved decisively away from the stagnation of previous Congress and AkaliBJP governments transforming excise into a transparent enforcementdriven and growthoriented sector that is delivering record collections while tightening the noose around illicit tradePresenting a detailed comparative analysis of the states excise trajectory he said during the SADBJP regime in 201112 excise revenue stood at a modest Rs 2755 crorenbspOver the subsequent decade growth remained slow and it reached only Rs 6255 crore during the Congress regime in 202122nbspHowever following the implementation of a more robust policy framework in 202223 by the Bhagwant Mannled government the state witnessed an immediate and massive leap to Rs 8428 crore This momentum has continued unabated with revenue climbing to Rs 10744 crore in the 202425 and meeting the current target of Rs 11200 crore for 202526Detailing key provisions of the new excise policy he said The Punjab government has introduced several measures to streamline operations and support existing businesses A primary feature includes the renewal of current retail licences at a 65 per cent increase over the 202526 fees In cases where groups are not renewed the allotment will be handled through a transparent etender processnbspThe quota for Punjab medium liquor at 50 and 65 degrees has been increased by three per cent bringing the total to 879 crore proof litres to meet consumer demand while regulating the market Furthermore to combat the sale of illicit alcohol the government will introduce 40degree PML subvends specifically in areas identified as highcrime zones under the Excise ActnbspThe minister announced that Punjab will now host its own malt manufacturing units This strategic initiative signals a sophisticated evolution in the states industrial policy transitioning Punjab from a downstream bottlingcentric economy to a highvalue manufacturing hub he addednbspIANSnbsp https://dailyworld.in/politics/punjabs-excise-reforms-directly-strengthening-public-welfare-says-finance-minister-cheema-662398.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 20:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/calcutta-hc-pulls-up-state-over-illegal-constructions-in-east-kolkata-wetlands-662399.html Kolkata Feb 23 The Calcutta High Court on Monday ordered that the Union Ministry of Home Affairs be made a party in the case relating to illegal constructions in the East Kolkata Wetlands court sources said Justice Amrita Sinha of the Calcutta High Court expressed dissatisfaction with the role of the state government and the Kolkata Municipal Corporation in addressing the issue The court observed that if necessary central forces might have to be deployed to demolish the illegal constructions in the wetlandsThe matter came up following allegations that more than 500 illegal constructions had come up in the East Kolkata Wetlands reportedly after filling up ecologically sensitive wetland areas in violation of environmental normsJustice Sinhaâs Bench has conducted multiple hearings in the matter in the past and had earlier raised concerns regarding the alleged inaction and inadequate response of the state administration and municipal authoritiesThe court had previously directed the municipal authorities to identify and demolish illegal constructions in the wetlands with the assistance of the police However it was reported before the court that demolition work remained incomplete and several illegal structures were yet to be identifiedDuring Mondayâs hearing the District Magistrate of South 24 Parganas submitted a status report before the court outlining the current situation in the affected areasAfter examining the report Justice Sinha expressed strong displeasure observing that despite repeated reports being submitted there was little visible progress on the ground She remarked that she did not want further reports but wanted to see concrete action taken in compliance with the courtâs directivesThe court made it clear that its primary concern was the effective implementation of its earlier orders and the removal of illegal constructions from the protected wetland areaJustice Sinha observed that if the state authorities failed to carry out the demolition exercise the court would seek the cooperation of the central government and consider involving central forces to ensure complianceThe court also noted that despite repeated judicial directions the state government and the municipal corporation had failed to take adequate and timely action in removing the illegal constructionsJustice Sinha further warned that if the situation did not improve the court would not hesitate to direct the deployment of central forces to carry out demolition of the illegal structuresDuring the proceedings counsel representing the East Kolkata Wetlands informed the court that notices had been issued in connection with illegal constructions and that formal orders for demolition had also been passedHowever the court emphasised that issuance of notices alone was not sufficient and that actual demolition and restoration work must be carried out without delayThe court subsequently directed that the Union Ministry of Home Affairs be impleaded as a party in the case observing that if the state government was unable to effectively enforce the courtâs orders responsibility could be entrusted to the Centre to ensure complianceThe next hearing in the matter has been scheduled for March 16 IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/calcutta-hc-pulls-up-state-over-illegal-constructions-in-east-kolkata-wetlands-662399.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 21:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/withdrawal-curbs-fuel-treasury-crisis-row-in-bihar-rjd-alleges-bankruptcy-nda-rejects-claims-662400.html Patna Feb 23 The Chief Minister Nitish Kumarled Bihar government has tightened restrictions on treasury withdrawals exceeding Rs 1 crore making prior permission mandatory The decision taken ahead of the March closing of the 2025â26 financial year has triggered a fresh political confrontation with the Opposition alleging a severe financial crisis and the ruling alliance dismissing the claims as baseless Reacting sharply to the decision Ranvijay Sahu General Secretary of the Rashtriya Janata Dal RJD accused the government of draining the treasury through arbitrary spendingSahu claimed that funds were distributed indiscriminately including cash assistance to women during elections leading to a serious financial crunchâThe government is bankrupt The treasury is empty Development work has stalled There is no money even to pay government employees and people are crying in distressâ he allegedThe RJD has repeatedly argued that the withdrawal restrictions are clear indicators of the stateâs deteriorating fiscal healthThe ruling NDA however strongly refuted the Oppositionâs claimsMadhav Anand Legislative Party leader of the Rashtriya Lok Morcha said the stateâs financial position remains stableâWhich departmentâs salary has been stopped today Employees are being paid on time Bihar has a doubleengine government and continues to receive central assistance The Opposition is making childish statements due to a lack of understandingâ Anand saidHe added that employmentrelated schemes are ongoing and that upcoming recruitments in the health and education sectors would further strengthen the economyMadhav Anand also renewed his demand for a review of Biharâs liquor prohibition policy arguing that it could help reduce revenue lossesâThe Chief Minister has taken good decisions earlier We hope he will take the right decision on this issue as wellâ he saidAccording to official instructions the Finance Department has set strict deadlines for bill submissionsBills pending up to January 2026 must be deposited by February 28 bills due up to February 2026 by March 15 and bills for March 2026 by March 20While the government maintains these measures are part of routine yearend financial management the Opposition insists they point to an underlying fiscal strainWith the Budget Session underway the treasury restrictions have emerged as a major flashpoint between the ruling NDA and the Opposition keeping Biharâs financial health firmly in the political spotlight IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/withdrawal-curbs-fuel-treasury-crisis-row-in-bihar-rjd-alleges-bankruptcy-nda-rejects-claims-662400.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 21:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/saddened-by-this-cruelty-spiritual-leaders-slam-taliban-for-legalising-domestic-violence-against-women-662401.html Ayodhya Feb 23 Responding to the Talibanâs new penal code concerning atrocities against women and children in Afghanistan spiritual leaders on Monday condemned the move saying they are deeply saddened by the cruelty inflicted on mothers women and children in the name of religion Speaking to IANS Tapasvi Chavani Mahant Jagatguru Paramhansacharya said âAfter hearing about this law I am unable to control my emotions I am saddened by this cruelty and the manner in which mothers women and children are being brutalised in the name of religionIf this cruelty against women and children by the Taliban does not end it will severely damage the image and future of Islam across the world I would like to appeal to all responsible Muslim leaders maulanas and clerics to raise their voices against such injustice and ensure that this oppression comes to an endâSiddhpeeth Hanumangarhi Mahant Deveshacharya Maharaj also criticised the decision stating âThe law enacted by the Taliban is highly condemnable In our Sanatan Dharma women are regarded as goddesses and are worshipped Any act that legitimises violence against women is unacceptable We strongly condemn this law and it must be amended immediatelyâMeanwhile a new penal code introduced by the Taliban reportedly âlegalisesâ domestic violence against women by allowing husbands to physically punish their wives and children provided the punishment does not result in âbroken bones or open woundsâThe penal code signed by the groupâs supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada establishes a differentiated system of punishment based on social status categorising individuals as âfreeâ or âslaveâUnder the code if a husband causes visible fractures or injuries through what is described as âobscene forceâ he may face only 15 days of imprisonment Furthermore a conviction depends on the woman successfully proving the abuse in court She is required to present evidence of her injuries before a judge while remaining fully covered and must be accompanied by her husband or a male guardian during court proceedingsIn contrast a married woman can face up to three months in jail if she visits her relatives without her husbandâs permissionThe code also outlines varying consequences based on social standing If an Islamic religious scholar commits a crime the response is limited to advice Members of the elite may receive a court summons and advisory warning Those from the middle class could face imprisonment for the same offence while individuals from the socalled lower class may be subjected to both imprisonment and corporal punishmentThe new 90page penal code has abolished the 2009 law on Elimination of Violence Against Women EVAW which was introduced by the previous USbacked regime IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/saddened-by-this-cruelty-spiritual-leaders-slam-taliban-for-legalising-domestic-violence-against-women-662401.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 21:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/voting-for-48-municipal-bodies-in-jharkhand-concludes-amid-reports-of-clashes-bogus-voting-chaos-662403.html Ranchi Feb 23 Voting for the elections to the posts of mayorchairperson and ward councillors in 48 municipal bodies across Jharkhand concluded at 5 pm on Monday amid sporadic reports of violence clashes and allegations of bogus voting The State Election Commission has not yet released the final voter turnout figures but the preliminary estimates suggest participation ranged between 45 and 60 per cent across the statePolling began at 7 am for nine municipal corporations Ranchi Dhanbad Deoghar Adityapur Chas Medininagar Hazaribagh Giridih and Mango along with 20 municipal councils and 19 nagar panchayats A total of 4304 polling stations were set up with long queues of voters seen at several booths since morningIn Ranchi Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar Chief Minister Hemant Soren Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth and MP Mahua Maji were among the prominent leaders who stood in queues to exercise their franchiseHowever the polling process was marred by multiple incidents of unrest In Bokaroâs Chas area DSP Praveen Singh was injured during a clash between police and supporters of a candidate following a disturbance at a polling boothIn Bhojpur Colony three women were detained on charges of fraudulent voting leading to brief tensionIn Dhanbad Municipal Corporation a scuffle broke out between supporters of two candidates at a polling station in Ward 27 An attempt to loot a booth and an assault on a candidateâs brother were reported in Ward 22In Giridihâs Ward 18 a dispute between two groups escalated into a road blockade and protest before administrative officials intervened to restore orderViolence also erupted at the Ambedkar Nagar polling station in Gumla In Jamshedpurâs Jugsalai area voting was disrupted for nearly an hour over allegations of bogus votingClashes were also reported from Ranchiâs Hindpiri area In Sahibganj an accidental discharge from a Home Guard jawanâs rifle caused brief panic at a polling boothSeveral voters complained that members of the same family were allotted different polling booths while others said they were not informed in time about changes in their booth locations forcing them to move from one polling station to anotherTwo major concerns regarding election management also surfaced Around 50000 polling personnel were reportedly unable to cast their votes due to the absence of a postal ballot facilityQuestions were also raised over the decision to place ballots for the councillor and mayorchairperson posts in the same ballot box with candidates expressing apprehension that this could complicate and delay the counting processWith polling now over the fate of 562 candidates contesting for mayor and chairperson posts and 5562 ward councillor aspirants has been sealed in ballot boxesCounting of votes will take place on February 27 IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/voting-for-48-municipal-bodies-in-jharkhand-concludes-amid-reports-of-clashes-bogus-voting-chaos-662403.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 21:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/cong-has-no-genuine-concern-about-making-dalit-cm-in-karnataka-joshi-662404.html Bengaluru Feb 23 Union Minister for Food Public Distribution and Consumer Affairs Pralhad Joshi lashed out at the Congress on Monday saying that the party has no genuine concern about appointing a Dalit Chief Minister He alleged that the âDalit CMâ narrative is merely a new dimension being introduced due to the ongoing tussle between the Chief Minister and the Deputy Chief Minister over the top postSpeaking to media persons in Bengaluru on Monday Joshi said internal differences have intensified within the Congress party and that the Stateâs interests have been completely ignored in the power struggle for the Chief Ministerâs postâWho should become CM is an internal matter of that party But it is clear that governance in the State has collapsed because of this fight for the Chief Ministerâs chair Unscientific guarantee schemes rampant corruption and internal conflicts have pushed the State into declineâ he allegedHe said the State is already facing a severe drinking water crisis with shortages being reported as early as February The situation in North Karnataka is particularly grim he noted adding that roads have also deteriorated badly âInstead of addressing these basic issues they are busy fighting over the CMâs chairâ Joshi claimedHe further remarked that there appears to be no one to guide or control the State Congress leadership âSupporters of CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar are speaking as they wish Some say Siddaramaiah will present the current and next Budget others say this will be his last Budget Amid this confusion governance has completely collapsedâ he allegedReferring to Satish Jarkiholiâs statement that corruption existed even earlier Joshi said Congress leaders have failed to substantiate such claims âBut corruption is overflowing in their governmentâ he chargedOn the bribery case involving BJP MLA Chandru Lamani Joshi said a proper investigation must be conducted âAn audio clip of a Swamiji has surfaced Was someone deliberately trapped How did this happen All this must be investigatedâ he saidCondemning the Congress partyâs conduct at the AI summit as âshocking and regrettableâ Joshi demanded that the party apologise to the nationHe pointed out that the summit was attended by representatives from 29 countries 45 ministers leading industrialists and AI experts âIgnoring all this Congress displayed highly inappropriate behaviourâ he saidHe added that even leaders within the Congress have expressed displeasure over the incident Margaret Alva reportedly said there should have been âdiscipline dignity and senseâ while Akhilesh Yadav also commented differently on the issue Joshi urged Congress leaders to at least conduct themselves with courtesy in the futureâAt the AI summit there were representatives from 29 different countries 45 ministers leading industrialists of the country and prominent figures in the field of AI Ignoring all this the Congress displayed highly inappropriate behaviourâ Joshi said angrily IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/cong-has-no-genuine-concern-about-making-dalit-cm-in-karnataka-joshi-662404.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 21:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pmay-urban-20-288-lakh-additional-houses-approved-total-sanctions-reach-1361-lakh-662406.html New Delhi Feb 23 The government on Monday said a total of 288 lakh additional houses have been sanctioned under the Pradhan Mantri Awas YojanaâUrban 20 PMAYU 20â With the latest approval of 287618 houses the total number of sanctioned houses under the PMAYU 20 scheme is now over 1361 lakh according to the Ministry of Housing and Urban AffairsâAmong the 288 lakh sanctioned houses more than 160 lakh have been allotted to women including widows separated or unmarried femalesâEight dwelling units are sanctioned for Transgenders Further 22581 houses have been allotted to senior citizens While 35525 houses have been sanctioned for SC beneficiaries 9773 are for ST beneficiaries and 82190 are for OBC beneficiariesâThis reflects the governmentâs continued commitment to ensuring access to dignified and affordable housing for urban families belonging to the Economically Weaker Section EWS Low Income Group LIG and MiddleIncome Group MIG as was conveyed at the sixth meeting of the Central Sanctioning and Monitoring Committee CSMC hereâAccording to the ministry the newlysanctioned houses have been approved in 16 StatesUTs Andhra Pradesh Arunachal Pradesh Chhattisgarh Gujarat Jammu amp Kashmir Punjab Puducherry Rajasthan Tamil Nadu Telangana Maharashtra Madhya Pradesh Nagaland Odisha Uttar Pradesh and West BengalâThese have been sanctioned under different verticals of PMAYU 20 such as Beneficiary Led Construction BLC â 166 lakh houses Affordable Housing in Partnership AHP â 109 lakh houses and Affordable Rental Housing ARH â 12846 housesâOf the 1361 lakh sanctioned houses under PMAYU 20 96 per cent are in the name of the female head of the household or in joint ownership in the BLC and ISS verticals reflecting the schemeâs focus on empowering womenâSrinivas Katikithala Secretary Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs emphasised the need to prioritise housing projects near mass transit corridorsâHe added that the AHP houses should be within the city for ease of living He also mentioned that the success of some affordable housing projects should be showcased as best practices for crosslearning among StatesUTsâThe ministry said it has been promoting rental housing as a separate vertical through ARH to cater to the affordable rental housing needs of urban migrants homeless people industrial workers working women construction workers and other vulnerable groupsâAbout 12846 houses have been sanctioned under ARH it informedâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pmay-urban-20-288-lakh-additional-houses-approved-total-sanctions-reach-1361-lakh-662406.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 21:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/chhattisgarh-eyes-double-digit-growth-gsdp-growth-projected-at-1157-pc-in-fy-2025-26-662407.html New Delhi Feb 23 Chhattisgarh is expected to sustain robust economic growth in the financial year 2025â26 with states Gross State Domestic Product GSDP at current prices projected to rise from Rs 565 lakh crore in 2024â25 to around Rs 631 lakh crore in 2025â26 as per the Economic Survey Report presented in the state Assembly on Monday With an estimated growth rate of 1157 per cent the state is set to outperform the national average and maintain strong economic momentum a statement issued by Chhattisgarh Information Centre in New Delhi saidReacting to the survey findings Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said the state government remains committed to inclusive and balanced growthHe emphasised that equal priority is being given to strengthening agriculture encouraging industrial investment and expanding the services sector with the goal of establishing Chhattisgarh as one of the countrys leading state economiesThe Chief Minister expressed confidence that the states growth rate will further strengthen in the coming years due to the expansion of infrastructure an investmentfriendly environment and continued focus on human resource developmentChhattisgarh continues to demonstrate solid economic fundamentals even at constant prices base year 2011â12 the statement saidThe report tabled by the State Planning Economics and Statistics Department Minister OP Choudhary said that the states GSDP estimated at Rs 331 lakh crore in 2024â25 is projected to rise to Rs 358 lakh crore in 2025â26 reflecting a real growth rate of 811 per cent This underscores sustained expansion in actual output and production capacity the official statement saidA sectorwise assessment shows that growth is broadbased and welldistributed At current prices agriculture and allied sectors are expected to grow by 1253 per cent industry by 1026 per cent and services by 1315 per cent it addedThe data highlights a balanced development trajectory with all three key sectors playing a significant role in driving the states economic progressChhattisgarh continues to witness positive momentum even in real terms At constant prices for 2025â26 agriculture is projected to grow by 749 per cent industry by 721 per cent and services by 911 per cent reflecting a steady expansion in actual economic activity and reinforcing the states structural resilience the statement saidIn terms of GSDP composition at current prices agriculture is expected to account for 2064 per cent of the economy industry 4659 per cent and services 3277 per cent it addedThe dominant share of industry highlights the states strong manufacturing and mining foundation while the services sector is maintaining consistent growth further strengthening the overall economic framework it saidEncouraging signs are also visible on the income front in Chhattisgarh As per the Economic Survey per capita income at current prices is projected to rise from Rs 162848 to Rs 179244 in 2025â26 marking a growth of 1007 per cent The increase is expected to boost domestic demand consumption levels and overall economic momentum across the state IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/chhattisgarh-eyes-double-digit-growth-gsdp-growth-projected-at-1157-pc-in-fy-2025-26-662407.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 21:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/calcutta-hc-questions-ssc-over-fees-for-raising-objections-to-exam-questions-662408.html Kolkata Feb 23 The Calcutta High Court on Monday directed the West Bengal School Service Commission SSC to disclose through an affidavit details of the money collected from candidates who sought review of allegedly incorrect questions in last yearâs recruitment examination Hearing a petition in the matter Justice Amrita Sinha of the Calcutta High Court sought clarification on whether the questions flagged by candidates were indeed incorrect and how much money had been charged from candidates for raising objectionsThe court also asked the SSC to specify in accordance with its rules and procedures how much money if any was refunded to candidates in cases where questions were subsequently found to be incorrectJustice Sinha further sought details on the total number of questions that were ultimately found to be incorrect and the number of complaints received by the Commission regarding alleged errors in the examinationThe court directed the SSC to submit a detailed affidavit within four weeks addressing all the queries raised during the hearingThe High Court also questioned the legal basis for collecting such fees observing that if there was no specific provision in law permitting such charges the Commission would have to explain under what authority the money was collected from candidatesThe matter relates to allegations that around 24 questions in the second State Level Selection Test SLST conducted by the SSC in September last year were incorrectBased on these allegations a group of candidates including one Chandan Dhar filed a petition before the Calcutta High Court challenging the validity of the questions and the fee charged for raising objectionsThe petitioners alleged that the SSC had charged Rs 100 per question from candidates seeking review or raising objections despite there being no clear legal provision permitting such chargesCounsel for the petitioners Firdous Shamim argued before the court that while a fee may be charged for accessing or viewing answer scripts there was no legal basis for charging candidates to raise objections regarding errors in question papersThe petitioners further contended that such charges restricted the rights of examinees to challenge potentially incorrect questions and seek fair evaluationTaking note of the submissions the High Court directed the SSC to place its response on record through an affidavit and clarify the legal and procedural basis for collecting objection feesThe court has scheduled the next hearing in the matter after four weeks IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/calcutta-hc-questions-ssc-over-fees-for-raising-objections-to-exam-questions-662408.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 21:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/gujarat-reports-273-crore-active-ayushman-cards-rs-7-235-crore-approved-in-two-years-662409.html Gandhinagar Feb 23 Gujarat has 273 crore active Ayushman cards holders under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya YojanaâMukhyamantri Amrutam Yojana PMJAYMA with Rs 723549 crore sanctioned against 2755 lakh claims over the past two years government told the State Assembly on Monday Replying to a query in the House state Health Minister Praful Pansheriya said the scheme continues to see substantial enrollment and utilisation across the stateAt present 273 crore Ayushman cards are active in the state he addedProviding details the Minister said that in 2024â25 as many as 2524 lakh new Ayushman cards were approvedDuring the same period 1340 lakh claims were sanctioned amounting to Rs 366653 croreIn 2025â26 so far 3178 lakh new cards have been approved while 1415 lakh claims have been cleared with Rs 356896 crore sanctioned towards treatment costsThe Minister said that strict action is taken against hospitals found violating the rules or standard operating procedures of the schemeOver the last two years 49 hospitals have been suspended of which 29 remain under suspensionCiting a specific instance Minister Pansheriya added that in the case of JCCC Hospital in Jamnagar a penalty of Rs 869 lakh was recoveredThe doctor held responsible was suspended from the scheme and the matter was reported to the Medical CouncilIn the state Budget Rs 3472 crore has been allocated for PMJAYMAThe state government said it aims to build a healthy society through the provision of quality healthcare servicesThe scope of IVF treatment has also been expanded and the Institute of Kidney Diseases and Research Centre IKDRC at Ahmedabad will extend IVF treatment facilities to Surat Bhavnagar and JamnagarAs of November last year 2090 hospitals are empanelled under PMJAYâMA in Gujarat including 1132 government hospitals and 958 private hospitalsBeneficiaries can avail treatment for 2299 medical procedures along with 50 Specialised Referral Services IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/gujarat-reports-273-crore-active-ayushman-cards-rs-7-235-crore-approved-in-two-years-662409.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 21:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modis-madurai-visit-will-mark-beginning-of-dmks-exit-from-power-tn-bjp-spokesperson-662411.html Chennai Feb 23 BJP Tamil Nadu spokesperson ANS Prasad has said that Prime Minister Narendra Modis upcoming visit to Madurai would mark a decisive political moment ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections and signal what he described as the beginning of the end of the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam DMK government In a strongly worded statement Prasad accused the DMK administration led by Chief Minister MK Stalin of presiding over rising public debt deteriorating law and order and widespread corruption in the stateHe alleged that Tamil Nadu had been pushed into a severe financial crisis and claimed that several welfare promises made by the DMK during the previous Assembly elections had not been fully implementedPrime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Madurai on March 1 where he will inaugurate the newly constructed building at AIIMS MaduraiHe is also scheduled to address a National Democratic Alliance NDA public rally at Mandela Nagar later during the visit which BJP leaders view as a key mobilisation effort ahead of the Assembly electionsThe BJP which is allied with the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam AIADMK in Tamil Nadu is expected to use the occasion to strengthen its campaign narrative and organisational outreach in the statePrasad also raised allegations regarding the functioning of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments HRampCE Department criticising its administration and naming State Minister PK Sekar Babu in this regardReferring to temple administration and kumbabhishekams conducted across Tamil Nadu he alleged irregularities and accused the state government of political interference in religious affairsHe also referred to issues surrounding the Karthigai Deepam festival at the Thiruparankundram Temple alleging mismanagement and administrative lapsesThe BJP spokesperson further criticised the staterun liquor retailer Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation TASMAC alleging that liquor sales had adversely affected families particularly women and contributed to social and economic distressHe accused the DMK of attempting to secure political support through financial assistance schemes while failing to address broader structural and governance challenges in the stateCalling for a âdoubleengineâ government Prasad said that leadership under Prime Minister Modi at the Centre and AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami in Tamil Nadu would ensure economic growth improved governance and stronger law and orderThe DMK had not issued any official response to the allegations at the time of filing this reportWith political rhetoric intensifying ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections Prime Minister Modiâs Madurai visit is expected to sharpen the political contest between the ruling DMK and the BJPled NDA in Tamil Nadu IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modis-madurai-visit-will-mark-beginning-of-dmks-exit-from-power-tn-bjp-spokesperson-662411.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 21:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/fiscal-deficit-within-permissible-limit-meghalaya-cm-662413.html Shillong Feb 23 Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Monday presented the State Budget for the financial year 2026â27 projecting a fiscal deficit of Rs 2672 crore which is 35 per cent of the Gross State Domestic Product GSDP Presenting the Budget in the state Assembly Conrad K Sangma who also holds the Finance department said the government has succeeded in maintaining the fiscal deficit within the permissible limit reflecting its commitment to fiscal discipline while continuing to prioritise development I am delighted to highlight that the fiscal deficit has been maintained at the permissible limit of 35 per cent the Chief Minister said during his budget speech adding that prudent financial management has enabled the state to balance economic growth with social and developmental responsibilities He added that the 2026â27 Budget aims to strengthen Meghalayas economic foundations promote inclusive growth and ensure targeted investments in key priority sectors such as climate resilience youth empowerment gender equality and sustainable development Along with the main Budget document Chief Minister Sangma also presented a series of thematic budgets underscoring the state governments focus on outcomeoriented and sectorspecific planning The Climate Budget for 2026â27 has been pegged at Rs 5572 crore registering a 28 per cent increase over the previous financial year Chief Minister Sangma said the enhanced allocation reflects the state governments continued emphasis on climate action environmental sustainability and resiliencebuilding measures especially in view of Meghalayas fragile ecology The Youth Budget has been allocated Rs 4824 crore marking a significant 45 per cent increase compared to 2025â26 The Chief Minister said the sharp rise in allocation is aimed at expanding opportunities in education skill development entrepreneurship and employment for the youth of the stateMeanwhile the Gender Budget has been set at Rs 6849 crore reflecting a 10 per cent increase over the previous year Chief Minister Sangma said the allocation reinforces the state governments commitment to womencentric programmes gender equity and social empowerment The Chief Minister also reiterated that the state government remains aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals SDGs with targeted investments to ensure longterm inclusive and sustainable growth for Meghalaya IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/fiscal-deficit-within-permissible-limit-meghalaya-cm-662413.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 22:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/mgnrega-bachao-bjps-final-days-nearing-claims-shivakumar-662415.html Bengaluru Feb 23 Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar said on Monday that the BJP is nearing its final days Speaking at the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act 2005 MGNREGA Bachao convention at Chikkaballapura he said Like the lamp which burns bright before dying the BJP is nearing its end as they are planning to finish the legacy of Mahatma GandhiââWe are organising this event to save the nation The Congress party had given employment guarantees to rural people through the MGNREGA scheme The Centre is trying to kill the scheme We need to save MGNREGA and save Gandhijis legacy he saidâPanchayats had the power to decide which works to take up The scheme ensured work worth Rs 12 crore in each of the 5900 panchayats We need to save MGNREGA he addedâMGNREGA is a scheme that gives selfconfidence to farmers and labourers and we need to protect it Our party and the government have decided to name the panchayat offices after the Mahatma he saidâUnder the new scheme the states have to bear 40 per cent of the costs Even the BJPrun states will not be able to implement it Chandrababu Naidu has also said he wont be able to implement the new scheme This new scheme is a death knell for all the states he notedâThe BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi used to criticise our guarantee schemes but they copied them later No one can stop the time guarantee scheme Congress party will not allow anyone to stop it he saidâLike they are stealing the voters rights they are taking away employment rights too We will fight till the MGNREGA is reinstated We need your support in this fight he concludedâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/mgnrega-bachao-bjps-final-days-nearing-claims-shivakumar-662415.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 22:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/omar-abdullah-calls-for-artificial-snow-to-boost-gulmarg-as-global-ski-destination-662416.html Gulmarg JampK Feb 23 JampK Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday stressed the urgent need for artificial snow generation in Gulmarg to safeguard winter sports and strengthen tourism Addressing the commencement of the Khelo India Winter Games 2026 Abdullah said climate variability poses a serious challenge to traditional winter games in the region and called for artificial snow generation to boost Gulmarg as an international ski resortWelcoming the participants the Chief Minister highlighted the importance of adapting to changing weather conditions as he noted that recent snowfall patterns have become unpredictable forcing authorities to rethink longterm planning for winter sports infrastructureThe government is committed to developing Gulmarg as an international skiing destination and ensuring consistent sporting activity despite climate challenges he saidAbdullah also underlined that reliance solely on natural snowfall is no longer sustainable and called for the introduction of artificial snow generation systems to secure the future of winter gamesHe further acknowledged that some concerns may arise over artificial snow projects but said such measures are necessary to prevent loss of tourism opportunities and protect livelihoods linked to winter tourismThousands of local stakeholders including hoteliers guides transport operators and small businesses depend on the winter season he saidThe Chief Minister said the administration will extend every possible support to athletes and sports infrastructure to nurture more internationallevel competitors from Jammu and KashmirCongratulating skier Arif Khan for bringing laurels to the region he expressed hope that more athletes would emerge from the gamesHe added that participation in sports remains as important as winning medals adding that sustained investment in winter sports and tourism will position Gulmarg among the leading global skiing destinations while ensuring economic stability for local communitiesAs many as 400 athletes from 30 states and Union Territories are participating in the Khelo India Winter Games The main events are ski mountaineering Nordic skiing alpine skiing and snowboardingMost of the participants have registered for alpine skiing IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/omar-abdullah-calls-for-artificial-snow-to-boost-gulmarg-as-global-ski-destination-662416.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 22:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/eci-appoints-sandip-sagale-as-gujarats-chief-electoral-officer-662417.html New DelhiGandhinagar Feb 23 The Election Commission of India ECI on Monday appointed Sandip Sagale as the new Chief Electoral Officer CEO of Gujaratâ He will take over responsibilities from the current CEO Hareet Shukla once he formally assumes chargeâSagale a 2007batch officer of the Indian Administrative Service in the Gujarat cadre is currently serving as Director General of the Sports Authority of Gujarat a role he took on following a major state government reshuffle in early 2025âBefore this he was the Industries Commissioner at the Industries Commissionerate in GandhinagarâHis administrative career spans a range of fields and headquarters assignmentsâOfficial records indicate that Sagale has served as Municipal Commissioner of the Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation and as Collector in key districts including AhmedabadâOfficials noted that his experience in both urban and district administration has provided him with extensive exposure to diverse governance challengesâSagale holds a Bachelor of Technology in Chemical Engineering from Nagpur University Born on November 16 1972 he joined the IAS on August 18 2007âThe office of the Chief Electoral Officer serves as the key link between the Election Commission of India and the state administrative machinery on electoral mattersâIn Gujarat the CEO is responsible for overseeing the revision of electoral rolls coordinating election preparedness with district authorities ensuring the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct during polls and submitting regular reports to the Election CommissionâHareet Shukla will continue to hold the office until Sagale formally assumes charge and completes the prescribed handover with senior officials of the state Election DepartmentâDuring his tenure Shukla supervised the Special Intensive Revision SIR of electoral rolls in Gujarat a major exercise aimed at enhancing voter registration accuracyâThe entire voter revision exercise began on October 27 last year and ended on February 10â IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/eci-appoints-sandip-sagale-as-gujarats-chief-electoral-officer-662417.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 22:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/fm-sitharaman-assures-support-to-revive-manipurs-economy-rehabilitate-idps-662419.html New DelhiImphal Feb 23 Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday assured Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh of all possible assistance to revive the financial health and economy of the state An official of the Chief Ministerâs Office CMO in Imphal said that the Finance Minister also assured that the Centre would extend support for the rehabilitation of Internally Displaced Persons IDPs affected by ethnic violence in the stateThe official said that Chief Minister Khemchand Singh urged the Union Finance Minister to enhance financial assistance to Manipur to help achieve the goal of inclusive growthTerming the meeting as constructive the Chief Minister thanked Sitharaman for giving a patient hearing to the stateâs issues and challengesThe Chief Minister also conveyed his gratitude to the Finance Minister for her continued support and commitment towards the progress and prosperity of ManipurKhemchand Singh was accompanied by his two Deputy Chief Ministers Losii Dikho and Nemcha Kipgen Losii Dikho belongs to the Naga Peopleâs Front NPF while Nemcha Kipgen is from the BJPA member of the Kuki community Kipgen hails from the tribalinhabited Kangpokpi district and is the first woman Deputy Chief Minister of Manipur This is the first visit of Khemchand Singh to the national capital after taking oath as the stateâs new BJP Chief Minister on February 4Earlier on Monday the Chief Minister met with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh who assured Khemchand Singh of all assistance from his ministry in every endeavour of the state governmentThe Manipur Chief Minister who has been in New Delhi since Saturday also separately met BJP National President Nitin Nabin and the partyâs National General Secretary Organisation B L Santhosh and discussed party affairs related to Manipur On Sunday the Manipur Chief Minister accompanied by his two Deputy Chief Ministers met Union Home Minister Amit Shah to discuss various issues including the rehabilitation of IDPs officials in Imphal saidAccording to the CMO official the Home Minister discussed with the three Manipur leaders the steps taken by the new state government to remove barriers between different communities and to restore peace and harmony in the state IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/fm-sitharaman-assures-support-to-revive-manipurs-economy-rehabilitate-idps-662419.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 22:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/116-tn-fishermen-in-sri-lankan-custody-cm-stalin-urges-centres-urgent-intervention-662420.html Chennai Feb 23 Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Monday urged External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to take immediate diplomatic steps to secure the release of Tamil Nadu fishermen detained by the Sri Lankan Navy amid continuing tensions in the Palk Strait In a letter to EAM Jaishankar CM Stalin expressed concern over the latest detention of 12 fishermen from the state and said the recurring arrests have caused severe distress to coastal communities dependent on fishing for their livelihoodThe Chief Minister pointed out that with the latest incident the total number of Tamil Nadu fishermen currently in Sri Lankan custody has risen to 116He also noted that 259 fishing boats belonging to fishermen from Tamil Nadu remain impounded by Sri Lankan authorities describing the situation as alarming and unsustainable for fishing communities reliant on daily earnings from marine activitiesAccording to the Chief Minister the most recent incident occurred on the night of February 22 when a mechanised fishing boat that had departed from the Pamban Fish Landing Centre in Ramanathapuram district was intercepted by the Sri Lankan NavyThe 12 fishermen on board were detained and their boat was seized by Sri Lankan authoritiesStalin said such incidents have continued despite repeated representations by the state government and stressed the need for urgent and sustained diplomatic engagement between India and Sri Lanka to prevent further detentions and ensure the safety and security of Indian fishermenAccording to official sources the fishermen were apprehended while fishing in the Gulf of Mannar in waters between Dhanushkodi and ThalaimannarThe seized boat reportedly belongs to a fisherman identified as David a resident of Pamban in Ramanathapuram districtIn his communication Stalin described the arrests as part of a ârecurring patternâ and expressed deep concern over the growing number of fishermen being detained by Sri Lankan authoritiesHe said the repeated detentions have created fear uncertainty and financial hardship among coastal families many of whom depend entirely on fishing for their survivalHe further noted that the continued impounding of fishing boats has compounded the economic difficulties faced by affected fishermen and their familiesThe latest incident also triggered unrest among fishermen in Pamban where more than 100 fishing boats had ventured into the sea from the Pamban South Wadi Fishing Port at the time of the arrestsFishermen associations have urged both the state and Union governments to intensify diplomatic efforts with Sri Lanka to secure the release of detained fishermen and prevent further incidentsThe issue of crossborder fishing disputes in the Palk Strait has remained a persistent source of tension between India and Sri Lanka frequently affecting bilateral relations and disrupting the livelihoods of thousands of fishermen from Tamil Nadu IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/116-tn-fishermen-in-sri-lankan-custody-cm-stalin-urges-centres-urgent-intervention-662420.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 22:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ready-to-face-ed-i-t-cbi-stalin-accuses-bjp-of-political-hunting-ahead-of-2026-polls-662421.html Chennai Feb 23 DMK President and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin on Monday asserted that his party was fully prepared to face any action by central investigating agencies accusing the BJP of misusing institutions such as the Enforcement Directorate ED the Income Tax IT Department and the Central Bureau of Investigation CBI for political purposes In his address at a programme here Stalin said the BJP was indulging in political hunting by deploying investigative agencies against opposition parties If the BJP brings in its forces in the form of the ED IT and CBI we are very well prepared to face them he said adding that such tactics reflected political desperation The Chief Minister alleged that the National Democratic Alliance NDA was an alliance formed by threatening the corrupt Referring to former Ministers from the AIADMK regime he claimed that several of them had faced raids and that around 10 still had pending cases with the Directorate of Vigilance and AntiCorruption DVAC But for the sake of the alliance they are being protected he charged Stalin further alleged that Governor RN Ravi had delayed the registration of FIRs against certain former Ministers for an extended period While they prevent action in such cases they are now attempting to threaten us with central agencies he said Questioning the functioning of the ED Stalin asked how many of the over 8000 cases registered by the agency had resulted in convictions Those facing corruption charges are aligning with whom The BJP is cheaply using investigating agencies and calling its alliance the NDA he remarked On the political landscape ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections Stalin acknowledged the possibility of a multicornered contest but dismissed concerns about its impactThere may certainly be a multicornered contest But they are not strong enough he said in an apparent reference to the BJP and other emerging players Responding to questions about Prime Minister Narendra Modiâs recent visits to Tamil Nadu Stalin said he welcomed them The Prime Minister should visit often Union Home Minister Amit Shah should also keep coming This Governor should not be replaced That is our major campaign he said sarcastically On calls for him to lead the opposition INDIA bloc nationally Stalin cited late DMK patriarch and former Chief Minister M Karunanidhi saying he was aware of his stature and would act accordingly IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ready-to-face-ed-i-t-cbi-stalin-accuses-bjp-of-political-hunting-ahead-of-2026-polls-662421.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 22:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/two-andhra-police-officers-caught-accepting-rs-3-lakh-bribe-662425.html Amaravati Feb 23 The AntiCorruption Bureau ACB of Andhra Pradesh on Monday caught two police officers redhanded while allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 3 lakh at a police station in YSR Kadapa district The ACB officials laid a trap at Simhadripuram Police Station and apprehended NV Ramana Circle Inspector of Pulivendula Rural Circle and Dasari Anil Kumar SubInspector at Simhadripuram Police Station while they were accepting the bribe amountAccording to ACB officials the two officers had allegedly demanded a bribe from an accused involved in chainsnatching casesThe accused had reportedly purchased a motorcycle from one Brahmam who was allegedly part of a gang involved in selling stolen twowheelers sourced from Kashmir after altering their registration number platesThe accused was allegedly using the motorcycle for committing chainsnatching offences and was suspected to be involved in snatching gold chains worth approximately Rs 15 lakhAfter gathering information about the accusedâs activities the police officers allegedly demanded a bribe of Rs 4 lakh in exchange for extending favourable treatment in the caseThe accused had initially paid a portion of the demanded amount last Saturday However when the officers allegedly began pressuring him for the remaining amount he approached the ACB and lodged a complaintActing on the complaint the ACB laid a trap and instructed the complainant to hand over Rs 3 lakh to the SubInspector at the police stationWhen the complainant handed over the bribe amount ACB officials intervened and caught SubInspector Dasari Anil Kumar redhanded Circle Inspector NV Ramana was also detained in connection with the caseThe ACB has initiated further investigation into the matterMeanwhile in a separate incident in Ichchapuram in Srikakulam district ACB officials caught Mandal Education Officer MEO Kurmana Apparao and Data Entry Operator Uppada Kameswara Rao while allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 10000 from a retired teacherIn another case a Village Revenue Officer VRO identified as R Chittibabu of Savaravalli village in Bhogapuram mandal of Vizianagaram district was also caught redhanded while allegedly accepting a bribe from a complainantACB Director General Atul Singh had said last month that the bureau would expand its network of informants to identify corrupt officials across departments and strengthen anticorruption enforcementAccording to official data the ACB registered 115 cases in 2025 including 69 trap cases eight disproportionate assets cases seven criminal misconduct cases 19 regular enquiries and 12 surprise inspections IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/two-andhra-police-officers-caught-accepting-rs-3-lakh-bribe-662425.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 22:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/congress-demands-error-free-voter-list-to-be-released-in-bengal-to-hold-protest-on-feb-27-662428.html Kolkata Feb 23 The West Bengal Pradesh Congress Committee WBPCC on Monday demanded the release of errorfree voter lists before the upcoming Assembly elections to be held in West Bengal WBPCC President Subhankar Sarkar also announced a 24hour sitin protest in front of the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officers CEO office in Kolkata from 2 pm on February 27 to press their demandAt the same time the State Congress President has launched a political attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi for criticising the Indian Youth Congresss barechested protest at the recent AI ââconference held in Delhi He also said that protests will be held in the city from 1 to 2 pm on Tuesday against PM Modis remark You will see a unique protest tomorrow We will inform you later where the protest will be held Sarkar addedHe claimed that there are precedents of protests in minimal clothing in the history of the freedom struggle He also questioned the role of the Central government citing the violence in Manipur The West Bengal Pradesh Congress leadership claimed that the Indian Youth Congress protest is a proper protest Sometimes such protests are necessary to expose the naked face of the Central government Sarkar saidOn the other hand hinting at intensifying the protest over the voter list issue the West Bengal Pradesh Congress alleged that several inconsistencies have been found around the Special Intensive Revision SIR of the voter list that began on November 4 last yearSubhankar Sarkar said We have been vocal from the beginning in demanding that no eligible voters name should be omitted and no fake name should be included in the voters list But the way the SIR has been conducted in the last four months has led to unnecessary harassment of eligible voters and there is a fear of a large number of names being deletedAccording to the State Congress President more than one crore voters have been heard on the basis of socalled logical discrepancies the legal validity of which has been questioned Sarkar also claimed that the courts have had to intervene repeatedly due to some decisions of the Election CommissionThe Congress is going to intensify their agitation in the coming days with several demands such as the final voter list under SIR should be published on February 28 no genuine voters name should be excluded on the basis of logical discrepancy the legal powers of electoral registration officers cannot be curtailed Moreover all applications submitted in Forms 6 7 and 8 should be disposed of through proper hearing and a new schedule and clear guidelines should be given to eligible voters who were accidentally excluded which should be completed before the nomination process begins IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/congress-demands-error-free-voter-list-to-be-released-in-bengal-to-hold-protest-on-feb-27-662428.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 23:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/commuters-residents-praise-speed-comfort-of-meerut-metro-on-first-day-662429.html Meerut Feb 23 Meerut Metro on the first day of its operation saw a wave of excitement across the city as commuters praised the new service for its speed comfort and modern infrastructure Families and young passengers thronged stations from the morning eager to experience the cityâs first metro ride Long queues were observed at ticket counters and several passengers were unable to secure tickets due to the overwhelming crowd Youth in particular expressed high enthusiasm capturing reels selfies and group photos while some recorded the full journey to share on social mediaCommuters highlighted that the metro drastically reduced travel time across the city offering a convenient alternative to twowheelers and road transport which are often delayed by traffic congestion Earlier we used to travel by scooter which took a lot of time and we often got stuck in traffic The train journey is excellent and saves timeâ said Rohit who travelled with his son from GagolPassengers also lauded the cleanliness comfort and modern amenities of stations and coaches Manjit Singh an elderly resident who visited the station to get a MetroCard said âThe look of the Metro has even surpassed worldclass standards I didnât expect this from the government but they have delivered I thank the government for thisCommuters travelling between Begumpur and South Meerut reported smooth rides and improved connectivity noting that the metro promises to ease pressure on roads and transform daily travel patterns Many expressed pride over the inauguration of the project by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath calling it a landmark step for the cityâs developmentOfficials said the strong turnout on day one reflected the cityâs pentup demand for reliable public transport Residents hope the metro network will expand further in the coming years supporting Meerutâs growth and offering more routes and upgraded infrastructure IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/commuters-residents-praise-speed-comfort-of-meerut-metro-on-first-day-662429.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 23:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/chandrababu-naidu-moots-distribution-of-electric-bicycles-to-gramin-dak-sevaks-662258.html Amaravati Feb 23 Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday mooted distribution of electric bicycles to Gramin Dak Sevaks Participating in Gramin Dak Sevak Conference in Guntur along with Union Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia the Chief Minister requested the Union Minister to provide electric bicycles to Gramin Dak Sevaks stating that it would reduce pollution and help them perform their duties more efficientlyChandrababu Naidu said that Gramin Dak Sevaks are serving as one of the most vital logistics systems in the countryHe observed that even with the growth of technology and the advent of Artificial Intelligence no one can replace the role of Dak Sevaks The Chief Minister stated that the logistics services of Gramin Dak Sevaks from Kashmir to Kanyakumari are commendable He noted that no postal organization in any other country has a network as vast as the Indian postal system He said that out of more than 164 lakh post offices in the country nearly 90 percent are located in rural areas and around 27 lakh Gramin Dak Sevaks working across them In Andhra Pradesh alone more than 9100 post offices operate with over 17000 Gramin Dak Sevaks He appreciated that about 33 percent of financial assistance through DBT is delivered via Dak Sevaks The Chief Minister described Dak Sevaks as the backbone for achieving Viksit Bharat and Swarna AndhraThe Chief Minister said that Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia is working to enhance the dignity of Dak Sevaks He recalled working with Scindiaâs father Madhavrao Scindia in the past and mentioned that an area in Gajuwaka Visakhapatnam is named after Scindia inviting the Union Minister to visit it soon He reiterated that despite technological advancement Dak Sevaks perform their duties with a human touch He appreciated the introduction of a dress code for Dak Sevaks and requested the Union Minister to provide them with electric bicyclesThe Chief Minister stated that the state is witnessing rapid development under a doubleengine government with welfare being delivered in the last 20 months and development progressing swiftly He said good governance has been initiated and government services are being delivered to citizensâ doorsteps through WhatsApp GovernanceCM Naidu posted on âXâ that the government is committed to strengthening digital infrastructure in rural areas and providing broadband connectivity to every Gram Panchayat Taking a major step in that direction the Government of Andhra Pradesh has signed a Memorandum of Cooperation MoC with Digital Bharat Nidhi marking a significant partnership between the Central and State Governments to accelerate rural digital connectivity through the Amended BharatNet Project IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/chandrababu-naidu-moots-distribution-of-electric-bicycles-to-gramin-dak-sevaks-662258.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 07:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/stalin-venugopal-meet-in-chennai-ahead-of-dmkcongress-seat-sharing-talks-662259.html Chennai Feb 23 Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK president MK Stalin met senior Congress leader KC Venugopal on Sunday ahead of formal seatsharing talks between the two parties signalling the start of crucial negotiations within the ruling alliance ahead of the Assembly elections The meeting took place at the Chief Ministerâs residence in Chennai and comes at a time when discussions over seat allocation and alliance coordination are expected to intensifyVenugopal the All India Congress Committee Organisation general secretary was accompanied by senior Congress leaders including Tamil Nadu Congress screening committee chairman TS Singh Deo sources saidSources indicated that the meeting was aimed at strengthening coordination between the alliance partners before structured negotiations on seat distribution beginFormal seatsharing discussions between the two parties are expected to be conducted by designated committees appointed by both the DMK and the CongressThe meeting assumes significance as the Congress is expected to seek a larger share of seats compared to the previous Assembly elections when it contested as part of the DMKled allianceSources said discussions also covered broader alliancerelated issues including political coordination and electoral preparednessEarlier in the day the DMK initiated seatsharing talks with alliance partners by holding preliminary discussions with the Indian Union Muslim League IUML at the party headquartersThe ongoing consultations are expected to play a key role in shaping the alliance structure and seat distribution for the upcoming elections in Tamil NaduThe meeting is expected to focus primarily on seatsharing arrangements between the DMK and the Congress as part of the Secular Progressive Alliance SPA which is led by the DMK in the stateThe Congress a key ally of the DMK had constituted a fivemember committee in November last year under the leadership of Girish Chodankar to negotiate seatsharing terms with its alliance partnerFor nearly three months the party had been urging the DMK to formally constitute its own negotiation panel to initiate discussionsResponding to these developments DMK general secretary Duraimurugan recently announced a sevenmember seatsharing committee headed by party treasurer and former Union Minister TR Baalu MP to hold discussions with alliance partnersThe committee has already initiated talks beginning with the Indian Union Muslim League IUML A fivemember IUML delegation led by its leader Kader Mohideen met the DMK panel earlier on Sunday for preliminary discussions on seatsharingSources indicated that during the meeting with Stalin the Congress is expected to press for a larger share of seats than it was allotted in the 2021 Assembly elections In that election the Congress had contested 25 seats as part of the DMKled alliance and secured victory in 18 constituenciesSources further said that Venugopal is likely to present a list of priority constituencies to Stalin as part of the ongoing negotiationsFollowing the meeting further rounds of discussions are expected to take place between the DMKs seatsharing committee and the Congress negotiation panel to finalise the arrangementAlthough the DMK had earlier indicated that formal alliance talks would begin from February 22 Sundayâs meeting suggests that negotiations have now entered a crucial phaseThe outcome of these discussions is expected to play a key role in shaping the final contours of the DMKled alliance ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/stalin-venugopal-meet-in-chennai-ahead-of-dmkcongress-seat-sharing-talks-662259.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 07:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/revanth-reddy-has-turned-telangana-into-atm-for-congress-ktr-662260.html Hyderabad Feb 23 Bharat Rashtra Samithi BRS working president K T Rama Rao on Sunday accused Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy of turning Telangana into an ATM for AICC Rama Rao said in a statement that Revanth Reddy has now shamelessly admitted what he has said many times that Telangana has become like an ATM for the Congress party in the last two yearsHe was referring to Revanth Reddyâs reported offer of Rs1000 crore to Gandhi familyThe Chief Minister had reportedly said in a speech that if anyone from the Gandhi family is in financial instability the Telangana Congress workers are ready to arrange Rs1000 crore for themThe former minister lamented that the âstates wealth is being transferred to the Congress leadership and Telanganas selfrespect is being pawned on the streets of DelhiâKTR as the BRS leader is popularly known criticized the government for making excuses that it does not have a single rupee when it comes to implementing the 420 promises made to farmers women youth employees and retired employees He alleged that the government which claims to have no funds for development has incurred a huge debt of three lakh crore rupees in just two years but there is no record of even a single brick being laid in the state He alleged that public money is being diverted from being used for public benefitResponding to the alleged land grabbing in the state KTR said that in the name of beautification of Musi the houses of the poor the lands of the tribals in Lagacharla and even the lands of the Hyderabad Central University are not being spared He alleged that the Anumula Brothers are grabbing industrial lands in the name of the HILT Policy and are systematically looting the states resourcesKTR claimed that Revanth Reddys only agenda is to âlootâ Telangana keep it for himself and carrying bags to Delhi to protect his position He called on the people to be vigilant what he called against the Congress governments behavior which is diverting the peoples hardearned money and pushing the states future into darkness IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/revanth-reddy-has-turned-telangana-into-atm-for-congress-ktr-662260.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 07:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/mukul-roy-one-of-trinamools-founders-and-former-union-minister-passes-away-662265.html Kolkata Feb 23 Senior politician Mukul Roy a former Railway Minister from West Bengal died early Monday morning at a private hospital in Kolkata his family has confirmed He was 73 Mukul Roy breathed his last a little after 130 am on Monday confirmed his son Subhranshu Roy He was under treatment for quite some time because of several medical complications and he was not even responding to the treatment according to his close associatesRoy was once the secondincommand in Trinamool Congress as the partyâs general secretary and the closest confidant of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee He was among the first nine leaders who approached the Election Commission of India ECI to form a new political party Trinamool Congress in the late nineties which Mamata Banerjee founded after she parted ways with Congress A host of state Congress leaders in West Bengal had backed herLater he served as Railways Minister Union Minister of State for Shipping and Waterways and Union Minister of State for Urban Development in Dr Manmohan Singhled United Progressive Alliance UPAII government which started in 2009 with Trinamool Congress as the alliance partnerHowever over a period of time he started distancing himself from the Trinamool Congress leadership especially Mamata Banerjee He was first removed from the chair of the partyâs general secretary and slowly his participation in the party programmes started fading outFinally in 2017 he announced his decision to sever ties with Trinamool Congress and join the BJP He even resigned from his chair as a Rajya Sabha member of Trinamool Congress He continued with the BJP till 2021In the 2021 West Bengal Assembly election he successfully contested from the contested as a BJP candidate in Krishnanagar Uttar Assembly constituency in Nadia districtHowever he joined Trinamool Congress just days after the results were declared and Mamata Banerjee led her party to come to power for a third consecutive term with a massive majorityHowever he did not resign as a member of the state Assembly and officially continued as a BJP legislator thereThe Assembly Speaker Biman Bandopadhyay rejected the BJPs plea seeking cancellation of Roys membership from the AssemblyThe Speaker said that since Roy was officially a BJP candidate his membership could not be cancelledRoy was even made the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee PAC of the House a post which is traditionally offered to an MLA from the principal opposition party in the AssemblyThereafter the BJP approached the Calcutta High Court seeking the cancellation of Roys membership from the House as a legislator from the Krishnanagar Uttar Assembly constituencyAfter a prolonged hearing in the matter finally on November 12 2025 the Calcutta High Courts division bench of Justice Debangsu Basak and Justice Md Shabbar Rashidi finally cancelled Roys membership of the HouseCalcutta High Courtâs decision was challenged in the Supreme Court by his son Subhranshu Roy On January 16 an apex court bench of Chief Justice of India CJI Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagch stayed the decision of the Calcutta High CourtHis death marks the end of a colourful but chequered political life Roy is often regarded as the initiator of the current trend of alluring and influencing political leaders from opposing parties to shift camps IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/mukul-roy-one-of-trinamools-founders-and-former-union-minister-passes-away-662265.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 09:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bengal-sir-judicial-adjudication-of-logical-discrepancy-cases-begins-today-662271.html Kolkata Feb 23 The adjudication of votersâ documents identified under the âlogical discrepancyâ category by the judicial officers as directed by the Supreme Court last week will start from Monday The process is expected to start after 11 am and as per the direction of the apex court the decision of judicial adjudicators regarding the fate of such votersâ documents will be finalThe judicial adjudication process will start on Monday with the initial involvement of 150 session judges appointed by the Calcutta High CourtIn total around 250 judicial officers have been assigned to the adjudication process which will be supervised at the district level by threemember committees constituted under the direction of the Calcutta High CourtEach districtlevel supervisory committee will comprise the district judge the district magistrate who also serves as the district electoral officer and the district superintendent of police concernedOf the 250 judicial officers involved around 100 are judges currently presiding over courts under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances NDPS Act and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences POCSO Act while the remaining are session judges from other courtsDuring a meeting held in Kolkata on Sunday between judicial officers assigned to adjudication duties and representatives of the Election Commission of India ECI the detailed procedural guidelines for the judicial adjudication process were explainedIn the meeting the judicial officers appointed for the purpose were informed that they would be required to accept only the 13 identity documents specified by the ECI for verification of voters identified under the âlogical discrepancyâ categoryThe clarification assumes significance amid objections raised by the ruling Trinamool Congress which had questioned the restriction to the 13 specified documents and sought consideration of additional identity proofs issued by various state government agenciesOfficials said that as per the current schedule the final electoral roll in West Bengal will be published on February 28 excluding those cases referred for judicial adjudication Supplementary electoral rolls will be published subsequently after the adjudication process is completedAccording to the ECI insiders all attempts will be made to complete the judicial adjudication process by February 28 so that the supplementary lists can be published at the earliestHowever considering the large number of documents around 50 lakh that have been referred for judicial adjudication there are doubts whether the deadline on this count would be met or notMeanwhile the Calcutta High Court had already issued a notification cancelling the leave of all judicial officers in West Bengal until March 9 and directed those currently on leave to report back to duty by Monday The order excluded judicial officers on emergency medical leave IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bengal-sir-judicial-adjudication-of-logical-discrepancy-cases-begins-today-662271.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 09:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/andaman-and-nicobar-islands-sir-uts-final-voter-base-stands-at-258-lakh-after-revision-662181.html Shri Vijaya Puram Feb 21 The Election Commission of India on Saturday published the final electoral roll for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands after completing the Special Intensive Revision exercise with the Union Territoryâs final electorate now standing at 258040 Andaman and Nicobar Islands Chief Electoral Officer L Kumar stated that the exercise resulted in the identification and deletion of a substantial number of ineligible voters including deceased individuals permanent outmigrants and duplicate enrollmentsThe demographic breakdown of the final figure of 258040 electorates comprises 130415 male voters 127622 female voters and three thirdgender voters Districtwise South Andaman leads with 160988 voters followed by North and Middle Andaman with 74475 and Nicobar district with 22577The electoral roll revision conducted from October 27 2025 to February 21 2026 involved a total physical verification of voters to ensure a sanitised and accurate electoral databaseThis comprehensive verification was achieved through 100 per cent physical checks with Booth Level Officers BLOs personally delivering and collecting enumeration forms the CEOâs statement notedAccording to official data the initial voter count of 310404 as of October last year saw a significant reduction during the enumeration phaseThe draft roll published on December 23 2025 removed 64014 ineligible names During the subsequent claims and objections period from December 12 2025 to January 22 2026 the commission added 16919 eligible voters while dropping another 5269The final rolls highlight key voter segments including 4070 firsttime voters in the 1819 age bracketAdditionally the list features 2255 persons with disabilities PwD and 679 elderly electors aged above 85 yearsOfficials confirmed that the final roll is displayed at all polling stations this weekend and will remain available for public inspection at voter facilitation centres for seven daysFirsttime voters and those who applied for corrections will receive their Electors Photo Identity Cards EPIC via BLOs at their residential addressesThe commission further informed that those who turned 18 on January 1 2026 but missed the revision alongside prospective electors maturing by October 2026 can still apply for inclusion through the official portal or the ECINET mobile app IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/andaman-and-nicobar-islands-sir-uts-final-voter-base-stands-at-258-lakh-after-revision-662181.html Sun, 22 Feb 2026 00:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/v-p-radhakrishnan-to-visit-tamil-nadu-today-662192.html New Delhi Feb 22 VicePresident CP Radhakrishnan will visit Tamil Nadu on Sunday to attend a foundation stone laying ceremony for the statue of VO Chidambaram Pillai at Vandiyur in Madurai During the visit the VicePresident will also visit the Thirukoshtiyur Sowmya Narayana Perumal Temple and Rani Velu Nachiyar Palace in Sivaganga the official said in a statementEarlier on the occasion of International Mother Language Day on Saturday VicePresident Radhakrishnan released the updated versions of the Constitution of India in Tamil and Gujarati along with the eighth edition of the Legal Glossary EnglishâHindiDescribing Tamil as one of the worlds most ancient classical languages with a rich literary legacy and Gujarati as a language of profound cultural and philosophical depth he said that this initiative will take the Constitution to the people in their own languages thereby strengthening democratic participation and awarenessThe VicePresident appreciated the Ministry of Law and Justice for the extensive work undertaken in bringing out these translations and making the Constitution more accessible to citizens across the country a statement said on the social mediaDuring another event related to National CSR Summit 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi the VicePresident said that when institutions work together society and the nation move forward collectively and emphasised that such collaboration is crucial at this transformative moment in Indias journeyHighlighting Indias progress over the last decade under Prime Minister Narendra Modi he noted that India has moved from being the 10th largest economy to the fourth largest economy in the world and is on course to become the third largestHe underlined that structural reforms inclusive expansion digital connectivity financial inclusion and infrastructure development have brought more than 25 crore citizens out of extreme poverty and raised aspirations across regions and communitiesHe remarked that the next phase of development demands deeper partnership among government industry and civil societyStating that Corporate Social Responsibility CSR is no longer peripheral but central to national progress VicePresident Radhakrishnan described CSR as the space where enterprise meets empathy where balance sheets meet human stories and where growth acquires purpose IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/v-p-radhakrishnan-to-visit-tamil-nadu-today-662192.html Sun, 22 Feb 2026 07:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/tvk-executive-council-meet-on-monday-in-tns-vellore-4-900-to-attend-amid-tight-security-662199.html Vellore Feb 22 The executive council meeting of TVK led by actorturnedpolitician Vijay will be held on Monday February 23 at Agaramcheri in Tamil Nadus Vellore district The party has confirmed that 4900 delegates will participate in the meeting which has now been categorised as an administrative session instead of a public rallyThe event was initially planned as a largescale public meeting with expectations of nearly 25000 people to attend Preparations were underway to level a 33acre site at Agaramcheri to accommodate the anticipated crowd However after inspecting the venue Vellore Superintendent of Police NU Sivaraman issued a notice imposing 20 conditions and sought a written clarification from the partyTVK submitted its response following which the format of the event was revised In compliance with police directives the proposed public rally was converted into a closeddoor executive council meetingAttendance has been restricted to 4900 members all of whom will be issued identity cards embedded with QR codes Only those carrying authorised ID cards will be permitted entry into the venueThe meeting is scheduled to take place from noon to 4 pm on Monday As part of the arrangements canopies will be installed at 10 designated locations within the venue along with adequate seating facilitiesOrganisers have arranged for the distribution of 50000 water bottles and installed 6000litre drinking water tanks to ensure participant comfortMedical preparedness has been strengthened with 10 medical teams comprising 30 doctors 100 nurses and 100 medical assistants deployed at the site Fifteen ambulances will remain on standby Additionally 500 volunteers including 50 women will assist in maintaining orderThe volunteers recently underwent security training conducted by retired police subinspector Sabiyullah The police department has announced that 900 personnel will be deployed to ensure securityAs the venue is located near the ChennaiBengaluru National Highway traffic flow on the highway and service roads will be maintained though the AgaramcheriPallikuppam road will witness diversionsAuthorities have also stated that since Vijay will travel by road from Chennai on Monday strict measures will be in place to prevent unauthorised vehicles from following his convoy IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/tvk-executive-council-meet-on-monday-in-tns-vellore-4-900-to-attend-amid-tight-security-662199.html Sun, 22 Feb 2026 09:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/cia-retracts-19-intelligence-reports-over-bias-concerns-662200.html Washington Feb 22 The CIA has formally withdrawn or ordered revisions to 19 intelligence products after an internal and independent review found they did not meet the agencyâs analytic standards and âfailed to be independent of political considerationâ the agency has said CIA Director John Ratcliffe in an official release said the products produced over the past decade âfall short of the high standards of impartiality that CIA must uphold and do not reflect the expertise for which our analysts are renownedâThe unusual move includes the retraction of 17 reports and the recall of two others for substantial revision according to The Washington Post The reports will be deleted from CIA databases and will no longer be available to US policymakersThe products were identified by the Presidentâs Intelligence Advisory Board PIAB which reviewed hundreds of CIA analytic reports from the past decade An internal review led by Deputy Director Michael Ellis concurred with the findingsDirector Ratcliffe released redacted versions of three reports cited as examples They include âWomen Advancing White Racially and Ethnically Motivated Violent Extremist Radicalization and Recruitmentâ published October 6 2021 âMiddle EastNorth Africa LGBT Activists Under Pressureâ published January 14 2015 and âWorldwide PandemicRelated Contraceptive Shortfalls Threaten Economic Developmentâ published on July 8 2020âThe intelligence products we released to the American people today produced before my tenure as DCIA fall short of the high standards of impartiality that CIA must uphold and do not reflect the expertise for which our analysts are renownedâ Ratcliffe statedâThere is absolutely no room for bias in our work and when we identify instances where analytic rigour has been compromised we have a responsibility to correct the recordâ he addedA senior CIA official briefing reporters on condition of anonymity said âThereâs absolutely no room for bias of any kind in CIAâs work So when we find that our tradecraft did not reach that high bar of impartiality we must correct the recordâAccording to The Washington Post the partially released reports examined the role of women in violent white nationalist groups overseas the challenges facing LGBT activists in parts of the Islamic world and the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on access to contraception and family planning in developing countriesThe senior official described one 2021 assessment as âa prime example of how CIA analysts should not be spending their timeâ arguing that it weighed in on foreign political debates ârather than discussing any actual threats of political violenceâ and âimplies a danger to these societies from traditional motherhoodfocused rolesâThe official also said two reports relied on opensource information from advocacy groups including the Human Rights Campaign the Washington Blade newspaper and Planned ParenthoodThe CIA said the actions âunderscore our commitment to transparency accountability and objective intelligence analysisâThe recall follows months of scrutiny by senior intelligence officials over how earlier assessments were prepared The PIAB review was chaired by former Congressman Devin NunesThe CIA produces thousands of intelligence products annually IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/cia-retracts-19-intelligence-reports-over-bias-concerns-662200.html Sun, 22 Feb 2026 09:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/month-long-maha-budget-session-the-first-after-ajit-pawars-demise-expected-to-be-stormy-662210.html Mumbai Feb 22 The monthlong Budget session starting February 23 is expected to be stormy with the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi gearing up to challenge the Mahayuti government on several fronts For the ruling Mahayuti alliance BJP Shiv SenaShinde and NCPSunetra Pawar the Budget session is a highstakes exercise in maintaining political momentum especially in the wake of its stellar performance in the recently concluded local body elections while managing a significant leadership transitionThis session is particularly significant as it marks a transition in the states political leadership and faces a unique legislative vacuum following the untimely death of Deputy Chief Minister and NCP president Ajit PawarOn the other hand despite being numerically weaker and lacking a formal Leader of the Opposition LoP the Maha Vikas Aghadi MVA comprising Shiv Sena UBT Congress and NCP SP plans to use the session to put the government on the defensive They are expected to take on the government on a range of issues regarding onions paddy soybeans and cotton present state of finances amid rising public debt revenue and fiscal deficits dip in capital expenditure and non payment of dues to contractors of ongoing development projectsThe Budget session starting Monday will continue until March 25 Following the Governorâs address on the first day a condolence motion will be moved for late Ajit Pawar with discussions expected to last throughout the day Regular legislative business will commence on TuesdayThe session will be the first since the death of former Deputy CM and Finance Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash on January 28 His wife Sunetra Pawar will debut in the legislature as Deputy Chief MinisterThe opposition led by NCPSP leader Rohit Pawar is expected to demand a transparent probe or a CBI inquiry into the crash alleging that Ajit Pawarâs death was not accidental but potential political conspiracyDespite the ruling partys overwhelming majority compared to the oppositions smaller numbers which allowed the government to maintain dominance in the last three sessions of the past year Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar became a target of criticism regarding the selection of questions and the number of Calling Attention motions Even ministers expressed concern over the rising number of such motionsAllegations by Shiv SenaUBT leader Bhaskar Jadhav claiming that money was taken to ask questions had previously caused a stirThe opposition has devised a strategy to corner Speaker Narwekar Allegations were made that during the filing of nominations for the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation elections Narwekar was present at the municipal office and used intimidating tactics to ensure three members of his family were elected unopposed A video of this incident was also circulated on social media Following this another video emerged from Alibaug showing Narwekar leaving the site after a farmer objected to a land surveyShiv Sena Group Leader Bhaskar Jadhav stated that the opposition would demand answers from Narwekar on both incidentsJadhav further alleged that Narwekar has compromised the dignity of the Speakers post Additionally since Narwekar has not made a decision on the oppositions proposal for the Leader of the Opposition in the past year they are unlikely to miss any opportunity to hold him accountableFollowing the accidental death of Ajit Pawar the Finance portfolio is currently held by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis who will present the state Budget on March 6Vijay Wadettiwar leader of the Congress Legislative Party said that they will question the Chief Minister on various issues such as the 36 hour traffic halt on the MumbaiPune Expressway due to a tanker overturning and a portion of Metro work collapsing in Mulund killing one person and injuring three othersHe further added that the opposition will emphasise how these accidents in Pune and Mulund prove the governmentâs claims of planned infrastructure developement are hollow Issues related to the agriculture department such as cotton paddy onions and soybeans will be debated Although aid was announced for farmers affected by unseasonal rain last year it has not yet reached themMany farmers are yet to receive benefits from the 2017 loan waiverThe opposition plans to hold the government accountable noting that CM Fadnavis had promised a decision on farm loan waivers by JuneThe Congress party will raise the issue of the impact of the IndiaUS trade agreement on the states farmers The opposition will also question when the monthly subsidy for the Ladki Bahin Yojana will be increased to Rs 2100 from the present Rs 1500As far as the Mahayuti government is concerned it will counter the opposition by listing a number of achievements not just in electoral politics but also to achieve the much ambitious target of one trillion dollar economy by 2030 and five trillion dollar economy by 2047 as a part of Viksit Maharashtra missionCM Fadnavis however faces the daunting tightrope walk of maintaining populist welfare schemes while managing a state debt that has crossed Rs 9 lakh crore The government is set to continue with the major allocation for the Ladki Bahin Yojana to provide a monthly allowance of Rs 1500 to the eligible women beneficiaries The substantial allocation is expected on the PuneNashik HighSpeed Rail the Mumbai Water Metro and the Vadhavan Port project In addition the government is likely to announce a climateresilient agriculture package to address erratic weather in Marathwada and Vidarbha while using artificial intelligenceCM Fadnavis has already said that Maharashtraâs finances are under strain owing to different welfare schemes like the Ladki Bahin Yojana but claimed that the state continued to meet all key indicators of economic stability and remained among the strongest state economies in the country While presenting budget the chief ministerâs primary goal will be to prove that Mahayuti can fund massive welfare schemes without crashing the states fiscal healthParallel to the Budget discussions the legislature will hold elections for seven Rajya Sabha seats on March 16 Highprofile names whose terms are ending include Sharad Pawar NCPSP and Ramdas Athawale RPIA The ruling Mahayuti alliance is expected to secure six out of the seven seats based on current Assembly numbers Since the MVA can only win one seat the internal tussle between Shiv Sena UBT Congress and NCP SP over who gets that seat potentially Sharad Pawar will be a subplot that the ruling party will try to exploitSanjay Jog can be contacted at sanjayjiansin IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/month-long-maha-budget-session-the-first-after-ajit-pawars-demise-expected-to-be-stormy-662210.html Sun, 22 Feb 2026 11:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/isf-workers-attacked-our-leader-in-west-bengals-bhangar-area-trinamool-congress-662220.html Kolkata Feb 22 The Trinamool Congress has alleged that its party workers were attacked by Indian Secular Front ISF activists in Polerhat area in West Bengals South 24 Parganas district police said on Sunday The Trinamool Congress claimed that the incident occurred when they were holding the meeting in the area on Friday nightTwo Trinamool Congress leaders were reportedly injured in the attack and were rushed to Jirengacha Rural HospitalDoctors said that the condition of the injured is being monitoredAccording to local sources Trinamool Congress had organised a meeting in that area to strengthen the organisation ahead of Assembly polls At that time a group of miscreants suddenly entered the meeting venue and started arguing leading to a fightAllegedly the attack was carried out by ISF activists with sticksCar of Trinamool leader Khairul Islam was vandalised in the clash A large force of Kolkata Police reached the area after receiving the newsOn the other hand after receiving the news of the incident Canning Purba Assembly constituency MLA and Trinamool observer for Bhangar Saokat Molla quickly reached the spot He went to the hospital and met the injured workersAllegedly his car was also attacked Saokat Molla claimed that one round of bullet was firedThe attack was carried out with the help of ISF MLA Nawsad Siddiqui We want a proper investigation into the attack said MollaHowever ISF MLA of Bhangar Assembly constituency Nawsad Siddiqui refuted this allegation He claimed The one who is saying this attacked our workers in the area He is trying to disturb the peace in area ahead of the electionsHe further demanded an impartial investigation into this incidentA large police force has been deployed in different parts of Bhangar since Saturday night So far no one has been detained or arrested in connection with these two incidents yet Police are investigating the matter and the situation is being monitoredIt is worth mentioning that Siddiqui is the lone ISF MLA in 294seat West Bengal Legislative AssemblyIn 2021 state Assembly polls ISF had contested the election in alliance with the CPIMled Left Front and Indian National Congress While both Left and Congress drew a blank in the Assembly election ISF won only one seatSiddiqui had won the election from Bhangar Assembly constituency in South 24 Parganas district It was only Assembly seat in 31seat strong South 24 Parganas district which Trinamool Congress lost in 2021 Since then there has been frequent clashed between TMC and ISF workers in Bhangar area to gain control of the constituency IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/isf-workers-attacked-our-leader-in-west-bengals-bhangar-area-trinamool-congress-662220.html Sun, 22 Feb 2026 11:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/stay-alert-against-digital-fraud-update-kyc-through-official-channels-pm-modi-in-mann-ki-baat-662225.html New Delhi Feb 22 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday cautioned citizens against rising incidents of digital fraud and âdigital arrestâ scams urging people to remain vigilant and follow proper banking procedures to safeguard their savings Speaking during his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat the Prime Minister said he had earlier discussed the issue of digital arrest at length and noted that while awareness had increased troubling incidents were still being reportedâIn âMann Ki Baatâ I have spoken to you at length about Digital Arrest After this a lot of awareness was generated in our society regarding Digital Arrest and Digital Fraud but still such incidents are happening around us that are unpardonableâ PM Modi saidHighlighting the impact of such crimes he said innocent people continue to fall victim to online fraud âInnocent people are being targeted through Digital Arrest and Financial Fraud Many a time we come to know that a senior citizen has been swindled of their lifelong earnings At times someone is defrauded of the money one had saved to pay childrens fees he said We also come across news of fraud with businessmen Someone calls up and says âI am a big officer You have to share some detailsâ After this innocent people do just that Therefore it is very important for you to remain alert and vigilantâ he addedReferring to the KYC Know Your Customer process the Prime Minister addressed common concerns among bank customers âYou all must be familiar with the process of KYC Know Your Customer Sometimes when you receive messages from your bank asking you to update KYC or reKYC the question arises in your mind I have already done KYC then why this I urge you not to fret this is just for the safety of your moneyâ he saidEmphasising the growing integration of financial services with bank accounts PM Modi said âWe all know that nowadays everything from pension subsidy insurance UPI everything is linked to the bank account This is why banks periodically perform reKYC to ensure your bank account remains secure Yes here too you must remember one thing criminals make fake calls send SMS and links Therefore we must remain vigilant and not fall prey to such fraudsters KYC or reKYC should be done only through your bank branch official app and authorised mediumâ he addedThe Prime Minister further advised citizens not to share sensitive information such as OTPs Aadhaar numbers or bank account details with anyone He also recommended updating passwords regularly Drawing a simple analogy he said that just as food and clothing change with each season people should make it a habit to change their passwords periodicallyPM Modi also mentioned that the Reserve Bank of India recently observed a Financial Literacy Week focusing on such issues âThis financial literacy campaign will now continue throughout the year Therefore pay heed to the Reserve Bank of Indias message and keep your KYC updated Remember Correct KYC timely reKYC keeps your account safe Become an empowered citizen because only empowered citizens build a strong and Atmanirbhar Bharatâ he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/stay-alert-against-digital-fraud-update-kyc-through-official-channels-pm-modi-in-mann-ki-baat-662225.html Sun, 22 Feb 2026 13:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/telangana-bjp-chief-taken-into-custody-by-police-in-hyderabad-662227.html Hyderabad Feb 21 Telangana BJP president N Ramchander Rao was taken into custody by police here on Sunday when he tried to leave for Banswada town in Kamareddy district which witnessed a communal clash on Friday Ramchander Rao who was placed under house arrest since Saturday night tried to leave for Banswada but was stopped and taken into custody by the policeTension prevailed at his house in the Tarnaka area when his supporters tried to resist the police Police arrested some of the protestersThe BJP leader was shifted to Bollarum Police Station Earlier Ramchander Rao told the media that he would visit Kamareddy to express solidarity with BJP MLA K Venkata Ramana Reddy who was allegedly attacked He alleged that in Banswada town 100 BJP workers were arrested during a bandh called by Hindu organisations Following his arrest Ramchander Rao alleged that there is an emergency in Telangana âThe AntiHindu Muslim League Maoist Congress has arrested me and are taking me to Bollarum PS for standing up for the Hindus of Banswada and for our karyakartas in Kamareddyâ reads a post by the BJP leader on XHe earlier wrote that in Congressruled Telangana it appears that standing up for the Hindu victims of Banswada and raising a voice for our karyakartas in Kamareddy has become a âcrimeââLet it be clear Congress is the New Muslim League it has reduced itself to lower and lower levels of appeasement By its actions it seems determined to outdo even the worst chapters of divisive politics in our history If Congress believes that confining me to my home will silence me or allow it to escape accountability it is gravely mistaken I will continue to stand firmly with our people no matter the pressureâ he saidBanswada town saw a clash on Friday evening after a youth raised an objection to the playing of a devotional song in a supermarket The employees of the supermarket assaulted the youth Later members of both the communities near the supermarket indulged in stone pelting resulting in injuries to two police personnelFollowing the clash police deployed additional forces in the town to prevent further clashesPolice registered two cases and arrested 12 accused involved in rioting IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/telangana-bjp-chief-taken-into-custody-by-police-in-hyderabad-662227.html Sun, 22 Feb 2026 13:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/spirit-of-patriotism-was-deeply-embedded-within-her-pm-modi-pays-tributes-to-jayalalithaa-in-mann-ki-baat-662230.html Chennai Feb 22 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday praised former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa as a âwidely admired and beloved leaderâ recalling her administrative legacy and their personal friendship during the 131st episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat The Prime Minister described Jayalalithaa as a towering figure in Tamil Nadu politics whose contributions would be remembered as a powerful symbol of womenâs leadershipâJayalalithaa was a great leader who was deeply loved by the people My friendship with her is like a sacred tree in my heartâ PM Modi said during the broadcastHighlighting her governance style the Prime Minister noted that Jayalalithaa had taken firm steps to maintain law and order in Tamil Nadu and had earned the trust of the people through decisive leadershipHe said her public service would always be remembered as an example of womenâs empowerment in Indian politicsWith Jayalalithaaâs birth anniversary falling on February 24 PM Modi said he continues to feel the affection the people of Tamil Nadu hold for her whenever he visits the stateâEven today when I travel to Tamil Nadu I can sense the deep connection the people have with Jayalalithaa When her name is mentioned one can see a special spark among the peopleâ he saidRecalling his tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister PM Modi said Every meeting and every conversation with Amma Jayalalithaa is still fresh in my mind She also attended two of my swearingin ceremonies in Gujarat in 2002 and 2012 When we were both Chief Ministers of our respective states we often discussed topics like good governance Her thinking was crystal clear and her thoughts were uncluttered This was a significant characteristic of hers Many years ago she invited me to Chennai over lunch on the auspicious occasion of Pongal That affectionate gesture will remain unforgettable for mePM Modi said Jayalalithaa had extended strong support to Gujarat during his time in officeâShe had great devotion to the nation and worked with commitment for its progressâ he addedThe Prime Ministerâs remarks assume political significance as Tamil Nadu gears up for the upcoming Assembly electionsThe AIADMKBJPled National Democratic Alliance has intensified its political outreach in the state and PM Modiâs tribute to the late AIADMK general secretary and former Chief Minister is being viewed as an effort to connect with her enduring support baseJayalalithaa fondly called âAmmaâ by her supporters remains an influential figure in Tamil Naduâs political landscape even years after her passing IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/spirit-of-patriotism-was-deeply-embedded-within-her-pm-modi-pays-tributes-to-jayalalithaa-in-mann-ki-baat-662230.html Sun, 22 Feb 2026 14:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/congress-murdering-democracy-in-telangana-alleges-g-kishan-reddy-662231.html Hyderabad Feb 22 Union Minister for Coal and Mines G Kishan Reddy on Sunday termed the developments in Telangana as deeply worrying and accused the Congress government of murdering democracy Kishan Reddy condemned the alleged attack on the camp office of BJP MLA in Kamareddy and subsequent house arrests of party MPs MLAs and state BJP president N Ramchander Rao and termed these as attack on democratic rightsHe said that the house arrest of several MPs and MLAs including BJP state president who wanted to go to Kamareddy in solidarity with the MLA K Venkata Ramana Reddy is reminiscent of an undeclared emergency in TelanganaThe BJP leader alleged that the Congress government is misusing power for revenge politics as it is afraid of the BJPs rise in the state politicsUnable to digest the verdict given by the people it is conspiring to suppress the voice of the opposition Political differences are natural in a democracy But the suppression of the voice of the opposition is a testament to the intolerance of the Congress government he said in a statementThe Central minister alleged that making baseless allegations against the MLA and placing him under house arrest after his challenge to prove the allegations is a clear case of bias He said Congress leaders ramming their car into the gate of the MLAs camp office shows breakdown of law and order in the stateStating that the law should be equal for all he accused the Congress government of targeting political opponents by misusing the police machineryKishan Reddy made it clear that the BJP leaders and workers will not be afraid of these tactics He said the BJP will make its voice heard more strongly on public issues in TelanganaHe demanded that the state government immediately stop political arrests and respect democratic rights Otherwise the people of Telangana will come forward to protect democracy The people themselves will give a befitting reply to every attempt to suppress democracy he addedUnion Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar also strongly condemned the illegal arrest of Telangana BJP president Ramchander RaoBandi Sanjay said Ramchander Rao was set to visit Kamareddy MLA and meet families injured in the Banswada violenceInstead of acting against attackers the Congress government has chosen to confine an opposition leader Congress and MIM taking the law into their own hands is condemnable Is this Praja Palana or police raj It appears that Emergencylike days have begun in the state the MoS posted on XLet Congress be clear Threats and arrests will not scare us MIM and Congress are together creating lawlessness BJP workers must be prepared to resist these unlawful acts We will stand with every victim and expose this governments bias he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/congress-murdering-democracy-in-telangana-alleges-g-kishan-reddy-662231.html Sun, 22 Feb 2026 14:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/20-year-old-matter-being-raked-up-akhilesh-fumes-at-fir-against-swami-avimukteshwaranand--662232.html New Delhi Feb 22 IANS Samajwadi Party SP chief Akhilesh Yadav launched a scathing attack at Uttar Pradesh government on Sunday over an FIR lodged against Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati and accused the administration of acting with a malicious intent to embarrass and humiliate the Hindu seernbspAddressing a press conference at the party office Akhilesh Yadav claimed that the state government instead of making amends for its irresponsible conduct during the Magh Mela has resorted to raking up of a 20yearold case to trouble the Shankaracharya of Jyotirmath UttarakhandOur most revered Shankaracharya ji what treatment is being meted out to him by the government This exercise that you are witnessing these days some people have suddenly set out to show respect he said while cautioning that it wasnt appropriate to stoop to this level of accusationIn the FIR filed against Swami Avimukteshwaranand the seer and some of his disciples have been accused of sexually abusing and exploiting two minor children at his ashram repeatedly for more than a yearIf the complainant is a disciple of another saint then it was a mistake to withdraw a previously filed case Akhilesh remarkedThe SP chief said that first the Shankaracharya was prevented from bathing in river Ganga during the Magh Mela and when he protested the state govt acted in a manner that reeks of malice and vengeanceShankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand sat on protest for several days despite cold weather but the administration did not treat him with respect The entire incident appears to be motivated by political malice and that the government has now lost its credibility among the public he saidAkhilesh also accused the ruling party of vitiating the states atmosphere ahead of the electionsThe SP supremo also lashed out at the Yogi government on other issues claiming mismanagement and irregularities in various infrastructure projectsAkhilesh said that his government had initiated plans to clean the Gomti and Hindon rivers but the current dispensation is not pursuing development projectsThe underground pipeline project is a pipeline of corruption he said while cornering the govt over escalating costs of developmental projectsTaking a dig at Chief Minister Yogi Adityanaths proposed visit to Japan he said Hes going to Japan but not KyotoIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/20-year-old-matter-being-raked-up-akhilesh-fumes-at-fir-against-swami-avimukteshwaranand--662232.html Sun, 22 Feb 2026 16:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modis-visit-israeli-pm-netanyahu-eyes-middle-east-alliance-against-radicals-662257.html JerusalemNew Delhi Feb 22 IANS Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will arrive in Israel on February 25 for a twoday official visit marking his second trip to the country since his historic 2017 visitnbspIn remarks during Israels weekly Cabinet meeting earlier on Sunday and shared via posts on social media platform X from official channels Israeli PM Netanyahu described the upcoming engagement as a key expression of the special relationship forged in recent years between Israel and India and what he called the global power that is IndiaOn Wednesday the Prime Minister of India my friend Narendra Modi will arrive in Israel In the vision I see before my eyes we will create a complete system of alliances around or within the Middle East An axis of countries that see reality the challenges and the goals with one eye facing the radical axis the Israeli Prime Minister saidNetanyahu emphasised the personal friendship between him and PM Modi noting that they speak frequently via phone and visit each otherWe are personal friends the Israeli PM said highlighting the warmth in bilateral ties between the two countriesIsraeli PM Netanyahu outlined his vision for the visit as advancing a broader strategic frameworkHe envisions building a comprehensive alliance system described as a hexagon of alliances in and around the Middle East uniting likeminded nations to collectively address regional challenges and counter radical forcesWe have a unique alliance and in my opinion also a historic one with the US both statetostate and my personal relations with President Trump This alliance does not mean that we are not seeking additional alliances on the contrary we are constantly nurturing them Netanyahu saidThe visit he said would contribute to tightening such alliances while deepening cooperation between Israel and India in economic diplomatic and security spheresThe agenda for PM Modis February 2526 visit includes his addressing the Knesset Israels Parliament in the afternoon a joint visit to Yad Vashem the Holocaust memorial with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and participation in an innovation event in Jerusalem focused on hightech collaboration particularly in areas like artificial intelligence quantum computing and other emerging technologiesThis foreign visit comes nearly nine years after PM Modis landmark 2017 visit the first by any Indian Prime Minister to Israel which elevated ties in defence agriculture water management and innovationNetanyahus reciprocal visit to India in 2018 further solidified the bilateral partnershipAmid ongoing Middle East tensions PM Modis visit underscores Indias strategic recalibration and growing convergence with Israel on counterterrorism defence supplies and technology sharingThe discussions are expected to cover expanding trade defence deals cybersecurity and regional stabilityThe announcement has drawn attention amid Israels domestic political dynamics with some Opposition leaders raising procedural concerns about the Knesset addressThe visit is seen as reinforcing the tremendous alliance between the two democracies with both sides keen to elevate cooperation against common threats and foster mutual growthIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modis-visit-israeli-pm-netanyahu-eyes-middle-east-alliance-against-radicals-662257.html Sun, 22 Feb 2026 22:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/delhi-l-g-to-open-palaash-mahotsav-2026-at-asita-today-662063.html New Delhi Feb 21 Delhi Lieutenant Governor and DDA Chairperson VK Saxena will on Saturday inaugurate the twoday Palaash Mahotsav 2026 at Asita floodplain near ITO The festival reflects DDAâs continued efforts towards sustainable urban development and enhancement of accessible public green spaces across the cityVisitors at the festival experience elaborate floral arrangements seasonal plant displays and interactive green installations showcasing both ornamental and native species it saidComplementing the horticultural exhibits are artisan stalls food courts cultural performances workshops and participatory activities making the festival inclusive and engaging for families students and visitors of all age groupsMinister of State for Corporate Affairs Harsh Malhotra and DDA Vice Chairman N Saravana Kumar will also participate in the inaugural eventThe Palaash festival marks the transition from winter to spring a season of renewal colour and togethernessOn February 14 the LG inaugurated the DDA Green Expo 2026 and Palaash Mahotsav 2026 at Baansera on the Yamuna bank calling upon every citizen to feel responsible towards the environmentThe LG said âWho would have ever imagined just 3 years back that this degraded and polluted site would host a âGreen Expoâ and become a platform for planning a sustainable future for DelhiâIn a message on social media he said âA stellar example of greening and reclaiming degraded land Baansera is a testimony to resilience and endeavour I hope this Expo mulls over and offers practical solutions to Delhis environmental challengesââLet us imagine Delhi as a city where every resident breathes clean air every neighbourhood enjoys the shade of trees every riverbank is cared for and every citizen feels responsible towards the environmentâ he saidThe DDA said on social media âA purposeful start to Day 1 at DDA Green Expo From the inaugural ceremony and MoU signings to the logo reveal keynote address and exhibition walkthrough the first half set the tone for Delhiâs vision of a climateready sustainable futureâIn addition to Baansera at Birsa Munda Chowk the Palaash Festival was simultaneously celebrated at Ashoka Garden at Ashok Vihar Lala Hardayal Park at Jasola and Smriti Van at Narela each curated around a distinct theme celebrating nature sustainability and community lifeThe venue features thematic floral displays curated gardens landscape installations and public activity zones together presenting a unified narrative of Delhiâs relationship with nature it saidA special emphasis has been placed on public participation and environmental awareness Through interactive installations and handson activities visitors especially children and young adults are being encouraged to engage with themes such as biodiversity conservation water sensitivity climate responsiveness and collective stewardship of urban greens said the statement IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/delhi-l-g-to-open-palaash-mahotsav-2026-at-asita-today-662063.html Sat, 21 Feb 2026 08:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-wishes-cm-sai-on-birthday-hails-efforts-to-boost-chhattisgarhs-progress-662081.html New Delhi Feb 21 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday wished Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on his birthday and hailed his efforts to drive the states progress CM Vishnu Deo Sai was born on February 21 1964 in Jashpur district of Chhattisgarh in a family of farmers He currently represents the Kunkuri Assembly constituencyIn a post on X PM Modi said Warm birthday wishes to CM of Chhattisgarh Shri Vishnu Deo Sai His efforts to boost Chhattisgarhs progress are admirable and are having a transformative impact on peoples lives Praying for his long life and good healthHome Minister Amit Shah taking to social media extended warm birthday wishes to the Chhattisgarh CMHeartfelt birthday wishes to the Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh Shri Vishnu Deo Sai ji Under your leadership Chhattisgarh is witnessing a beautiful era of peace security and the welfare of every section of society I pray to Maa Danteshwari for your excellent health and a long life HM Shah said in a post on XUnion Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari also took to X and prayed for CM Vishnu Deo Sais long and healthy lifeChhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai ji heartfelt birthday wishes to you I pray to God for your excellent health long life and a blessed life he saidUttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extending birthday wishes to the Chhattisgarh Chief Minister said I pray to Maa Danteshwari ji that you be blessed with excellent health long life and continuous energy and glory for the service of the stateDelhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also wished CM Vishnu Deo Sai and said Heartfelt birthday greetings and best wishes to the Honourable Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh Shri Vishnu Dev Sai JiUnder your able leadership the state is reaching new heights in development good governance and public welfare I pray to Maa Danteshwari for your good health and long life she said in a post on X IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-wishes-cm-sai-on-birthday-hails-efforts-to-boost-chhattisgarhs-progress-662081.html Sat, 21 Feb 2026 11:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/nitish-kumar-issues-five-point-directive-to-improve-pedestrian-safety-in-bihar-662082.html Patna Feb 21 Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Saturday issued five point directive to improve pedestrian safety in Bihar In a detailed post on social media the Chief Minister issued five key instructions to the states Transport Department keeping in mind the daily difficulties faced by pedestriansIn his post the Chief Minister said that after the formation of the new government on November 20 2025 the programmes under Saat Nischay3 are being implementedUnder the seventh resolution of Saat Nischay3 2025â30 titled Sabka Samman â Jeevan Aasan the government is continuously working to make the daily lives of citizens simpler and more dignifiedHe noted that Bihar is progressing rapidly with rising incomes leading to a steady increase in number of twowheelers and fourwheelers on the roadsHowever this growth has also increased inconvenience and risk for pedestrians he addedWalking safely and with dignity on the road is the primary right of pedestrians the Chief Minister said adding that road safety standards must be strictly followedKeeping pedestrian safety at the centre the Chief Minister directed the Transport Department to implement the five points on a priority basis which include identification and construction of footpaths at the earliest in urban areas especially in hightraffic zonesHe directed officials for construction of zebra crossings at designated locations for safe pedestrian movement development of foot overbridges escalators and underpasses at identified locations to ensure safe road crossingThe Chief Minister also stressed on training all government and private vehicle drivers to make them more sensitive towards pedestriansâ rights and safetyHe pressed for identification of accidentprone black spots in both rural and urban areas along with construction of pedestrian footpaths and installation of CCTV cameras to assess and reduce road accidentsThe Chief Minister instructed the Transport Department to work expeditiously so that pedestrians receive these facilities at the earliestI am confident that this initiative will prove extremely useful for pedestrian safety and will make daily life easier he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/nitish-kumar-issues-five-point-directive-to-improve-pedestrian-safety-in-bihar-662082.html Sat, 21 Feb 2026 11:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/assembly-elections-cpi-662117.html Thiruvananthapuram Feb 21 The Communist Party of India Marxist is expected to decide on first probable list of candidates on Saturday at its 17member State Secretariat meeting that commenced here The meeting marks the initial stage of the partys internal selection process as it prepares for the upcoming Assembly elections As per party procedure the Secretariat will first decide which among its own members should enter the frayOnce a decision is arrived at the proposed names will be forwarded to the respective district committees for approvalAfter securing districtlevel clearance the list will be sent back to the State leadership for finalisationThe present Secretariat includes Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and five State Ministers P A Mohammed Riyas Saji Cherian K N Balagopal P Rajeev and V N VasavanOther key members are State Secretary M V Govindan former Health Minister K K Shailaja and Left Democratic Front convenor T P Ramakrishnan all sitting legislatorsSenior leaders Thomas Isaac E P Jayarajan M V Jayarajan M Swaraj K K Jayachandran Puthelethu Dineshan P K Biju and C N Mohanan are also part of the panelCentral Committee members C S Sujatha K S Saleekha and P Sathi Devi are also likely to be consideredIt remains to be seen whether veterans such as P K Sreemathi and Elamaram Kareem will figure in the reckoningWith the CPIM aiming for a third successive term the leadership is treading cautiously after its worst setback in recent years at the December local body polls where it lost ground in several traditional strongholdsThe party currently governs just one of the States six Corporations a sharp fall from the five it controlled after the 2020 local body electionsIncidentally at the 2021 Assembly polls to the 140member Kerala Legislative Assembly the CPIM contested in 75 seats and won 62 IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/assembly-elections-cpi-662117.html Sat, 21 Feb 2026 14:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/rajasthan-final-electoral-roll-2026-published-voter-count-crosses-515-crore-662123.html Jaipur Feb 21 With 515 crore voters now on record the final electoral roll of Rajasthan was published on Saturday following the successful completion of the Special Intensive Revision SIR2026 across 199 Assembly constituencies in the state The final voter list that was published on Saturday put the total number of registered voters at 51519929 including 26957881 men 24561486 women and 562 thirdgender votersCompared to the draft publication the final roll shows a net increase of 1048605 voters reflecting a growth of 208 per cent with Jaipur Phalodi Bharatpur Sirohi and Bundi recording the highest rise in voter numbersThe gender ratio improved from 909 to 911 indicating better female voter registration across the state particularly in Jaipur Kota Ajmer Sirohi Dungarpur Bundi Jhalawar and BaranThe number of young voters in the 18â19 age group also increased by 435061 showing a growth of 082 per cent with Jaipur Barmer Bharatpur Phalodi and Bundi witnessing the highest addition of new young votersOn the occasion of the final publication District Election Officers held meetings with representatives of all recognised political parties and provided them free soft and hard copies of the 2026 electoral rollsVoters were informed that they can verify their names and EPIC details online through the official websites of the Election Department and the Election Commission of India and that the process of inclusion deletion and correction of entries in the electoral roll remains continuous through Forms 6 7 and 8 via the Voters Portal or by contacting Booth Level OfficersThe Chief Electoral Officer stated that the largescale revision exercise was carried out with the active participation of 41 District Election Officers 199 Electoral Registration Officers 1651 Assistant EROs more than 61000 Booth Level Officers over 108 lakh Booth Level Agents volunteers and all major political parties along with extensive public awareness through print electronic and digital mediaRegular coordination meetings were held with political parties to ensure transparency and accuracy and the final electoral roll for the vacant Assembly constituency will be published on March 12 this year IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/rajasthan-final-electoral-roll-2026-published-voter-count-crosses-515-crore-662123.html Sat, 21 Feb 2026 15:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/goa-has-1057-lakh-voters-after-revision-as-ec-publishes-final-electoral-roll-662124.html Panaji Feb 21 The Election Commission on Saturday published the final electoral roll for Goa confirming a total of 1057566 eligible voters across the state after the Special Intensive Revision of the rolls The updated list follows a rigorous verification process aimed at streamlining the electorate and removing discrepancies ahead of upcoming pollsAccording to the Chief Electoral Officer of Goa the total number of voters stood at 1185034 prior to the draft publication This initial pool comprised 573853 male and 611168 female votersTo ensure accuracy boothlevel officers distributed enumeration forms to all 1185 lakh citizens receiving 1084992 completed forms marking a 9156 per cent return rate The verification process led to the removal of 100042 voters from the rolls due to various factors such as death migration and duplication an official saidBreakdown of the dropped voters revealed that 25574 individuals were deceased while 29729 were found to be absent or untraceable Additionally about 40000 voters had shifted their residence to other locationsFollowing these corrections the draft list published on December 16 last year accounted for 1084992 lakh voters including 523 lakh males 561 lakh females and nine thirdgender votersTechnical mapping also played a critical role in the finalisation of the voter list Out of the 1084992 lakh voters in the draft list about 9 lakh 8319 per cent were successfully mapped with parental or personal electoral details However the Election Commissionâs IT system identified logical discrepancies for approximately 59000 voters within this mapped group which were subsequently addressed under various ECINET categoriesOfficials confirmed that the final electoral roll is now displayed at all polling stations and is available for public inspection at the offices of the Electoral Registration Officers and Assistant Electoral Registration Officers starting SaturdayIn the 2022 Assembly election in Goa the Bharatiya Janata Party retained power by winning 20 of 40 seats and later secured support from smaller parties and Independents to form the government The Congress emerged as the single largest opposition but failed to form a coalitionIn the 2024 general election to the Lok Sabha Goaâs two parliamentary constituencies were split with the BJP winning one seat and the Congress the other reflecting a competitive twoparty contest in the stateâs national politics IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/goa-has-1057-lakh-voters-after-revision-as-ec-publishes-final-electoral-roll-662124.html Sat, 21 Feb 2026 15:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-condoles-death-of-shillong-mp-ricky-syngkon-says-meghalaya-will-remember-his-service-661938.html Guwahati Feb 20 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday expressed deep sorrow over the demise of Lok Sabha Member of Parliament from Shillong Dr Ricky AJ Syngkon remembering him as a dedicated public servant who worked tirelessly for the people of Meghalaya In a post on the social media platform X the Prime Minister said he was saddened by the passing of Dr Syngkon and extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family friends and supportersâSaddened by the passing of Lok Sabha MP from Shillong Dr Ricky AJ Syngkon He will be remembered for his dedicated service to the people of Meghalaya My thoughts are with his family friends and supporters during this difficult time May his soul rest in peaceâ PM Modi wroteShillong Member of Parliament Ricky AJ Syngkon of the Voice of the People Party VPP passed away on Thursday evening after suddenly falling ill while playing football triggering widespread shock and grief across Meghalayaâs political spectrumDr Syngkon had gone to play football with friends on Thursday evening at a playground in Mawlai MawiongDuring the match he reportedly collapsed on the field prompting immediate concern among those present He was swiftly rushed by his friends to the nearby Mawiong Community Health Centre CHC for emergency medical attention However due to the absence of a doctor at the facility at that time he was referred to a higher medical centre He was subsequently shifted to Dr H Gordon Roberts Hospital in Jaiaw for advanced treatmentDoctors said that despite efforts by the medical team Dr Syngkon succumbed shortly after being admitted He was declared dead at around 842 pm leaving supporters colleagues and residents of the state stunned by the sudden lossFollowing the news of his death Chief Minister Conrad Sangma Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong VPP president Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit along with several legislators senior political leaders and party workers rushed to the hospital to pay their respects and console family membersDr Syngkon a firsttime Member of Parliament had emerged as a prominent political figure after registering a landslide victory in the 2024 Lok Sabha electionsContesting on a VPP ticket he had defeated threetime Congress MP Vincent H Pala by a massive margin of over 37 lakh votes a result that marked a significant shift in Meghalayaâs political landscapeKnown for his grassroots connect and advocacy on issues concerning indigenous rights governance and transparency Dr Syngkonâs sudden demise has created a void in state and national politics particularly within the VPPLeaders across party lines expressed deep condolences remembering him as a committed public representative with a promising political futureThe state government is likely to issue further details regarding last rites and official condolence arrangements IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-condoles-death-of-shillong-mp-ricky-syngkon-says-meghalaya-will-remember-his-service-661938.html Fri, 20 Feb 2026 11:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/maha-cm-highlights-ais-transformative-role-in-agriculture-at-india-ai-impact-summit-661963.html New Delhi Feb 20 Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday emphasised the pivotal role of Artificial Intelligence AI in agriculture while addressing the India AI Impact Summit 2026 Speaking at the event CM Fadnavis said âWe meet at a very defining moment Across the world food systems are under strain climate volatility is intensifying water tables are falling soil health is deteriorating supply chains are fragile and global markets are unpredictable For countries from the Global South agriculture is not merely an economic sector â it is livelihood social stability and national securityâCM Fadnavis highlighted Indiaâs commitment to using technology for inclusive development under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi adding âThe India AI Mission is about using technology to deliver inclusion transparency and scale Today agriculture must sit at the heart of this mission Over half a billion Indians depend directly or indirectly on agriculture yet small landholders face fragmented information rising input costs climate uncertainty and limited access to credit and marketsâOutlining Maharashtraâs AIdriven initiatives in agriculture he said âTraditional extension systems however committed cannot match the scale and speed required AI changes this equation It can provide hyperlocal weather predictions early pest outbreak warnings precision irrigation and fertiliser guidance cropbased credit scoring transparent supply chains and realtime market advisories But AI is not magic As our PM said in his inaugural session âAI must be built on trusted data ethical governance and public accountability Without trust scale will not happenâThe Chief Minister described the stateâs AIpowered mobile platform which delivers multilingual personalised advisories market intelligence and access to government services acting as a âdigital friendâ to farmersâThis demonstrates one thing very clearly Farmers are ready for AI when AI is designed for themâ he addedHe also cited earlywarning systems for cotton growers through geospatial analytics and postsurveillance calling it âpredictive governance in actionâCM Fadnavis said Maharashtraâs model is being designed as a replicable public infrastructure for India and the Global SouthIn partnership with the India AI Mission the World Bank and the Wadhwani AI a global call for AI use cases in agriculture resulted in a compendium of successful realworld applications across Africa Asia Latin America and beyond released on February 17 in DelhiTaking a dig at political opponents Fadnavis quipped âI would just like to say that they need AI the most because at times when human intelligence becomes negligible AI can provide supportâHe added âThe AI Summit taking place is very important for our country It showcases Indiaâs progress in AI to the world Especially at a time when AI is rapidly advancing and revolutionising various sectors global leaders coming to India to witness the countryâs strength and engage in discussions on AI is highly significant Our session particularly focussed on AI in agriculture and Maharashtraâs achievements in this domainâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/maha-cm-highlights-ais-transformative-role-in-agriculture-at-india-ai-impact-summit-661963.html Fri, 20 Feb 2026 12:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/eci-shares-sir-snapshot-of-net-change-in-electors-in-gujarat-lakshadweep-and-puducherry-661964.html New Delhi Feb 20 The Election Commission of India ECI on Friday shared a snapshot of the net changes in the number of electors following the completion of the Special Intensive Revision SIR of electoral rolls in Gujarat Lakshadweep and Puducherry The Commission detailed the extent of deletions and attributed the changes to standard verification processes aimed at ensuring clean and accurate voter listsIn Gujarat the total number of electors before the SIR stood at 50843436 After the revision exercise the figure came down to 44030725 marking a deletion of 6812711 names a net change of 1340 per centThe Commission said the deletions were primarily due to electors found ineligible on grounds such as death permanent migration duplicate or multiple enrolments and other statutory reasons identified during field verificationIn the Union Territory of Lakshadweep the electorate declined marginally from 57813 before SIR to 57607 after completion of the exercise a net change of 036 per centIn Puducherry the number of electors reduced from 1021578 prior to the revision to 944211 postSIR reflecting a net change of 757 per centThe ECI emphasised that updation of electoral rolls is a continuous process and eligible citizens can still apply for corrections and changes It said Form 6 can be submitted for the inclusion of new voters Form 7 for deletion of names and Form 8 for the correction or modification of entriesThese forms can be filed up to the last date of nomination in an electionThe Commission further said that the SIR process in Bihar has already been completed while the Summary Revision SR for Assam has also concluded The final electoral rolls for Andaman and Nicobar Islands Chhattisgarh Goa Kerala Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan are scheduled to be published on February 21Earlier on Thursday the ECI announced that it has initiated the next phase of SIR in 22 States and Union Territories including the National Capital Territory NCT of Delhi beginning April 2026The States and UTs slated for the upcoming SIR include Andhra Pradesh Arunachal Pradesh Chandigarh Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu Haryana Himachal Pradesh Jammu and Kashmir Jharkhand Karnataka Ladakh Maharashtra Manipur Meghalaya Mizoram Nagaland NCT of Delhi Odisha Punjab Sikkim Tripura Telangana and Uttarakhand IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/eci-shares-sir-snapshot-of-net-change-in-electors-in-gujarat-lakshadweep-and-puducherry-661964.html Fri, 20 Feb 2026 12:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ysrcp-leaders-must-not-fear-false-cases-says-jagan-reddy-661968.html Amaravati Feb 20 Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and YSR Congress Party YSRCP President YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Friday asked party leaders and workers not to be afraid of what he called false cases filed against them Jagan Mohan Reddy stated this when party leader and former minister Ambati Rambabu met him at his residence after being released on bail in what the party described as an illegal caseAccording to the YSRCP Rambabu briefed YS Jagan on the cases filed against him the vandalism of his residence by TDP cadres the attempt on his life police inaction and what he termed as overaction by certain officersJagan assured Rambabu that there was no need to be anxious about false cases and that they would be fought legallyHe strongly criticised the conduct of certain police officials who he said were acting in support of the ruling TDP and emphasised that obstacles and harassment faced in the course of fighting for peopleâs rights must be confronted firmlyHe urged party leaders and cadres not to worry and to continue standing with the publicMP Pilli Subhash Chandra Bose former MP Nandigam Suresh former MLA Malladi Vishnu and NTR District YSRCP President Devineni Avinash were also present during the meetingFormer minister and Guntur district YSRCP president Rambabu was released on bail from the Rajahmundry Central Prison on Wednesday evening following a court in Guntur granting him bail in the alleged illegal lottery case registered against him at Sattenapalli in 2023He served the 17day remand period in connection with this and another case pertaining to the alleged abusive remarks against Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and obstruction of police personnel from discharging their duty during a protest in Guntur on January 31He was arrested on that day amid a tense situation that prevailed at his house after it was allegedly attacked by the TDP supporters in GunturOn Thursday Rajahmundry police issued a notice disallowing him from leading a huge procession from Rajahmundry to GunturA huge crowd had gathered when the former minister started for Guntur Police stopped his convoy saying he cannot lead a huge procession as Section 30 is in force He was handed over a notice denying him permission to lead a convoy IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ysrcp-leaders-must-not-fear-false-cases-says-jagan-reddy-661968.html Fri, 20 Feb 2026 13:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/one-year-of-bjp-rule-in-delhi-cm-highlights-health-cover-food-schemes-work-culture-shift-661969.html New Delhi Feb 20 IANS Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday marked the completion of one year of the Delhi government highlighting the focus on delivery of results welfare initiatives and positive transformation across the citynbspnbspAddressing the media Gupta said Every step we have taken forward has been guided by the principle of less paperwork and more work Today that approach is clearly visible on the ground The government in Delhi does not engage in poster politics or tweet politics we have changed the work culture in the cityWe do what previous governments only made noise about We deliver solutions Where earlier there was only delay and blamegame we take responsibility and execute work within defined timelines This approach is guided by the BJPs nationalist ideology and the Prime Ministers core mantra Sabka Sath Sabka Vikas Sabka Prayas ensuring that our politics focusses on service and development not personal or partisan gains she addedOn completing one year she said I can confidently tell the people of Delhi that we have worked across all sectors to bring about a positive transformation As I present my report card this book containing our detailed report will reach everyone highlighting the key achievements of the governmentnbspGupta elaborated on welfare initiatives launched under her governmentnbspShe said The BJP works in line with Deendayal Upadhyays Antyodaya principle prioritising the welfare of the poorest On the very first day of the government the Cabinet took a decision on the Ayushman Yojana A health cover of Rs 10 lakh has been made available In one year 7 lakh people have registered and over 30000 beneficiaries have availed of health benefits through Ayushman Bharat and the Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana PMVVYHighlighting food security she said Another core principle of our welfare philosophy is that the greatest need of any person is food With the vision that no one in Delhi should go hungry Atal Canteens were started Today 70 Atal Canteens are operational providing wholesome meals with dignity to the poor shelter residents and labourers for just 5nbspExpressing gratitude Gupta added I sincerely thank the people of Delhi for giving the BJP the opportunity to serve in the city My heartfelt gratitude goes to all BJP workers whose years of hard work helped create the majority government I am deeply thankful to the sisters of Delhi and our nation whose blessings and support have kept my energy and courage aliveShe concluded One year was the time to change Delhis direction and I assure you that the five years will be to transform Delhis conditionnbspEarlier the Chief Minister visited the Marghat Wale Hanuman Baba Temple to seek blessings and distributed prasad to sanitation workers reinforcing her commitment to welfare and community engagementIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/one-year-of-bjp-rule-in-delhi-cm-highlights-health-cover-food-schemes-work-culture-shift-661969.html Fri, 20 Feb 2026 13:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-leader-alleges-conspiracy-in-targeting-priest-in-sabarimala-gold-theft-case-661970.html Thiruvananthapuram Feb 20 BJP leader Sandeep Vachaspati has accused political leaders of orchestrating a âconspiracyâ targeting Kantarar Rajeevar the tantri priest in the Sabarimala gold theft case Sandeep Vachaspati is one often seen translating the speeches of top BJP leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and others when they are visiting the stateHe said this in a social media post following the bail of the templeâs tantri on ThursdaySandeep Vachaspatiâs post highlighted that the tantriâs arrest was unjustified and politically motivatedâI had pointed out the same issues after visiting the tantriâs house Back then there was an organised attempt to vilify meâ he wroteHe alleged that while Devaswom ministers and officials played key roles in the Sabarimala gold robbery the priest is bound only to follow directives from the Devaswom Board but was singled out for arrestOn Thursday while granting bail to the tantri the court has mentioned that there was no evidence against himThe BJP leader alleged that state ministers Saji Cherian from Chengannur and Devaswom Minister VN Vasavan along with other CPIM leaders were diverting attention from the real culprits by unnecessarily implicating the tantriAccording to Sandeep Vachaspati delays in filing charges against those who later secured bail were also part of the effort to shield the actual perpetratorsThe tantriâs bail on Thursday has been welcomed by Sandeep Vachaspati who described it as a legal vindication and a setback for those attempting to malign the community and discredit revered AcharyasâThe conspiracy to insult millions of Ayyappa devotees has been rejected by the courtâ he said adding that the BJP would continue its fight to bring to justice the final person who stole Ayyappaâs wealth as well as the political leaders who enabled the theftSandeep Vachaspatis post reflects the BJPâs continued focus on the case linking political accountability with the pursuit of justiceSo far of the arrested 13 people six have now secured bail IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-leader-alleges-conspiracy-in-targeting-priest-in-sabarimala-gold-theft-case-661970.html Fri, 20 Feb 2026 14:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ai-startup-ceos-laud-indias-supportive-environment-after-roundtable-with-pm-modi-661974.html New Delhi Feb 20 IANS On the sidelines of the AI Impact Summit Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a roundtable with CEOs of AI and deep tech startups pioneering innovative initiatives in agriculture healthcare cybersecurity etc who praised the countrys supportive and dynamic environment for Artificial Intelligence advancementnbspStressing the importance of promoting Indian languages and culture PM Modi called for expanding Indias AI tools for higher education in the mother tongue according to an official statementnbspThe startups participating in the roundtable are tackling populationscale challenges across key sectors such as healthcare agriculture cybersecurity ethical AI space etc the statement from the Prime Ministers Office saidParticipating ventures also include those focused on ethical AI social empowerment through vernacular access to justice and education and modernising legacy systems to strengthen enterprise productivitynbspThe AI startups said The country now offers a supportive and dynamic environment for AI advancement firmly establishing its presence on the global AI landscapenbspThey praised Indias sustained push to strengthen its Artificial Intelligence ecosystem sectors rapid expansion and noted that global momentum of AI innovation and deployment is increasingly shifting towards IndiaThe firms lauded the India AI Impact Summit as reflecting the countrys growing stature in global AI conversations the statement saidnbspFrom firms focused on advanced diagnostics gene therapy and efficient patient record management to AI companies leveraging geospatial and underwater intelligence to boost productivity and help manage climate risks the participation was broadbasednbspThe Prime Minister congratulated innovators for taking bold risks and building impactful AI solutions He discussed the potential of harnessing AI technology in various sectors such as agriculture and environmental protection including monitoring crop productivity and fertiliser usage to safeguard soil healthThe Prime Minister underscored the need for strong data governance cautioned against misinformation and urged the development of solutions tailored to Indias needsnbspReferring to UPI as a model of simple and scalable digital innovation he expressed confidence in Indian companies and encouraged trust in domestic products He also spoke about expanding private participation in the space sector and noted strong investor interest in Indian startups the statement notedIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ai-startup-ceos-laud-indias-supportive-environment-after-roundtable-with-pm-modi-661974.html Fri, 20 Feb 2026 14:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/for-them-ai-is-anti-india-bjp-blasts-cong-over-shirtless-protest-at-bharat-mandapam--661979.html New Delhi Feb 20 IANS The Bharatiya Janata Party BJPnbsp launched a scathing attack on the Congress party for orchestrating a theatrical protest at the fiveday AI Impact Summit by its youth wing members and demanded that the party issue an apology to the nation for its deplorable and despicable behaviournbspThe BJP took strong exception to disruptive tactics by the Congress workers and said that opposing a policy or event could be a democratic right but this was a deliberate attempt to sabotage Indias image globallynbspnbspPointing direct fingers at Congress MP Rahul Gandhi for unleashing the topless Congress workers at the venue it said that the planned ruckus was clearly designed to embarrass India on the world stagenbspnbspAt a time when India is hosting a prestigious global AI Summit showcasing its innovation and leadership in technology the Congress party chose disruption over dignity it further saidnbsp nbspBJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala equated the shirtless protest outside the Bharat Mandapam as an antiIndia act accusing the Congress of unleashing goons against the nationnbsp nbspThese are shirtless protests against the BJP but brainless goons against India For Congress AI means Anti India he saidnbsp nbspAnother BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari also blamed Rahul Gandhi who recently termed the AI Impact Summit a disorganised PR spectacle and said that it was on his instructions that the youth Congress workers stormed the venue being attended by foreign delegates tech gurus and many heads of nationsnbspnbspCongress needs to apologise to the nation Congress behaves like Urban Naxals he saidnbspMeanwhile the group of Indian Youth Congress workers who barged into the Bharat Mandapam with provocative banners and shouted slogans against Prime Minister Narendra Modi were rounded up and taken to the police stationnbspPolice said that legal action is being taken against them for trespassing into the complex and putting the security of foreign delegates at risknbspIn a statement the INC youth wing admitted that its workers demonstrated outside the venue and it was to register a protest over the government prioritising corporate interests over national interestsnbspIANSnbsp https://dailyworld.in/politics/for-them-ai-is-anti-india-bjp-blasts-cong-over-shirtless-protest-at-bharat-mandapam--661979.html Fri, 20 Feb 2026 15:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ai-to-create-new-jobs-vp-radhakrishnan-tells-summit-delegates-ceos-661980.html New Delhi Feb 20 IANS Interacting with a group of CEOs and delegates participating in the India AI Impact Summit 2026 Vice President CP Radhakrishnan on Friday expressed optimism about the future of Artificial Intelligence noting that the technology will not only transform existing roles but also generate entirely new job opportunitiesnbspThe Vice President said that Indias hosting of the AI Summit was a significant initiative envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi positioning the country as a key player in the global AI landscape and as a major driver of transformation in healthcare education and good governanceThe delegates shared their perspectives on how Artificial Intelligence is fundamentally reshaping the global working landscape and unlocking vast new opportunities said a statementnbspThey highlighted AIs transformative potential across key sectors such as healthcare education and employment noting that India is uniquely positioned to benefit from largescale AIdriven innovation and deployment it saidnbspThey also expressed appreciation for the India AI Mission on its continued support in building a strong and collaborative AI ecosystemThe delegates described the summit as spectacular in scale and impact showcasing a vibrant pool of young talent innovative ideas and forwardlooking solutions from emerging minds across the country said the statementnbspThey also discussed practical and citizencentric applications including the use of AIpowered simultaneous language translation in parliamentary proceedings which can significantly enhance accessibility efficiency and inclusiveness in governancenbspThe Vice President emphasised that AI enhances accuracy streamlines workflows and generates widespread societal benefitsnbspHe also highlighted Indias commitment to an inclusive peoplecentric AI approach that broadens access and creates opportunities in the nationnbspThe Vice President affirmed that when India and its people are given the right opportunities and platforms their potential is limitless and the coming years hold promise of being a defining and successful one for the nationIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ai-to-create-new-jobs-vp-radhakrishnan-tells-summit-delegates-ceos-661980.html Fri, 20 Feb 2026 16:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-attacks-mamata-banerjee-over-new-state-service-posts-calls-move-misleading-661904.html Kolkata Feb 19 The Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday criticised Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee over her governmentâs decision to create additional posts in the State Constituted Services In a post on X Amit Malviya BJPâs IT Cell chief and the partyâs central observer for West Bengal alleged that the move was aimed at misleading state civil service officersâThe recent statement made by Mamata Banerjee regarding the creation of additional posts and revision of cadre schedules for State Constituted Services must be seen for what it is an attempt to mislead WBCS Exe officersâ he saidThe BJP leader added âPresented as a âlandmarkâ reform it is in reality a measure too little too late By highlighting incremental structural changes while ignoring the longpending core grievances of the service the government seeks to create the appearance of reform without delivering substantive justice Without addressing financial deprivation prolonged stagnation and administrative insecurity such declarations amount to optics rather than meaningful governanceâHe also targeted the state government over the alleged financial loss caused by nonpayment of Dearness Allowance DAâThe continued failure to clear pending Dearness Allowance DA has caused severe financial hardship A WBCS Exe officer at the entry level loses approximately Rs 282 lakh annually due to nonpayment of appropriate DA while an officer at the level of Special Secretary loses around Rs 888 lakh per year Any claim of service betterment rings hollow so long as this fundamental injustice persistsâ Malviya saidHe alleged that IAS promotions in the state face unusual delays compared with other states âA significant number of officers lose eligibility for IAS promotion after crossing 56 years of age As a result nearly half of certain batches are excluded leading to substantial financial loss at retirement compounded by years of unpaid DAâ he saidâIn sum while the creation of additional posts is being portrayed as transformative it does not address the structural financial and promotional inequities faced by WBCS Exe officers Unless DA arrears are cleared promotion timelines rationalised cadre structures genuinely reformed and safeguards ensured against arbitrary administrative actions such measures will remain symbolic gestures rather than substantive solutionsâ Malviya addedOn Wednesday Banerjee had announced that the state Cabinet approved a proposal to create 20 per cent additional posts across different pay levels in nine State Constituted Services to ensure the availability of experienced officers for higher responsibilities and to bring parity among servicesShe also said inprinciple approval had been granted to extend similar measures to other State Constituted Services IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-attacks-mamata-banerjee-over-new-state-service-posts-calls-move-misleading-661904.html Thu, 19 Feb 2026 16:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/what-culture-are-we-developing-sc-questions-growing-trend-of-election-time-freebies-661906.html New Delhi Feb 19 IANS The Supreme Court on Thursday made strong oral observations against the growing trend of political parties and state governments announcing freebies ahead of electionsnbspA bench of Chief Justice of India CJI Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi made the remarks while hearing a writ petition filed by Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Company Ltd challenging Rule 23 of the Electricity Amendment Rules 2024 relating to tariff subsidies and recovery of power costsCautioning that indiscriminate welfare distribution could adversely impact the countrys longterm economic development the CJIled Bench questioned the practice of states absorbing electricity bills and extending blanket subsidies without distinguishing between those who can afford to pay and those who are genuinely marginalisedIs it in the public interest that the state is absorbing all these We are not talking of Tamil Nadu in particular We are talking of panIndia Because of freebies what kind of culture are we developing the apex court askedIt is understandable that as a welfare state you want to provide relief to the marginalised But without drawing any distinction between those who can afford and those who cannot afford if you start giving will it not amount to a sort of appeasing policy it further saidThe CJI Surya Kantled bench said the top court was really disturbed by the nationwide trend of announcing welfare schemes shortly before electionsWhy are schemes suddenly announced near elections It is high time that all political stalwarts leaders parties and all social engineers revisit everything it saidThe Supreme Court noted that even revenuesurplus states are under an obligation to prioritise development expenditureEven if a state is revenue surplus should that money not be used for roads hospitals and schools Instead food clothes and other benefits are distributed near elections What is happening in this country it remarkedIt stressed that governments must prioritise creating employment opportunities rather than expanding unconditional benefitsYou should create avenues for employment so that people can earn with dignity and selfrespect If everything becomes free food electricity cash transfers why would people work the bench saidAt the same time the Supreme Court clarified that genuine welfare measures for those who cannot afford basic services remain the governments responsibility Notably the broader issue of poll freebies is already under consideration before the apex court in a pending petition filed by advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay in which the Supreme Court has observed that lucrative promises by political parties may push states towards imminent bankruptcy and has referred the matter to a threejudge BenchIn its 2013 judgment in the Subramanian Balaji vs Tamil Nadu case however the SC held that the distribution of free colour television sets by the DMK government after winning the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections could not be termed a corrupt practice under the Representation of the People ActIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/what-culture-are-we-developing-sc-questions-growing-trend-of-election-time-freebies-661906.html Thu, 19 Feb 2026 16:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pasting-stickers-on-old-schemes-palaniswami-attacks-cm-stalin-661913.html Chennai Feb 19 AIADMK General Secretary and Leader of Opposition Edappadi K Palaniswami EPS on Thursday launched a sharp attack on Chief Minister MK Stalin accusing him of claiming credit for welfare measures introduced by the previous AIADMK government and engaging in what he termed âsticker politicsâ In a post on his social media handle Palaniswami alleged that the DMK government had failed to implement any significant new schemes since assuming office and was instead rebranding AIADMKera initiativesâAfter coming to power they have not delivered a single meaningful scheme All they have done is paste stickers over projects launched by the AIADMKâ he saidHe accused Stalin of attempting to take credit for the 3 per cent reservation in government jobs for sportspersons stating that the scheme was originally introduced as a 2 per cent quota in 2018 under the AIADMK regime and later enhanced to 3 per cent during his tenureâAt a recent sports department function the Chief Minister tried to write his name over the benefits of the 3 per cent quota for sportspersons It is laughableâ he remarkedPalaniswami also referred to the 75 per cent internal reservation for government school students in medical admissions claiming that he had already exposed what he called âhistorical falsehoodsâ surrounding the scheme during a debate in the AssemblyHe reiterated that both the 75 per cent medical quota and the sports quota were carefully designed initiatives implemented during the AIADMK government reflecting his understanding of government school students and sportspersonsâWhat exactly has Stalin done in these schemes Apart from posing for photographs while issuing appointment orders what is his contributionâ he questionedChallenging the DMK leadership Palaniswami said Stalin should campaign on the achievements of his own government rather than âride on our schemesâHe ended his post with a pointed remark âIf there are no achievements to speak of then I wish you defeatâThe statement came shortly before the DMDK formally joined the DMKled alliance Palaniswami did not address the development in his post When reporters later sought his reaction to DMDKâs move he said he would respond at an appropriate time and left without elaborating IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pasting-stickers-on-old-schemes-palaniswami-attacks-cm-stalin-661913.html Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/karnataka-healthcare-system-crumbling-bjp-demands-minister-dinesh-gundu-raos-resignation-661914.html Bengaluru Feb 19 Asserting that Karnatakas healthcare system is crumbling the BJP on Thursday demanded the resignation of the state Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao The Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka stated on Thursday in Bengaluru that First there were reports of medicine shortages in government hospitals Now the Congress government in Karnataka has failed to clear Rs 14378 crore in dues to CT and MRI service providers pending for the last three yearsThis is not a minor administrative lapse This is financial paralysis in the Health Department Ashoka saidBecause of this irresponsibility essential diagnostic services across Karnataka are under threat If CT and MRI services are disrupted it is the poor and middleclass patients who will suffer accident victims cancer patients stroke cases and pregnant women requiring urgent scans Ashoka notedThe BJP leader said What exactly is Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao doing The Health Department that cannot clear Rs 14378 crore in legitimate dues for three years cannot claim to care about public healthChief Minister Siddaramaiah must answer why Rs 14378 crores were not released why contractual obligations were ignored for three years and why the Health Department is pushing lifesaving services to the brink Ashoka questionedIf the Health Minister cannot ensure timely payments for essential services he has no moral authority to continue in office CM Siddaramaiah must take responsibility and immediately sack Minsiter Dinesh Gundu Rao from the cabinet Ashoka demandedAshoka has also released documents submitted to the government seeking release of pending amount The submission to government states Due to the nonrelease of our rightful dues the situation has reached a point where the companys financial capacity to continue operations has been entirely exhausted Leaving us with no option but to make a final request to release an interim payment of a Rs 50 crore to stabalise out operations IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/karnataka-healthcare-system-crumbling-bjp-demands-minister-dinesh-gundu-raos-resignation-661914.html Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/kavitha-to-float-new-political-party-in-may-661921.html Hyderabad Feb 19 Telangana Jagruthi President K Kavitha on Thursday announced that she will float a new political party in May this year Kavitha told media persons here that after seeing a good mahuratam in the first week of May she would announce the partyShe also declared that the new partyâs name will have âTelanganaâ in it and exuded confidence that the new party would emerge as the main opposition partyShe also revealed her plans to contest the next Assembly elections from either Siddipet or BodhanKavitha daughter of Bharat Rashtra Samithi BRS President and former Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao KCR stated that Siddipet will be her first choiceKCR represented Siddipet constituency for nearly two decades till 2004 and since then his nephew T Harish Rao has been representing itKavitha quit the BRS last year after she was suspended from it for antiparty activitiesThe action came against her after she launched a scathing attack on her cousins Harish Rao and Santosh Rao blaming them for the allegations of corruption against KCROn Harish Raoâs statement terming the review of Telangana governmentâs performance by the Congress leadership in Delhi as a direct affront to Telanganaâs pride Kavitha remarked that there was no difference between the BRS and the Congress governmentIn the previous government the cabinet used to go to Erravelli KCRâs farmhouse now it is going to Delhi There is no big difference between the two she saidShe also criticised her brother and BRS Working President K T Rama Rao saying those who betrayedthe Telangana movement sit next to himKavitha demanded that the Road Transport Corporation RTC be merged with the government immediately She also demanded that the workers who were dismissed from RTC for various reasons be reinstated immediately without any preconditionsShe alleged that attempts are being made to pave the way for the privatisation of RTC She demanded that RTC should be the owner of all electric buses being procured IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/kavitha-to-float-new-political-party-in-may-661921.html Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/i-pac-raid-row-ed-tells-sc-it-has-been-terrorised-in-bengal-661791.html New Delhi Feb 18 IANS The Enforcement Directorate ED told the Supreme Court on Wednesday that it has been terrorised in West Bengal as the apex court adjourned hearing on its plea accusing the state government and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of interfering in recent search operations at the office of political consultancy firm Indian Political Action Committee IPAC and the residence of its cofounder Pratik Jain in KolkatanbspnbspDuring the hearing Additional Solicitor General SV Raju appearing for the federal antimoney laundering agency strongly refuted the submission that the ED had weaponised its powersThe remarks came after senior advocate Siddharth Luthra contended that the ED must justify the weaponisation of its authorityIt ED has not been weaponised it has been terrorised ASG Raju saidAfter Solicitor General Tushar Mehta the Centres secondhighest law officer stated that the ED is likely to file its rejoinder during the day a Bench of Justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and KV Viswanathan posted the matter for further hearing on March 18The hearing was adjourned last week following a request made due to the ill health of senior advocate Kapil SibalDuring the brief hearing SG Mehta representing the ED informed the apex court that he had been apprised about Sibals inability to appearI cant oppose on this ground If it can be kept on 18th February the Centres secondhighest law officer submittedAcceding to the request the Justice Mishraled Bench had deferred the matter for further hearing on February 18The ED has approached the top court seeking directions to register FIRs against Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee the state Director General of Police DGP and the Kolkata Police Commissioner alleging obstruction of lawful duties during the federal agencys simultaneous search operationsIn her counteraffidavit Chief Minister Banerjee has denied all allegations of interference and obstruction asserting that her limited presence on the premises was solely to retrieve confidential and proprietary data belonging to her Trinamool Congress AITCAccording to the affidavit CM Banerjee visited Pratik Jains residence at Loudon Street and IPACs office in Bidhannagar on January 8 2026 after receiving information that sensitive political data of the Trinamool was being accessed during the searches She maintained that the data was vitally linked to the AITCs strategy for the upcoming Legislative Assembly electionThe affidavit stated that when she reached the premises she politely requested the officials of the Enforcement Directorate to be allowed to retrieve the Partys data and the devices they were stored in and files containing prints of the sameIt further claimed that the officers of the Enforcement Directorate present thereat did not object to this request and permitted her to retrieve some of these devices and physical filesAfter she had done so the Answering Respondent CM Banerjee left the premises so as not to inconvenience the officials of the Enforcement Directorate in any way the counter affidavit said adding that the EDs own panchnamas record that the searches continued thereafter and were conducted peacefully and in an orderly mannerCM Banerjee has also argued that neither the Trinamool nor its officials are accused in the alleged coal scam and therefore the ED cannot claim any right to the partys proprietary dataThe counter affidavit has further accused the ED of acting with mala fide intent alleging that the searches were carried out in the runup to the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections and after a prolonged period of inactionIt has questioned the timing of the operations claiming they coincided with IPAC possessing critical documents including a proposed list of candidates for the upcoming pollsAlleging violations of statutory safeguards under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act PMLA the affidavit also states that the ED failed to produce any audio or video recordings of the searches This it claimed raises a strong presumption that the searches were clandestine and aimed at accessing confidential political dataEarlier on January 15 the Supreme Court had stayed the FIRs registered by the West Bengal Police against ED officials in connection with the searches and had also directed the preservation of CCTV footage and other digital storage devices containing recordings of the searched premises and the surrounding areasIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/i-pac-raid-row-ed-tells-sc-it-has-been-terrorised-in-bengal-661791.html Wed, 18 Feb 2026 13:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/over-one-lakh-daily-wagers-casual-labourers-working-in-various-govt-departments-jk-cm-jammu-feb-18-ians-jammu-and-kashmir-chief-minister-omar-abdullah-told-the-legislative-assembly-on-wednesday-that-there-are-over-one-lakh-daily-wagers-and-casual-labourers-at-present-engaged-by-various-govern-661793.html Jammu Feb 18 IANS Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah told the Legislative Assembly on Wednesday that there are over one lakh daily wagers and casual labourers at present engaged by various government departmentsnbspThe Chief Minister assured the Assembly that a legally sustainable approach is being adopted for their regularisationIn a written reply to a clubbed question by 15 members from the treasury and opposition benches Omar Abdullah said a total of 100501 workers have been registered through an online Aadhaarbased biometric identification and skill profiling systemThe registered workforce includes 69696 casual labourers 8836 daily rated workers 8534 seasonal labourers 5757 food and civil supplies helpers 2153 parttime sweepers and 1929 persons engaged through the hospital development fund The highest concentration of workers 38585 is in the Public Health Engineering and Irrigation ampamp Flood Control Department followed by Power Development 13616 Education 12646 Forest 8317 and Public Works RampampB 6801 he saidA significant number of 4868 are also engaged in Health and Medical Education Agriculture 4776 Animal and Sheep Husbandry 2170 and Housing and Urban Development 1702 and other departments he saidOf the 57390 registered workers in the Kashmir division Srinagar accounts for the highest number at 11825 followed by Anantnag 8823 Baramulla 7724 Budgam 5772 Kupwara 5547 Ganderbal 4056 Kulgam 3321 and Bandipora 2771Similarly among the 40077 registered workers in the Jammu zone Jammu district tops the list with 13425 workers followed by Rajouri 5191 Doda 3856 Kathua 3451 Reasi 3210 Kishtwar 2754 Udhampur 2518 Poonch 2455 Samba 1722 and Ramban 1495Amid concerns over longpending regularisation CM Abdullah said a highlevel committee was constituted on March 19 last year to examine the issue holisticallyThe committee is undertaking a detailed examination in consultation with concerned departments The government will consider its recommendations and take appropriate action in accordance with legal and financial propriety the chief minister saidReiterating his governments commitment to a fair and transparent process the chief minister said the time taken does not reflect administrative apathy but the need for a legally sound and financially sustainable approachCM Omar Abdullah on Tuesday said he understands the problems of daily wagers and instead of threatening an agitation their representatives should meet him directly to resolve issuesIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/over-one-lakh-daily-wagers-casual-labourers-working-in-various-govt-departments-jk-cm-jammu-feb-18-ians-jammu-and-kashmir-chief-minister-omar-abdullah-told-the-legislative-assembly-on-wednesday-that-there-are-over-one-lakh-daily-wagers-and-casual-labourers-at-present-engaged-by-various-govern-661793.html Wed, 18 Feb 2026 14:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/assam-cm-unveils-pms-portal-signals-final-push-on-venture-school-provincialisation-661795.html Guwahati Feb 18 IANS Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday launched the Provincialisation Management System PMS portal marking what the government described as a decisive and transparent push to resolve the longpending issue of provincialisation of venture educational institutions and their workforcenbspUnveiling the digital platform at Lok Sewa Bhawan Sarma said the PMS portal would streamline monitor and process applications from nonprovincialised venture schools and colleges along with their teaching and nonteaching staff under the Assam Education Provincialisation of Services of Teachers and ReOrganisation of Educational Institutions Act 2017 as amended in 2025Positioning the initiative as both a governance reform and a welfare measure the Chief Minister said the portal creates a centralised database of venture institutions and associated manpower ending ambiguity and alleged irregularities that have plagued the provincialisation process for decadesRecalling his tenure as Education Minister Sarma underlined the BJPled governments track record noting that over 50000 teachers across primary secondary and college levels were provincialised in phases since 2011He said the launch of PMS marks the third and most comprehensive phase covering venture LP UPME high schools higher secondary schools and degree collegesHowever in a politically significant announcement Sarma acknowledged that not all applicants may qualify under existing rulesTo address this he said the government has introduced a Gurudakshina scheme in the VoteonAccount Budget presented on February 17 offering a financial package to those whose services cannot be provincialisedHe also announced a preferential marking system to help such manpower compete for other government jobsThe Chief Minister stressed that only institutions established prior to January 1 2006 would be eligible and applicants must submit recognition land documents academic performance details and staff credentialsCalling on all stakeholders to cooperate Sarma said the government is committed to securing the future of venture institution employees while maintaining legal and administrative disciplineEducation Minister Ranoj Pegu senior officials and education board representatives were present at the launch which is being seen as a strategic move to consolidate support among teachers ahead of key political milestones in the stateIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/assam-cm-unveils-pms-portal-signals-final-push-on-venture-school-provincialisation-661795.html Wed, 18 Feb 2026 14:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/haryana-cm-inaugurates-lays-foundation-of-projects-worth-rs-103-crore-661833.html Chandigarh Feb 18 IANS Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Wednesday inaugurated and laid the foundation stones of five development projects worth Rs 10331 crore during a public meeting held in Uchana in Jind district aimed at strengthening infrastructure and accelerating development in the regionnbspThese included three projects inaugurated at a cost of Rs 2854 crore and two projects for which foundation stones were laid involving an estimated expenditure of Rs 7477 crore reflecting the state governments focus on expanding public infrastructure and improving civic amenitiesOn the occasion Public Health Engineering Minister Ranbir Gangwa Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Krishan Kumar Bedi and Deputy Speaker of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha Krishan Middha also addressed the gathering and highlighted the governments development initiativesPublic Health Engineering Minister Gangwa said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Saini the doubleengine government was carrying out development works at a rapid pace across Haryana ensuring balanced and inclusive growth in both urban and rural areasReferring to the Assembly elections he said the people of Uchana played a decisive role in forming the BJP government and strengthening democratic participation in the stateHe said the Chief Minister was ensuring equal development across Haryana and prioritising infrastructure projects in all regions without discriminationThere was a misconception that only political dynasties could win from this constituency Another myth was that the BJP formed the government only after certain leaders joined the party The people of Uchana have dispelled both these misconceptions Gangwa saidHe added that leaders who had served as ministers at the Centre Members of Parliament and MLAs were shown that electoral victories are decided by the people and not by political families or dynastic influenceSocial Justice and Empowerment Minister Krishan Kumar Bedi said the Bangar region has historically played a significant role in Haryanas political landscape and contributed to shaping the states leadershipThere was a time when the Congress won five seats from here and leaders like Chaudhary Devi Lal also won from this region Bedi said while recalling the political history of the areaHowever he said that people have now expressed their trust in the BJP Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Saini reflecting changing political dynamics and growing support for the current governments development agendaHe alleged that leaders elected from the region in the past had used their political positions for personal advancement at the state and national levels but did not devote sufficient attention to the development of the areaIn contrast Chief Minister Saini was directly engaging with people addressing their concerns and accelerating development works to improve infrastructure and public services in the region he saidIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/haryana-cm-inaugurates-lays-foundation-of-projects-worth-rs-103-crore-661833.html Wed, 18 Feb 2026 22:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/rajasthan-assembly-erupts-as-bjp-mla-demands-cow-be-named-state-animal-661770.html Jaipur Feb 17 IANS The Budget Session of the Rajasthan Assembly descended into chaos on Tuesday as a discussion on cattle issues snowballed into sharp accusations heated exchanges and nearphysical confrontation between ruling and opposition MLAs The controversy erupted after the opposition raised the issue of a calfs severed head allegedly found near the Hingonia cow shelter in JaipurnbspLeader of Opposition Tika Ram Jully accused the government of failing to maintain law and order and alleged that the accused in the case was being shielded by a ruling party MLAHis remarks brought BJP and Congress members facetoface in the HousenbspThe uproar initially began when Hawamahal MLA Balmukundacharya asked whether the government was considering granting the cow the status of state animal in RajasthannbspAnimal Husbandry Minister Zoraram Kumawat responded that no such proposal was currently under considerationnbspWhile the reply itself triggered murmurs the atmosphere turned charged when the opposition shifted focus to the Jaipur incident terming it a conspiracy to disturb communal harmonyDuring his address Leader of Opposition Tikaram Jully claimed that the accused was being protected by a BJP legislator indirectly pointing towards Civil Lines MLA Gopal Sharma An enraged Sharma rose to counter the allegation declaring Are you taking my name If any of my men are found involved in this matter I will resign from the Assembly immediatelynbspHis statement intensified the confrontation with members from both sides engaging in loud sloganeering Tensions escalated further when Sharma reportedly moved towards the opposition benchesCongress leaders Govind Singh Dotasra and Ashok Chandna also advanced towards him leading to chaotic scenes inside the HousenbspOpposition MLAs waved posters related to the incident prompting a stern response from Assembly Speaker Vasudev DevnaninbspObjecting to the display the Speaker remarked that the manner in which the posters were brought and waved suggested a preplanned attempt to disrupt proceedingsHe instructed Chief Whip Jogeshwar Garg to calm tempers and urged members to maintain the dignity of the HousenbspDespite repeated appeals sharp exchanges continued with the opposition accusing the government of politicising cow protection while failing to ensure safety even in the state capitalnbspThe dramatic scenes marked one of the most turbulent moments of the ongoing Budget SessionIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/rajasthan-assembly-erupts-as-bjp-mla-demands-cow-be-named-state-animal-661770.html Tue, 17 Feb 2026 15:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/karnataka-hc-quashes-defamation-case-against-rahul-gandhi-661782.html Bengaluru Feb 17 IANS The Karnataka High Court on Tuesday quashed a criminal defamation petition filed by the Bharatiya Janata Party BJP against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for allegedly carrying out propaganda against the partynbspThe case pertains to a corruption rate card advertisement targeting the previous BJP government during the Assembly elections Rahul Gandhi had filed a petition seeking to quash the charges against him The court observed that allowing the proceedings to continue would amount to an abuse of the process of lawA bench headed by Justice Sunil Dutt Yadav passed the order and stated that the proceedings insofar as petitioner Rahul Gandhi is concerned are set asidenbspThe complaint was filed by BJP leader Keshav Prasad The complainant accused Chief Minister Siddaramaiah Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and Rahul Gandhi of publishing false advertisements against the then BJPled government headed by Basavaraj BommaiThe petition alleged that the accused had released fullpage advertisements in the media as part of a campaign accusing the then BJP government of taking a 40 per cent commission Rahul Gandhi had shared it on his social media XnbspThe advertisement which appeared on May 5 2023 in all mainstream newspapers made fanciful baseless foundationless and irrational allegations against the BJP the complaint saidnbspChallenging the proceedings it was submitted that there is no prima facie evidence to prove charges against Rahul Gandhi and the petitioner has failed to produce any documentary evidence to prove that Rahul Gandhi had circulated the advertisement on his social media handle except for the bare pleading in the complaint that Rahul Gandhi had given instructions to issue the advertisementsnbsp nbspnbspRahul Gandhi had appeared before the Special MPMLA court in Bengaluru in connection with the case Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar had also appeared before the court and secured bailDeputy Chief Minister Shivakumar had termed the case false and stated It is a false case filed by the Bharatiya Janata Party against me Rahul Gandhi and Chief Minister SiddaramaiahnbspIt can be noted that the Congress made the 40 per cent commission allegation a major campaign issue against the thenruling BJP Initially the allegations were raised in speeches The party later launched social media campaigns and put up posters across the stateIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/karnataka-hc-quashes-defamation-case-against-rahul-gandhi-661782.html Tue, 17 Feb 2026 16:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/tns-outstanding-debt-to-touch-rs-1071-lakh-crore-in-2026-27-minister-thangam-thennarasu-661707.html Chennai Feb 17 IANS Tamil Nadus outstanding public debt is projected to reach Rs 1071 lakh crore in 202627 Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu said on Tuesday while presenting the Interim Budget in the AssemblynbspAccording to the Interim Budget Estimates for 202627 the states debt is expected to rise from Rs 952 lakh crore in the Revised Estimates for 202526 The earlier Budget Estimates for 202526 had pegged the outstanding debt at Rs 929 lakh croreHowever the state finance minister clarified that the 202526 Revised Estimates include Rs 9523 crore related to the Chennai Metro Rail PhaseII project which was approved as a Central Sector ProjectnbspHe said this amount should reflect in the Union governments accounts Despite repeated requests the necessary book adjustment entries have not been carried out by the Union government leading to an artificial increase in our debt he contendednbspExcluding this amount the states outstanding debt would stand at Rs 942 lakh crore in the Revised Estimates for 202526 and Rs 1062 lakh crore in the Interim Budget Estimates for 202627 he saidFor 202627 the state plans to borrow Rs 179 lakh crore and repay Rs 6041342 crore The debttoGross State Domestic Product GSDP ratio is estimated at 2612 per centnbspThe Interim Budget also projects a Revenue Deficit of Rs 4869632 crore for 202627 In comparison the Revenue Deficit stood at Rs 69219 crore in the Revised Estimates for 202526 against Rs 41635 crore in the original Budget Estimates for that yearnbspThennarasu attributed the rise in the Revenue Deficit during 202526 to GST rate cuts the withholding of funds under Centrally Sponsored Schemes and increased expenditure towards loss funding for Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Limited TNPDCLHe argued that without these fiscal challenges the deficit could have been contained in line with initial projectionsnbspThe Fiscal Deficit for 202627 is estimated at Rs 121 lakh crore marginally lower than Rs 124 lakh crore in the Revised Estimates for 202526nbspAs a percentage of GSDP it is projected to decline from 348 per cent to 3 per cent indicating fiscal consolidationnbspThe Minister maintained that the states financial position could have been stronger had the Centre extended greater cooperation during the current financial yearIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/tns-outstanding-debt-to-touch-rs-1071-lakh-crore-in-2026-27-minister-thangam-thennarasu-661707.html Tue, 17 Feb 2026 14:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bihar-cm-transfers-rs-10-000-each-to-25-lakh-women-under-mukhyamantri-mahila-rojgar-yojana-661653.html Patna Feb 16 IANS Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday transferred Rs 10000 each to 25 lakh women associated with Jeevika selfhelp groups under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar YojananbspAn event in this regard was held in Patna Confirming the development Cabinet Minister Shrawon Kumar said that those questioning the intentions of the Bihar government have received their answerThe Chief Minister had promised financial assistance of Rs 10000 to women under the employment scheme and he is fulfilling that commitment he saidKumar added that the state government had already transferred Rs 10000 each to 156 crore women in earlier phases Now Rs 10000 has been transferred to an additional 25 lakh women amounting to Rs 2500 crore he saidThe beneficiaries include women who had either not submitted their applications earlier or whose applications had discrepancies They have now been provided financial assistance to support selfemployment Kumar saidHe further stated that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has directed officials to review the employment status of women who had previously received Rs 10000 If they succeed in their respective fields the state government will provide further assistance of up to Rs two lakh based on performance he saidTaking a swipe at the opposition Shrawon Kumar referred to RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav who had said after the Bihar Assembly elections that he would assess the governments performance during the first 100 daysHe had questioned whether the government would deliver on its promise to Jeevika Didis Today he should see the commitment of our leader Nitish Kumar Kumar saidThe Chief Minister announced the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana on August 29 2025 and the scheme was implemented within a month On September 26 2025 Prime Minister Narendra Modi formally launched the scheme and transferred the first instalment to 75 lakh womenWith this microinvestment the scheme will immensely benefit families and strengthen womens economic empowerment across Bihar Kumar saidIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bihar-cm-transfers-rs-10-000-each-to-25-lakh-women-under-mukhyamantri-mahila-rojgar-yojana-661653.html Mon, 16 Feb 2026 14:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/communalising-national-song-is-form-of-criminal-anarchy-bjp-leader-on-vande-mataram-row-661655.html New Delhi Feb 16 IANS BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Monday strongly defended the national song Vande Mataram calling attempts to communalise or criticise it a form of criminal anarchynbspnbspSpeaking amid renewed debate over the songs ceremonial role at official events Naqvi urged critics to reconsider their stance saying the national song represents Indias nationalist spirit and the legacy of freedom fightersI would say to such people If your conscience wavers at singing listening to or standing for the national song then no one is more dishonest than you If your faith is so weak that it is threatened by the national song you need to rethink your integrity Vande Mataram represents Indias nationalist spirit Naqvi told IANSHow weak is your integrity if it is shaken by the national song You should know Vande Matram is nationalist spirit of our country Our freedom fighters achieved Independence with the spirit of Vande Mataram while the Muslim League opposed it and created division then Those trying to create confusion in the country using Vande Mataram and other issues will never succeed he addedThe remarks come after the Union Home Ministry released fresh directives formalising the status and ceremonial role of Vande Mataram at public and government events According to the new protocol the complete sixstanza version of the song lasting around 3 minutes and 10 seconds is to be performed during major state occasionsThese include flag hoisting ceremonies formal arrival and departure of the President and Governors and before and after their scheduled addresses at such events The guidelines also specify the expected decorum from attendees ensuring respect for both the national song and the National AnthemThe decision has been met with criticism from Opposition leaders Congress leader Husain Dalwai described the directive as forceful and wrong claiming it goes against previous decisions regarding the national songs recognition They do this deliberately This is forceful and wrong It goes against the earlier decision Dalwai saidWhile critics have voiced concerns about compulsion Naqvi framed the move as an effort to reinforce Indias patriotic traditions He stressed the historical importance of Vande Mataram in the freedom struggle emphasising that attempts to create confusion or communal controversy around the song will not succeedIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/communalising-national-song-is-form-of-criminal-anarchy-bjp-leader-on-vande-mataram-row-661655.html Mon, 16 Feb 2026 14:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/rahman-takes-charge-tomorrow-as-intel-warns-of-jamaat-backed-mobocracy-661656.html Dhaka Feb 16 IANS The massive win by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party BNP in the recentlyconcluded Bangladesh elections has come as a relief for many in the countrynbspIn Tarique Rahman as the Prime Minister of the country the people see hopenbspWhile there is jubilation across the country there is also a great deal of scepticism due to the rise of the JamaateIslami The Jamaat ended up with 77 seats which is its best performance everRahman has his plate full owing to the mess that Muhammad Yunus has left for himnbspBangladesh watchers say that for Rahman cleaning up from within will be the biggest challenge when compared to foreign relationsnbspHe has made it clear that he wants good ties with all nations but has been firm for him that Bangladesh will always come first Experts say that this means that he would not give away too much to any country at the cost of his ownYunus had given too much away to Pakistan whereby he opened the seas and relaxed visa norms The Indian agencies say these were blunders by Yunus as the ISI has been using these routes to send arms and ammunition and also terrorists These routes are also being used to send in drugs and then route them into IndianbspUnder Yunus courtesy of the Jamaat mobocracy has become a daily normThe media has been attacked minorities persecuted and political opponents targeted The police have failed to book cases and even if they had those cases were never investigatednbspAn Intelligence Bureau official said that the Jamaat may not indulge in violence immediately There is a lot of talk that the Jamaat is looking to cosy up with the BNP so that it can be part of the governmentnbspBoth sides have been in an alliance in the past and hence it may come as no surprise if both come together again the official saidHowever the BNP does not need the Jamaat as it has a mammoth majority on its own Prior to the elections the Jamaat had a lot of control over the administration This is because of the good ties the party shared with YunusnbspAnother official said that if the Jamaat does not get some important role to play in the administration then it would get increasingly frustrated and indulge in mobocracynbspAlthough the BNP has won big the reach of the Jamaat has spread The party that never could cross the 20 mark has surged to 77 and that is a massive jump another official saidIt would look to use this reach to spread its ideology and also terrorise the people Experts say that although the Jamaat won big it is clearly not rejoicing The party was hoping to win the elections so that it could implement its own agendanbspOne main agenda of the Jamaat was to erase the memories of the 1971 Liberation War The Jamaat had sided with Pakistan in that war It always wanted Bangladesh to be part of Pakistan as it was easier to implement its radical ideology the experts also say Under Yunus it had managed to have its way The persecution of minorities violence on the streets and extortion grew multifoldHowever the election result clearly indicated that a majority of Bangladesh rejected the Jamaats ideology and they want Bangladesh to remain intact and not under the influence of a party that is a puppet of the ISInbspRahman is unlikely to allow the Jamaat to have a free run as he is interested in urgently restoring normalcy in his country another official saidnbspThe Jamaat on the other hand owing to its reach and frustration is likely to instigate the people and encourage mobocracy This would be challenging for Rahman as the Jamaat is not just a fringe group but today has political clout due to the 77 seats it won the official addedMoreover the Jamaat has won in the bordering areas with West Bengal These areas had become a breeding ground for radicalisation and with the Jamaat fully in control of these areas the problems are going to worsen and this challenges Indias national security intelligence agencies sayIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/rahman-takes-charge-tomorrow-as-intel-warns-of-jamaat-backed-mobocracy-661656.html Mon, 16 Feb 2026 14:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/sc-declines-petitions-against-assam-cm-asks-petitioners-to-approach-gauhati-hc-661686.html New Delhi Feb 16 IANS The Supreme Court on Monday declined to entertain petitions seeking action against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over his alleged remarks targeting Muslims and a nowdeleted controversial video purportedly showing him targeting members of a particular communitynbspnbspAsking the petitioners to approach the Gauhati High Court a Bench headed by Chief Justice of India CJI Surya Kant observed that the issues raised could be effectively adjudicated by the jurisdictional High Court and cautioned against the growing trend of directly invoking Article 32 of the Constitution before the apex courtAll these issues can be effectively adjudicated by the jurisdictional High Court We see no reason to entertain this here and thus we relegate the petitioners to the jurisdictional High Court We request the High Court Chief Justice to prioritise the hearing since the counsel have cited urgency in the matter ordered the Bench also comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul PancholiSenior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi appearing for the petitioners seeking registration of an FIR and a Special Investigation Team SIT probe against CM Sarma for alleged hate speech argued that the Chief Minister as a constitutional functionary had violated his oath of officeHe further submitted that CM Sarma had made objectionable statements not only in Assam but also in Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh thereby warranting the Supreme Courts interventionIf the constitutional and social fabric of this country is threatened shouldnt Article 32 be invoked He is brazenly speaking against one entire community Singhvi submitted describing CM Sarma as a habitual offenderHowever the CJI Kantled Bench expressed strong disapproval of attempts to bypass the High Courts You have not even gone to the High Court In our anxiety to invoke one jurisdiction we cannot undermine the jurisdiction of another This court cannot become a playground for all this it observedDont undermine the authority of the High Courts It has become a trend now that every matter lands in the Supreme Court Dont demoralise the High Court judges the apex court said adding that there appeared to be a very calculated move to undermine High CourtsWhen Singhvi suggested that the petitioners be permitted to approach a High Court other than the one in Assam the CJI Kantled Bench termed the submission very unfortunate and said We outrightly reject thisPlease go through the channel trust the High Court and let them decide We are absolutely confident that the High Court will deal with the matter in accordance with the principles it saidThe controversy relates to a video allegedly shared by the Assam BJPs official social media handle which was later deleted depicting the Chief Minister armed with a firearm and accompanied by phrases such as Point blank shot and No MercyThe matter has also sparked political reactions AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi had earlier lodged a complaint with the Hyderabad Police Commissioner seeking criminal action against CM Sarma alleging that the video promoted enmity between religious communitiesResponding to the complaint CM Sarma had said he was prepared to face arrest I am ready to go to jail What can I do I do not know anything about any video If he has filed a case against me arrest me What objection do I have he had told reporters in DibrugarhIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/sc-declines-petitions-against-assam-cm-asks-petitioners-to-approach-gauhati-hc-661686.html Mon, 16 Feb 2026 15:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ai-impact-summit-2026-puts-india-on-global-ai-map-raghav-chadha-661687.html New Delhi Feb 16 IANS The AI Impact Summit 2026 has placed India firmly on the global map in shaping discussions around artificial intelligence and technology governance Aam Aadmi Party MP Raghav Chadha said on MondaynbspIn his address at the summit here Chadha said India is increasingly being seen as an important voice in global debates on how artificial intelligence should be governed developed and used in the public interestnbspArtificial intelligence is no longer just a technology issue but a strategic one he underlinedCountries that have strong computing power and infrastructure are likely to dominate the world in the coming years he saidnbspProcessing capacity and digital infrastructure will decide which nations lead in the AI era Chadha statednbspHe also pointed to what he described as three global monopolies in artificial intelligencenbspControl over AI design rests with a handful of companies manufacturing is concentrated in limited regions and exports are restricted through policies such as those imposed by the United States Chadha saidWhile India does not yet control these three pillars the country has a major strength in human capital he addednbspEmphasising Indias talent pool Chadha noted that the world is increasingly looking towards India for AI professionals and skilled manpower However he cautioned that talent alone is not enoughnbspTalent without compute is aspiration he said stressing that India must ensure access to highend computing resources diversify supply chains and build strong domestic infrastructure to truly compete on the global stageDrawing a historical comparison Chadha said that just as oil gas and steel defined global power in the 20th century artificial intelligence and semiconductor manufacturing will shape geopolitical influence in the 21st centurynbspHe added that India must act decisively to secure its place in this new global ordernbspEarlier in the day Chadha shared his views on X saying he was excited to speak at the AI Impact Summit 2026 at Bharat MandapamnbspThis is a defining moment for how we shape AI in the public interest It will influence how we govern build and protect citizens in the years ahead the Rajya Sabha member saidIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ai-impact-summit-2026-puts-india-on-global-ai-map-raghav-chadha-661687.html Mon, 16 Feb 2026 15:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/rajasthan-fire-tragedy-vp-radhakrishnan-pm-modi-express-grief-over-loss-of-lives-661690.html Jaipur Feb 16 Vice President CP Radhakrishnan on Monday expressed distress over the devastating fire at a chemical manufacturing unit in Rajasthans Bhiwadi that claimed seven lives earlier in the day According to the authorities two others were feared trapped inside the premises Deeply saddened by the tragic fire incident in Bhiwadi Rajasthan Heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the speedy recovery of those injured VP Radhakrishnan said in a post on XPrime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed grief over the incident The fire mishap in Bhiwadi Rajasthan is tragic and deeply saddening My condolences to those who have lost their loved ones I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured the Prime Ministers Office quoted him as sayingRajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma also took to social media and said The news of the loss of lives due to a fire in a factory in the Khushkheda Industrial Area of Bhiwadi is extremely heartbreaking The district administration has been directed to carry out relief and rescue operations I pray to God for the peace of the departed souls and wish for the swift recovery of the injuredAuthorities confirmed that approximately 25 workers were present at the time of the incident The fire broke out at around 930 am at plot number G1118 B in the Khuskheda Karauli Industrial AreaAccording to initial reports the blaze erupted suddenly inside a private industrial unit and spread rapidly engulfing large sections of the factory within minutesThe RIICO Fire Brigade received information from the police control room at approximately 922 am prompting an immediate emergency responseFire tenders from the Khuskheda and Bhiwadi fire stations were dispatched to the scene Firefighters battled the flames for nearly one and a half hours before bringing the fire under controlAdditional District Magistrate Sumita Mishra stated that the incident first came to light during routine police patrolling in the area Rescue operations were launched immediately upon confirmation of the fire Police fire brigade personnel medical teams and administrative officials swiftly reached the site and cordoned off the area to facilitate relief effortsThe intensity of the blaze was severe with several bodies recovered in a charred condition Injured workers were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatmentAuthorities have yet to confirm the exact cause of the fire Tijara Deputy Superintendent of Police Shivraj Singh is overseeing the preliminary investigation at the scene Senior district officials including the Superintendent of Police and the ADM are conducting a detailed review of the situationThe district administration has announced a magisterial inquiry to determine the cause of the fire and assess any lapses in safety protocols The tragic incident has left the industrial area in shock and raised serious concerns regarding workplace safety standards IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/rajasthan-fire-tragedy-vp-radhakrishnan-pm-modi-express-grief-over-loss-of-lives-661690.html Mon, 16 Feb 2026 15:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bill-gates-visits-real-time-governance-society-centre-at-andhra-secretariat-661699.html Amaravati Feb 16 IANS Gates Foundation Chairman Bill Gates on Monday visited Real Time Governance Society RTGS Centre at Andhra Pradesh Secretariat here to view utilisation of technology in governancenbspChief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu explained to him how faster civic services are being provided and the results being achieved through Real Time GovernancenbspBill Gates enquired about the functioning and progress of Data Lake Aware 20 WhatsApp Governance Sanjeevani project and Amaravati projectsHe also witnessed presentations on the display walls in the RTGS during which CM Naidu apprised him of the fact that all government wings are interconnected with Data LakenbspAccording to the Chief Ministers Office CMO Bill Gates appreciated the efforts being made to simplify citizen services through Data Lake and WhatsApp governancenbspThe Chief Minister also informed him that Real Time information is being gathered through Aware 20 following which decisions are being taken expeditiouslynbspBill Gates examined the way the state government is gathering public opinion on the implementation of various schemes and policiesThe Chief Minister told Gates that the growth of the GSDP is being assessed regularly through Key Performance IndicatorsnbspWhen Bill Gates asked about the steps being taken for the safety and security of property records the officials informed him that land records are being preserved with the help of Block Chain Technology and similarly steps are being taken to ensure transparency with policies such as QR Codes for land recordsnbspWhile Bill Gates termed the tax collection system as amazing Chandrababu Naidu informed him that the tax collection in the country has increased significantly with the GST systemBill Gates enquired about the implementation of the Sanjeevani project which is being run in Chittoor district with the support of the Gates Foundation and also asked how the details of tests like blood pressure and diabetes are being recordednbspHe expressed satisfaction over the functioning of the Sanjeevani project at Kuppam The officials explained that they are providing advice to the patients on their lifestyle and diet based on their digital health recordsnbspCM Naidu said that they are planning to take further steps to improve public health services by using AI Bill Gates praised the effort and termed it as Great He felt that if diagnostic services are made available at a lower cost it will further help the poorBill Gates also enquired about the progress of the ongoing construction works in the state capital of Amaravati and appreciated 30 per cent green and blue plannbspCM Naidu explained in detail the ongoing construction works in the capitalnbspEarlier CM Naidu Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and ministers welcomed Bill Gates and his delegation on arrival at the SecretariatnbspThe Chief Minister introduced the ministers to Bill GatesIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bill-gates-visits-real-time-governance-society-centre-at-andhra-secretariat-661699.html Mon, 16 Feb 2026 16:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/rule-of-law-has-replaced-riot-culture-in-up-says-cm-yogi-661701.html Lucknow Feb 16 IANS Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday said that the state has undergone a fundamental transformation since 2017 shedding its image of crime and anarchy to emerge as a state defined by technology trust and transformationnbspReplying to the debate on the Governors Address in the Legislative Council the Chief Minister launched an attack on the opposition accusing it of disrespecting constitutional traditions through its conduct during the Governors speech Such behaviour he said weakens democratic institutionsCM Yogi claimed that curfews and riots once seen as the hallmark of the state have now been replaced by governance rooted in the rule of law Uttar Pradesh has moved from being a fear zone to a faith zone he declaredCiting the participation of over 40 lakh devotees in the Triveni bath on Mahashivratri as proof of improved law and order he highlighted the deployment of more than 44000 women personnel in the police force and the creation of modern training centres and barracks as milestones in strengthening security infrastructureThe Chief Minister said the state once labelled a BIMARU now contributes 95 per cent to the national GDP with per capita income having tripledHe maintained that no new taxes have been imposed in the past eightandahalf years tax evasion has been curbed and the state is now revenuesurplus Security convenience and policy clarity the pillars of the double engine government he said have created a conducive environment for investmentOn industrial growth CM Yogi noted that the number of factories has risen from 14000 before 2017 to over 31000 Under the One District One Product ODOP scheme local producers have been linked to markets while 96 lakh MSME units have generated employment for youth A government that fails to respect artisans he remarked meets the fate of parties like the Samajwadi PartyHe said the state lacked a coherent farm policy before 2017 but now input costs have reduced and output has increased Farmers are receiving direct benefit transfers DBT and more than Rs 95000 crore has been disbursed in the state under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Sugarcane farmers have been paid Rs 306 lakh crore and 7727 cow shelters are operationalHe referred to the progress in the healthcare system to the One District One Medical College initiative and expanded medical infrastructure In forensic science he said the number of labs has increased from two earlier to 12 Agrade labs with six more under constructionReiterating his governments stance on nationalism the Chief Minister said respect for the national anthem and national song is mandatory and opposition to Vande Mataram will not be toleratedIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/rule-of-law-has-replaced-riot-culture-in-up-says-cm-yogi-661701.html Mon, 16 Feb 2026 17:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/india-aims-to-achieve-ai-for-all-via-7-sutra-roadmap-661640.html New Delhi Feb 15 IANS Indias AI Governance Guidelines are anchored in seven Sutras to ensure that AI serves as an enabler for inclusive development economic growth and global competitiveness while effectively addressing risks to individuals and society through proportionate evidencebased measures according to an official explainer issued on SundaynbspThrough this structured and forwardlooking architecture India aims to realise the vision of AI for All ensuring that the transformative potential of artificial intelligence contributes meaningfully to the national aspiration of Viksit Bharat by 2047 with benefits reaching every citizen in a safe inclusive and sustainable manner the statement saidThe seven guiding sutras are Trust is the Foundation People First Innovation over Restraint Fairness ampamp Equity Accountability Understandable by Design and Safety Resilience ampamp SustainabilityBy focusing on AI for All India seeks to combine sovereign capability with open innovationleveraging public digital infrastructure indigenous model development and affordable compute to drive productivity and inclusive growth This approach aligns AI development with the broader aspiration of Viksit Bharat 2047 positioning AI as a catalyst for economic transformation social empowerment and strategic autonomy the statement saidnbspnbspIndias achievements reflect this deploymentfirst philosophy Under the IndiaAI Mission over 38000 GPUs have been onboarded through a subsidised national compute facility AIKosh now hosts more than 9500 datasets and 273 sectoral models strengthening indigenous model development The National Supercomputing Mission has operationalised 40 petaflop systems including AIRAWAT and PARAM SiddhiAI On the capacity front IndiaAI and FutureSkills initiatives are supporting 500 PhDs 5000 postgraduates and 8000 undergraduates while 570 AI Data Labs and 27 IndiaAI labs across states are expanding grassroots innovation With nearly 90 per cent of startups integrating AI in some form India is embedding AI deeply into its innovation ecosystem the statement saidThe India AI Governance Guidelines releasing in AI Impact Summit 2026 arrive at a critical juncture to consolidate these gains The framework adopts a principlebased technolegal approach By establishing new institutions such as the AI Governance Group the Technology ampamp Policy Expert Committee and the AI Safety Institute India is institutionalising a wholeofgovernment model that balances innovation with safeguards The guidelines strengthen Indias ambition to lead not only in AI adoption and capability but also in responsible inclusive and trusted AI governance globally the statement further saidThe key principles of the AI Governance framework have been carefully designed to ensure crosssectoral applicability and technology neutrality enabling relevance across diverse use cases and stages of technological evolution Together these principles provide a flexible and futureready foundation for responsible AI development and deployment the statement addedIANSnbsp https://dailyworld.in/politics/india-aims-to-achieve-ai-for-all-via-7-sutra-roadmap-661640.html Sun, 15 Feb 2026 16:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/india-accounts-for-more-than-half-of-global-digital-transactions-says-hm-amit-shah--661645.html Gandhinagar Feb 15 IANS India accounts for more than half of the worlds total digital transactions Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Sunday while launching the countrys first Central Bank Digital Currency CBDCbased Public Distribution System PDS in Gujarats GandhinagarnbspSpeaking at a function held at Mahatma Mandir HM Shah said Indias rapid digital transformation over the past decade had enabled the government to integrate advanced technology into welfare deliverynbspA decade ago nearly 60 crore people in the country did not have bank accounts Today India is leading the world in digital transactions and more than half of the global digital transactions are taking place in India he said extending greetings on the occasion of MahashivratriHe inaugurated a transparent and technologydriven PDS based on CBDC integrated with Aadhaarbased biometric authentication and the Reserve Banks payment systemsnbspHM Shah said the initiative would remove leakages in subsidised food grain distribution With a technologybased system like CBDC corruption and the role of middlemen will be completely eliminated he said adding that the model would be implemented nationwide within the next three to four yearsnbspThe programme included the launch of the Annapurti Grain ATM in the Sabarmati zone of Ahmedabad which can dispense 25 kilograms of food grains within 35 seconds with accuracy in weight price and qualityDistribution of chana and tur dal in sealed onekilogram packs was also introduced along with the Garima Poshan Suposhit Garudeshwar Taluka campaignnbspThe Union Minister said that under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana 81 crore people are receiving free ration and that digitisation would make the system more transparentnbspHe also referred to welfare initiatives undertaken over the past decade stating that four crore houses had been constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana tap water connections provided to 13 crore households gas cylinders to around 13 crore homes and toilets built in 12 crore householdsHe added that 291 crore women had become Lakhpati Didis reflecting broader efforts at inclusive developmentnbspGujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said the integration of Jan Dhan accounts Aadhaar and mobile connectivity had enabled direct transfer of benefits to eligible citizensnbspHe stated that the Grain ATM would operate round the clock allowing beneficiaries under the National Food Security Act to collect wheat rice and pulses at their conveniencenbspThrough digital tokens under the CBDC system beneficiaries will receive precise information about subsidy quantity and price ensuring full transparency he saidUnion Minister for Food and Public Distribution Pralhad Joshi said the initiative was aimed at safeguarding the rights of nearly 80 crore beneficiariesnbspHe said digitisation of ration cards had enabled the One Nation One Ration Card framework and that beneficiaries could access food grains by scanning QR codes at Grain ATMs or through SMSbased OTP verificationnbspWith the implementation of this technology an estimated two to three crore fake ration cards have been cancelled he said adding that the digital amount credited to beneficiaries wallets could only be used to purchase subsidised grainsDeputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi said the system would reduce queues at ration shops and allow beneficiaries to collect food grains at any time There will not be even a onegram difference in weight he saidnbspDuring the event Memoranda of Understanding were signed between the Food and Civil Supplies Department and the Consumer Education and Research Centre to establish a prelitigation grievance redressal mechanismnbspSeparate agreements were also signed with Care Ratings and the Consumer Education and Research Centre to develop a Consumer Responsibility Index aimed at strengthening accountability in the public distribution systemIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/india-accounts-for-more-than-half-of-global-digital-transactions-says-hm-amit-shah--661645.html Sun, 15 Feb 2026 16:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/himachal-budget-session-to-begin-with-governors-address-on-monday-661647.html Shimla Feb 15 IANS Himachal Pradesh legislative Assembly Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania on Sunday said that the 11th Budget session of the 14th legislative Assembly and the fourth Budget session of the present government would commence on Monday with the address of Governor Shiv Pratap ShuklanbspPathania said in the first phase the session is scheduled for three days and it may be extendedHe said that till now 125 notices of questions have been received from the members in which 111 questions are starred and 14 questions are unstarred The questions received online have also been sent to the government for further action as per the rulesApart from questions two notices have been received online under Rule 62 and 101 which have also been sent to the government for further action as per the rules said the SpeakerHe said the information received from the members through questions is mainly based on Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Sukh Samman Nidhi a staterun social security pension scheme for women merger of schools construction of roads and bridges detailed project reports of roads upgradation of colleges schools and health institutions etc and filling of vacant posts in various departments like tourism prevention of increasing drug abuse among the youth increasing criminal cases and solar energy and transport systemBesides the members have highlighted the main issues related to their respective constituencies through questionsSpeaker Pathania said that to ensure a smooth and hasslefree session he has called an allparty meeting just hours ahead of the onset of the session in which the Parliamentary Affairs Minister the Leader of the Opposition the Deputy Chief Whip and the Chief Whip are expected to participateMeanwhile Speaker Pathania called on Governor Shukla at Lok Bhavan on Sunday An official statement said it was a courtesy meeting and the Speaker formally invited the Governor to attend the sessionIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/himachal-budget-session-to-begin-with-governors-address-on-monday-661647.html Sun, 15 Feb 2026 18:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-announces-aadhaar-number-of-all-land-parcels-to-curb-disputes-661648.html New Delhi Feb 15 IANS In a landmark initiative to curb land disputes Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said on Sunday that each land parcel in the city will be assigned a 14digit Unique Land Parcel Identification Number ULPIN akin to the Aadhaar number to citizensnbspThis step forms part of the governments commitment to modernising Delhis land records and freeing citizens from longstanding land disputes The system is also referred to as Bhu Aadhaar she addednbspFor citizens the greatest benefit will be ease and convenience Instead of navigating multiple documents to establish land ownership a single number will provide comprehensive details of the property the Chief Minister saidChief Minister Gupta described the ULPIN system as highly beneficial saying that it is not merely a number but a powerful digital instrument against corruption and land disputesnbspShe emphasised that the initiative represents a decisive step towards realising Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision of Digital India on the groundnbspThe Chief Minister said that the need to implement this system in Delhi had long been feltnbspnbspThe scheme originates with the Union governments Ministry of Rural Development and the Department of Land Resources and is particularly significant for the national capitalAccording to Chief Minister Gupta although the Central government introduced the scheme in 2016 it could not be implemented in Delhi as envisaged due to various reasonsnbspIt is now being taken up in mission mode The responsibility for implementation has been entrusted to the IT Branch of the Revenue Department which will also receive support from the Survey of India she saidnbspThe Chief Minister highlighted the extensive benefits of the BhuAadhaar system saying that it will ensure complete transparency in land ownershipThe 14digit code will be georeferenced thereby minimising disputes over land boundaries It will facilitate coordination of land data among various government departments and effectively curb fraudulent transactions and multiple registrations she saidnbspThe Chief Minister told that advanced technology is being deployed for the implementation of this schemenbspNearly 2 terabytes of highquality geospatial data and dronebased Ortho Rectified Images are being obtained from the Survey of IndianbspThrough this data accurate ULPINs will be generated for all areas of Delhi including 48 villages already covered under the Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas SVAMITVA schemeIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-announces-aadhaar-number-of-all-land-parcels-to-curb-disputes-661648.html Sun, 15 Feb 2026 18:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/hm-amit-shah-slams-rahul-gandhi-over-trade-deals-says-farmers-and-fishermen-fully-protected--661565.html Puducherry Feb 14 IANS Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday launched a sharp attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accusing him of misleading farmers and fishermen over the Centres recent free trade agreements FTAs and trade deals signed under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra ModinbspAddressing a public gathering at Karaikkal in Puducherry Union Minister Shah asserted that Indias fishermen stand to gain significantly from the trade agreements concluded with the European Union the UK and the USHe claimed that the trade deals were structured to expand export opportunities for Indian marine products while safeguarding domestic interestsnbspOur countrys fishermen will benefit the most from the free trade agreements signed by Prime Minister Modi with the European Union and England and the trade deal with the United States Union Minister Shah saidnbspHe accused Rahul Gandhi of attempting to spread falsehoods among fishermen and farmers by alleging that these agreements would harm their livelihoodsResponding directly to the Congress leader Union Minister Shah said Rahul Gandhi should carefully examine the details of the trade deal and the free trade agreement Prime Minister Modi has provided 100 per cent protection to the countrys farmers and livestock farmers These agreements will not harm our farmers in any waynbspThe Union Home Minister also alleged that during the tenure of former Prime Minister late Manmohan Singh several global agreements were signed that compromised the interests of Indian farmersIn contrast Union Minister Shah said that the current BJPled Union government has ensured complete protection for farmers livestock rearers and fishing communities while negotiating international trade pactsnbspHe also accused Rahul Gandhi of repeatedly spreading misinformation for political gainnbspRahul Gandhis policy is to lie speak loudly publicly and repeatedly But the people of this country have recognised his liemanufacturing factory he saidExpressing confidence about the future Union Minister Shah declared that a BJPled National Democratic Alliance NDA government would return to power under PM Modis leadership in 2029nbspIn 2029 a BJPled NDA government under PM Modis leadership will be formed your turn will not come he said in a pointed political remark aimed at the Congress leadershipnbspThe remarks signal an intensifying political battle over trade policy and its impact on key voter groups ahead of future electoral contestsIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/hm-amit-shah-slams-rahul-gandhi-over-trade-deals-says-farmers-and-fishermen-fully-protected--661565.html Sat, 14 Feb 2026 15:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/mp-govt-transfers-11-ias-officers-661601.html Bhopal Feb 14 The Madhya Pradesh government issued a transfer order affecting 11 Indian Administrative Service IAS officers reshaping the administrative mechanisms across key departments and districts officials said on Saturday The General Administration Department released the order at around 2 am on Saturday detailing the new postings and responsibilities assigned to officers from batches ranging between 1991 and 2019Ashok Varnwal a 1991 batch officer who was serving as Additional Chief Secretary in the Forest Department and holding multiple additional charges has now been appointed as Additional Chief Secretary in the Public Health and Medical Education Department as well as the Bhopal Gas Tragedy Relief and Rehabilitation Department He will continue to serve as Agriculture Production Commissioner and retain his roles in the Environment Department while also taking on the responsibility of Food Safety CommissionerSandeep Yadav from the 2000 batch has been shifted from the Public Health and Medical Education Department to the Forest Department He will also continue to oversee the Pravasi Bharatiya Department as an additional charge Ajay Gupta a 2009 batch officer who was Director of Farmer Welfare and Agriculture Development has been appointed as Managing Director of the Madhya Pradesh Eastern Power Distribution Company Limited in Jabalpur while also taking charge as Secretary in the state government Manish Singh also from the 2009 batch has been moved from his role as Secretary in the Jail Department and Transport Department along with several additional responsibilities to become Commissioner of Public Relations in Bhopal He will continue to hold charge of the Transport Department the State Road Transport Corporation and other related assignments Among other notable changes Abhijeet Agrawal has been given charge as Managing Director of the Madhya Pradesh State Cooperative Marketing Federation in Bhopal while Kumar Purushottam has been relieved of this additional responsibility Umashankar Bhargava has been appointed as Additional Secretary to the Governor and Sunil Dubey as Deputy Secretary to the Governor Sanjivani Gautam has been posted as CEO of the District Panchayat in Alirajpur while Nanda Bhalchandra Kurre has been assigned as Additional Project Director in the National Secondary Education Campaign in Bhopal Kamal Solanki has been posted as CEO of the District Panchayat in Raisen In the State Administrative Service Bhura Singh Solanki has been transferred as CEO of District Panchayat Agar Malwa Mithilesh Kumar Nagdeve to Khargone and Veer Singh Chauhan to Singrauli Rakesh Sharma has been appointed as Chief General Manager of the Madhya Pradesh Central Power Distribution Company Limited in Bhopal IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/mp-govt-transfers-11-ias-officers-661601.html Sat, 14 Feb 2026 15:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bengal-sir-hearing-phase-to-be-completed-today-625-lakh-additional-names-identified-for-deletion-661615.html Kolkata Feb 14 The phase of hearings on claims and objections to the draft voters list in West Bengal is expiring at 12 midnight on Sunday with 625 lakh additional names already being identified as eligible for exclusion in the final voters list Since the phase of scrutinising the documents submitted at the hearing session will continue for seven more days until February 21 the number of additional names found suitable for exclusion in the final voters list will automatically increaseAlready during the enumeration phase names of around more than 58 lakh voters deceased voters duplicated voters and shifted voters were found suitable for exclusion and hence their names were not included in the draft voters list which was published in December last yearNow the final deletion figure will be clear only after the final voters list is published on February 28The initial date of publication of the final voters list was February 14 which was later extended to February 28Insiders from the office of the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer CEO said that out of the 625 lakh additional names found suitable for exclusion during the Special Intensive Revision SIR hearing session the majority are those voters who failed to turn up at the hearing sessions despite repeated notices being sent to themSuch voters who did not turn up at the hearing sessions were both from unmapped and logical discrepancy categories the CEOs office insider addedUnmapped voters are those who failed to establish any link with the 2002 voters list in West Bengal be it through selfmapping or through progeny mappingOn the other hand logical discrepancy cases are those where weird familytree data were detected in the course of the progeny mappingA day after the publication of the final voters list on February 28 the full bench of the Election Commission of India ECI will be coming for a twoday visit to West Bengal to review the postSIR scenario following which the polling dates for the crucial Assembly elections in the state scheduled later this year will be announcedWest Bengal CEO Manoj Kumar Agarwal had already sent a recommendation to the ECI for a singlephase poll in the state this time while saying that the final decision in the matter will be taken by the CommissionThe past few elections in West Bengal were conducted in seven to eight phasesThe last time there was a singlephase election in West Bengal was during the 2001 state Assembly elections IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bengal-sir-hearing-phase-to-be-completed-today-625-lakh-additional-names-identified-for-deletion-661615.html Sat, 14 Feb 2026 15:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/mumbai-metro-pillar-collapse-cm-fadnavis-announces-rs-5-lakh-assistance-for-deceaseds-kin-661625.html Mumbai Feb 14 IANS Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday expressed distress over the underconstruction metro pillar collapse in Mumbais Mulund area and announced Rs 5 lakh assistance to the kin of the deceasednbspHe also ordered an inquiry into the incidentnbspOne person lost his life and at least four others were injured after a section of a parapet wall from an elevated Metro rail bridge collapsed onto LBS Road in Mumbais Mulund West crashing onto a passing autorickshaw and a car officials saidIn a statement the CM Fadnaviss Office said In the Mulund area of Mumbai a slab from the metro construction collapsed resulting in the death of one person and injuries to several others Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has expressed grief over this incident and has ordered an inquiry into the matternbspThe state government will provide financial assistance of 5 lakh rupees to the deceaseds heirs and the cost of treatment for the injured will be borne by the state government Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured it addedAccording to authorities the incident occurred when a portion of the parapet wall measuring nearly 6x4 feet fell from the elevated structure onto vehicles moving belownbspThe sudden collapse led to panic in the area and prompted an immediate response from emergency servicesnbspThe Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority MMRDA said that all necessary medical assistance is being provided to those injured in the incidentnbspOfficials confirmed that members of the Metro project team have reached the spot and are engaged in relief and sitesecuring operations in close coordination with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation BMC and disaster management authoritiesThe BMCs disaster control wing confirmed the dimensions of the fallen parapet section and said rescue and clearance operations were carried out promptlynbspOfficials identified the deceased as Ramdhan YadavnbspAmong the injured Rajkumar Indrajeet Yadav 45 has been admitted to the intensive care unit and remains in a critical conditionnbspThe other two injured persons Mahendra Pratap Yadav 52 and Deepa Ruhiya 40 are reported to be stablenbspAuthorities have not yet released further details regarding the fourth injured individualThe MMRDA announced that a formal enquiry has been ordered to ascertain the exact cause of the collapse and to examine construction safety protocols as well as structural stability measures at the sitenbspThe Metro project team is at the site and is working on relief operations and securing the site in close coordination with BMC and disaster management authorities the MMRDA said in an official statementnbspMeanwhile Congress MP and Mumbai Congress President Varsha Gaikwad raised sharp questions over the incident taking to social media platform X to express concern about public safetyHave Mumbaikars lives become so cheap Does the government and the MMRDA administration have anything to do with this she askednbspTheyre merely acting as infra managers and doing PR and marketing but whats the point of Mumbaikars lives hanging in the balance When the Metro project was underway why were safety rules only on paper When work was being carried out on a busy road why werent there adequate safety measures for the traffic passing underneath she saidIn the name of showing that the Metro is progressing quickly is its quality and technical safety being ignored Who is responsible Every time such incidents occur theres only the drama of an investigation Who will take responsibility We need development but not one that endangers the lives of Mumbaikars Gaikwad addednbspFurther details are awaited as the investigation progressesIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/mumbai-metro-pillar-collapse-cm-fadnavis-announces-rs-5-lakh-assistance-for-deceaseds-kin-661625.html Sat, 14 Feb 2026 16:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-flags-off-50-electric-buses-for-bhavnagar-under-pm-e-bus-sewa-scheme-661626.html Guwahati Feb 14 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated a fleet of 50 modern electric buses for Bhavnagar on Saturday as part of the PM eBus Sewa Scheme marking a further expansion of sustainable urban transport in IndianbspThe buses were flagged off under the national scheme to promote clean and sustainable public transport during the Prime Ministers visit to Assam where he inaugurated projects worth over Rs 5450 croreBhavnagar is the first city in Gujarat to receive buses under the initiative with 50 vehicles handed over on the day and plans for a total of 100 to serve the citys residentsnbspThe airconditioned buses are equipped with facilities to assist passengers with disabilities and include CCTV cameras to enhance commuter safetynbspUnder the schemes rollout in Gujarat a total of 750 electric buses are expected to be deployed across eight cities in the statenbspIn addition to Bhavnagar allocations include 250 buses in Vadodara 100 each in Rajkot and Gandhinagar 50 each in Jamnagar and Junagadh 80 in Gandhidham and 20 in NavsariThe Gujarat Urban Development Mission GUDM has been appointed the state nodal agency for implementation by the Urban Development and Urban Housing DepartmentnbspThe initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen Indias public transport infrastructure and reduce carbon emissions in urban mobilitynbspIn Gujarat infrastructure and technical facilities to support electric bus operations are being advanced reflecting a coordinated push towards clean transport solutionsEarlier in the day Prime Minister Modi made a historic landing at the regions first Emergency Landing Facility ELF on the Moran Bypass in Dibrugarh district aboard an Indian Air Force C130J aircraftnbspThe 42 kilometres reinforced stretch of National Highway37 was inaugurated as a strategic dualuse runway capable of accommodating military and civilian aircraft during emergenciesnbspOfficials said it will enhance defence preparedness logistics and disaster response capacity in the regionnbspPrime Minister Modi also witnessed an aerial display by Indian Air Force fighter jets transport aircraft and helicopters following the landingIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-flags-off-50-electric-buses-for-bhavnagar-under-pm-e-bus-sewa-scheme-661626.html Sat, 14 Feb 2026 16:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/we-hope-security-of-minorities-is-handled-effectively-congress-mp-on-bangladesh-poll-results-661505.html New Delhi Feb 13 Reacting to the Bangladesh parliamentary election results Congress MP Sukhdeo Bhagat said that he hopes security of minorities is handled effectively Speaking to IANS Bhagat said âFirst of all I extend my best wishes to them and we hope that the government remains sensitive and lives up to the expectations of the people Most importantly we hope that the security of minorities and all related matters are handled effectively â that is our sincere wishâBJP leader Dilip Ghosh expressed optimism on the countryâs future stating âPeace will return to Bangladesh very soon and the country will once again move forward on the path of developmentâThe Bangladesh Nationalist Party BNP and its alliance claimed a decisive victory in the 13th parliamentary elections according to local media citing unofficial results The BNPled alliance has won 210 seats paving the way for the formation of a new government led by the partyCiting party sources Bangladeshi daily Jugantor reported that BNP chairman Tarique Rahman is set to become Prime Minister marking the return of a male PM to Bangladesh after nearly 35 yearsUnofficial results from the Dhaka17 constituency showed Tarique securing 72699 votes defeating his closest rival JamaateIslami candidate SM Khaliduzzaman who received 68300 votes according to Prothom Alo He also won from Bogra6 constituency receiving 216284 votes against Jamaat candidate Abidur Rahman Sohelâs 97626 votesEarlier Tarique expressed confidence after casting his vote stating he was â100 per cent hopefulâ of a victory He assumed leadership of the BNP following the death of his mother former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia last December Tarique is also the son of former President Ziaur Rahman the founder of BNPIn Bangladesh after the unofficial results Tarique Rahman is now poised to lead the nation as Prime Minister as BNP prepares to form its new government IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/we-hope-security-of-minorities-is-handled-effectively-congress-mp-on-bangladesh-poll-results-661505.html Fri, 13 Feb 2026 11:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/congress-takes-early-lead-in-telangana-municipal-elections-661510.html Hyderabad Feb 13 Telanganas ruling Congress party has taken initial lead in the municipal elections as the counting of votes was underway on Friday The Congress party secured majority in six municipalities while main opposition Bharat Rashtra Samithi BRS bagged on municipalityOver 73 per cent voters had cast their votes in the municipal elections in 116 municipalities and seven corporations on Wednesday Counting of votes was taken up from 8 am on Friday amid tight securityOut of 2582 wards in municipalities results were declared for 400 seats by 1030 amThe Congress party bagged 229 wards while BRS secured 123 wards The Bharatiya Janata Party BJP was distant third with 36 seatsThe first result among municipalities went in favour of BRS It won 14 out of 18 wards in Gaddapotaram municipality in Sangareddy district The Congress party could get three seatsThe Congress party secured majorities in Nandikonda and Halia municipalities in Nalgonda district Ashwaraopet in Khammam district Dornakal and Maripeda in Mahabubabad district and Sultabanad in Peddapalli districtA total of 5217413 voters were eligible to cast their votes in 2981 wards in the 123 urban local bodies According to State Election Commission SEC 3809406 voters cast their votesThe voter turnout in municipalities was 7588 per cent while in municipal corporations 6605 per cent electorate exercised their franchiseThe political fortunes of 12944 candidates were sealed in the ballot boxesPolling was held for 2569 wards in 116 municipalities Twelve candidates in nine municipalities were elected unopposedA total of 10719 candidates were in the fray 116 municipalities They include 2358 candidates of Congress party 2478 of BRS and 2252 of BJPPolling was held in 412 wards in seven municipal corporations Candidates in two wards in Mahabubnagar and Ramagundam were elected unopposedAs many as 2225 candidates were in fray in these corporations They included 410 candidates of Congress 401 of BRS and 382 of BJPNotification for elections to Municipal chairpersons and vicechairpersons and corporation mayors and deputy mayors will be issued on SaturdayNewlyelected councillors and corporators will take oath on February 16 Monday and the same day they will elect Municipal chairpersons and vicechairpersons and corporation mayors and deputy mayors IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/congress-takes-early-lead-in-telangana-municipal-elections-661510.html Fri, 13 Feb 2026 11:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/tn-cm-stalin-announces-5-000-aid-for-131-cr-women-beneficiaries-vows-to-double-monthly-entitlement-under-dravidian-model-20-661515.html Chennai Feb 13 Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin reaffirmed his governmentâs commitment to the Kalaingar Magalir Urimai Thogai scheme declaring that the monthly financial assistance for women is not a welfare dole but a matter of rightful entitlement Addressing beneficiaries through an official statement he asserted that no political or administrative obstacle would be allowed to delay or dilute the support extended to women across the StateCM Stalin accused certain quarters of attempting to temporarily suspend the payments for three months by citing the upcoming electionsHe said the move was an effort to disrupt a flagship social justice programme that has empowered lakhs of familiesâEven if anyone tries to create hurdles we will not step backâ he said emphasising that the Dravidian governance model prioritises peopleâs welfare over politicsIn a proactive step the government has released â¹5000 each to 131 crore women beneficiaries The amount includes â¹3000 as advance payment covering February March and April along with an additional â¹2000 as a special summer assistance packageThe funds were credited directly to beneficiariesâ bank accounts ensuring uninterrupted financial support The Chief Minister described the move as a safeguard against any delay in disbursement and as part of the governmentâs broader commitment to womenâs economic securityAccording to officials the scheme has played a crucial role in supporting household expenses childrenâs education and healthcare needs particularly among low and middleincome familiesLooking ahead CM Stalin made a significant electoral promise under the proposed Dravidian Model 20He announced that if reelected the monthly entitlement of â¹1000 would be doubled to â¹2000 Calling the assurance a âpromise to my sistersâ he framed the scheme as an extension of the late M Karunanidhiâs legacy of social welfare and inclusive growthReiterating confidence in women voters CM Stalin said their continued support would ensure another victory for the DMKled governmentâWith the strength of Tamil women we will win againâ he declared positioning the programme as both a social guarantee and a cornerstone of the partyâs campaign for the upcoming elections IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/tn-cm-stalin-announces-5-000-aid-for-131-cr-women-beneficiaries-vows-to-double-monthly-entitlement-under-dravidian-model-20-661515.html Fri, 13 Feb 2026 12:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bangladesh-reform-referendum-nears-approval-raising-fears-of-1972-constitution-being-overturned-661517.html New Delhi Feb 13 The Bangladesh Nationalist Party BNP won the elections with a thumping mandate On February 12 the country voted for the first time since the uprising that led to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina Simultaneously the people of Bangladesh were asked to decide on a constitutional reform package under the âJuly National Charterâ Constitutional Amendment Implementation Order 2025 Local media reports said that a majority of the participating voters supported the reform package One report said that 73 per cent of the counted votes said âYesâ to the referendum However an official announcement is yet to be made regarding the results of the referendumCurrently the country has a parliamentary system If the referendum is approved then a second chamber called the Upper House would be established This would have 100 seats allocated proportionally based on the vote share of the parties in the general elections This would mean that Constitutional amendments would need to be approved by both Houses A twothirds majority in the lower house and a majority vote in the Upper House would be necessary for the amendments to go throughFurther the impeachment of the President would need twothirds support in both chambers Once implemented it would be mandatory to have the deputy speaker of the lower party from the opposition Reserved seats for women would be gradually increased to 100 Any major international treaty involving national security would need approval of both HousesThe package would reinstate the caretaker government system which had previously been abolished The formation of such a government would be subject to the consensus of the ruling party the opposition and the second opposition partyWhile Muhammad Yunus the caretaker of the interim government called the reform pathbreaking many are sceptical about itThere are a number of proposals which could overturn the basic constitutional principlesThe referendum according to experts is an attempt to change the Constitution This means that the continuity of the Constitution comes to an end after almost 55 years Further there is no provision for a plebiscite even if it meant that the government had got it signed by the President of BangladeshAccording to media reports a majority of the people of Bangladesh have voted in favour of the implementation of this reform This means that the government is obligated to implement itThe implementation would lead to the establishment of a bicameral Parliament Experts are questioning this move as the Constitution does not allow this There is likely to be a legal challenge to this and the matter may drag on in court until a final decision is takenBangladesh since its formation in 1971 has seen three referendums 19771985 and 1991The 1977 and 1985 referendums were held under military rule while the one in 1991 took place to create the provision for a caretaker government which would ensure the conduct of national electionsAll three referendums of the past got the support of 8438 to 9888 per cent of the peopleThe first two referendums asked the people if they had confidence in the sitting president and his policies The third one sought the approval to shift from a presidential system back to a parliamentary democracyThe experts also argue that if one looks closely at the reform there are attempts being made to erase the 1972 Constitution of Bangladesh The very foundation of the country will be under threat if this reform were to go throughYunus has however pushed hard for this reform This reform also recognises the interim government that he headed He is making an effort to cement his legacy which in reality has been marred by violence On February 9 Yunus during a nationwide address made a call seeking a âYesâ vote for his proposed package He said that if the âYesâ vote wins in the referendum Bangladeshâs future will be built in a more positive way He also said that the referendum represents a move towards a civilised society from barbarism IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bangladesh-reform-referendum-nears-approval-raising-fears-of-1972-constitution-being-overturned-661517.html Fri, 13 Feb 2026 12:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/stalin-govts-rs-2-000-aid-announcement-for-women-driven-by-fear-of-tvks-surge-claims-vijay-661523.html Chennai Feb 13 IANS Actorturnedpolitician and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam TVK president Vijay on Friday sharpened his attack on the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam DMK questioning what he described as rising public unrest in Tamil Nadu and alleging that governance in the State was out of controlnbspAddressing a wellattended party rally in Salem Vijay responded to criticism that he had been staying back at home delivering an emotional retortFor those who ask where my house is do you know where it is My home is Tamil Nadu Eight crore people live in my house All of them are my relatives he declared drawing loud cheers from supportersTargeting Chief Minister MK Stalin Vijay accused the DMK government of attempting to stifle his partys growth and failing to maintain administrative controlDo you want someone who loves the people like me or someone who hates the people he asked the crowd framing the political battle as one between peoplecentric leadership and what he termed an indifferent regimeVijay also challenged established political parties to start afresh as he has done and secure at least one per cent vote share independently asserting that TVKs support base is steadily expanding across the StateThe TVK leader also questioned the timing of the governments recent announcement of a Rs 2000 summer special assistance for women alleging that it was prompted by electoral anxietysuggested that the ruling party was unsettled by what he described as growing support for TVK among women votersHow did a sudden announcement of Rs 2000 summer special assistance emerge Has summer arrived only this year he askedHe also pointed out that the monthly womens entitlement assistance usually credited on the 15th was deposited on the 13th this time hinting that the change reflected political urgencyReferring to TVKs whistle symbol Vijay said the sound of the whistle echoing from street to street had instilled fear in the ruling partyWe are the only peoples force capable of compelling them to do good he assertedAddressing women voters directly Vijay urged them to accept the assistance happily claiming it was the result of the political impact of his entry into public life and promised that a future TVK government would act with genuine concern rather than electoral motivesIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/stalin-govts-rs-2-000-aid-announcement-for-women-driven-by-fear-of-tvks-surge-claims-vijay-661523.html Fri, 13 Feb 2026 14:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/transparency-and-sentiments-of-people-should-reflect-in-process-of-census-mp-cm-mohan-yadav-661527.html Bhopal Feb 13 IANS Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Friday said the census is the countrys largest and most important data process on the basis of which the strategies are prepared to take development to the last person in societynbspChief Minister Yadav made this statement addressing the statelevel conference at Kushabhau Thakre Convention Centre in Bhopal which was attended by senior bureaucrats including Chief Secretary Anurag Jain and Additional Chief Secretaries and many othersAll district collectors divisional commissioners and municipal commissioners joined the conferencecum training camp which is part of the state governments preparation for the first phase of the census set to begin in the state from May 1This state level conference organised after a comprehensive review of preparations was conducted across the state and it was noted that a large number of officers and employees will be deployed for census workAddressing the conference the Chief Minister emphasised that the governments commitment and impartiality will be crucial parts and these should be reflected during the process of the caste censusThis is the first time such a sociallevel census has been conducted after 1931 and together we are going to create a historic record This census will be interpreted in many ways from politically and socially therefore clarity and transparency should be maintained CM Yadav saidHe also pointed out that people have emotional attachments with their properties including homes land shops or anything else they have and the officials must respect those sentiments during the census processIf someones house land or shop is affected their emotional attachment must also be understood sensitivity is essential along with development he addedNotably the census will be conducted in a fully digital paperless manner through an appbased system and the mega exercise will be carried out in two phases The first phase of the process will be conducted between May 1 to May 30 2026 during which housetohouse listing and housing enumeration will be conductedWhile the second the final phase of census during which population enumeration will be done will be conducted in February 2027IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/transparency-and-sentiments-of-people-should-reflect-in-process-of-census-mp-cm-mohan-yadav-661527.html Fri, 13 Feb 2026 15:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/rahul-gandhi-meets-farm-union-leaders-in-parliament-house-amid-opposition-to-india-us-trade-deal-661528.html New Delhi Feb 13 IANS Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Friday met leaders of several farm unions from across the country at the Parliament HouseDuring the meeting the farm union representatives expressed strong opposition to the IndiaUS trade deal and conveyed their deep concern over the potential impact on farmers livelihoods particularly those engaged in the cultivation of corn soybean cotton fruits and nutsThe leaders told the Congress leader that they fear the agreement could open the door for agricultural imports which may adversely affect domestic producers Gandhi also reiterated his position stating that the trade deal has opened the door for agricultural imports and warned that many other crops could soon be impacted as wellThe discussion also focused on the need for a largescale national movement to oppose the deal and safeguard the livelihoods of farmers and farm labourersThe farm leaders who participated in the discussion included Sukhpal S Khaira All India Kisan Congress Ranjit S Sandhu GKS Rajasthan Adv Ashok Balhara Bharatiya Kisan Mazdoor Union Haryana PT John KMM Kerala Baldev BKU Krantikari Zira R NandKumar Progressive Farmers Front Amarjit S Mohri BKU Shaheed Bhagat Singh Akhilesh Shukla All India Kisan Congress Kedar Sirohi Aam Kisan Union Kiranjit S Sandhu Kisan Congress Punjab Gurpreet S Sangha Rajya Sabha Guramneet S Mangat Kisan Mazdoor Morcha India Hameed Malik JampampK Zamidara Forum Tejveer Singh KMM Dharamvir Goyat Haryana Kisan Sangarsh Samiti Ishwar Singh Nain Krishak Samaj and Satbir Khatana South Haryana Kisan UnionRahul Gandhi on Thursday asserted he would not be deterred by any FIR criminal case or privilege motion and asserted that he would continue to fight for farmers rightsIn a video post on X Gandhi had reiterated his opposition to the IndiaUS trade deal claiming it would severely impact Indian farmers He alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had opened the doors of Indias agriculture market to foreign players at the cost of domestic producersI have spoken the truth in Parliament If you do not like the truth that is a different matter The country understands the truth Do whatever you want to do Let an FIR be filed let a case be registered or bring a privilege motion I and the entire party stand with farmers Gandhi had saidHe had said any trade agreement that threatens farmers livelihoods or weakens the countrys food security is antifarmer Gandhi also claimed that corn soybean cotton and fruit growers would be the first to suffer alleging that the government would eventually open the entire farm sector to foreign interests and corporate alliesIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/rahul-gandhi-meets-farm-union-leaders-in-parliament-house-amid-opposition-to-india-us-trade-deal-661528.html Fri, 13 Feb 2026 16:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ed-officer-transferred-after-summoning-capt-amarinder-singh-his-son-in-fema-case-661529.html Chandigarh Feb 13 IANS Two days after the Enforcement Directorate ED summoned former Punjab Chief Minister and BJP leader Capt Amarinder Singh and his son Raninder Singh in a 2016 Foreign Exchange Management Act FEMA case the officer heading the federal agency office in Jalandhar has been transferrednbspA Union Ministry of Finance order reads Additional Director Ravi Tiwari a 2009batch Indian Revenue Service IRS officer who had been posted to Jalandhar in September 2023 has now been shifted to ChennaiAnother IRS officer Dinesh Pachauri has been appointed to the Jalandhar postnbspCapt Amarinder Singh and his son have been accused of being the beneficiaries of certain foreign assets including a Swiss bank accountnbspWhile Capt Amarinder Singh was asked to appear at the Enforcement Directorates Jalandhar office on Friday his son was to appear on ThursdaynbspThe latter had sought an exemption from the summons citing the health of his father who underwent a knee replacement surgery at a Mohali hospitalA member of the BJPs national executive body Capt Amarinder Singh had also requested an adjournment on medical groundsnbspState acting BJP President Ashwani Sharma met Capt Amarinder Singh in hospital on Friday to enquire about his wellbeingnbspRaninder Singh was summoned by the ED on October 23 2020 too at its Jalandhar office to explain the alleged movement of funds to Switzerland and creation of a trust in the tax haven of the British Virgin IslandsThe Income Tax Department had filed a charge sheet against the fatherson duo in the court of the Chief Judicial Magistrate in Ludhiana in 2016nbspIt accused Raninder Singh of being the beneficiary of foreign assets maintained and controlled through foreign business entities The IT Department had also alleged that he was the beneficiary of foreign bank accounts maintained with the HSBC Private Bank SUISSE SA Geneva SwitzerlandIt had said that Raninder Singh misguided the agency by claiming that he did not have documents related to his familys income and trusts abroadnbspThe documents revealed that Raninder Singh was a settler of Jacaranda Trust formed in July 2005 in the British Virgin Islands between him and HSBC Trust Company Limited acting as a trusteenbspThe fatherson duo had filed an appeal against the Ludhiana court order before the Punjab and Haryana High Court stating that the income tax records contain secret information given by the French Republic to thenbsp Government of India and there was a specific bar on providing any such information to a stranger under the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement between the two countriesnbspIn September 2025 the high court upheld the order of the additional district judge saying it was wellreasoned and did not suffer from any infirmity or error of lawIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ed-officer-transferred-after-summoning-capt-amarinder-singh-his-son-in-fema-case-661529.html Fri, 13 Feb 2026 16:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/those-opposing-vande-mataram-have-no-right-to-live-here-cm-yogi-661538.html Lucknow Feb 13 IANS Targeting the Samajwadi Party and the Congress Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday said that those who oppose Vande Mataram have no right to live in IndianbspHe was speaking in the Assembly during the Budget Session He accused the SP and the Congress of practising appeasement politics and said that they obstructed both development and cultural resurgence in the statenbspThose who oppose Vande Mataram have no right to live on Indian soil Certain political groups eat from India but refuse to sing Vande Mataram CM Yogi said questioning their commitment to the nationHe accused previous SPled governments of stalling the development of Ayodhya and Mathura and opposing religious events such as the Kanwar Yatra and DeepotsavnbspHe asserted that Uttar Pradesh being a centre of faith is now witnessing a model where development and heritage lead to a renaissance He said that the state has moved from a riot economy to a temple economynbspReferring to the Magh Mela in Prayagraj he said that while around 12 crore devotees attended the event in earlier years nearly 21 crore pilgrims participated in this years Magh Mela This reflects growing public faith in improved law and order he saidTaking a swipe at the pre2017 era the Chief Minister claimed that criminals once ran a parallel government and that mafia elements operated freely Daughters and traders were not safe then Today Uttar Pradesh is a state of celebration not unrest he saidnbspHe described the past nine years as a transformation from crime to discipline curfews to rule of law unrest to celebration and distrust to confidencenbspUttar Pradesh he said is no longer a BIMARU state but is emerging as the countrys thirdlargest economy and an engine of growthHighlighting law enforcement reforms the CM said the state now has 12 functional forensic laboratories compared to just two or three earlier along with the establishment of a State Forensic Institute in Lucknow Cyber police stations have been set up in every district with cyber desks operational at all police stationsnbspHe also noted that over 60000 police personnel have been recruited PAC units reorganised and womens PAC battalions formed with more in the pipelineCiting NITI Aayog data Yogi Adityanath said over six crore people have been lifted out of multidimensional poverty in the past eight yearsnbspHe assured that welfare schemes related to ration distribution healthcare and other benefits would continue uninterruptednbspHe said his government is not driven by a quest for power but by a commitment to good governance clear policy direction and strong political willIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/those-opposing-vande-mataram-have-no-right-to-live-here-cm-yogi-661538.html Fri, 13 Feb 2026 18:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/hm-shah-hails-pm-modi-describes-seva-teerth-as-symbol-of-public-service-661541.html New Delhi Feb 13 IANS Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday termed the inauguration of the new Prime Ministers Office Seva Teerth by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a historic step towards placing public service above all at the very heart of Indian democracynbspIn a message on social media the Home Minister said Today is historic day in placing public service at the very centre of Indian democracy as Modi Ji inaugurated the new Prime Ministers Office Seva Teerth Seva Teerth symbolises the governments commitment to service under Modi Jis leadership over the past 11 years By ensuring that development and welfare initiatives reach every citizen this will prove to be a milestone in building a developed and selfreliant IndiaThe new complex named Seva Teerth houses the Prime Ministers Office PMO National Security Council Secretariat NSCS and the Cabinet SecretariatnbspAs the PM Modi unveiled the iconic structure he was accompanied by several Union Ministers including MoS in PMO Dr Jitendra Singh Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal Khattar National Security Advisor NSA Ajit Doval and other dignitariesnbspThe new PMO office situated barely about one kilometre from the iconic South Block building on Raisina Hill will serve as the new cornerstone of governance bringing the entire administrative machinery in proximityAs PM Modi dedicated the newly constructed Seva Teerth and Kartavya Bhavan complexes to the people of India he said that these modern facilities embody a deep commitment to citizencentric governance and national progress marking a clear departure from the colonial pastnbspRecalling the historical context the Prime Minister noted that during British rule buildings such as those on Raisina Hills including South Block and North Block were designed to project the authority and vision of the British Emperor over an enslaved IndiaThese structures were deliberately placed on elevated ground to symbolise dominance and remain incomparable to local architecturenbspIn contrast PM Modi said that Seva Teerth stands connected to the ground level symbolising humility and closeness to the people rather than aloofnessnbspPrime Minister Modi highlighted that while old colonial buildings were meant to enforce the will of a distant ruler the new complexes have been created to fulfil the aspirations of 140 crore IndiansIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/hm-shah-hails-pm-modi-describes-seva-teerth-as-symbol-of-public-service-661541.html Fri, 13 Feb 2026 22:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pmos-new-address-seva-teerth-to-be-inaugurated-by-pm-modi-today-661493.html New Delhi Feb 13 The Prime Ministerâs Office PMO is all set to relocate from the Britishera building in South Block to its new address Seva Teerth the newly constructed building at Kartavya Path on Friday Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the complex Seva Teerth as well as Kartavya Bhavan1 amp 2The inauguration will mark a transformative milestone in Indiaâs administrative governance architecture as the Seva Teerth houses the Prime Ministerâs Office PMO the National Security Council Secretariat and the Cabinet SecretariatInside the Kartavya Bhavan1 amp 2 several highprofile ministries including the Ministry of Finance Defence Health amp Family Welfare Education will operateAccording to officials PM Modi will first unveil the name of the building complex Seva Teerth at around 130 pm and then formally inaugurate Seva Teerth and Kartavya Bhavan1 amp 2 and also address a public programme at Seva Teerth at around 6 pmThe new complex reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modiâs commitment to building a modern efficient accessible and citizencentric governance ecosystem Both building complexes feature digitally integrated offices structured public interface zones and centralised reception facilitiesThese features will enhance collaboration efficiency seamless governance improved citizen engagement and enhanced employee wellbeingDesigned in accordance with 4Star GRIHA standards the complexes incorporate renewable energy systems water conservation measures waste management solutions and highperformance building envelopesâThese measures significantly reduce environmental impact while enhancing operational efficiency The building complexes also include comprehensive safety and security frameworks such as smart access control systems surveillance networks and advanced emergency response infrastructure ensuring a secure and accessible environment for officials and visitorsâ said an official statementThe new stateoftheart building in the Centra Vista area has been furnished with futureready facilities It is wellequipped to maintain an optimal modern working environment something which was lacking in South BlockAs per available information several highprofile ministries are located at Kartavya Bhavan1 amp 2 They include the Ministry of Finance Ministry of Defence Ministry of Health amp Family Welfare Ministry of Corporate Affairs Ministry of Education Ministry of Culture Ministry of Law amp Justice Ministry of Information amp Broadcasting Ministry of Agriculture amp Farmers Welfare Ministry of Chemicals amp Fertilizers and Ministry of Tribal Affairs IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pmos-new-address-seva-teerth-to-be-inaugurated-by-pm-modi-today-661493.html Fri, 13 Feb 2026 08:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/rahul-snaps-at-reporters-when-questioned-about-privilege-motion-against-him-661483.html New Delhi Feb 12 IANS Leader of Opposition LoP Rahul Gandhi lost his cool at a section of media persons on Thursday as they questioned him about a possible privilege motion against him by the ruling party in the ongoing Budget sessionnbspRahul visibly agitated at the question snapped at the scribes asking Have you been given this code word for today In the same breadth he asked them to stay objective in their work and uphold the sanctity of their professionnbspnbspOn Wednesday the Lok Sabha erupted in protest as Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing critique of the Modi government accusing it of surrendering India and its people before foreign powers and also selling the Bharat Mata Rahuls fierce attack was met with protest from treasury benches who objected to LoPs unparliamentary language and demanded that his remarks be expunged from House proceedingsnbspLater BJP lawmakers stated that the privilege motion will be brought against the LoP for misleading the House with baseless and malicious claimsnbspCongress party however stood firm that no violation of Parliamentary norms took place as the LoP was well within the right to lambast the government and Prime Minister for capitulating and surrendering Indias energy and farmers interests in the IndiaUS trade dealnbspToday as Rahul walked down to his car outside the Parliament complex the scribes gathered around him to seek his reaction on the privilege motion being mulled against himnbspnbspThis apparently triggered him and he asked the scribes Is privilege the code work for today Have you been given this word for todaynbspFurther lashing out at scribes he said Yesterday the word was authentication today it is privilege You should try to do some objective stuff You are not totally employed by the BJP it gets really shamefulnbspYou are responsible people you have media people you have a responsibility to stay objective You are doing a disservice to this nation Are you not able to recognize that he told themnbspThere is yet no clarity however about treasury benches moving any motion against him Top sources in the government said that a privilege motion is unlikely however a substantive motion may be brought against himnbspIANSnbsp https://dailyworld.in/politics/rahul-snaps-at-reporters-when-questioned-about-privilege-motion-against-him-661483.html Thu, 12 Feb 2026 15:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/hm-amit-shah-to-attend-akhil-bharatiya-rajbhasha-sammelan-in-tripura-on-feb-20--661485.html Agartala Feb 12 IANS The Department of Official Language under the Ministry of Home Affairs will organise a Joint Regional Official Language Conference the Akhil Bharatiya Rajbhasha Sammelan for the eastern northeastern and northern regions in a grand manner in Tripuras capital Agartala on February 20 officials said on ThursdaynbspA senior official said that the Union Home Minister Amit Shah along with a host of dignitaries will attend the conference which will be held at the International Indoor Exhibition Centre at Hapania on the outskirts of AgartalaOfficials from various Central government offices public sector undertakings banks Town Official Language Implementation Committees TOLICs and other organisations are expected to participate in the conferencenbspTo make the event more attractive and meaningful an exhibition showcasing outstanding work carried out by different organisations in the field of Official Language implementation has also been planned the official addedAll participating organisations have been requested to submit details of any special innovations or noteworthy initiatives undertaken by them in the field of Official Language which can be displayed at their respective stalls during the exhibitionnbspTripura Chief Minister Manik Saha while speaking to the media on the sidelines of an event also confirmed the participation of Union Home Minister Shah in the Akhil Bharatiya Rajbhasha SammelanThe Bharatiya Janata Party BJP sources said that during his visit to Tripura the Union Home Minister is also likely to hold a few meetings with the Chief Minister Saha and other senior BJP leaders to discuss various political and organisational mattersAmid ongoing differences between the BJP and its ally the Tipra Motha Party TMP Union Home Minister Shah is also likely to hold meetings with TMP leaders including party supremo Pradyot Bikram Manikya Debbarma the sources addednbspAhead of the crucial elections to the 30member Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council TTAADC the BJP TMP and other political parties have intensified preparations for the polls which are expected to be held in MarchAprilIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/hm-amit-shah-to-attend-akhil-bharatiya-rajbhasha-sammelan-in-tripura-on-feb-20--661485.html Thu, 12 Feb 2026 16:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/1-425-illegal-structures-demolished-in-2-years-since-nc-govt-took-office-says-omar-abdullah-661487.html Jammu Feb 12 IANS Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said on Thursday that since the NC government took office in 2024 a total of 1425 illegal structures were demolished across the Union TerritorynbspIn a written reply to a starred question by Peoples Democratic Party PDP MLA Mir Mohammad Fayaz in the Assembly Omar said that a total of 1425 illegal structures including residential have been demolished across Jammu and Kashmir since the formation of the National Conferenceled government in October 2024nbspThe demolished properties included the house of journalist Arfaz Ahmad Daing in Jammu and the government said that due procedure under the JK Public Premises Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants Act 1988 and other relevant laws was followed prior to the actionnbspOn the demolition of the journalists house by the Jammu Development Authority Daing in his written statement on November 19 2025 had stated that he has no connection with the said land or propertynbspThe demolition drive was conducted only after due verification from the concerned revenue authorities and after following due procedures the Chief Minister saidAsserting that no construction is permitted without proper authorisation Omar said demolition drives are carried out only after verification by revenue authorities concerned and in accordance with due processnbspThe demolished structures included 1194 residential and 231 commercial buildings with the highest number of 1133 structures being in Srinagar including 119 commercial establishments brought down by the JK Lake Conservation and Management Authority Srinagar Municipal Corporation and Srinagar Development AuthorityOmar who is also minister incharge Housing and Urban Development said Jammu district recorded 237 demolitions including 75 commercial structures carried out by Jammu Development Authority Jammu Municipal Corporation and revenue authorities followed by 19 in Ramban district by National Highway Authority of India 10 in Anantnag by Pahalgam Development Authority seven in Kathua and four in ShopiannbspHe said three structures each were demolished in Kulgam Ganderbal and Udhampur two in Budgam and one each in Baramulla and Kupwara districts The commercial property in Baramulla and three houses in Ganderbal were demolished on the directions of the high courtThe encroachments are regularly removed as per the provisions of JK Public Premises Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants Act 1988 and other relevant laws Any unauthorised construction is dealt under rule as per the provisions of Control Of Building Operations COBO Act 1988 This is done on a regular basis by way of service of notices conducting sealing and antiencroachmentdemolition drives the Chief Minister saidHe said adequate time is accorded to the violator or encroacher as per the relevant section of JK Public Premises Act and COBO Act Asked about the reasons for permitting construction of such structures in the first place no such construction is permitted without proper permissionnbspHowever in some cases due to legal intervention lack of timely police assistance construction at odd hours and deviation from approved plans delay occurs due to which the offender succeeds in raising construction to the next level Omar saidIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/1-425-illegal-structures-demolished-in-2-years-since-nc-govt-took-office-says-omar-abdullah-661487.html Thu, 12 Feb 2026 17:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/one-nation-one-election-does-not-violate-the-basic-structure-of-the-constitution-ex-cji-gavai-661492.html New Delhi Feb 12 IANS Former Chief Justice of India CJI BR Gavai on Thursday told the Joint Parliamentary Committee JPC on One Nation One Election ONOE headed by BJP MP PP Chaudhary that the proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill on simultaneous elections does not violate the Basic Structure of the ConstitutionnbspMaking a detailed representation before the parliamentary panel the exCJI argued that the Basic Structure doctrine encompasses the federal framework and the democratic form of governance and neither of these features would be altered by the proposed legislationThrough the enactment of this Bill neither of these federalism and democracy will be changed or affected Hence the amendment is in consonance with the Basic Structure he told the JPCnbspThe ONOE only brings about a change in the manner of conducting elections at one point The structure of elections and voter rights remains the same Thus the amendment would be constitutional he addednbspOn the competence of Parliament to bring such legislation the exCJI said that the Constitution empowers the Parliament to carry out amendments necessary to synchronise elections to the Lok Sabha and state ssembliesAddressing concerns regarding governmental accountability under a simultaneous election framework former CJI Gavai argued that since instruments like the noconfidence motion remain intact there will be no impact on the accountability of either the Union or the state governmentsnbspOn the constitutional viability of ONOE he pointed out that India had successfully conducted simultaneous elections until 1967Justice Gavais views come amid ongoing deliberations by the JPC examining the Constitution 129th Amendment Bill 2024 and the Union Territories Laws Amendment Bill 2024nbspSince its constitution in December 2024 the panel has held extensive consultations with constitutional experts economists and the 23rd Law Commission Chairman among othersThe two Bills introduced by Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal in December 2024 and subsequently referred to the parliamentary panel seek to align Lok Sabha and Assembly elections by curtailing the terms of certain state legislatures elected after a particular Lok Sabha so that their tenures conclude together Once the election cycles are synchronised future Lok Sabha and state Assembly polls would be conducted simultaneouslynbspThe 23rd Law Commission has also recently affirmed that the proposed legislation does not violate the Constitutions Basic Structure including principles relating to federalism and voter rights lending further weight to the governments push for electoral reformIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/one-nation-one-election-does-not-violate-the-basic-structure-of-the-constitution-ex-cji-gavai-661492.html Thu, 12 Feb 2026 21:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/mp-cm-to-inaugurate-five-day-mahakal-van-mela-in-ujjain-today-661404.html New Delhi Feb 11 MP Chief Minister Mohan Yadav will inaugurate the fivedaylong Forest Departmentâs exhibition titled âMahakal Van Melaâ in Madhya Pradeshâs religious city Ujjain on Wednesday The mega event is being organised at Dussehra ground located in Sethi Nagar in the city On this occasion the Chief Minister will also release the âMahakal Smriti Giftâ produced by the MFP Park Minor Forest Produce Processing amp Research CentreMohan Yadav will also launch a new initiative of the Forest Department titled âMahakal Van Prasadamâ the Chief Ministerâs office said in a statement on TuesdayThe âMahakal Van Melaâ will be based on the theme âprosperous forests happy peopleâ and will be held from February 11 to February 16 This is the first time that a Van Mela is being organised in the holy city of Ujjain the government saidâThe Van Mela is being organised to promote the display conservation enhancement processing and marketing of nontimber forest produce collected by forest dwellers across the stateâ it saidCollectors of nontimber forest produce Van Dhan Kendras Primary Minor Forest Produce Cooperative Societies traders and representatives of herbal and Ayurvedic industries will participate in the event and display and sell their productsFacilities such as a kidsâ zone wheelchairs golf carts seating areas water points and selfie points will also be available for visitors The fair will feature buyerseller meets free medical consultations by Ayurvedic doctors and traditional healers informative cultural programs and the availability of traditional food itemsSpecial attractions at the event will include a giant sculpture of the cheetah family and dinosaurs wheelchair and golf cart facilities for senior citizens separate seating arrangements for patients receiving treatment at the OPD free bus service from the Mahakal temple to the fair venue and an attractive and fun kidsâ zone for childrenDuring the event the Chief Minister will also present certificates of appreciation to the Divisional Forest Officers DFOs and the Managing Director District Union South Panna as well as to the Forest Guard District Union South Panna IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/mp-cm-to-inaugurate-five-day-mahakal-van-mela-in-ujjain-today-661404.html Wed, 11 Feb 2026 11:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/budget-will-provide-new-direction-to-aatmanirbhar-viksit-up-vision-cm-yogi-661417.html Lucknow Feb 11 The Yogi government is set to present its 10th Budget in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly on Wednesday This will be the last full Budget of the BJPled governments second term The Budget size is Rs 95 lakh crore significantly exceeding previous budgetsChief Minister Yogi Adityanath stated that this Budget will provide a new direction and a clear policy vision to achieve the goals of Aatmanirbhar and Viksit Uttar Pradesh Taking to X CM Yogi said Under the illustrious guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Mod ji New Uttar Pradesh is continuously advancing towards the construction of a strong selfreliant and prosperous state with the policy of good governance inclusive development and public welfareThe budget for the financial year 202627 presented today in the Uttar Pradesh Legislature will provide new direction new energy clear policyvision and concrete action plan to the resolution of Aatmanirbhar and Viksit Uttar Pradesh he added The Chief Minister further said that the Budget will also ensure the states progress towards achieving the 1 trillion economy targetKeeping the dignity of the poor the selfrespect of the youth the empowerment of mothers and the prosperity of farmers at the centre this Budget will become a strong foundation for the construction of Viksit Bharat 2047 and the bright future of New Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi addedThe proposal will be finalised after a Cabinet meeting under the chairmanship of the Chief Minister after which Finance Minister Suresh Khanna will present the Budget in the Assembly at 11 amAccording to the government agriculture education health and infrastructure have been given special emphasis in this Budget Apart from this job creation industrial investment and women and youth empowerment are also given priorityThe Budget is anticipated to allocate sufficient resources for the balanced development of Purvanchal Bundelkhand and other underdeveloped regions aiming to reduce regional disparitiesIn terms of social welfare initiatives there may be an increase in funds for oldage pensions assistance for destitute women and support for the disabledAdditionally a possible rise in the honorarium for Shiksha Mitras and instructors could positively impact millions of teachers IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/budget-will-provide-new-direction-to-aatmanirbhar-viksit-up-vision-cm-yogi-661417.html Wed, 11 Feb 2026 11:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/polling-underway-for-municipal-elections-in-telangana-over-52-lakh-voters-to-decide-fate-of-12-944-candidates-661419.html Hyderabad Feb 11 Polling was underway for municipal elections in 116 municipalities and seven corporations in Telangana amid tight security on Wednesday The voting which began at 7 am at 8191 polling stations will end at 5 pm officials at the State Election Commission SEC saidA total of 5217413 voters are eligible to cast their votes in 2981 wards in the 123 urban local bodiesThe SEC has deployed 1379 Returning Officers and 41773 polling staff for the polling process It has arranged webcasting at all polling centresState Election Commissioner Rani Kumudini has appealed to all voters to exercise their franchise She said voters can download the voter slips through the SEC website or the TEPOLL appA total of 12944 candidates are testing their political fortunes in these electionsPolling is being held for 2569 wards in 116 municipalities Twelve candidates in nine municipalities have been elected unopposedThe SEC has postponed polling for a ward in Makthal municipality in Narayanpet district following the suicide by a BJP candidate on Monday nightA total of 10719 candidates are in the fray in 116 municipalities They include 2358 candidates of the ruling Congress party 2478 of Bharat Rashtra Samithi BRS and 2252 of Bharatiya Janata Party BJPOfficials said 6017 polling centres have been set up for polling in municipalitiesPolling was on for 412 wards in seven municipal corporations Candidates in two wards in Mahabubnagar and Ramagundam were elected unopposed Authorities have set up 2174 polling centres in seven corporations As many as 2225 candidates are in the fray in these corporations They include 410 candidates of Congress 401 of BRS and 382 of BJPDirector General of Police B Shivdhar Reddy has said that tight security arrangements have been made for polling About 3000 additional police personnel have been deployed to maintain law and order The police identified 1302 polling centres as highly problematic and 1926 centres as problematic Additional forces have been deployed at these centresRepolling if any will be held on Thursday while counting of votes will be taken up the next dayMunicipal chairpersons and vicechairpersons will be elected on February 16 IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/polling-underway-for-municipal-elections-in-telangana-over-52-lakh-voters-to-decide-fate-of-12-944-candidates-661419.html Wed, 11 Feb 2026 11:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pandit-deendayal-upadhyayas-principles-continue-to-remain-guiding-light-says-pm-modi-661422.html New Delhi Feb 11 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday paid rich tributes to Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya on his death anniversary describing him as a guiding force for every generation of the nation Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya 19161968 a prominent political thinker economist and leader of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh is remembered for his philosophy of Integral Humanism Ekatma Manav DarshanHis vision highlighted development rooted in Indias cultural ethos advocating harmony between the individual society and nature rather than focusing solely on material progress Upadhyay led the Jana Sangh until his untimely death in 1968Taking to X PM Modi said To the unparalleled devotee of the Motherland Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay ji respectful homage on his sacred death anniversary His principles and thoughts rooted in values will continue to remain a guiding light for every generation of the country he added Union Home Minister Amit Shah paying homage to Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya described him as the pioneer of Antyodaya and integral humanism and a great national thinkerThe person who stands at the last row his development is itself the indicator of the nations development the thinker who gave this idea Deendayal Ji will continue to remain an eternal source of inspiration for nationbuilding for countless generations he addedDefence Minister Rajnath Singh also took to X and paid tributes to the selfless Karmayogi and great thinker Pandit Deendayal UpadhyayaThrough his Ekatma Manav Darshan Integral Humanism the mantra of Antyodaya that he gave to take development to the last person in society remains even today the foundation for building a Viksit Bharat His ideals of service to the nation and complete dedication will forever continue to guide our path Singh saidUttar Pradesh Yogi Adityanath took to social media and paid tributes to the founder member of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh The spirit of Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas in the doubleengine government is a living expression of his very thought and philosophy Inspired by the ideals of revered Pandit ji the state government is fully committed to the upliftment of villages the poor farmers women and the person standing at the last rung of society CM Yogi posted on X IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pandit-deendayal-upadhyayas-principles-continue-to-remain-guiding-light-says-pm-modi-661422.html Wed, 11 Feb 2026 11:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/telangana-govt-splits-greater-hyderabad-into-three-municipal-corporations-661433.html Hyderabad Feb 11 The Telangana government has divided the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation GHMC into three separate corporations It has created two new corporations Cyberabad and Malkajgiri while retaining six out of 12 zones under GHMC A Government Order GO was issued on Wednesday constituting three municipal corporations Cyberabad Municipal Corporation Malkajgiri Municipal Corporation and Greater Hyderabad Municipal CorporationThe government also appointed Jayesh Ranjan Special Chief Secretary to the Government Metropolitan Area and Urban Development Department as Special Officer for the three corporationsRVKarnan will continue as the Commissioner of GHMC G Srijana has been transferred and posted as Commissioner Cyberabad Municipal CorporationT Vinay Krishna Reddy Additional Commissioner GHMC has been transferred and posted as Commissioner Malkajgiri Municipal CorporationAccording to the GO the existing GHMC has been reorganised after careful examinationconsideration of the administrative requirements arising out of the expansion of the cityThe move came a couple of months after the merger of the surrounding 27 urban local bodies with the GHMC to create the Core Urban Region CURE The government in December last year had approved the reorganisation of GHMC into 12 zones and 60 circles Cyberabad Municipal Corporation will comprise the areas constituted by the Serilingampally Kukatpally and Qutbullapur zonesMalkajgiri Municipal Corporation will comprise the areas constituted by the Malkajgiri Uppal and LB Nagar zonesAreas under Shamshabad Rajendernagar Charminar Golconda Khairatabad and Secunderabad zones will come under GHMCThe two new corporations will have a population of 35 lakh each while GHMC will cover a population of 70 lakh The GO to split GHMC into three corporations was issued on the day when polling was underway for municipal elections in seven corporations and 116 municipalities in the stateElections for GHMC and two new corporations and a few other urban local bodies in the state are likely to be held in AprilMay IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/telangana-govt-splits-greater-hyderabad-into-three-municipal-corporations-661433.html Wed, 11 Feb 2026 11:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/maha-forms-task-force-to-curb-farmer-suicides-661435.html Mumbai Feb 11 The state Agriculture Department has taken a major policy decision to establish a Task Force to curb farmer suicides in Maharashtra Agriculture Commissioner Suraj Mandhare on Tuesday evening announced through a circular that this task force will recommend and implement comprehensive measures addressing mental health social issues economic challenges and disasters arising from climate changeThe formation of a Task Force takes places ahead of the upcoming Budget Session of the state legislature starting from February 23The task force is headed by Rafique Naikwadi Director of the Extension and Training Department and includes department officials Sunil Borkar Uday Deshmukh Ganesh Ghorpede Jivan Bunde Nandkishore Nainwad Satyajit Shitole and Sonali Shilkar Dr Vinayak Hegana Agricultural Sociologist and researcher working on farmers mental health via the Shivar Foundation and Srishti Doijad Psychiatrist researching the mental health of women farmersâWhile various schemes are already in place farmers currently face a convergence of natural disasters due to climate change crop loss financial distress and social stress To help them navigate these crises and overcome depression the department is adopting a FourPoint Integrated Approach which focusses on technical guidance and technology in agriculture financial assistance and stability support systems and community support and psychological counsellingâ said the circularThe Task Force has been given a comprehensive mandate to study and do research on factors leading to farmer suicides review the impact of climate change on agriculture and suggest remedies develop strategic measures for suicide prevention and create models based on technology finance and mental healthThis apart the Task Force will formulate action plans for predisaster preparation immediate response during crises and postdisaster rehabilitation It will also create regional and districtlevel implementation plans and coordinate with the government semigovernment organisations and NGOsCommenting on the formation of a Task Force Agriculture Commissioner Suraj Mandhare said Farmer suicide is not just about providing compensation after the tragedy We need to look at how to empower the farmer This task force aims to link all Agriculture Department schemes with other departments to effectively increase both production and incomeRafique Naikwadi Chairman of the Task Force stated that they will study previous committee reports and implement broader modern measures suited to current needsOn the other hand Dr Vinayak Hegana Agricultural Sociologist and researcher working on farmers mental health via the Shivar Foundation pointed out âThrough the Shivar Sansad and the Shivar Helpline we have already prevented 2500 farmers from committing suicide This task force provides an opportunity to work at a policy level to build a sustainable scientific and humane model for farmersThe establishment of a Task Force is important especially when state Relief and Rehabilitation Minister Makrand Jadhav Patil during the monsoon session of the state legislature held in July last year outlined several measures aimed at curbing farmer suicides including compensation for crop losses due to natural calamities and the provision of Rs 12000 annually to growers through the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi and Namo Shetkari Mahasanman schemes jointly funded by the state and central governmentsMoreover he further stated that the government is ensuring fair prices for agricultural produce providing irrigation facilities and operating counseling centres at the district level to support farmersâ mental health and wellbeingSanjay Jog can be contacted at sanjayjiansin IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/maha-forms-task-force-to-curb-farmer-suicides-661435.html Wed, 11 Feb 2026 12:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bomb-hurled-at-trinamool-councillor-asit-majumdars-house-in-bengal-661436.html Kolkata Feb 11 A bomb was hurled at Trinamool Congress Councillors house in Basirhat of West Bengals North 24 Parganas district the police said on Wednesday However no one was injured in the incident even as panic spread in the area following the incidentAsit Majumdar the councillor of ward number eight of Basirhat Municipality was at home at the time of the incidentThe miscreants fled the area before he could leave the house after hearing the sound of the bomb The Trinamool Congress leader claimed that he has never seen such an incident in his long 55year political career and pointed finger at the infighting of the partyMeanwhile local leaders of the party including MLA from Basirhat Dakshin constituency Saptarshi Banerjee came there at Tuesday night after receiving the news of the bombing at the house of the party councillorStanding next to the party councillor the ruling party MLA said that there may be a conspiracy by the opposition party behind this However the BJP has countered by saying that there is a factional conflict within the Trinamool Congress behind this The police have started an investigation into the incidentIn this regard an officer of the Basirhat Police district said The initial assumption is that a sockettype bomb was hurled at the councillorâs house The sprinter and shell of the bomb have been recovered from the scene Efforts are being made to collect information about this by talking to the councillor and people in the area CCTV footage of the area is being examined It is hoped that it will be possible to quickly identify and arrest the miscreantsMajumdar is known as a veteran leader of Basirhat He was first with the Congress then he joined the Trinamool and won the municipal elections and became a councillor His wife Krishna Majumdar was also the chairman of the Basirhat Municipality for five years The incident of bombing at the house of such a leader has increased political heat as usual in the election atmosphereIt is learnt that the Trinamool councillor was talking to some people from the area at his house on Tuesday night It is alleged that the miscreants hurled a bomb at the house of Asit Majumdar after the people left A part of the iron grill of the main door of the house was damaged in the bomb blastIn this regard Majumdar said I was talking to some people I know in my house After they left the house I suddenly heard a loud noise After that the smell of gunpowder hit my nose and I realised that someone had thrown a bomb I have never seen such an incident in my long political lifeHe added Even during the Left Front regime no one dared to attack my house The police came after receiving the news and saw it I feel bad seeing this situation in Basirhat I have no dispute or enmity with anyone Therefore I cannot say who is behind this incident However I think that it may be someone local not an outsiderTrinamool MLA Saptarshi Banerjee said The police have confirmed that a socket bomb was thrown at the house of this party leader It is a very heinous incident I condemn it It will be clear who is behind this after examining the CCTV footage The police have been asked to arrest the culprits within 48 hours Those who want to disturb Bengal may have played a role behind the bombing So there must be politics behind thisMeanwhile Palash Sarkar president of the BJPs Basirhat organisational district Yuva Morcha said Today peoples lives are in turmoil due to the mischief of the Trinamool The people of Basirhat are fed up The factional conflict of the Trinamool has reached such a point that even the partys councillors are not spared IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bomb-hurled-at-trinamool-councillor-asit-majumdars-house-in-bengal-661436.html Wed, 11 Feb 2026 12:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/at-80-cm-vijayans-discipline-extends-from-dining-table-to-officialdom-661438.html Thiruvananthapuram Feb 11 Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayanâs public persona has long been defined by ideological rigidity and administrative control But those close to the 80yearold leader say that the same precision and discipline visible in governance are equally evident in his personal habits His habits are now being discussed more after a seer fish controversy broke out which was put on the table by veteran CPI leader and former State Minister C Divakaran and is now a raging hit on social mediaAt the dining table CM Vijayan is described as an unhurried and methodical eater He relishes his food slowly preferring to serve himself rather than being assisted even when multiple dishes are laid out before himThose familiar with his routine say he dislikes being rushed and can grow visibly irritated if someone seated across from him eats too quicklyMeals for him are neither ceremonial nor social performances they are deliberate orderly affairsHe is particular about accompaniments as wellCold water is firmly off the table as he prefers hot or warm water alongside his mealsWhen travelling across the state he is said to favour local cuisine and makes it known that he would rather sample regional dishes than opt for generic fareThe choice reflects both personal taste and a political instinct to align with local identityCleanliness is another nonnegotiableA spotless wash basin and a separate towel for wiping hands before and after food are small but essential details in his daily routineIf these habits suggest fastidiousness officials say the same exacting standards apply in meetingsDespite a decade at the helm CM Vijayanâs memory remains razor sharp Bureaucrats attending meetings chaired by him are often on edge aware that he can recall what they said years earlierAny shift in position is quickly flagged âThat is not what you said beforeâ he is known to point outAnd at meetings or elsewhere his face clearly reflects whether he is happy or otherwiseIn private space and public office alike Vijayanâs consistency appears to be both his hallmark and his message With the upcoming Assembly polls round the corner all these habits will be in focus as he is the star campaigner for the Left aiming for a third successive term IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/at-80-cm-vijayans-discipline-extends-from-dining-table-to-officialdom-661438.html Wed, 11 Feb 2026 12:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/finance-minister-likes-to-smile-a-lot-what-have-you-done-with-our-data-rahul-gandhi-661441.html New Delhi Feb 11 IANS Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday targeted the Centre and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman over the IndiaUS trade agreement and the reported tax concessions extended to foreign cloud service providers claiming that the arrangement is detrimental to Indias economic and strategic interestsnbspParticipating in the debate on the Union Budget Gandhi criticised the governments policies on data and taxation while taking a swipe at the Finance MinisternbspnbspThe Finance Minister is smiling she likes to smile she likes to smile a lot Twentyyear free tax holiday to the big tax companies this is what have you done with our data Gandhi questionedHe further raised concerns over tariff changes under the trade arrangement and alleged that the deal disproportionately benefits the United StatesnbspnbspWhat have you done with tariffs At the beginning 3 per cent was the average which has now gone up to 18 per cent a 6x increase The US imports will go up from 46 billion to 146 billion This is absurd and they the US have no commitment to us we have a commitment to them we are standing like fools Our tariff has gone up 3 per cent to 18 per cent and theirs has come down from 16 per cent to 0 he saidnbspGandhi stated that political differences aside lawmakers across parties would want to safeguard national interestsnbspI believe that people across the aisle here want to protect our country I also believe that the Prime Minister understands that Indias biggest asset is its people and as a result its data I do not believe for one second that the Prime Minister does not understand it he saidnbspThe Congress leader also cited comparative tariff benefits allegedly extended by the US to Bangladesh arguing that such measures would damage Indias textile sectornbspnbspThe US has reduced the tariff on Bangladesh to 0 while Indias tariff is 18 per cent What do you expect our textile people to do They are dead finished The entire textile industry is gone Because their competitor is Bangladesh if Bangladesh imports US cotton they have 0 per cent duty Textile Industry Indias is gone he saidGandhi further claimed that the agreement weakens Indias energy independence and gives the United States significant leverage over Indias oil procurement decisionsnbspThe US will now decide where we will buy our oil from and not our Prime Minister They will monitor us And if India buys oil from a country that the US does not approve of then they will punish us with tariffs he saidnbspHe also accused the government of undermining farmers interests and described the situation in strong termsnbspGandhi alleged that the Centre has opened a door to crush our poor farmers and called the development disgracefulnbspNo Prime Minister has ever done this and no Prime Minister after you will ever do it he saidnbspContinuing his criticism Gandhi said Youve weaponised energy You dont have any solutions to overcome thisIn a sharp escalation of his attack the Leader of the Opposition accused the government of compromising national interests and described the interim trade agreement as heavily skewednbspI am saying that you have sold India Are you not ashamed of selling India Do you have no shame in selling India You have sold our mother Bharat Mata he saidnbspHe further alleged that the Prime Minister was acting under pressure in agreeing to the arrangementnbspIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/finance-minister-likes-to-smile-a-lot-what-have-you-done-with-our-data-rahul-gandhi-661441.html Wed, 11 Feb 2026 13:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-mlas-stall-proceedings-of-jk-assembly-over-omar-abdullahs-unparliamentary-remarks-661442.html Jammu Feb 11 IANS Opposition Bharatiya Janata Party BJP MLAs stalled the proceedings of JampampK Legislative Assembly on Wednesday when they stormed into the Well of the House demanding an apology from the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for what they alleged were his unparliamentary remarksnbspnbspBefore creating the ruckus BJP members had staged a walkout from the House and then returned at the end of the Question HourThe BJP members said the Chief Minister had left the House when he saw the BJP members entering the Assembly at the end of the walkoutnbspThey gathered in a row and continued chanting slogans against the government seeking apology from the Chief MinisternbspHowever the Speaker said they cannot raise the issue again after walking out from the House on the issuenbspThe Speaker ruled that the BJP protest should not be recorded in the House proceedingsLater the BJP members stormed into the Well of the House and staged a sitinnbspEarlier also the House witnessed noisy scenes before the question hour when Sham Lal Sharma of the BJP stood up and asked the chief minister to apologisenbspSharma said such an incident has no precedent in the history of Jammu and Kashmir AssemblynbspThe language used by the chief minister is not the language that can be used in any Parliament I want to ask the Leader of the House whether he withdraws the words he used yesterday in this House bout the BJP legislative party If he does not withdraw them then we leave it to his conscience what his inner voice tells him whether the words used in this House were appropriate or not If the chief minister is not present here then I leave it to the Chair to make a response It is your responsibility to say something about this matter he saidSpeaker Abdul Rahim Rather tried to persuade the BJP members to allow the Question Hour to continue and rake up the issue when the Leader of the House is on the floornbspWhatever happened yesterday Tuesday was unfortunate Let the chief minister come and if he wishes he can make a statement I cant make a statement on his behalf the Speaker saidnbspHealth Minister Sakeena Itoo accused BJP members of using unparliamentary words as well particularly against Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary and speaking lies in the HousenbspChoudhary suggested the chair to examine all the unparliamentary words used from both sides and expunge these from the records to continue the proceedings without any disruptionLeader of Opposition BJP MLA Sunil Sharma opposed the suggestion and refused to budge and later led the walkout chanting slogans like derogatory Sarkar Hai Hai unparliamentary Sarkar Hai Hai Bharat Mata ki JainbspPandemonium had broken out in the House during Omar Abdullahs speech yesterday when BJP members objected to some of his remarks against them and demanded an apologyOmar Abdullah was winding up the discussion on the Union Territorys Budget presented on February 6 when BJP members termed certain remarks made by him unparliamentaryWhile the chief minister has ruled out apologising to BJP members for the remarks saying he was willing to withdraw his words but was not allowed to speak amid repeated disruptions Sham Lal Sharma said the party would not allow the House to function until Omar Abdullah tendered an unconditional apology on the floor of the HousenbspThe NC government is supported by 6 Congress MLAs while the opposition is constituted by 29 BJP members 4 PDP one PC 1 AIP and one AAP memberIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-mlas-stall-proceedings-of-jk-assembly-over-omar-abdullahs-unparliamentary-remarks-661442.html Wed, 11 Feb 2026 14:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ritu-tawde-elected-unopposed-as-mumbai-mayor-sanjay-ghadi-as-deputy-mayor-661443.html Mumbai Feb 11 IANS BJP corporator Ritu Tawde and Shiv Sena Shinde faction corporator Sanjay Ghadi were on Wednesday elected unopposed as the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation BMC respectivelynbspThe Shiv Sena UBT Congress and other opposition parties did not field their candidates paving the way for unanimous election The development brings to an end nearly four years of administrator rule in the civic body and signals a significant shift in Mumbais political landscapeChief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde extended their congratulations promising a transparent and peoplecentric administrationnbspnbspThey said that under the leadership of Tawde and Ghadi the MahaYuti alliance would accelerate Mumbais development in line with the vision of Balasaheb Thackerays birth centenary yearnbspTawde and Ghadi formally assumed office in the BMC hall amid cheers from corporators accepting charge from Municipal Commissioner Bhushan GagraniI am extremely happy that once again the Shiv SenaBJP Mahayuti has secured the posts of Mayor and Deputy Mayor in the BMC Both Ritu Tawde and Sanjay Ghadi are committed soldiers of the alliance Fadnavis saidnbspHe added that the Mahayuti had sought votes to ensure a transparent and citizenfocused civic administration and the swearingin reflected the mandate given by MumbaikarsnbspnbspDescribing Tawde as an experienced and strong Marathi face who has consistently raised civic issues the Chief Minister expressed confidence that the alliances development agenda would gain further momentum under her leadershipOn Ghadis appointment Fadnavis said the city would benefit from his experience as a senior Shiv Sainik He reiterated that the corporation would be run in accordance with the ideals envisioned by Balasaheb ThackeraynbspFadnavis assured that the state government would extend full support to the new civic leadership to give a new direction to the BMC and realise the aspirations of Mumbais residentsnbspWith Tawdes election the BJP has secured the Mayors post in Mumbai after over four decades effectively ending the 25year dominance of the Shiv Sena UBT in the BMC In the recent civic polls the BJP emerged as the single largest party with 89 seats while its ally the Eknath Shindeled Shiv Sena won 29 seats comfortably crossing the majority mark of 114 in the 227member HouseIn a strategic decision the Shindeled Shiv Sena plans to rotate the Deputy Mayors fiveyear term among four corporators with Sanjay Ghadi set to serve the first 15 monthsnbspA veteran corporator from Ghatkopar Ward 132 Tawde previously served as Chairperson of the BMC Education Committee Known for her assertive stance on civic issues and advocacy of Marathi identity she outlined monsoon preparedness and urban transformation as immediate priorities in her inaugural addressUpon assuming office Tawde stated that she would function as a sevak of Mumbai focusing on improving roads and drainage systems as well as addressing illegal encroachmentsnbspMeanwhile leaders from the Shiv Sena UBT said their decision not to contest was both strategic and a recognition of the MahaYutis clear majority while also citing respect for the Marathi identity of the elected candidatesIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ritu-tawde-elected-unopposed-as-mumbai-mayor-sanjay-ghadi-as-deputy-mayor-661443.html Wed, 11 Feb 2026 14:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/up-govt-presents-rs-912-lakh-crore-up-budget-with-focus-on-law-and-order-health-infra-661449.html Lucknow Feb 11 IANS Uttar Pradesh Finance Minister Suresh Khanna on Wednesday presented a Rs 91269635 crore budget for the financial year 202627 in the Assembly an increase of nearly 129 per cent over the previous yearnbspThe Budget includes new schemes worth Rs 4356533 crorenbspThe government has placed special emphasis on capital expenditure fiscal discipline strengthening law and order and expanding health and medical infrastructureCapital expenditure has been pegged at 195 per cent of the total outlay Education has been allocated 124 per cent of the Budget medical and health services 6 per cent and agriculture and allied sectors 9 per centnbspIn line with the 16th Central Finance Commissions recommendations the fiscal deficit for 202627 has been capped at 3 per cent of GSDP a limit that will remain applicable until 203031nbspKhanna said the government remains committed to prudent financial management The states debttoGSDP ratio which stood at 293 per cent in 201617 declined to 279 per cent in 201920 It rose to 334 per cent in 202122 due to the Covid19 pandemic but has since been brought down to below 27 per cent in 202425 The target is to reduce it further to 231 per cent in 202627 and below 20 per cent in the medium termSignificant provisions have been made to enhance police infrastructurenbspCompared to 2016 incidents of robbery loot murder riots and kidnapping for ransom have reportedly declined by 89 per cent 85 per cent 47 per cent 70 per cent and 62 per cent respectively A reduction has also been recorded in crimes against women and atrocities against the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled TribesnbspThe Budget earmarks Rs 1374 crore for the construction of nonresidential police buildings and Rs 1243 crore for residential facilities Additionally Rs 346 crore has been allocated for infrastructure in newly created districts Rs 200 crore for fire stations and Rs 190 crore for strengthening firefighting systems in multistorey buildings Under Mission Shakti Rs 25 crore has been allocated for vehicles for female beat officersA total of Rs 14997 crore has been allocated for medical education Uttar Pradesh currently has 81 medical colleges 45 government and 36 private Medical colleges will be established in 16 underdeveloped districts under the publicprivate partnership PPP modelnbspMBBS seats have increased from 4540 in 2017 to 12800 while postgraduate seats have risen from 1221 to 4995 An allocation of Rs 1023 crore has been proposed for 14 new medical collegesnbspThe Medical Health and Family Welfare Department has been allocated Rs 37956 crore a 15 per cent increase over last year Rs 8641 crore has been earmarked for the National Rural Health Mission and Rs 2000 crore for the Ayushman Bharat National Health Protection Mission As many as 4922 lakh families are benefiting under the Ayushman Bharat Mukhyamantri Jan Arogya YojanaFurther Rs 315 crore has been allocated for the Cancer Institute in Lucknow and Rs 130 crore for free treatment of incurable diseases The National Mental Health Programme is now operational in all 75 districts and infectious diseases are being monitored through the Integrated Disease Surveillance PortalnbspThe states GSDP for 202425 Quick Estimates is projected at Rs 3025 lakh crore reflecting a 134 per cent growth over the previous year Per capita income has risen from Rs 54564 in 201617 to Rs 109844 and is estimated to reach Rs 120000 in 202526The government claims that nearly six crore people have been lifted out of poverty while the unemployment rate has declined to 224 per cent The states per capita income is projected to rise to Rs 120000 in 2526 Uttar Pradeshs ranking in the SDG India Index has improved from 29th in 201819 to 18th in 202324nbspThe state hosted its fourth Global Investors Summit in February 2024 signing MoUs worth nearly Rs 50 lakh crore with the potential to generate around 10 lakh jobs Groundbreaking ceremonies have been conducted for over 16000 projects involving investments of approximately Rs 15 lakh croreUttar Pradesh accounts for 65 per cent of Indias mobile phone production and hosts 55 per cent of the countrys electronic component units Electronics exports have reached Rs 44744 crore The state has achieved Leader Category status in the national startup rankings and secured first position among landlocked states in the Export Preparedness Index 2024 released by NITI AayognbspTo boost technologydriven growth the government has announced a New and Emerging Technologies Mission along with the establishment of a data authority and eight data centre parks with a total capacity of 900 MW An AI Mission and the Tech Yuva Samarth Yuva Yojana will be launched to provide youth training and opportunities in emerging technologiesThe state leads the country in the production of wheat paddy sugarcane potato and several horticultural crops Agricultural export hubs will be developed to enhance farmers income and connect them to global marketsnbspThe irrigated area has expanded significantly and crop intensity has increased from 1627 per cent in 201617 to 1937 per cent in 202425 Thermal power generation capacity has increased by over 55 per cent to 9120 MW in 202526 till December while 2815 MW of solar capacity has been installedTo promote industrial development Rs 575 crore has been allocated for the new Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Employment and Industrial Zone scheme The Chief Minister Youth SelfEmployment Scheme will also be launched Skill development centres will be expanded under the PPP model with dedicated centres for womenIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/up-govt-presents-rs-912-lakh-crore-up-budget-with-focus-on-law-and-order-health-infra-661449.html Wed, 11 Feb 2026 15:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/rahul-gandhi-kiren-rijiju-spar-over-nation-sold-out-charge-during-budget-debate-in-ls--661450.html New Delhi Feb 11 IANS Leader of Opposition LoP in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi launched a fierce critique of the Modi government over the Union Budget 202627 alleging that the Prime Minister compromised Indias energy security interests and sold out the nation to foreign powers prompting loud protests from the treasury benches Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju objected to his wild references and asked him to engage in constructive criticismnbsp nbspRemaining unfazed Gandhi doubled down his pitch and accused the Centre of shamelessly striking a trade deal with the United States while surrendering its own interestsnbspnbspHis nonsense jibe at the government triggered fierce opposition from the ruling side and also an interjection from Jadambika Pal the officiating Speaker in the HousenbspnbspRijiju objected to Rahuls description of the trade deal as a nonsense move and demanded that unparliamentary language be expunged from the House proceedingsThe Chair also took note of Gandhis objectionable reference and asked him to refrain from the samenbspThe Congress MP while acknowledging the same went on to lambast the government listing a series of surrenders to US President Donald Trump in sectors like Agriculture IT data and peoplenbspThe House witnessed chaos and sloganeering as Gandhis surrender charge was vehemently backed by opposition members while those in the treasury bench kept booing the LoPnbspGandhi while concluding his speech said this government has sold out the nation its farmers its IT sector its energy security and stood in complete capitulation before the USnbspnbspRijiju was quick to return fire stating Koi maai ka laal paida hua nahin jo desh ko bech sakta hai No such person has taken a birth who can dare to sell the nationnbspPrime Minister Narendra Modi is the most powerful person that the country has seen till date he addednbspGandhi also targeted Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman over the IndiaUS trade agreement and the reported tax concessions extended to foreign cloud service providers claiming that the arrangement is detrimental to Indias economic and strategic interestsnbspWhile taking a swipe at the Finance Minister Gandhi remarked The Finance Minister is smiling she likes to smile she likes to smile a lot Twentyyear free tax holiday to the big tax companies this is what you did with our dataIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/rahul-gandhi-kiren-rijiju-spar-over-nation-sold-out-charge-during-budget-debate-in-ls--661450.html Wed, 11 Feb 2026 15:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/nothing-alarming-sonam-wangchuk-cannot-be-released-on-medical-grounds-centre-tells-sc--661451.html New Delhi Feb 11 IANS The Centre on Wednesday told the Supreme Court that Ladakhbased social activist Sonam Wangchuk who is under preventive detention under the National Security Act NSA is fit hale and hearty and cannot be released on health groundsnbspAppearing for the Union government Solicitor General SG Tushar Mehta submitted before a Bench of Justices Aravind Kumar and Prasanna B Varale that Wangchuks medical condition has been periodically reviewed and there was nothing alarming warranting his releasenbspOpposing any relaxation on medical grounds SG Mehta told the apex court It will not be possible to release him on health grounds It may not be desirable either We have given utmost considerationnbspnbspWe have examined his health periodically 24 times He is fit hale and hearty He had some digestive issues he is being treated There is nothing to worry about nothing alarming We cannot make exceptions like this added the Centres secondhighest law officernbspThe submissions were made during the hearing of a habeas corpus petition filed by Dr Gitanjali J Angmo challenging her husbands detention under the NSA as illegal and an arbitrary exercise violating his fundamental rightsnbspnbspIn an earlier hearing the Supreme Court had orally asked the Union government to reconsider the continued preventive detention of Wangchuk particularly in view of his not very good health and advancing agenbspThe Justice Kumarled Bench had observed that Wangchuk has been in custody since September 26 2025 and suggested that the government give it a thought on whether his detention needed to continuenbspEarlier this week the top court had cautioned against granting further adjournments in the matter and had declined a request for more time from the governments law officer Directed that the matter be listed for hearing at 2 pm on Wednesday it had told Additional Solicitor General ASG KM Nataraj You must understand it is a habeas corpus matternbspIANSnbsp https://dailyworld.in/politics/nothing-alarming-sonam-wangchuk-cannot-be-released-on-medical-grounds-centre-tells-sc--661451.html Wed, 11 Feb 2026 15:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/budget-is-sarva-mangalkari-anurag-thakur-hits-out-at-rahul-gandhi-661460.html New Delhi Feb 11 IANS BJP MP Anurag Thakur on Wednesday praised the Modi government for the Union Budget 202627 calling it a Sarva Mangalkari and Sarvjan Hitay Sarvjan Sukhaye budget aimed at inclusive growth and national progressnbspParticipating in the budget discussion in the Lok Sabha Thakur said the budget reflects the continuation of what he described as a 12year reform express that has moved India from policy paralysis to policy performance from leakage to delivery from megabytes to gigabytes from megawatts to gigawatts and from corruption to confidenceTaking a swipe at the Congress party and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi Thakur said Sir Rahul Gandhi was talking about the grip He showed his shortcomings During their tenure they did so much corruption that they brought Indias economy to a trembling positionnbspHe said that after the Modi government came to power India became the worlds fourthlargest economynbspReferring to Rahul Gandhis remarks about Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Thakur said He was talking about the smile of Nirmala ji Under the Modi government there have been such decisions Look at womens empowerment there is a woman President and a woman Finance MinisterThakur congratulated Sitharaman for presenting the Union Budget for the ninth time He also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for giving him the opportunity to speak in the HousenbspI want to congratulate Nirmala Sitharaman for presenting the Union Budget for the ninth time Not only a budget but she has given a reason to smile for 140 crore people he saidnbspHighlighting the role of women he said The Finance Minister is a woman It is the blessing of God on women as they take care of the kitchen save and take care of the family Our women are skilled at the ease of managing the budgetThakur said there are three main responsibilities knowledge power and money and women have proven their capability in handling themnbspIndian women are born economists with rare foresight and natural accounting skills It will not be wrong to say this he saidnbspCalling the budget Sarva Mangalkari and Sarvjan Hitay Sarvjan Sukhaye he said it reflects the governments intention to include everyonenbspEarlier governments ran schemes this government runs systems Earlier there was file movement now there is fund movement under the leadership of PM Modi This budget is a beacon of hope and progress for Viksit Bharat he saidThakur said the budget is not merely a physical document but a roadmap for inclusive growth fiscal prudence and national rejuvenationnbspIn this budget everyone is included and cared for This governments thought is clear not to leave anyone behind and not to make anyone sad There is something for everyone he saidnbspComparing the UPA and NDA eras Thakur said earlier budgets were prepared in drawing rooms while the current government prepares budgets based on ground realitiesTheir budget was a political document but our budget includes everyone and is like a national mission When we make the budget we include everyones expectations he saidnbspHe said the Modi governments key focus areas remain the poor women youth and farmersnbspThis is not a budget of mere talk and promises It is a budget of trust This budget is like a booster dose for Viksit Bharat he addednbspThakur said the government has finalised three duties that form the base of the budget increasing production fulfilling expectations of the people and strengthening public trustTo achieve this it is necessary to maintain structural reforms We have to make them adaptive and forwardlooking he saidnbspHe further outlined priorities such as making the financial sector more robust and integrating Artificial Intelligence with the economy and financial governancenbspThakur said the budget carries an A to G reform express towards a Viksit Bharat Recalling 2014 he said questions were raised about whether reforms would truly come and whether the government would be anticorruption The answer was yes The Modi government did all the work The Modi government has delivered a corruptionfree government he saidnbspHe also claimed that 25 crore people have been lifted out of poverty Modi hai to mumkin hai he addedIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/budget-is-sarva-mangalkari-anurag-thakur-hits-out-at-rahul-gandhi-661460.html Wed, 11 Feb 2026 16:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/punjab-cm-reviews-arrangements-for-investment-summit-from-march-13-15-661464.html Chandigarh Feb 11 IANS Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday chaired a highlevel meeting to review arrangements for the Progressive Punjab Investment Summit to be held from March 1315 in Mohali envisioning it as a step towards accelerating industrial growth in the statenbspAddressing the meeting CM Mann said The Progressive Punjab Investment Summit will act as a catalyst to further give a major push to the industrial development in the state which has already emerged as a favourite investment destination across the globeThis historic summit will offer a healthy platform to transform the destiny of the state by giving a major push to industrial development he saidnbspEmphasising the need for collective deliberation the Chief Minister said A consensus will be evolved to further chalk out a proindustry action plan for the overall industrial development in the state after marathon discussions with international industrial giantsCM Mann said the summit will be based on the theme of Punjab Means Business Policy to Practice nbspHe said the government has already organised roadshows in Gurugram New Delhi Bengaluru Hyderabad Chennai Mumbai and abroad in Japan South Korea among other nationsTerming the event a major opportunity for investors CM Mann said the summit would be a platform to showcase the investment opportunities in the state offering maximum incentives across the nationnbspHe said the state Government has received a huge response not only from industrial giants in India but also from across the globe to participate in the eventFocusing on reforms the Chief Minister said the government has introduced Green stamp paper in the registration of sale deeds to ensure faster and smooth issuance of regulatory clearances to industry projectsnbspHe said Punjab is the only state which can rightly boast of its congenial industrial climate coupled with skilled manpower fully capable of catering to the needs of local industrynbspUnderscoring the importance of energy security he said as power is the engine of growth the state government has made allout efforts to make Punjab surplus in powerIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/punjab-cm-reviews-arrangements-for-investment-summit-from-march-13-15-661464.html Wed, 11 Feb 2026 19:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/udf-eyes-expelled-cpi-661254.html Thiruvananthapuram Feb 9 Hectic behindthescenes consultations are underway between the top leadership of the Congressled United Democratic Front and individuals close to V Kunjikrishnan the nowexpelled and hugely popular former CPIM leader from Keralas Payyannur over the possibility of fielding him as an Independent candidate with UDF backing in the forthcoming Assembly elections The exploratory talks still at a delicate stage signal the UDFâs willingness to attempt an audacious political experiment in Payyannur long regarded as an impregnable citadel of the CPIM in Kannur districtSince the constituencyâs formation no candidate outside the CPIM has ever won from Payyannur making it one of the partyâs safest seats in the stateThe scale of the challenge is reflected in the consistently widening victory margins of the CPIM hereThe partyâs lead stood at over 32000 votes in the 2011 Assembly polls crossed 40000 in 2016 and touched nearly 50000 in the 2021 elections underscoring the depth of its organisational gripKunjikrishnan who was expelled from the CPIM following a bitter fallout with the party leadership has repeatedly maintained in public that he is not seeking any political accommodationHowever political circles point to recent developments as indicative of a possible shiftLast week senior UDF leader and former Minister Shibhu Baby John who heads the RSP an ally of the Congress party in the UDF called on Kunjikrishnan at a time when his confrontation with the CPIM was at its peak shortly after the release of his bookThe bookâs reception itself has become a talking point with around 2500 copies reportedly sold within an hour at the venue ahead of its launch highlighting Kunjikrishnanâs continuing popularity in the regionIn the days following the meeting posters critical of the CPIM have surfaced across Payyannur an unusual sight in the constituency that has reportedly rattled the partyThe CPIM leadership however has closed ranks firmly behind sitting MLA TI Madhusoodanan dismissing Kunjikrishnanâs allegations as driven by personal animosity and absolving the legislator of any wrongdoingWhether the UDF will convert its quiet courtship into an electoral gamble remains to be seen but a possibility has injected rare uncertainty into one of Keralaâs most predictable political battlegrounds IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/udf-eyes-expelled-cpi-661254.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 01:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/desperation-mounts-as-isi-hunts-afghan-taliban-dissidents-to-sustain-kashmir-operations-661257.html New Delhi Feb 9 After ties with the Afghan Taliban soured Pakistan has been hunting for disgruntled elements and recruiting them into the JaisheMohammed Indian agencies have learnt that the ISI has been scouting for disgruntled elements from the Afghan Taliban and other breakaway factions The idea is to recruit such persons and take them into the JaisheMohammed An official said that the strategy was to get these persons to infiltrate India directly from Afghanistan Moreover the ISI also seeks to break the Afghan Taliban with which it is having immense problems currently The new strategy has been devised because the terrorists waiting at the launchpads in Pakistanoccupied Kashmir PoK are finding it impossible to infiltrate into India Security is at an alltime high following the Pahalgam attack and the subsequent Operation SindoorAnother official said that this strategy has been used in the past Many who had fought against the Soviet forces in the 1980s were directed into Kashmir after the end of fighting After the Soviets withdrew in 1989 scores of Afghan fighters were sent to Kashmir to wage a battle against IndiaAccording to Intelligence agencies this time the push would be much harder as the desperation is growing There are hardly 50 terrorists of Pakistani origin who remain in Kashmir This is not a good enough number to carry out a sustained attack Moreover the security forces have launched a massive operation aimed at hunting down the remaining terroristsThe security forces have been able to achieve a lot of success and the number of terrorists of Pakistani origin has fallen to 50 from the 600 there were in 2019 These developments have set the alarm bells ringing within the ISI circles Both the ISI and Pakistan Army are under immense pressure from outfits such as the JaisheMohammed and LashkareTaiba over infiltrations They are asking why the army is unable to facilitate the infiltrations They too realise that if they want to survive they have to battle harder in Kashmir and with the infiltration falling to nearly nil they will not be able to achieve their goalAn Intelligence Bureau official said that there are currently at least 1500 terrorists waiting at the launchpads in PoK Every attempt to infiltrate that has been made since the Indian armed forces carried out Operation Sindoor has failed Among the 50 terrorists who remain in Jammu and Kashmir it has been learnt that many of them had fought in Afghanistan against the NATO forces Many veterans from Afghanistan have been recruited into the JaisheMohammed and they have been sent into the Valley an official saidDuring the recent encounter that led to the elimination of JaisheMohammed terrorists it was found that two of them had fought in Afghanistan before being recruited into the outfit and then sent into Kashmir The ISI is also looking to drive a wedge within the Afghan Taliban in a bid to make it weaker Pakistan has not been able to get around with the Taliban and this has led to a lot of frustration Both sides are constantly in battle with each other and it is the Pakistan security forces who have been facing lossesGetting the Taliban on board or weakening it is a major priority for Pakistan at this moment On one hand it wants to stop the fighting and on the other there is the Chinese pressure another official saidThe Chinese are insistent that Afghanistan is part of the ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor CPEC Project 20 Cashstrapped Pakistan is desperate for this project to take place The Chinese have told the Pakistanis to bring the Afghan Taliban on board at any cost if the project has to go through This has led to immense pressure in Islamabad and hence it feels the need to weaken the Taliban and then get them on board the official added IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/desperation-mounts-as-isi-hunts-afghan-taliban-dissidents-to-sustain-kashmir-operations-661257.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 01:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/hum-do-hamare-do-darjan-aimims-shaukat-ali-sparks-row-with-new-slogan-661260.html Moradabad Feb 9 AIMIMâs Uttar Pradesh president Shaukat Ali stirred controversy with a remark suggesting a new slogan on having children Hum Do Hamare Do Darjan We two our two dozen Shaukat Ali the state chief of Asaduddin Owaisiled AIMIM made the statement while addressing a public meeting in Moradabad on Sunday evening His comments on population growth and community strength have triggered sharp reactionsDuring the gathering Ali claimed that he has eight children while his elder brother has 16 He said he would encourage Muslims to have as many children as possibleâWe will tell all Muslims to have as many children as possible When Allah is giving take it Keep taking it as long as He keeps giving Some people in the country are worried that our population is increasing But if the population increases the country will become strongerâ he saidDrawing a comparison with China Ali added âChina has more population they are stronger So if our population increases then our country will become stronger I will say to have âHum Do Hamare Do Dozenâ Then why are people having a problem with our populationâHe further stated that he would also appeal to Hindus to have more children âI will also request Hindu brothers to give birth to 14 children so that our country becomes strongerâ he saidAli also stated that India is a young country and questioned why population growth is being viewed negatively âOur country is the youngest country in the world Then why do people have a problem The people who are saying this are the ones who are not marryingâ he addedApart from the populationrelated remarks Ali launched a strong attack on the Samajwadi Party during the same event Naming former cabinet minister Kamal Akhtar he alleged that Akhtar was involved in selling liquor in MoradabadâEveryone knows whose ghazal bar it was here He himself sells liquor and then he accuses us of being the Bteam of the BJPâ Ali saidAli also made controversial statements on mob lynching and alleged harassment of Muslims He claimed that even women associated with Hindu organisations had started misbehaving with MuslimsâIf we talk about Moradabad several hundred madrasas have been shut down here Our madrasas are called dens of terrorism The veils of our girls are being pulled off in public Mob lynching is being carried out in the name of meat We are not even safe while travelling on trains and buses Our beards are being pulled outâ he saidHe further alleged that earlier only men used to misbehave but now women were also involvedâEarlier men used to misbehave with us but now women are also behave badly with Muslim women We have not started this We have always considered them as big brothersâ he saidAli also responded to allegations that AIMIM functions as the Bteam of the BJP âPeople accuse us of being the Bteam of the BJP I am a Muslim and the one accusing me is also a Muslimâ he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/hum-do-hamare-do-darjan-aimims-shaukat-ali-sparks-row-with-new-slogan-661260.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 02:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/nsa-ajit-dovals-canada-visit-derails-isi-backed-khalistan-revival-plans-661262.html New Delhi Feb 9 The Khalistan issue has always remained an irritant between India and Canada Ties soured between the two countries when Justin Trudeau was the prime minister of Canada and he has been accused of being an open Khalistan backer Trudeau even made reckless allegations against India following the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar Post Trudeauâs ouster ties were reset and both nations agreed to work on the Khalistan issueA recent development which has the Khalistani elements worried is the visit to Canada by National Security Advisor NSA Ajit Doval He held successful talks with Nathalie Drouin Deputy Clerk and National Security and Intelligence Advisor to the Canadian Prime MinisterThe outcome was very fruitful an official said while adding that this resetting of ties will surely be a major headache for the Khalistani terrorists They have used Canada as a base for long to launch attacks against India From Canada they have issued threats to the government of IndiaMoreover all the masterminds of the targeted killings in Punjab are based in Canada Further these elements have also been running drug cartels while facilitating the smuggling of drugs arms and ammunition into PunjabOne of the highlights of the meeting between the NSAs was sharing of realtime Intelligence The main focus would be the Khalistanis the official said He also said that this sharing of real time Intelligence would also cover drugs cyber threats and Sikh extremismAnother official said that this is probably one of the most constructive meetings in recent times The Khalistan issue is really getting out of hand Moreover this meeting comes at a time when the ISI has set in motion a major plan to revive the Khalistan movement in PunjabRecent Intelligence inputs have suggested that the ISI has readied an army of Khalistanis and is waiting to infiltrate them into Punjab Moreover the narcotics trade has shot up to fund this movementCurrently a soft push is being made whereby posters of the Khalistan flag are being put up in remote places Over a period of time the ISI plans to lure the youth with cash to join the movementThe meeting of the NSAs would derail these plans to a large extent another official said While the ISI runs the network the largest command centre is in Canada followed by the United KingdomAnother important aspect of this meeting was rebuilding trust Trudeauâs reckless allegation that Indiaâs Intelligence agencies were involved in the killing of Nijjar had led to a diplomatic stand off Canada had never viewed the Khalistan issue as extremism It let it thrive under the garb of free speechThe DovalDrouin meeting changes this aspect Both sides have agreed that the Khalistan issue will be viewed as terrorism and organised crime and not free speech This is a major development the experts sayIndia and Canada would share realtime information about these elements and this would make operations for these elements extremely hardNSA Doval raised the issue of fund raising by the Khalistanis They have been raising funds in the name of charities and many Gurdwaras in Canada have been used for thatHe further spoke about the need to cooperate on breaking the narco cartels as the proceeds raised from this trade are funding the Khalistani movement India has been able to convince Canada about the dangers the movement poses not jut to India but Ottawa as wellThe Khalistanis have been vocal online and have used social media platforms to push their agenda They have also used discreet methods to push their agenda With cooperation and realtime Intelligence sharing these activities would come down drastically officials sayThe Khalistani elements have sensed these developments and hence were hunting for newer countries such as Italy and Germany These moves would be very hard since it would involve dismantling the network in Canada that it has set over the last several decadesThe NSA meet took place at a time when Canadian Prime Minster Mark Carney prepares for a visit to India in March During his visit and meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi ties would be further cemented between the two nationsAn Intelligence Bureau official said that the headache for the Khalistanis begins now He however warned that these elements would attempt a misadventure in Punjab and hence a highalert and vigil has to be maintained IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/nsa-ajit-dovals-canada-visit-derails-isi-backed-khalistan-revival-plans-661262.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 02:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/karnataka-bjp-welcomes-temporary-hold-on-metro-fare-hike-targets-cong-govt-661263.html Bengaluru Feb 9 The Karnataka BJP unit has welcomed the Centreâs decision to put the Metro fare hike in Bengaluru on hold and criticised the Congressled state government for doing politics over the issue Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka said in Bengaluru on Monday âAs promised the unjust Metro fare hike has been put on hold Earlier I had personally spoken to Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar urging immediate intervention to protect the interests of Bengaluruâs commuters I am grateful for his swift and decisive action in ensuring relief to lakhs of daily passengersââMy sincere thanks to all Bengaluru MPs and BJP representatives who stood united and raised their voices against this irrational fare hike While the Congressled Karnataka government continues its politics of burdening the common man the BJP remains firmly committed to protecting Bengaluru and its peopleâ he saidâOur struggle against the antipeople policies of the Congress government in Karnataka will continue Bengaluru first People first Alwaysâ Ashoka addedEarlier BJP Yuva Morcha National President and Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya staged a protest at a Metro station in Bengaluru against the recent fare hike Responding to Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumarâs remark that Surya is an âempty trunkâ the BJP MP carried an empty trunk during the protest and displayed a poster stating âThe Congressled government is an empty trunk governmentâ Surya was briefly detained and later releasedResponding to the development Home Minister G Parameshwara said âTejasvi Surya represents our state in the Lok Sabha The Central government has to provide its share of funds to the state in terms of GST irrigation projects and infrastructure projects It would be good if he works in this regard Instead of saying that the state has no money it would be better if he ensured that funds are releasedââHe is a proactive Member of Parliament and has his own influence It will be beneficial for the state and for Bengaluru if he secures funds for projects If he does that I will definitely appreciate itâ Parameshwara saidMinister for Transport Ramalinga Reddy said âThe Metro comes under the Central government From the commencement of the Metro project to its completion decisions are taken at the Centre The Principal Secretary of the Union Urban Development Ministry heads Metro projects across the country There is a board for the Bengaluru Metro and a Fare Fixation Committee FFC There is one representative from the state and two from the Centre Fare decisions are taken based on expenditureââThese decisions are made by the Centre and the board headed by the Union Urban Development Principal Secretary Without any reason the BJP is indulging in propaganda BJP leaders will not get sleep if they do not lieâ he allegedâThey should make decisions based on expenditure Karnataka generates Rs 45 lakh crore in GST and tax revenues of which nearly Rs 3 lakh crore comes from Bengaluru alone Let them compensate the state accordinglyâ Reddy said IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/karnataka-bjp-welcomes-temporary-hold-on-metro-fare-hike-targets-cong-govt-661263.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 02:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/jampk-govt-has-32-operational-hydropower-projects-with-3-54015-mws-installed-capacity-661265.html Jammu Feb 9 Jammu and Kashmir JampK government said on Monday that the UT has 32 operational hydropower projects with 354015 megawatts of installed capacity The Omar Abdullahled NC government on Monday informed the Legislative Assembly that the Union Territory has 32 operational hydropower projects with an aggregate installed capacity of 354015 megawatts MW across Jammu and KashmirA written reply to a starred question raised by MLA Khurshid Ahmad and tabled in the House by the Minister incharge of the Power Development Department said out of the total operational capacity 13 projects with a combined capacity of 1197 MW are in the Central Sector 6 projects with 2250 MW capacity are in the State Sector while 13 projects with an aggregate capacity of 7275 MW are being operated by Independent Power Producers IPPsThe government further stated that an additional power capacity of 37045 MW is expected to be added through eight new hydropower projects that are proposed or currently under construction in the Union Territory over the next five years from 202627 to 2030â31Responding to a query regarding the Ans Nandoli Hydroelectric Project in Gulabgarh constituency the government confirmed that the 40 MW project was tendered during 2011â12 and formally allotted in November 2012 with the implementation agreement executed in March 2013However the project has faced prolonged delays due to nonperformance by the Independent Power Producer IPP The government said a notice of default was issued to the IPP in August 2025 following which the Detailed Project Report and financial analysis were submittedThe financial assessment indicated that the project would require a 40year levelized tariff of Rs 730 per unit rendering it technically and economically unviable under prevailing market conditionsThe IPP has sought exit from the project along with a refund of the deposited premium citing external factors and policyrelated constraintsThe matter is presently under consideration by the Jammu and Kashmir Power Development Corporation JKPDCL in accordance with the provisions of the implementation agreement and the Hydro Electric Power Policy 2011 the government added IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/jampk-govt-has-32-operational-hydropower-projects-with-3-54015-mws-installed-capacity-661265.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 02:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/chennai-corporation-launches-drive-to-rebuild-ageing-footpaths-works-underway-in-six-zones-661267.html Chennai Feb 9 The Greater Chennai Corporation GCC has launched a major citywide programme to reconstruct ageing and damaged footpaths aiming to improve pedestrian safety accessibility and overall streetscape quality Under the Rs 200crore footpath revamp initiative the civic body has sanctioned works worth Rs 7037 crore in the first phase to rebuild pavements across multiple neighbourhoods The project is being implemented by the GCCâs Special Projects Department through nine infrastructure packagesThe first phase covers Zones 4 5 6 7 8 and 13 spanning residential areas interior roads and key commercial corridors across north central and south Chennai Major localities identified for the upgrade include Anna Nagar and MMDA Colony in the west the Besant NagarIndira Nagar belt in the south and stretches around Kathipara and Sastri NagarOfficials said the stretches were prioritised based on inputs from zonal offices and detailed field inspections that assessed the condition of existing pavementsUnlike earlier patchwork repairs the current initiative focuses on complete reconstruction to ensure durability and uniformity The works involve dismantling damaged footpaths laying new base layers and constructing fresh concrete walkways Kerbs and edge restraints will also be installed to improve structural stability and prevent encroachmentsThe project will also incorporate pedestrianfriendly streetscape elements including bollards to enhance safety and protect walkers from vehicular intrusionAccording to officials the revamped footpaths are expected to provide safer and more comfortable walking conditions particularly for senior citizens children and persons with disabilities The works are scheduled to be completed within six months from the date each site is handed overA senior GCC official said similar works would be taken up in other parts of the city in phases âThe stretches have been identified based on zonal inputs and field inspections and additional areas will be covered progressivelyâ the official saidWith a growing focus on walkability and sustainable urban mobility the revamped footpaths are expected to encourage residents to walk more for short trips while enhancing Chennaiâs urban landscape and civic infrastructure IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/chennai-corporation-launches-drive-to-rebuild-ageing-footpaths-works-underway-in-six-zones-661267.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 02:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/simultaneous-it-raids-at-20-places-in-kolkata-since-morning-661269.html Kolkata Feb 9 The officials of the Income Tax IT department have been conducting simultaneous raids and search operations at 20 locations in and around Kolkata since Monday morning One of the places where such raid and search operations by the IT officials are being conducted includes the residence of an influential businessman from the state at the posh Raja Santosh Road at Alipore in south KolkataSimultaneous raid and search operations are also being conducted at the said businessmanâs office at Chetla also in South Kolkata However the officials have refused to name the businessman concernedSources aware of the development said that the search operations are underway based on charges of income tax evasion and a Disproportionate Assets to known source of income case filed against the businessman and the entity owned by him earlierAnother team of IT officials it is learnt is conducting simultaneous raid and search operations at a residential flat of another businessman at a posh housing complex at Action AreaIII of New Town on the northern outskirts of KolkataSimilarly raid and search operations are being conducted at three offices one at Ecospace in New Town second at Park Street in central Kolkata and the third near Gurusaday Dutta Road in South KolkataAll the actions are related to cases of massive income tax evasion unaccounted assets and assets disproportionate to the incomeAnother place where a similar raid and search operation by the IT officials is going on is the residence of a real estate promoter at Barasat the district headquarters of North 24 Parganas Each raiding team of IT officials is escorted by the central armed police forces personnelHowever IT officials here are maintaining total silence over the recoveries made so far through such raid and search operationsDuring the last couple of months there had been a series of raids and search operations by the officials of the Enforcement Directorate ED in different parts of West Bengal in relation to several money laundering cases Now the IT officials too have become active in the state IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/simultaneous-it-raids-at-20-places-in-kolkata-since-morning-661269.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 02:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/uproar-in-rajya-sabha-as-oppn-mps-raise-slogans-seeking-to-mention-ls-issues-661270.html New Delhi Feb 9 Opposition members in the Rajya Sabha created a noisy uproar and shouted slogans on Monday after Chairman CP Radhakrishnan firmly refused to allow discussion on an issue from the Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge attempted to raise concerns over the alleged denial of speaking rights to the Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi in the Lower House The Chairman stood by his earlier ruling reminding the House that matters concerning proceedings in the Lok Sabha cannot be debated or raised in the Rajya Sabha He quoted a principle attributed to former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru to reinforce the separation of jurisdiction between the two Houses and declined to permit any discussion on the matterThe refusal sparked immediate protests from Opposition benches leading to continuous sloganeering that disrupted the proceedings The voice of Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri was completely drowned out by the din as he attempted to respond to a question during Question Hour The ruckus continued despite repeated requests for order halting normal business for a considerable timeThe Chairman reminded the House that he had already clarified the previous day issues concerning proceedings in the Lok Sabha cannot be discussed or raised in the Rajya SabhaHe ruled that the discussion would not form part of the official recordTensions escalated when opposition members including those from Congress and allied parties began shouting slogans Amid the din DMK MP Tiruchi Siva highlighted that he had submitted a breach of privilege notice against Union Minister Piyush Goyal for allegedly briefing the media on an IndiaUS trade deal outside Parliament without laying the details before the House firstThe Chairman refused to halt House business to take up the privilege notice or related demands prompting louder protests from opposition benchesIn a pointed remark amid the chaos Chairman Radhakrishnan told the protesting MPs âI respect you more than you do meâ underscoring his expectation of decorum while maintaining orderHe also said âYou cannot question the ruling of the chairâThe repeated disruptions delayed proceedings and highlighted the ongoing friction between the government and the opposition over parliamentary rights speaking opportunities and transparency in major policy mattersOpposition leaders insisted that silencing the Lok Sabha LoP and withholding key information from Parliament set dangerous precedents while the Chair maintained strict adherence to rules separating the jurisdictions of the two HousesThe incident comes at a time when both Houses are handling critical legislative business and repeated adjournments or disruptions due to privilege and procedural rows have become a recurring feature of the ongoing session IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/uproar-in-rajya-sabha-as-oppn-mps-raise-slogans-seeking-to-mention-ls-issues-661270.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 02:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/chidambaram-slams-budget-2026-27-as-forgettable-says-youth-joblessness-stands-at-15-per-cent-661281.html New Delhi Feb 9 Pointing out that youth joblessness stands at 15 per cent in India with less than 25 per cent of the workforce in regular employment Congress leader and former Finance Minister P Chidambaram launched a sharp attack on the Union Budget 202627 in the Rajya Sabha on Monday describing it as cautious parsimonious forgettable and already vanishing from public memory Speaking on the discussions in the upper house of the Parliament he questioned whether the government and its key ministers even read the 700pluspage Economic Survey suggesting they prefer to ignore its sobering realities Chidambaram highlighted three major challenges outlined in the Economic Survey capital investment unemployment and slow growth accusing the government of failing to address them effectively He pointed out that gross fixed capital formation remains stuck at 30 per cent of GDP net FDI has collapsed to less than 009 per cent in 202425 and private investment lingers at 22 per cent despite cashrich companies He criticised the government for cutting capital expenditure by Rs 44 lakh crore in 202526 without explanation while neither the public private nor foreign sectors show meaningful investment On unemployment Chidambaram said youth joblessness stands at 15 per cent with less than 25 per cent of the workforce in regular employment He noted a shift toward selfemployment and agriculture and that only 195 crore people work in factories in a nation of 144 crore Manufacturing has stagnated at 16 per cent of GDP for years He slammed the PM Internship Scheme as a failure with only 33000 of 165 lakh offers accepted and just 6000 retained demanding the Finance Minister explain the collapse Chidambaram accused the Budget of being forgetful with low or unannounced outlays for announced schemes and cuts in defence science social welfare and urban development He called it prepared by a Finance Minister who had forgotten her own promises from last year On growth he mocked the governments Reform Express as stuck not derailed with nominal GDP growth falling from 12 per cent in 202324 to 98 per cent in 202425 and 8 per cent in 202526 He questioned inflated real GDP figures citing low CPI inflation negative wholesale inflation and a 05 per cent deflator and criticised the slow fiscal consolidation with fiscal deficit dropping only marginally from 44 per cent to 43 per cent and revenue deficit stuck at 15 per cent He argued the Budget was saved not by higher revenue but by expenditure cuts of Rs 1 lakh crore and a Rs 3 lakh crore RBI dividend Chidambaram concluded that the Budget lacks vision fails to confront real challenges and will soon be forgotten amid new headlines IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/chidambaram-slams-budget-2026-27-as-forgettable-says-youth-joblessness-stands-at-15-per-cent-661281.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/sc-cautions-against-further-adjournments-in-petition-challenging-wangchuks-detention-661283.html New Delhi Feb 9 The Supreme Court on Monday cautioned against granting further adjournments in the habeas corpus petition filed by Gitanjali J Angmo wife of detained Ladakhbased climate activist Sonam Wangchuk challenging his detention under the National Security Act NSA After Additional Solicitor General ASG KM Nataraj appearing for the Union government and the Union Territory of Ladakh sought more time on the ground of his engagement in another case and suggested that the matter be taken up next week the apex court declined remarking âYou must understand it is a habeas corpus matter It was our fault we could not take it on Friday February 5âThe Bench of Justices Aravind Kumar and Prasanna B Varale asked ASG Nataraj whether any steps had been taken pursuant to its earlier suggestion to reconsider Wangchukâs detention on health groundsIn response the law officer submitted that Wangchuk was receiving the âbest of treatmentâ adding that AIIMS Jodhpur offered better medical facilities than LadakhAfter repeated requests the Supreme Court agreed to list the habeas corpus petition filed by Dr Gitanjali J Angmo which terms her husband Sonam Wangchukâs detention âillegalâ and an âarbitrary exercise violating his fundamental rightsâ for hearing on Wednesday at 2 pmIn an earlier hearing the apex court had orally asked the Union government to reconsider the continued preventive detention of WangchukDuring the hearing the Justice Aravind Kumarled Bench observed that Wangchuk had been in custody since September 26 2025 and that the medical reports placed before the apex court indicated that his health was âcertainly not very goodâIt was suggested to ASG Nataraj that the government should âgive it a thoughtâ as to whether there was a possibility of rethinking the continuation of Wangchukâs detention At that time ASG Nataraj had assured the Supreme Court that he would seek instructions from the authorities IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/sc-cautions-against-further-adjournments-in-petition-challenging-wangchuks-detention-661283.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/wait-for-actions-cant-comment-kc-venugopal-on-reports-of-no-confidence-motion-against-ls-speaker-om-birla-661284.html New Delhi Feb 9 Amid reports that the Opposition may move a noconfidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla Congress MP KC Venugopal on Monday refused to comment on the issue only saying that people should wait for actions Speaking to reporters outside the Parliament Venugopal stressed that the Opposition was facing repeated restrictions in the House and alleged that Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi was not being allowed to speakYou see whatâs happening in Parliament As per the rules and procedures the Leader of the Opposition is actually a shadow of the Prime Minister You can see in this session that the LoP is not allowed to speak anything in the House The government can say anything about anyone The Honourable Speaker himself is making allegations about Congress women MPs he saidHe further claimed that not only Rahul Gandhi but other Opposition leaders were also being denied opportunities to speak in the HouseWhether it is the LoP or any other Opposition leader they are not getting any chance to speak or are not being allowed You can check and verify This has not happened at any time he addedAsked about the reported move to bring a noconfidence motion against the Speaker Venugopal said he would not comment at this stageâI canât comment on the reports Wait for actionsâ he saidVenugopal also referred to the IndiaUS trade deal saying Rahul Gandhi wanted to raise certain points in the House but was not being permitted to do soâOn the IndiaUS trade deal Rahul Gandhi wants to say a few things to the Speaker But they are not allowing him This government wants to make this Parliament only for the government How can Parliament run like thisâ he askedMeanwhile according to sources quoted by NDTV the Opposition is considering moving a noconfidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Birla a development that underlines the deep distrust between the ruling BJP and Opposition parties during recent Parliament sessionsAs per the rules a noconfidence motion against the Speaker requires a 14day notice period which means it is likely to be tabled in the second half of the Budget Session The first half of the session began on January 28 and is scheduled to end on February 13 The second half will begin on March 9 and continue till April 2The growing distrust was visible again on Monday with the House witnessing disruptions and adjournments as Opposition MPs continued to demand that Rahul Gandhi be allowed to speakThe tension comes after a sharp confrontation last week which reportedly led to Prime Minister Narendra Modi cancelling his proposed speech in the Lok Sabha amid concerns over disorderDuring last weekâs proceedings the Speaker denied Rahul Gandhi permission to read excerpts from an unpublished book by former Army chief General MM Naravane reportedly related to the China border standoff in Ladakh in 2020The Opposition insisted Gandhi should be allowed to speak while senior BJP leaders including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Home Minister Amit Shah strongly objected The Speaker backed the ruling partyâs position leading to further protests and disruptions in the House IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/wait-for-actions-cant-comment-kc-venugopal-on-reports-of-no-confidence-motion-against-ls-speaker-om-birla-661284.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/sharad-pawar-taken-to-pune-hospital-for-health-check-up-661297.html Pune Feb 9 NCPSP Chief Sharad Pawar on Monday was taken from Baramati to Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune for a medical examination after experiencing a persistent cough earlier in the day The veteran leader is reportedly suffering from a severe cough and is experiencing some difficulty in breathingThese symptoms intensified on Sunday night according to his nephew Shrinivas Pawar leading to the decision for immediate hospitalisationPurvez Grant the head of Ruby Hall Clinic has been informed of the situationAfter the examination Grant will decide whether Sharad Pawar needs to be admitted or can be sent home after treatmentHis daughter and Lok Sabha Member of Parliament Supriya Sule is currently with her father Sharad Pawar at the hospitalAccording to Grant Sharad Pawar has been suffering from a cough since this morning We will examine him shortly and determine the necessary course of treatment If required he will be admitted we will take a decision based on his clinical conditionA specialised team of doctors is monitoring Sharad Pawars healthSeveral diagnostic tests have been conductedThe course of medication and dosage will be determined once the test results are availableThe hospital administration confirmed that the primary concern is a severe cough and the decision on hospitalisation will be made only after a thorough evaluationFollowing the recent passing of his nephew and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in the recent plane crash Sharad Pawar had been travelling between his residences in Baramati Mumbai and PuneDuring this time NCP officebearers and workers from across Maharashtra had been visiting Ajit Pawar to offer their condolencesSharad Pawar underwent surgery for oral cancer before 2004Over the years the NCPSP Chief has undergone multiple procedures related to this condition in both India and the US IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/sharad-pawar-taken-to-pune-hospital-for-health-check-up-661297.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/amaravati-to-be-most-livable-city-in-three-years-chandrababu-naidu-661300.html Amaravati Feb 9 Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said on Monday that state capital Amaravati will take shape and emerge as the most livable city in the next three years He claimed that there is no possibility of such a remarkable city coming up anywhere in the worldAddressing a meeting of ministers and secretaries at the Secretariat he said Amaravati works have been expeditedHe lashed out at the previous government of YSR Congress for calling Amaravati a graveyard and a desert and for insulting farmers who gave their lands for the state capital developmentThe Chief Minister said the foundation stone was laid for the Quantum valley in Amaravati and exuded confidence that quantum computers will be developed here in two yearsHe noted that Google and other companies are setting up Data centres in Visakhapatnam with a capacity of 5 GigawattsThe Chief Minister advised the officials to maintain team spirit in an effective manner and adopt best practices to get good results and benefit society He said technology should be adopted and stressed the need for revamping of outdated Acts He said the Government of India was also considering to review the old Acts and remove unnecessary clauses to benefit society He said Andhra Pradesh should be a role model in reviewing the Acts and in bringing reformsHighlighting the achievements of the coalition government for the past 19 months the Chief Minister said they balanced welfare and developmentHe also revealed that the Polavaram project is nearing completion and will start function before Godavari Pushkaram in 2027Chandrababu Naidu said that Visakhapatnam Steel Plant was also put on track and it earned a Rs 54 crore profitHe said that the state government came to the rescue of farmers by spending Rs 1100 crore through market intervention to get a better price for agricultural produce The government credited Rs 10000 crore into the bank accounts of farmers within 48 hours of procurement of paddy It also spent Rs 24000 crore towards the development of the irrigation sectorHe said distribution of pattadar pass books with government emblem had started The passbooks have QR codes and they are tamper proofStressing the importance of green energy projects he said green ammonia project was launched in Kakinada With the introduction of reforms the state government is introducing âtruedownâ charges in power tariffHe also stated that new roads will be laid by spending Rs 3000 crore and the state will be made garbagefree by MarchThe government will provide drinking water facility to all houses under the Jal Jeevan mission at a cost of Rs 25000 croreHe said the Sanjeevani project under which the universal health scheme was introduced will become a game changer in the health sectorDeputy Chief Minister K Pawan Kalyan stressed the need for effective performance of officials at the field level and to fill the gaps in delivery of government services IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/amaravati-to-be-most-livable-city-in-three-years-chandrababu-naidu-661300.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/indias-services-led-growth-more-resilient-than-chinas-661303.html New Delhi Feb 9 India has emerged as the worldâs fastestgrowing major economy with robust growth projections indicating that it will outpace several peers in the coming decades a media report said Indiaâs servicesled model powered by technology finance digital infrastructure and professional services offers notable resilience compared to Chinaâs manufacturingheavy approach which faces cyclical vulnerabilities from global trade disruptions and domestic imbalances according to an article in One World OutlookThe article states that Chinaâs manufacturing sector drove much of the countryâs rise with its share in GDP hovering around 3640 per cent in earlier decades before a gradual decline to about 25 per cent in 2025 according to national statistics This reflects a deliberate shift toward highervalue activities and services now over 5057 per cent of GDP but manufacturing continues as the core engine of exports employment for over 100 million people and geopolitical leverageChinaâs exportoriented factories have weathered challenges like US tariffs through diversification to emerging markets yielding record trade surpluses in 2025 However this model exposes vulnerabilities overcapacity reliance on external demand property sector slumps and weak domestic consumption amplify cyclical risks Industrial output grew solidly in 2025 but investment in manufacturing slowed sharply in the latter half amid trade uncertainties the article pointed outIn contrast Indiaâs services sector has solidified as the dominant driver In 202425 services accounted for approximately 55 per cent of GVA up from around 51 per cent a decade earlier with subsectors like financial real estate and professional services contributing nearly 23 per cent and trade hotels transport and communications around 18 per centThis services tilt stems from Indiaâs early investments in human capital English proficiency enabling explosive growth in IT and business process outsourcingThe tech industry exemplifies Indiaâs edge Indiaâs ITBPM sector generated substantial export revenues with software services leading growth at around 1314 per cent annually in recent years Services exports surged doubling prepandemic growth rates to 14 per cent in FY23FY25 making India the worldâs seventhlargest services exporter share rising from 2 per cent in 2005 to 43 per cent in 2024 Professional consulting and management services grew even faster at nearly 26 per cent This export strength provides a stable foreign exchange inflow cushioning against merchandise trade deficits the article statedFinance and fintech further bolster this resilience Indiaâs digital infrastructure particularly the Unified Payments Interface UPI has revolutionised transactions UPI processes billions of transactions monthly often exceeding 20 billion with nearzero costs interoperability and widespread adoption over 500 million users This publicled open platform contrasts with Chinaâs closed ecosystems dominated by private giants like Alipay and WeChat Pay UPIâs growth has fueled fintech innovation financial inclusion and lowvolatility economic activity enabling seamless digital commerce and reducing informalityProfessional services including consulting legal and advisory add highvalue tradable components less susceptible to physical supply chain shocks Unlike manufacturing which requires massive capital and faces tariff barriers or geopolitical tensions these services scale via digital delivery leveraging Indiaâs skilled workforceChinaâs manufacturing model while powerful for scale and jobs carries risks vulnerability to protectionism eg US tariffs overreliance on investment leading to imbalances and slower adaptation to services transitions Indiaâs approach though employmentabsorptive challenges persist services create fewer mass jobs than manufacturing offers adaptability in a digital knowledgedriven eraLooking ahead Indiaâs services dominance positions it well for future growth amid AI digital transformation and global demand for techenabled solutions Sustained reforms could further amplify this edge while China navigates its rebalancing the article added IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/indias-services-led-growth-more-resilient-than-chinas-661303.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/stalin-inaugurates-rs-9-000-crore-tata-jlr-plant-in-tamil-nadus-ranipet--661305.html Chennai Feb 9 Reaffirming confidence in Tamil Naduâs âDravidian model of governanceâ as a magnet for global investments Chief Minister MK Stalin on Monday inaugurated the Rs 9000crore Tata MotorsJaguar Land Rover JLR passenger car manufacturing plant at Panapakkam village in Ranipet district marking a major milestone in the Stateâs expanding automotive sector Describing the project as a symbol of Tamil Naduâs industrial strength Stalin said the State has consistently emerged as a preferred destination for worldclass manufacturing due to its skilled workforce progressive policies and robust infrastructureHe noted that the Tata Group has played a significant role in Indiaâs nationbuilding efforts and shares a longstanding historic partnership with Tamil NaduâThe commencement of operations at this advanced facility strengthens our position as Indiaâs automobile capital and reinforces investor confidence in the Dravidian modelâ he said after flagging off the first Range Rover Evoque rolled out from the new plantSpread across 470 acres the stateoftheart facility integrates advanced manufacturing technologies with a highly trained workforce to produce premium passenger vehicles for both domestic and international markets Production will be scaled up in phases over the next five to seven years eventually reaching the plantâs full annual capacity of 25 lakh vehiclesIn his special address Chairman of Tata Sons and Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd N Chandrasekaran termed the inauguration a âsignificant milestoneâ in the companyâs journey towards sustainable and futureready manufacturing He said the project deepens Tataâs partnership with Tamil Nadu a State known for industrial excellence innovation and inclusive growthThe new plant is expected to generate more than 5000 direct and indirect jobs while creating opportunities for local suppliers and strengthening the ancillary ecosystemOfficials said the project would also promote skill development and enhance regional economic growth Before the launch Stalin toured the facility along with ChandrasekaranIndustries Minister TRB Rajaa Municipal Administration Minister KN Nehru Handlooms and Textiles Minister R Gandhi and Chief Secretary N Muruganandam accompanied himWith the TataJLR plant now operational Tamil Nadu has added another marquee investment to its industrial portfolio reinforcing its status as one of Indiaâs leading automotive manufacturing hubs IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/stalin-inaugurates-rs-9-000-crore-tata-jlr-plant-in-tamil-nadus-ranipet--661305.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/2-870-public-water-testing-labs-functional-across-states-jal-shakti-ministry-661306.html New Delhi Feb 9 As many as 2870 water quality testing laboratories are being operated by government agencies at the state regional district subdivision and block levels apart from mobile units and Water Treatment Plant WTP facility laboratories the Ministry of Jal Shakti told Rajya Sabha on Monday In addition there are 1707 accredited and recognised laboratories to conduct water quality tests Minister of State MoS V Somanna said in a written replyHe said that to encourage water quality testing to the rural communitypublic the statesUnion Territories UTs have been advised to open their water quality testing laboratories to general public for testing of their water samples at a nominal rateIn consultation with various stakeholders Concise Handbook for Monitoring Water Quality of Piped Drinking Water Supply to Rural Households was released in December 2024 for guidance to statesUTs MoS Somanna addedThe MoS said that under the Jal Jeevan Mission JJM to enable statesUTs test water samples for quality and for sample collection reporting monitoring and surveillance of drinking water an online JJMWater Quality Management Information System JJMWQMIS portal has been developedHe added that statesUTs have also been advised to review the existing network of drinking water quality testing laboratories in the state and to strengthen it by setting upexploring PublicPrivate Partnership for additional laboratories at various levels in the stateThe MoS said statesUTs have been directed to get their water quality testing laboratories accreditedrecognised to ensure the reliability accuracy and credibility of the data they produceHe added that meetings were also held with statesUTs and accreditation bodies with the objective of addressing the concernsissues faced by statesUTs in accreditation process including shortage of assessors or delays in accreditation slotsFor enhancing public awareneess a Citizen Corner has been placed on the JJM DashboardThe Citizen Corner includes display of village level water quality test results in the public domain to further create awareness and build confidence among people about the quality of water supplies through the Public Water System in rural areas IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/2-870-public-water-testing-labs-functional-across-states-jal-shakti-ministry-661306.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/indias-regulator-logs-54-cases-of-anti-competitive-practices-receives-149-merger-filings-in-2025-661307.html New Delhi Feb 9 The Competition Commission of India CCI registered 54 matters relating to anticompetitive practicesantitrust and received 149 mergers and acquisitions filings in 2025 the Parliament was informed on Monday The Commission passed final orders in 38 antitrust cases and disposed of 146 merger notices Minister of State for Corporate Affairs Harsh Malhotra said in a written reply to a question in Lok SabhaMoreover to improve the efficiency transparency and timeliness of proceedings before the Commission the Competition Amendment Act 2023 introduced forwardlooking reforms to reduce the time limit for approval of combinations from 210 days to 150 days and also introduced a settlement and commitment framework in the interests of faster resolution of competition casesAccording to the minister to operationalise recent competition law reforms the government notified various Rules and Regulations under the Competition Amendment Act 2023For penalty determination the Competition Amendment Act 2023 provided for the calculation of penalty based on the global turnover of the person or enterprise he informedNotably the Green Channel route incorporated under the Act facilitates expedited approval of combinations through deemed approval upon filing of notice with the CCI thereby enabling faster resolution of competition casesThe minister further informed that the âMarket Study on AI and Competitionâ was undertaken to understand key AI systems and marketsecosystems including stakeholders essential inputsresources value chains market structures and competition parametersIt identified key competition concerns including concentration in the AI value chain due to high upfront costs and access to data and talent ecosystem lockin and switching costs risks of algorithmic collusion through AIdriven pricing algorithms and automated business decisions selfpreferencing across the AI tech stack and AIenabled price discrimination through the use of consumer dataThe findings include selfaudit of AI systems for competition compliance by businesses improved transparency and reduction of information asymmetry focused advocacy and capacity building by CCI continuation of government policy initiatives and interregulatory coordination and international cooperation said Malhotra IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/indias-regulator-logs-54-cases-of-anti-competitive-practices-receives-149-merger-filings-in-2025-661307.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/kerala-lop-satheesan-claims-left-supporters-have-turned-away-from-vijayan-led-govt-661308.html Kannur Feb 9 Leader of the Opposition VD Satheesan on Monday said that even âgood Communists and Left fellow travellersâ have lost faith in the Pinarayi Vijayanled Left government asserting that poet Sachidanandanâs recent remarks reflected the prevailing public mood in Kerala He said this while speaking to the media in ThalasseryLeading the Congressled UDFâs Puthuyuga Yatra Satheesan said longtime Left sympathisers now believe that the CPIM should not be allowed to continue in powerHe alleged that both the party and the government had drifted from Left politics to an extreme Right position accusing the CPIM of adopting BJPstyle tactics to create religious polarisation in the stateSatheesan said minority communities felt increasingly insecure blaming the CPIM for practising minority appeasement during the parliamentary elections and switching to majority appeasement thereafter eventually losing support from both sectionsâThere is total confusion and those who stood with the Left for decades are aware of itâ he saidReferring to the Sabarimala gold theft case Satheesan said three CPIM leaders were already in jail for allegedly stealing offerings belonging to Lord Ayyappa and warned that more party leaders could face imprisonment if the investigation progressedHe alleged that the government was exerting pressure on the Special Investigation Team to shield those involvedThe theft he pointed out took place in 2019 when Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan was in office and two Devaswom presidents appointed by that government were among those jailedResponding to the controversy over Congress MP Adoor Prakash being questioned over a photograph with Unnikrishnan Potti Satheesan said the Opposition had no objection to Prakash being questioned but demanded that Chief Minister Vijayan also be questioned for similar photographsSatheesan also criticised the governmentâs failure to address issues raised during public interactions under the Puthuyuga Yatra including agrarian distress wildlife attacks closure of spinning mills nonpayment of wages and land acquisition problems linked to KINFRA highways and airport projectsHe said the UDF would present alternative policy documents across sectors including a health vision document to be released in Kozhikode outlining solutions where the government had failed IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/kerala-lop-satheesan-claims-left-supporters-have-turned-away-from-vijayan-led-govt-661308.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/npas-of-indias-banks-decline-to-historic-low-of-215-per-cent-661313.html New Delhi Feb 9 The gross NPAs as a percentage of total loans and advances of scheduled commercial banks have been continuously declining during the last eight financial years and were at a historic low of 215 per cent at the end of September 2025 which is lower than the 201011 level the Parliament was informed on Monday The Reserve Bank of India RBI has apprised that the data on gross NPAs of banks is not collected by it on a monthly basis However as per the latest data available with the apex bank as on September 30 2025 for domestic operations the gross NPA ratio of scheduled commercial banks was 215 per cent In the case of public sector banks the gross NPA ratio was 250 per cent while for private sector banks it was 173 per cent and for foreign banks the figure stood at 08 per cent Also public sector banks recorded a higher decline in gross NPA ratio in comparison with private banks and foreign banks since March 2018 Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary said in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha This continuous decline in gross NPAs of banks has led to reduced provisioning by them which in turn has improved their profitability thereby causing a positive impact on business growth It also indicates that the asset quality as well as underwriting has improved in PSBs supported by a strong balance sheet and sustained profitability the minister said The RBI initiated the asset quality review in 2015 after which the government initiated 4Râs strategy of recognising NPAs transparently resolving and recovering value from stressed accounts through clean and effective laws and processes recapitalising public sector banks and reforms in banks and the financial ecosystem to address the problem of rising NPAs and growing loan default Enabled by these initiatives a large drop in gross NPAs was achieved by the banks the minister said Comprehensive measures have been taken by the government and the RBI to prevent reduce and recover NPAs Due to this the slippage ratio which reflects the fresh accretion of NPAs as a percentage of standard advances has been continuously improving for the last six financial years in respect of public sector banks in comparison with private banks The government and the RBI have also been working in coordination to strengthen the various recovery mechanisms available These include filing of suits in civil courts or in Debts Recovery Tribunals action under the Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest Act filing of cases in the National Company Law Tribunal under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code through negotiated settlementscompromise and through sale of nonperforming assets In addition to these various amendments have been proposed in IBC to address the delays in completion of CIRPs which are under legislative approval the minister added IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/npas-of-indias-banks-decline-to-historic-low-of-215-per-cent-661313.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/geared-up-to-fight-pollution-as-a-year-round-challenge-delhi-cm-661319.html New Delhi Feb 9 Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said on Monday that air pollution is a yearround challenge not limited to a particular season and that the government is committed to addressing the issue continuouslyâ âShe emphasised that providing clean and breathable air to the people of Delhi is a core responsibility of the governmentâChief Minister Gupta shared her resolve to tackle pollution while inaugurating six new Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations CAAQMS and launching the âVayu Rakshakâ initiative with the deployment of 100 dedicated Vayu Rakshaks as part of efforts to control air pollution in the national capitalâThe initiative aims to strengthen both realtime air quality monitoring and onground enforcement ensuring yearround action against pollutionâThe six new monitoring stations were inaugurated online at Jawaharlal Nehru University JNU Indira Gandhi National Open University IGNOU SPMSPC Talkatora Garden Commonwealth Sports Complex Delhi Cantonment and NSUT West CampusâWith the addition of these stations the total number of CAAQMS in Delhi has increased to 46 making it the largest air quality monitoring network in any city in the country the statement saidâOf these 30 stations are operated by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee DPCC 10 by the India Meteorological Department IITM and 6 by the Central Pollution Control Board CPCB A further 14 monitoring stations are planned to be installed in the coming period it saidâThe Chief Minister highlighted that air quality data is fully transparent and available in the public domainâShe informed that PM10 and PM25 data are updated every hour while data for other parameters are updated every five minutes She added that the government believes in evidencebased policymaking backed by transparent dataâAs part of the initiative 100 âVayu Rakshaksâ have been deployed to coordinate with the DPCC for ontheground pollution control In addition 600 Vayu Rakshaks in coordination with the Delhi Police are monitoring violations related to traffic and emissionsâThe programme held at the Delhi Secretariat was attended by Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa and senior officials of the Environment DepartmentâReferring to measures taken in the transport sector the Chief Minister said that the Delhi Transport Corporation DTC currently operates nearly 4000 electric buses the highest number in the country and the government aims to induct 14000 cleanfuel buses by 2028âShe also mentioned ongoing initiatives such as landfill remediation wastetoenergy projects mechanical road sweeping mist spraying dust control measures and expansion of green coverâSirsa said that monitoring must be complemented with strict enforcement to achieve tangible resultsâHe stated that the deployment of 100 âVayu Rakshaksâ will ensure that pollution control measures are implemented effectively at the ground levelâHe informed that in 2024 233 posts were vacant in the DPCC of which 157 posts have been filled within the last 11 months significantly strengthening enforcement capacityâSirsa added that pollution control efforts are being undertaken simultaneously across multiple sectors including vehicles construction activities road dust management and plantationâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/geared-up-to-fight-pollution-as-a-year-round-challenge-delhi-cm-661319.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 04:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/gujarat-records-major-gains-in-urban-sustainability-during-urban-development-year-2025-661320.html Gandhinagar Feb 9 Gujarat has reported substantial progress in sustainable urban planning and infrastructure during its Urban Development Year2025 with significant improvements in rainwater harvesting green cover expansion waste management and renewable energy adoption across cities and towns officials said on Monday The state government declared 2025 as Urban Development Year under the vision of Earning Well Living Well intending to strengthen urban infrastructure and improve the quality of life for citizensDuring the year Gujarat has positioned itself as a model for sustainable urban development through a series of largescale initiatives implemented across municipal corporations and municipalitiesOne of the key outcomes has been a sharp increase in urban rainwater storage capacity under the Catch the Rain initiativeOfficials said rainwater storage capacity has increased by nearly 419 lakh kilolitres following the development of nearly 2900 rainwater harvesting systems in 17 municipal corporations and 152 municipalitiesIn addition 2603 projects related to rainwater harvesting are currently under implementation 1230 projects are at the tender stage and 6642 new projects are in the planning phaseUrban green infrastructure has also expanded significantlyThe state has planned the development of more than 240 hectares of new green spaces in urban areas including gardens sponge parks for groundwater recharge and urban forestsOf the more than 340 urban development projects targeted for completion during the year 146 have already been completed while the remaining are at various stages of executionTree plantation has been undertaken on a large scale to increase green cover in citiesAgainst a target of planting 99 lakh trees during the Urban Development Year nearly 90 lakh trees have already been planted across 17 municipal corporations and 152 municipalitiesLake redevelopment and restoration have formed another important component of the programmeA total of 140 lakefront projects have been planned across the state of which 54 have been completed so farAs per official figures 57 projects are currently underway nine are at the tender stage and 20 projects are in the planning phaseTo promote renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions in urban areas the state government has set a target of launching more than 285 solar projectsAlongside this 20 Reuse of Treated Waste Water RTWW projects are being implemented which are expected to make around 656 million litres per day of treated water available for reuseEfforts to address urban air pollution are also progressingClean Air Action Plans have been prepared for all municipal corporations in the statePlans have also been finalised for Bhavnagar Jamnagar Junagadh and Gandhinagar ensuring statewide coverageThe state government has also reiterated its commitment to the scientific disposal of legacy waste in urban areasAn ambitious target has been set to achieve 100 per cent disposal of legacy waste by March 2026Of the total 30409 lakh metric tonnes of legacy waste identified across urban areas 281802 lakh metric tonnes have already been scientifically disposed ofIn addition prioritising urban sanitation and waste management more than 1823 projects worth over Rs 2756 crore have been approved across the stateAuthorities have identified 1533 garbage vulnerable points in public areas of cities with work underway to eliminate them as part of efforts to improve urban cleanliness and environmental conditions IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/gujarat-records-major-gains-in-urban-sustainability-during-urban-development-year-2025-661320.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 04:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/andhra-pradesh-cm-to-discuss-state-projects-funds-with-amit-shah-sitharaman-661321.html Amaravati Feb 9 Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu will meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and other Central ministers in New Delhi on Tuesday to discuss state projects and the release of funds The Chief Minister was to leave for the national capital on Monday itself and was scheduled to meet five Union Ministers to discuss various issues related to the state a statement from the Chief Ministerâs Office CMO saidApart from Shah and Sitharaman Naidu will be calling on Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Railways Minister Ashwini VaishnawNaiduâs meeting with Amit Shah assumes significance as the Bill to accord statutory status to Amaravati as the permanent capital of Andhra Pradesh is yet to be tabled in the ParliamentDuring the meeting with Amit Shah in New Delhi last month he had urged the Centre to grant statutory status to Amaravati by introducing a Bill in Parliament terming it vital for the stateâs longterm development and stabilityEmphasising the need for policy certainty the Chief Minister had said formal legislative recognition of Amaravati would accelerate development and fulfil the aspirations of the people of Andhra Pradesh while also strengthening investor confidenceNaidu who is also the Telugu Desam Party TDP President had stated during the TDP Parliamentary Party meeting that the Bill for securing legal sanctity to Amaravati as the capital of Andhra Pradesh would be introduced in the Budget session of ParliamentThe TDP is a key partner in the BJPled NDA government at the CentreNaidu has already asked his party MPs to make efforts for the development of the state by mobilising additional funds from the CentreHe is likely to seek special packages or allocation of funds for the development of North Andhra districts and the Rayalaseema region the Purvodaya scheme and the PolavaramâNallamala Sagar projectsHe had told the TDP Parliamentary Party meeting that revised estimates had been submitted for the Polavaram project and that a sum of Rs 12000 crore was yet to be received from the CentreThe Chief Minister is also likely to reiterate his request for flexibility regarding certain aspects of the GRamG scheme which was recently enacted in place of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act MNREGADuring his previous meeting with Amit Shah he discussed the financial provisions of VBGRAMG and told him that changing the Central and state government funding ratio to 6040 would negatively impact Andhra Pradesh which is already facing financial difficultiesHe pointed out that the revised CentreâState funding ratio was placing an additional financial burden on Andhra Pradesh and could adversely affect implementationSeeking relief the Chief Minister requested alternative financial support and flexibility keeping in view the stateâs current fiscal situation IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/andhra-pradesh-cm-to-discuss-state-projects-funds-with-amit-shah-sitharaman-661321.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 04:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ashok-kumar-appointed-as-new-chief-electoral-officer-of-delhi-661322.html New Delhi Feb 9 The ECI appointed Ashok Kumar a 2006 batch IAS officer as the new Chief Electoral Officer of Delhi in place of R Alice Vaz an official said on Mondayâ Principal Secretary ECI Rahul Sharma informed Delhi Chief Secretary Rajeev Varma about Ashok Kumarâs appointment in an official letter on MondayâIn January the poll panel asked the Delhi government to furnish a panel of three IAS officers to select the CEO Ashok Kumar was one of the three officers whose names were sent to the ECI by the Rekha Gupta governmentâThe ECIâs latest letter to the Chief Secretary said that âAshok Kumar shall cease to hold and hand over forthwith the charge of all or any charges of work under the Govt of NCT of Delhi which he may be holding before such assumption of officeâThe ECI clarified that Ashok Kumar while functioning as the Chief Electoral Officer shall not hold any additional charge whatsoever under the Government of NCT of Delhi except that he should be designated Secretary to the Government in charge of the Election Department in the State SecretariatâA notification issued by the ECI secretariat confirming Ashok Kumarâs appointment said âIn exercise of the powers conferred by subsection 1 of section 13A of the Representation of the People Act 1950 43 of 1950 the Election Commission of India in consultation with the Government of NCÐ of Delhi hereby designates Shri Ashok Kumar IAS AGMUT 2006 as the Chief Electoral Officer for the NCT of Delhi with effect from the date he takes over charge and until further orders in place of R Alice Vaz IASââThe ECI also asked the Chief Secretary to republish the notification in the Delhi GazetteâThe Delhi government was also asked to ensure that Ashok Kumar assumes the charge of the office of the CEÐ NCT of Delhi immediatelyâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ashok-kumar-appointed-as-new-chief-electoral-officer-of-delhi-661322.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 04:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/centre-has-no-role-bjp-contests-siddaramaiahs-claim-on-bengaluru-metro-fare-hike-661325.html Bengaluru Feb 9 Leader of the Opposition in the Karnataka Assembly R Ashoka said on Monday that there is no role of the Central government in the Metro ticket fare hike announced in the state The Opposition leader added that if the Centre is indeed responsible for the metro ticket fare increase the Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah should write a letter to the Union government stating that the state will not accept any fare hike for the next two yearsAddressing a press conference veteran Bharatiya Janata Party BJP leader Ashoka said the Congressled government claims that the state holds an 87 per cent stake in the Bengaluru Metro However the Karnataka government is now accusing the Central government of increasing the Metro ticket faresOpposition leader Ashoka challenged the Karnataka government saying If the Central government had increased the Metro fares the Chief Minister should write to the Centre expressing opposition to any fare hike for the next two years instead of unfairly blaming the Central government He also referred to a social media post on X by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in February 2025 in which he claimed he had directed a reduction in Metro fares asking how the state government had such authority if the Centre was responsible He alleged that Metro fares were increased because the Karnataka government was financially bankruptOpposition leader Ashoka said that if the Chief Minister Siddaramaiah claims the Centre has the authority to increase Metro fares then the power to appoint the Managing Director call tenders and order transfers should also be handed over to the Central government He added that he had discussed the issue with Union Ministers and requested an investigation into the Metro fare hike saying that the Centre had intervened and halted the fare hike in the interest of the people of KarnatakaOpposition leader Ashoka alleged that no representative of the state government had attended even a single meeting convened by Prime Minister Narendra ModiHe demanded that the state government release a white paper detailing how much money Karnataka has received through GST and for sectors such as Railways highways energy rural development and agriculture and also disclose how much funding was received during the previous Manmohan Singhled UPA government Despite raising this issue multiple times no information had been provided he saidHe added that the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited BMRCL Managing Director is appointed by the state government tenders worth thousands of crores are floated by the state government and Secretaries of the State Finance Department and Urban Development Department finalise the tenders When the state government has such extensive powers it is clear that the Metro fare hike decision was taken by the state government itself If the Central government had ordered the fare hike ticket prices would have been increased across all Metro corporations in the country Opposition leader Ashoka saidHe added that the Fare Fixation Committee FFC is an independent body comprising a retired judge the State Chief Secretary and one representative of the Central government The committee does not send its fare hike recommendations to the Central government Last year the same committee had recommended a 100 per cent fare hike and also suggested that Metro fares could be increased by five per cent every yearThe committee submitted its recommendation to BMRCL Managing Director J RavishankarOpposition leader Ashoka alleged that the officer did not seek approval from the Central government before implementing the Metro fare hike and that the decision was taken by the official and the state governmentThere was no role of the Centre in this matter he assertedOpposition leader Ashoka claimed that Karnatakas debt has already crossed Rs 2 lakh crore and that 2000 to 3000 ration cards have been cancelled in each Assembly constituency He alleged that GST has been imposed on street vendors depriving them of benefits and warned that more welfare schemes would be curtailed in the futureHe also said the Congress is afraid of Prime Minister Modis strong leadership and his friendship with the US Instead of putting up posters in Karnataka Congress leaders should put them up in Delhi he remarkedOpposition leader Ashoka alleged that governance in the state has turned chaotic amid a power tussle for the Chief Ministers postHe claimed that the Congress high command is weak and not monitoring the situation By granting Cabinet rank to chairpersons of various state boards and corporations Rs 40 to 50 crore is being misused every year he allegedHe also said that payments for two months under the Gruha Lakshmi scheme and one month under the Anna Bhagya scheme have not been released while funds are being spent on the Congress partys celebrations He demanded that the order granting Cabinet rank be withdrawn immediately IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/centre-has-no-role-bjp-contests-siddaramaiahs-claim-on-bengaluru-metro-fare-hike-661325.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 05:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ktaka-govt-issues-guidelines-for-registration-of-firs-related-to-social-media-posts-661327.html Bengaluru Feb 9 The Karnataka government has introduced new guidelines to prevent the automatic registration of First Information Reports FIRs and arrests related to social media posts These guidelines were issued through an official circular by the Director General and Inspector General of Police âIn the circular signed by the DG and IGP MA Saleem it states It has been observed that the police officers are registering the case relating to social media posts mechanically without undertaking preliminary enquiries as stipulated by the Supreme Court of India The Apex court has upheld the guidelines framed by the Telangana High Court relating to the registration of FIRs in cases arising out of social media posts in the referred judgmentâThe guidelines require verification of locus standi preliminary inquiry in cases involving cognizable offences a higher threshold for media or speechrelated offences protection of political speech recognition of defamation as a noncognizable offence adherence to established arrest protocols prior legal review in sensitive cases and safeguards against frivolous or motivated complaintsâThe circular states âBefore registering any FIR for alleged defamation or similar offences the office must verify whether the complainant qualifies as the person aggrieved in terms of law Complaints by unrelated third parties lacking standing are not maintainable except where the report concerns a cognizable offence Before registering a crime the police are required to conduct a preliminary inquiry to ascertain whether the statutory ingredients of the alleged offences are prima facie made outâThe guideline further states No case alleging promotion of enmity intentional insult public mischief threat to public order or sedition shall be registered unless there exists prima facie material disclosing incitement to violence hatred or public disorderâThe police shall not mechanically register cases concerning harsh offensive or critical political speech Only when the speech amounts to incitement to violence or poses an imminent threat to public order may criminal law be invoked Constitutional protections for free political criticism under Article 19 1a of the Constitution must be scrupulously enforced the guideline statedâBecause defamation is a noncognizable offence the police are not authorised to register an FIR in such cases Complainants must be directed to the appropriate jurisdictional magistrate Police action is permitted only if specifically ordered by a Magistrate under Section 1742 of the BNSS as outlined in the guideline IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ktaka-govt-issues-guidelines-for-registration-of-firs-related-to-social-media-posts-661327.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 05:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/campaigning-ends-for-municipal-elections-in-telangana-661335.html Hyderabad Feb 9 Campaigning for municipal elections in Telangana came to an end on Monday Polling in seven municipal corporations and 116 municipalities will be held on Wednesday February 11A total of 12930 candidates are in the fray for 2996 wards in the 123 urban local bodiesAs many as 5243 lakh voters are eligible to cast their votes in the municipal elections They comprise 2562 lakh men 2680 lakh women and 640 othersThe State Election Commission has set up 8203 polling centres and arranged 16031 ballot boxes for pollingThe state poll body will also arrange 137 strong rooms and 136 counting centresRepolling if any will be conducted on February 12 Counting of votes will be taken up on February 13The municipal elections are witnessing a threecornered contest among the ruling Congress opposition Bharat Rashtra Samithi BRS and Bharatiya Janata Party BJPThe campaign saw noholdsbarred attacks by leaders of all three major contestants The ruling Congress party sought the mandate in municipal elections to continue the welfare schemes implemented by its government during the last two yearsChief Minister A Revanth Reddy who led the Congress campaign accused BRS and BJP of having a secret deal to defeat the Congress partyThe Chief Minister also launched a scathing attack on the BJP for what he called shielding BRS president and former chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao KCR his son K T Rama Rao KTR and other leaders in the alleged irregularities in the Kaleshwaram project and Formula E car race caseTelangana Pradesh Congress Committee TPCC president all state ministers MPs MLAs and other leaders of the ruling party campaigned for the party candidatesBRS campaign was led by KTR and senior leader T Harish Rao They targeted the Congress government over what they call its unfulfilled promises and corruptionThe BRS leaders came down heavily on Chief Minister Revanth Reddy for his alleged abusive remarks against KCR and accused him of trying to divert public attention from his alleged corruption by using the SIT to summon BRS leaders for questioning in the case relating to the alleged phonetapping case during the BRS ruleState BJP president Ramchander Rao and Union ministers G Kishan Reddy and Bandi Sanjay Kumar steered the party campaignBJP national president Nitin Nabin also addressed a public meeting in Mahabubnagar while Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed a rally in Kumaram Bheem Asifabad district Both the leaders accused the Congress government of practising the politics of appeasementThe state BJP leaders termed Congress and BRS as the two sides of the same coin and appealed to people to give a chance to their partyThe BJP in its manifesto promised that there would be no increase in any taxes including house tax if the party was voted to power in municipalities and municipal corporationsJana Sena Party which is part of the BJPled National Democratic Alliance NDA also fielded 336 candidates without an alliance with the BJPJana Sena had also announced that its leader and Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan will campaign for Jana Sena and BJP candidates for two days However his visit was cancelled and the party did not come out with any statement on the reasons for the cancellationLeaders of both Congress and BRS had opposed the actorpoliticianâs campaign plans citing his remarks made in December last year that evil eye on the scenic Konaseema region of Andhra dotted by coconut trees was one of the factors for the bifurcation of undivided Andhra PradeshâBoth parties alleged that his comments were against Telangana However the Jana Sena leader claimed that his comments were distorted IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/campaigning-ends-for-municipal-elections-in-telangana-661335.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 06:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/atal-gyan-kendras-in-rajasthan-to-be-equipped-with-modern-study-facilities-661336.html Jaipur Feb 9 Rajasthan Chief Secretary V Srinivas chaired a review meeting of the Atal Gyan Kendra Scheme at the Secretariat in Jaipur on Monday government officials said He directed that Atal Gyan Kendras being established at the gram panchayat level should be developed as robust centres for quality education digital literacy and preparation for competitive examinations especially for rural youthThe Chief Secretary emphasised that all prescribed infrastructure digital facilities and study resources must be made available at the centres within stipulated timelines and that regular monitoring of the implementation work should be ensuredHe also instructed that the progress of both ongoing and completed works at the targeted gram panchayat headquarters under the first phase of the scheme should be continuously reviewed and all pending works completed on priorityHe said that the Kendras should function in a manner that enables students from rural and remote areas to benefit from modern study facilitiesDuring the meeting Joga Ram Principal Secretary and Commissioner Rajasthan Panchayati Raj Department told that each Atal Gyan Kendra is being equipped with an elibrary current affairs magazines books for competitive examinations materials to promote logical and critical thinking literature related to the freedom movement multilingual newspapers and eMitra servicesHe also told that Atal Gyan Kendras are being established in a phased manner at every gram panchayat headquartersIn the first phase 2056 gram panchayat headquarters with a population of more than 3000 have been includedFinancial approval has been issued for 1687 Atal Gyan Kendras of which work is underway at 508 centres while construction of 243 centres has been completedJoga Ram also said that each Atal Gyan Kendra is being provided with a building measuring around 36Ã20 feet a minimum of four digital workstations internet connectivity furniture and study facilities for at least 20 studentsThese centres are also being developed as activity hubs for training and other developmental activities he addedHe said that there is a proposal to deploy Atal Mentors for the operation of the KendrasTheir primary responsibilities will include digital empowerment of rural citizens promotion of egovernance services and assisting people in availing benefits of various government schemesThe Atal Gyan Kendra Scheme was announced by the Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Good Governance Day on December 25 2024 and has also been included in the State Budget 2025â26Officials of the Panchayati Raj Department were also present at the meeting IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/atal-gyan-kendras-in-rajasthan-to-be-equipped-with-modern-study-facilities-661336.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 06:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/plea-in-sc-seeks-guidelines-on-statements-made-by-constitutional-functionaries-661338.html New Delhi Feb 9 A group of former civil servants academics and social activists have moved the Supreme Court seeking the framing of guidelines to regulate statements and remarks made by constitutional functionaries that do not comport with constitutional morality The writ petition filed under Article 32 of the Constitution through advocate Fuzail Ahmad Ayyubi contended that repeated discriminatory and derogatory utterances by holders of public office undermine the core values of the ConstitutionRecalling the Constituent Assembly Debates the petition referred to Acharya JB Kripalaniâs warning that the principles enshrined in the Preamble were not merely legal constitutional and formal principles but moral principles which must be lived in political administrative and public lifeMore than seven decades later we find ourselves in a political climate where the preambular principles remain in the text but actions of administrators and constitutional functionaries often betray their intent the plea said adding that living the principles as Acharya Kripalani would have asked for has been lost both in thought and practiceThe petition alleged that this failure to adhere to constitutional morality has resulted in a series of troubling public statements by constitutional authorities and senior public officials across the country in recent yearsIt referred to remarks attributed to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath BJP leader Nitesh Rane and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval among others and claimed that nearly 30 such statements have been identified during researchWhile acknowledging that political actors may subscribe to different ideologies the petition asserted that constitutional functionaries and holders of public office are bound by the Constitution to ensure fairness in action and restraint in speechConstitutional functionaries holders of public office and officials of the government are bound by the Constitution to ensure fairness in action This would also mean that statements which are discriminatory or derogatory in nature even if not amounting to hate speech should be impermissible to be uttered by such persons it addedClarifying the scope of the relief sought the petition stressed that it does not seek to curtail free speech or demand penal action for hate speech which is governed by existing lawThe present petition does not seek to limit free speech or seek punishments for hate speech it said adding that the limited prayer is for the apex court to evolve guidelines either through judicial examination or a dialogic process to ensure that public officials adhere to constitutional morality in their conduct and public discourseThe plea has arrayed the Union of India and the states of Assam Uttar Pradesh Uttarakhand and Madhya Pradesh as respondents IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/plea-in-sc-seeks-guidelines-on-statements-made-by-constitutional-functionaries-661338.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 06:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/cyber-frauds-hm-amit-shah-to-unveil-new-cbi-unit-national-dashboard-tomorrow-661341.html New Delhi Feb 9 Union Home Minister Amit Shah will deliver the keynote address at the National Conference on Tackling CyberEnabled Frauds and Dismantling the Ecosystem in New Delhi on February 10 â âThe twoday event organised by the Central Bureau of Investigation in partnership with the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre under the Ministry of Home Affairs will take place at Bharat Mandapam from February 10 to 11 âDuring the inaugural session Home Minister Amit Shah will conduct an investiture ceremony for CBI officers a press release issued on Monday said âHe will also inaugurate the newly established Cybercrime Branch of the CBI and launch the State Cyber Crime Coordination Centre Dashboard developed by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre These steps represent a strengthened institutional response to the growing threat of digital crimes âThe conference is being held against the backdrop of Indias rapid digital advancement under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi Widespread adoption of digital banking governance and communication tools has brought convenience to millions but has also opened the door for organised cybercriminal networks to exploit weaknesses âFinancial losses from cyber fraud are projected to reach alarming levels with scams involving phishing fake investment mule accounts and digital arrest tactics causing widespread damage The gathering aims to create a common understanding of the scale current trends and changing patterns of cyberenabled fraud across the country âDiscussions will centre on the three main components of the fraud ecosystem The financial aspect covers mule accounts and money laundering channels The telecom aspect addresses misuse of SIM cards eSIMs and related infrastructure The human aspect highlights cyber slavery and the trafficking of individuals into overseas scam operationsâParticipants will focus on building stronger prevention measures advanced investigation techniques and the wider use of technology including artificial intelligence and data analytics for efficient probes despite resource constraints âEmphasis will be placed on better interagency cooperation publicprivate partnerships quicker fraud reporting realtime tracking of funds preservation of digital evidence and improved support systems for victims âThe conference brings together senior representatives from central and state law enforcement agencies the Department of Telecommunications the Department of Financial Services the Reserve Bank of India public and private banks cooperative institutions fintech companies payment platforms telecom operators social media and cloud service providers cybersecurity experts and international counterparts âThis broad collaboration reflects a comprehensive wholeofecosystem strategy to counter cyber threats Through these efforts the government intends to disrupt criminal syndicates protect citizens and strengthen confidence in Indias expanding digital framework â IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/cyber-frauds-hm-amit-shah-to-unveil-new-cbi-unit-national-dashboard-tomorrow-661341.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 06:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bhagwats-statement-strengthens-muslims-position-says-aimj-maulana-razvi-661342.html Bareilly Feb 9 All India Muslim Jamaat President Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi welcomed some recent remarks by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat while flagging some issues concerning the Muslim community in the country Speaking to IANS Maulana Razvi said that the RSS chiefs statement about having three children has actually strengthened the position of the Muslim community He said that having children or not is one of Allahâs greatest blessings and no one has the right to question it Those who repeatedly raise objections over Muslims having three or four children should carefully listen to and read Bhagwatâs statement he saidOn the Uniform Civil Code UCC he maintained that the provisions related to the UCC in the Constitution are clear and justified According to the Constitution public opinion must be sought in states where the UCC is to be implemented and it cannot be enforced without public consentCiting Uttarakhand as an example he said that Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami formed the Justice Ranjana Desai Committee to draft the Uniform Civil Code but the committee did not take the views of Scheduled Tribes tribal communities or minorities He alleged that the UCC was implemented unilaterally in Uttarakhand which is against constitutional proceduresLaws cannot be made in India in such a manner and if such authoritarianism is adopted it would not only go against the basic structure of the Constitution but would also weaken democratic values he assertedTargeting Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma Maulana Razvi alleged that he is openly indulging in antiMuslim rhetoric and continuously spewing hatred against Muslims He claimed that the Chief Minister wants to weaken the economic condition of Muslims and cited Sarmaâs remark suggesting that a rickshaw puller from the community asking for five rupees should be paid only four Such statements he said promote hatred and division in societyMaulana Razvi also alleged that a controversial video linked to the Assam Chief Minister was an attempt to stifle democracy and mock democratic values adding that such politics cannot work in a democratic countryReferring to Bhagwatâs statement that India is incomplete without Muslims Razvi said the Assam Chief Minister continues to reject such views and instead makes provocative and inflammatory remarks against Muslims He demanded that the Supreme Court take suo motu cognisance of the matter and initiate action IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bhagwats-statement-strengthens-muslims-position-says-aimj-maulana-razvi-661342.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 06:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/telangana-municipal-polls-cm-revanth-reddy-urges-people-to-reject-hate-politics-661345.html Hyderabad Feb 9 Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Monday appealed to voters to reject hate politics in the February 11 municipal elections in the state Addressing a press conference he launched a scathing attack on the BJP accusing it of practising divisive politics and stoking communal hatredThe Chief Minister alleged that the BJP was using leaders of some parties like AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi as a âpolitical scarecrowâ to get votesHe remarked that the BJP is obsessed with Asaduddin Owaisi âThey claim to chant Lord Ramâs name but every day invoking Asaduddin Owaisi Their lifeline is Asaduddin Owaisiâ he saidRevanth Reddy said that if the BJP feels that Asaduddin Owaisi is so âwickedâ why was it not able to control him despite being in power at the CentreâAIMIM is also a political party in the democracy It contested elections in Gujarat Uttar Pradesh Maharashtra and other states How long are you going to seek votes by projecting them as a ghostâ he askedThe Congress leader alleged that this is proof of the BJPâs political bankruptcyReferring to BJP president Nitin Nabinâs speech at an election rally in Mahabubnagar the Chief Minister criticised him for seeking votes in the name of Prime Minister Narendra ModiHe recalled that Narendra Modi then chief minister of Gujarat had come to Mahabubnagar for an election campaign and had promised to grant national status to the PalamuruRangareddy project Even after becoming the Prime Minister three times he failed to fulfil the promiseCM Revanth Reddy took strong exception to the BJP leaders for chanting Modi slogans during the election campaign âWhat does Modi have to do with a local electionâ he askedHe alleged that the BJP which has been in power at the Centre for 12 years did not approve even one project for Telangana but its leaders are appealing to people to vote for the party by seeing PM ModiâThey cancelled the Information Technology Investment Region ITIR project which was approved for Telangana PM Modi put pressure to take away the semiconductor project from Telangana to Andhra Pradeshâ he saidRevanth Reddy also accused the BJP of discrimination against southern statesHe claimed that for every one rupee that Telangana sends in the form of taxes the Centre is paying it only 42 paise Karnataka receives 16 paise Tamil Nadu receives 26 paise and Kerala gets 49 paise but Bihar gets Rs 616 for every rupee which it gives to the Centre Madhya Pradesh receives Rs 209 and Uttar Pradesh gets Rs 290 he saidHe wanted to know why Central ministers from Telangana G Kishan Reddy and Bandi Sanjay Kumar never spoke on the injustice to TelanganaHe also accused the BJP government at the Centre of not taking any steps to bring former chief of Special Intelligence Bureau SIB and key accused in phonetapping case Prabhakar Rao to India for 20 months He said it was only at the direction of the Supreme Court that Rao Prabhakar Rao was brought to India from the USThe Chief Minister urged people to reject both the BJP and Bharat Rashtra Samithi BRS He said BRS which failed to do anything despite being in power for 10 years is now asking for votes He slammed BRS president and former chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao KCR for not raising even one public issue in the Assembly as the leader of the oppositionâHe has been drawing salary and perks for 2526 months took the position of leader of opposition and enjoying the power of Cabinet rank but not even once he came to Assembly and raised any public issueâ he saidRevanth Reddy said other BRS leaders who were coming to the Assembly were only trying to stall the proceedings He remarked that the manner in which BRS leaders speak publicly makes one wonder if they are under the influence of drugs âSometimes I feel I should send the EAGLE team to conduct narco analysis on themâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/telangana-municipal-polls-cm-revanth-reddy-urges-people-to-reject-hate-politics-661345.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 06:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/andhra-pradesh-cm-rules-out-power-tariff-hike-661349.html Amaravati Feb 9 Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Monday made it clear that there will be no power tariff hike and that the benefits of truedown charges will be passed on directly to consumersâ Addressing the ministers and secretaries conference at the Secretariat the Chief Minister said power generation should be carried out with the concept of netzero elimination He directed officials to ensure that truedown charges are transferred directly to consumersâHe called for speeding up solar rooftop projects wind and pumped storage power generation He said the state which earlier faced a power shortage is now moving forwardâtowards the power surplus stage Efforts are on to reduce the power purchase price to Rs 390 he saidâThe Chief Minister directed the officials to constantly monitor opportunities to ensure marketing support and better prices for agricultural produce Greater focus should be on crops with global markets âTo develop Rayalaseema as a horticulture hub we should focus not only on Central government funds but also on private investmentsâ he saidâCM Chandrababu Naidu noted that Rayalaseema alone is currently producing 22 million tonnes of horticulture produce and a target of 40 million tonnes has been setâHe said a fourlane railway line from Ichchapuram to Nellore is under construction and the highspeed train project will also materialise soonâHe said at least 1000 buses in the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation APSRTC should be converted to EVsâCiting an example of administrative delays he said that to set up a small rice mill more than 30 permissions are required and this must change On one hand we talk about the speed of doing business and on the other such hurdles still exist Rules must be simplified in key departments such as Fire Services Municipal Administration Forest School Education and others he saidâHe asked officials to ensure that government services are accessible through WhatsApp Good governance means people should be able to complete their work without repeatedly visiting government offices he saidâHe said that complaints are still being received that officials in NTR and Krishna districts are creating hurdles in the supply of sand and gravel required for the capital city and directed the officials to ensure uninterrupted material supply so that construction in the capital region faces no obstaclesâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/andhra-pradesh-cm-rules-out-power-tariff-hike-661349.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 07:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/arunachal-assam-riflesindian-coast-guard-joint-bike-rally-ends-at-pangsau-pass--661353.html Itanagar Feb 9 Symbolising unity and interservice synergy the Assam RiflesâIndian Coast Guard joint bike rally culminated at the historic Pangsau Pass on Monday officials said â âDefence spokesman Lt Col Mahendra Rawat said that PhaseII of the âSamudra se Parvat Takâ joint bike rally organised by the Indian Coast Guard in collaboration with the Assam Rifles marked the successful completion of a unique outreach initiative highlighting national resolve and seamless integration between Indiaâs maritime and landbased forces âPangsau Pass also known as Pan Saung Pass situated at an altitude of 3727 feet on the crest of the Patkai Hills along the IndiaâMyanmar border served as the symbolic culmination point of the rally âLt Col Rawat said that on the final day the rally proceeded from Jairampur to Nampong Higher Secondary School where the participants interacted with students and local residents âMotivational talks were delivered and inspirational films showcasing the ethos roles and commitment of the Indian Coast Guard and the Assam Rifles were screened to instil values of discipline service and nationbuilding among the youthâThe rally was flagged in at Pangsau Pass by the Deputy Inspector General DIG of Assam Rifles The culmination ceremony featured a vibrant Assam Rifles pipe band performance presentation of mementoes and interactions with local residents including crossborder engagement with Myanmar nationals reinforcing peopletopeople connections and fostering goodwill along the international boundaryâThe spokesman said that the âSamudra se Parvat Takâ joint bike rally stands as a strong expression of interservice coordination youth engagement and border outreach strengthening national integration from the seas to the mountains âMeanwhile the Indian Army on Monday launched âMission Krishiveerâ to strengthen farmtoforce linkage in East Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh Lt Col Rawat said that the Spearhead Division of the Spear Corps launched the initiative at Sigar Military Station in collaboration with the Army Service Corps âThe project establishes a structured âfarmtoforceâ supply chain by directly linking local farmers with Army units deployed in the region The initiative aims to ensure a steady supply of fresh highquality agricultural produce to troops while simultaneously enhancing income opportunities for farmers in the stateâThe event was attended by Mebo Assembly constituency MLA Oken Tayeng senior Army officials representatives of the civil administration and local farmersâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/arunachal-assam-riflesindian-coast-guard-joint-bike-rally-ends-at-pangsau-pass--661353.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 07:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ensure-benefits-of-administrative-reforms-reach-common-people-maha-cm-661354.html Mumbai Feb 9 Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday said that all government departments must work effectively and in coordination to ensure the direct benefits of these reforms reach the common citizen â âHe stated that this is necessary when the state government has launched an ambitious administrative reform initiative âGPR 20â to bring about a radical transformation in Maharashtras administrative functioning adding that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has specially lauded this innovative initiative and instructed other states to follow this modelâHe was speaking at the review meeting regarding administrative reforms CM Fadnavis remarked that administrative reforms are being implemented in a logical and integrated manner through âGPR 20ââThe first phase has been completed and all departments have performed remarkably The second phase is set to be completed by May 1 2026 Once these reforms are fully implemented we must work comprehensively to ensure citizens receive administrative services in a simpler faster and more transparent manner he saidâThe Chief Minister further emphasised that it is essential to make the states administrative services institutional development infrastructure and resources futureready and robust âHistoric work is being done in this direction through GPR 20 The next five to ten years will be decisive for these changes and the government will certainly be remembered for this significant contribution in the future he addedâKey features of the âGPR 20â Administrative Reform initiative include empowerment of government departments This focuses on monitoring by the Chief Ministerâs Office CMO the IT Department and the State Information Commissioners Office for the timebound implementation of centralised empowerment building a robust system to provide administrative services to citizens in an easy accessible and organised manner defining a Citizenâs Charter to ensure citizens receive simple and highquality services and effective and impactful implementation of various government schemes designed for the public said the government rereleaseâThe GPR 20â Administrative Reform initiative also lays emphasis on improvement in service delivery through implementing reforms to simplify services on the âMahaDBTâ and âAaple Sarkarâ portals finalising 263 schemes under âMahaDBT 20â and integrating them into âGPR 20â streamlining 1074 services within âAaple Sarkarâ and managing 424 standardised services and selection of highperforming centers among the 17624 âAaple Sarkarâ service centers to be designated as âSmart Centersâ said the government releaseâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ensure-benefits-of-administrative-reforms-reach-common-people-maha-cm-661354.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 07:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/maha-local-body-polls-mahayuti-retains-supremacy-bjp-maintains-its-dominance-661355.html Mumbai Feb 9 Following the Legislative Assembly Municipal Corporations and Municipal Councils the BJP has maintained its dominance in the Zilla Parishad elections as well âOut of 12 Zilla Parishads the BJP secured a majority or emerged as the single largest party in six districts After the BJP Ajit Pawarâs NCP clinically secured the second spot overtaking the Eknath Shindeled Shiv Sena The MahaYuti alliance has firmly maintained its stronghold across Zilla Parishads and Panchayat SamitisâIn the election results for 12 Zilla Parishads and 125 Panchayat Samitis where reservations were capped at 50 per cent announced on Monday the BJP retained its supremacy The party won a clear majority in two Zilla Parishads and emerged as the largest party in four othersThe Ajit Pawarled NCP and Shindeled Shiv Sena became the largest parties in two Zilla Parishads each while the Congress and Sharad Pawarled NCP topped the charts in one district eachâBy winning 225 seats in Zilla Parishads and 459 seats in Panchayat Samitis the BJP emerged as the number one party BJP has gained a majority in Sindhudurg and Solapur while it emerged as the single largest party in Satara Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar Parbhani and DharashivâFollowing the sudden passing of Ajit Pawar a wave of sympathy benefited his faction of the NCP They achieved a landslide victory in Pune winning 51 out of 73 seats and emerged as the largest party in KolhapurWhile the Shinde faction previously held the second spot in other local body elections the Ajit Pawar faction has now claimed the second position in Zilla Parishads and Panchayat Samitis In some districts the coming together of both NCP factions also proved beneficial for bothâA significant takeaway for the BJP is its success in Western Maharashtra a region where the party historically struggled The party has now firmly established roots in rural areas and the cooperative sector strongholds of this regionâIn the Konkan region the Shindeled Shiv Sena proved its mettle in Konkan by winning Ratnagiri delivering a blow to Narayan Raneâs influence They also emerged as the largest party in Raigad Congress found its footing in Latur with 23 seats while Jayant Patilâs influence helped the Sharad Pawarled NCP become the largest party in Sangli Despite being the largest parties in several districts most will require allies to assume power in these local bodiesâIn Raigad Sunil Tatkere NCPAjit Pawar who has a prepoll alliance with the BJP will assume power despite the Shinde faction being the largest In Latur Congress is the largest party but a combined BJPNCP Ajit Pawar strength might keep them out of power In Sangli amp Satara the coalitions between various factions of the NCP Congress and BJP will be mandatory for governanceâHowever the political observers claimed that these complex equations raise the possibility of horsetrading and unexpected political alignmentsâWhile the Congress party suffered overall losses local leaders like Satej Patil Kolhapur Amit Deshmukh Latur and Vishwajeet Kadam Sangli secured victories in their respective bastionsThe Peasants and Workers Party PWP once a major force failed to open its account in its former stronghold of Raigad a major shock for leader Jayant PatilâOf the 731 seats in 12 zilla parishads BJP won 225 NCP Ajit Pawar 165 Shiv Sena Shinde 162 Congress 55 Shiv Sena UBT 43 NCP Sharad Pawar 26 MNS 2 and independentsothers 41 Of the total 1462 seats in 125 panchayat samitis BJP came first with 459 seats NCP Ajit Pawar 306 Shiv Sena Shinde 302 Congress 97 Shiv Sena UBT 89 NCP Sharad Pawar 46 and independentsothers 86âSanjay Jog can be contacted at Sanjayjiansin IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/maha-local-body-polls-mahayuti-retains-supremacy-bjp-maintains-its-dominance-661355.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 07:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ktaka-leadership-change-shivakumar-to-meet-congress-leaders-in-delhi-661356.html Bengaluru Feb 9 Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said on Monday that he will meet senior Congress leaders and other Union ministers to discuss developmental projects for the state âI am meeting Congress leaders who have called me to Delhi During my Delhi visit apart from political meetings I will also be meeting Union Jal Shakti Ministry officials and legal expertsâ he saidOn March 10 Shivakumar will complete six years as the president of the Karnataka CongressâIt is my duty to meet our MPs and party leaders I keep meeting them and during those meetings I share my difficulties concerns anger as well as your happiness and aspirationsâ he saidShivakumar said he will leave for Delhi with the Chief Ministers permissionMeanwhile Shivakumar loyalist MLA Iqbal Hussain has urged Siddaramaiah to allow Shivakumar to lead the state âYou speak of equality and socialism this is the time to put that ideology into practiceâ Hussain saidSenior Congress HC Balakrishna also said that the changes are bound to happen and nobody can stop them âWhen a decision is taken the matter will be settledâ Balakrishna saidShivakumar who is also the Bengaluru Urban Development Minister speaking to the media at Vidhana Soudha after distributing khata certificates to beneficiaries who had completed khata conversion stated that a total of 25 lakh properties across Bengaluru city have been digitised so farâNine lakh ekhatas have been issued to citizens All municipal corporations have been instructed to launch a special free ekhata driveâ he saidShivakumar added that the digitisation of property records is one of the most important decisions of this year as this issue had never come to the forefront for the past 50 yearsâEarlier the Bhoomi project was introduced to digitise agricultural land We have now embarked on digitising all property records in Bengaluru by scanning documents and introducing the ekhata system Our objective is to prevent tax leakage We have enabled verification through the Kaveri software at subregistrar offices In addition arrangements have been made to link every document with Aadhaarâ he saidShivakumar said that anyone can obtain an ekhata without paying a single rupee in bribeâI have instructed that khata certificates should be delivered to peopleâs doorsteps This is one of the most satisfying decisions of my life Many people did not even know in whose name their properties were registeredâ he saidHe further pointed out that seeing this work the Central government has issued appreciation letters to our officialsâThis is a scheme to issue Akhata through the Uniform Land Record Management System for those holding Bkhata Already 7000 applications have been received and lakhs more are expectedâ he saidShivakumar added that for those who have already applied the state government has set a 15day timeline for conversion from Bkhata to Akhata Officials will conduct site inspections while issuing khatas IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ktaka-leadership-change-shivakumar-to-meet-congress-leaders-in-delhi-661356.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 07:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/karnataka-govt-owned-ksdl-ropes-in-actress-tamannaah-bhatia-as-brand-ambassador-targets-rs-5-000-crore-turnover-by-2030-661357.html Bengaluru Feb 9 Karnataka Minister for Large and Medium Industries MB Patil said on Monday that as part of efforts to strengthen the market presence of products manufactured by the stateowned Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Limited KSDL the twoyear tenure of renowned film actress Tamannaah Bhatia as the companys brand ambassador will commence from Tuesday On the same occasion the iconic heritage product Mysuru Sandal Soap will be relaunched with a refreshed and contemporary look the Minister addedSpeaking on Monday in Bengaluru the Minister said that KSDL has set a target of scaling up its annual turnover to Rs 5000 crore by 2030 In line with this objective a comprehensive promotional campaign is being undertaken to reach the youthActress Tamannaah Bhatia who enjoys considerable star appeal and has more than three million followers on social media has been engaged as part of this strategy The initiative is expected to help create a strong market for the companys products including Mysuru Sandal Soap in North India as well Minister Patil saidKSDL has a rich legacy spanning over a century The enterprise was established with the vision of the Maharaja of Mysuru Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar the then Diwan Sir M Visvesvaraya and industrial chemist SG Shastri popularly known as Soap Shastri The organisation which is witnessing healthy turnover and profits recorded alltime high production last month across its three divisions soaps detergents and cosmetics Minister Patil saidAt present the organisation manufactures a total of 57 premium products ranging from Mysuru Sandal Soap to packaged drinking water As brand ambassador Tamannaah Bhatia will feature in advertisements promotional campaigns and related programmes for KSDL products It has also been ensured that during the twoyear tenure beginning from February 10 2026 she will not endorse similar products of other private companies the Minister addedThere is strong demand for the organisations products such as shower gels talcum powder hand wash agarbatis sambrani dhoop Millennium Soap and bathing soaps Promotional videos and other campaign material will be released to coincide with the commencement of the brand ambassadors tenure In addition production units will soon be commissioned in the Vijayapura and Dabaspete industrial areas with the necessary procedures currently underway Plans are also in place to double the export turnover which presently stands at around Rs 25â30 crore Minister Patil saidSpeaking on the occasion KSDL Chairman CS Appaji Nadagouda said that production activities are being carried out using existing machinery without purchasing any new equipment To facilitate this a strict threeshift work system has been implemented Markets in Europe and West Asia are also being explored and efforts are underway to ensure that KSDL products reach nonresident Kannadigas as well he addedKSDL Managing Director Prashanth said that the menace of counterfeit Mysuru Sandal Soap has been effectively curbed While KSDL products are currently more popular in South India greater emphasis is now being placed on market expansion in regions such as Delhi and Central India The organisations turnover is expected to touch Rs 2000 crore in 2025â26The controversy surrounding Tamannaah Bhatia and Mysore Sandal Soap erupted in May 2025 after the Karnataka government appointed the actress as brand ambassador for a Rs 62 crore twoyear deal sparking backlash from Kannada activists and social media users who felt local talent was overlooked IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/karnataka-govt-owned-ksdl-ropes-in-actress-tamannaah-bhatia-as-brand-ambassador-targets-rs-5-000-crore-turnover-by-2030-661357.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 07:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/karnataka-ksdl-ropes-in-tamannaah-bhatia-as-brand-ambassador-targets-rs-5-000-crore-turnover-by-2030-661359.html Bengaluru Feb 9 Karnataka Minister for Large and Medium Industries MB Patil said on Monday that as part of efforts to strengthen the market presence of products manufactured by the stateowned Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Limited KSDL the twoyear tenure of renowned film actress Tamannaah Bhatia as the companys brand ambassador will commence from Tuesday On the same occasion the iconic heritage product Mysuru Sandal Soap will be relaunched with a refreshed and contemporary look the Minister addedSpeaking on Monday in Bengaluru the Minister said that KSDL has set a target of scaling up its annual turnover to Rs 5000 crore by 2030In line with this objective a comprehensive promotional campaign is being undertaken to reach the youthActress Tamannaah Bhatia who enjoys considerable star appeal and has more than three million followers on social media has been engaged as part of this strategyThe initiative is expected to help create a strong market for the companys products including Mysuru Sandal Soap in North India as well Minister Patil saidKSDL has a rich legacy spanning over a centuryThe enterprise was established with the vision of the Maharaja of Mysuru Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar the then Diwan Sir M Visvesvaraya and industrial chemist SG Shastri popularly known as Soap ShastriThe organisation which is witnessing healthy turnover and profits recorded alltime high production last month across its three divisions soaps detergents and cosmetics Minister Patil saidAt present the organisation manufactures a total of 57 premium products ranging from Mysuru Sandal Soap to packaged drinking water As brand ambassador Tamannaah Bhatia will feature in advertisements promotional campaigns and related programmes for KSDL products It has also been ensured that during the twoyear tenure beginning from February 10 2026 she will not endorse similar products of other private companies the Minister addedThere is strong demand for the organisations products such as shower gels talcum powder hand wash agarbatis sambrani dhoop Millennium Soap and bathing soaps Promotional videos and other campaign material will be released to coincide with the commencement of the brand ambassadors tenure In addition production units will soon be commissioned in the Vijayapura and Dabaspete industrial areas with the necessary procedures currently underway Plans are also in place to double the export turnover which presently stands at around Rs 25â30 crore Minister Patil saidSpeaking on the occasion KSDL Chairman CS Appaji Nadagouda said that production activities are being carried out using existing machinery without purchasing any new equipmentTo facilitate this a strict threeshift work system has been implemented Markets in Europe and West Asia are also being explored and efforts are underway to ensure that KSDL products reach nonresident Kannadigas as well he addedKSDL Managing Director Prashanth said that the menace of counterfeit Mysuru Sandal Soap has been effectively curbedWhile KSDL products are currently more popular in South India greater emphasis is now being placed on market expansion in regions such as Delhi and Central IndiaThe organisations turnover is expected to touch Rs 2000 crore in 2025â26The controversy surrounding Tamannaah Bhatia and Mysore Sandal Soap erupted in May 2025 after the Karnataka government appointed the actress as brand ambassador for a Rs 62 crore twoyear deal sparking backlash from Kannada activists and social media users who felt local talent was overlooked IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/karnataka-ksdl-ropes-in-tamannaah-bhatia-as-brand-ambassador-targets-rs-5-000-crore-turnover-by-2030-661359.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 07:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-felicitates-national-president-nitin-nabin-at-patnas-bapu-auditorium-661249.html Patna Feb 9 IANS The Bharatiya Janata Party BJP organised a grand felicitation ceremony at Bapu Auditorium in Patna on Monday to honour its newly appointed national president Nitin NabinnbspParty workers accorded him a rousing welcome waving saffron scarves as he arrived at the venuenbspThe atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm with the song ModiNitish ki jodi playing in the background as leaders welcomed him from the stageAddressing the gathering Nitin Nabin said that political parties that revolve only around individuals and dynasties cannot secure a bright future for Bihar or the countrynbspRecalling his political journey Nabin said it has been nearly 20 years since he entered politics in 2006 following the death of his fathernbspHe shared that it was the then Bihar BJP president Radha Mohan Singh who first encouraged him to contest elections and that he received guidance and blessings from the then national president Rajnath Singh along with the support of the entire party organisationExpressing gratitude Nitin Nabin said he was thankful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi especially from the land of Bihar and assured that he would work relentlessly to strengthen the trust placed in himnbspHe described the visit as his first visit to Patna after becoming the BJP national presidentnbspThe BJP chief also thanked the people of Bihar for repeatedly giving him the opportunity to serve as a Member of the Bihar Legislative AssemblyRecalling his long association with the partys youth wing Nabin said he always advised young workers not to take shortcuts in politicsnbspPolitics is not a shortterm race it is a long journey If we want to realise Prime Minister Modis vision and build the India of his dreams then every one of us must work sincerely and tirelessly in our own ime he saidHighlighting the BJPs ideological foundation Nitin Nabin said Shyama Prasad Mukherjee laid the foundation of nationalism Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya introduced the philosophy of Antyodayapliftment of the poorestand Atal Bihari Vajpayee gave the mantra of good governancenbspHe added that todays BJP governments are guided by the combined ideals of these three great leaders and are committed to inclusive development nationalism and transparent governance https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-felicitates-national-president-nitin-nabin-at-patnas-bapu-auditorium-661249.html Mon, 09 Feb 2026 23:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/sc-cautions-against-further-adjournments-in-petition-challenging-wangchuks-detention-661226.html New Delhi Feb 9 IANS The Supreme Court on Monday cautioned against granting further adjournments in the habeas corpus petition filed by Gitanjali J Angmo wife of detained Ladakhbased climate activist Sonam Wangchuk challenging his detention under the National Security Act NSAnbspnbspAfter Additional Solicitor General ASG KM Nataraj appearing for the Union government and the Union Territory of Ladakh sought more time on the ground of his engagement in another case and suggested that the matter be taken up next week the apex court declined remarking You must understand it is a habeas corpus matter It was our fault we could not take it on Friday February 5The Bench of Justices Aravind Kumar and Prasanna B Varale asked ASG Nataraj whether any steps had been taken pursuant to its earlier suggestion to reconsider Wangchuks detention on health groundsIn response the law officer submitted that Wangchuk was receiving the best of treatment adding that AIIMS Jodhpur offered better medical facilities than LadakhAfter repeated requests the Supreme Court agreed to list the habeas corpus petition filed by Dr Gitanjali J Angmo which terms her husband Sonam Wangchuks detention illegal and an arbitrary exercise violating his fundamental rights for hearing on Wednesday at 2 pmIn an earlier hearing the apex court had orally asked the Union government to reconsider the continued preventive detention of WangchukDuring the hearing the Justice Aravind Kumarled Bench observed that Wangchuk had been in custody since September 26 2025 and that the medical reports placed before the apex court indicated that his health was certainly not very goodIt was suggested to ASG Nataraj that the government should give it a thought as to whether there was a possibility of rethinking the continuation of Wangchuks detention At that time ASG Nataraj had assured the Supreme Court that he would seek instructions from the authoritiesIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/sc-cautions-against-further-adjournments-in-petition-challenging-wangchuks-detention-661226.html Mon, 09 Feb 2026 15:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/lay-down-arms-join-mainstream-of-development-amit-shah-renews-appeal-to-maoists-in-bastar-661227.html RaipurJagdalpur Feb 9 IANS Declaring that the fight against Naxalism is not directed at individuals but focused on ensuring the safety and future of tribal villages Union Home Minister Amit Shah reiterated his call for Maoists to lay down their arms and join the mainstream of developmentnbspHe was addressing a gathering of tribals in Jagdalpur Chhattisgarh on Monday during the concluding ceremony of the Bastar Pandum festivalHe urged those still carrying weapons to surrender assuring them of dignified rehabilitation under the states attractive package which has already encouraged more than 2500 people to renounce violence However he warned that those who plant improvised explosive devices attack villages or destroy schools will face decisive action stressing that violence will be met with firm resistance and that Maoism has brought nothing but destructionHighlighting the remarkable transformation in Bastar HM Shah said the region is now emerging as a shining example before the nationnbspSchools closed for decades have reopened and he pledged that within five years Bastar will become the most developed division in Chhattisgarh By December 27 every village will have electricity mobile connectivity and full access to hospitals colleges post offices and other essential facilities HM Shah told a mass gathering of tribal people of BastarThe government he added will procure all tribal farmers paddy provide free rice gas cylinders and piped water while promoting new opportunities such as adventure tourism homestays canopy walks and glass bridges once Naxalism is eliminatednbspHM Shah announced several major development projects a new 118acre industrial zone an irrigation and 120megawatt power project on the Indravati River the Rs 3500crore RaoghatJagdalpur rail line already underway river interlinking initiatives and vocational training for 90000 youthHe noted the dramatic shift from a curfewlike atmosphere to one filled with smiling faces and vibrant cultural dances at night marking a profound change in Bastars social fabricnbspThe Home Minister emphasised Bastars rich tribal heritage home to communities such as the Abuj Maria Dandami Maria Muria Gond Halba Bhatra Dorla Dhurwa Parja and Gadaba each with unique languages dances like Sur Kasar Rela and Ghotul and traditions preserved since ancient timesHe praised the Bastar Pandum festival for showcasing this culture nationally and announced that topperforming teams in all 12 categories will be invited to Rashtrapati Bhavan to present their art and dine with the President calling it a great honournbspHM Shah also paid tribute to the security forces Chhattisgarh Police DRG CRPF ITBP and BSF who have sacrificed lives and limbs in the fight against NaxalismOn behalf of Bastars tribal communities he expressed deep gratitude and condolences to their families He voiced full confidence that Bastar will be completely free of Naxalism within the stipulated timeframenbspConcluding with a powerful chant of Jai Danteshwari Mai and Vande Mataram HM Shah reaffirmed that Bastars true identity lies not in violence but in its unparalleled art culture music and heritage treasures that are jewels of Indian civilisationIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/lay-down-arms-join-mainstream-of-development-amit-shah-renews-appeal-to-maoists-in-bastar-661227.html Mon, 09 Feb 2026 15:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-to-interact-with-students-in-second-episode-of-pariksha-pe-charcha-today-661228.html New Delhi Feb 9 Prime Minister Narendra Modi will interact with students in the second episode of his popular programme Pariksha Pe Charcha on Monday The interaction will be broadcast on the Prime Ministerâs official YouTube channel Doordarshan and other platforms to ensure wide reach among students parents and teachersIn a post on his X handle PM Modi wrote âCharcha on stressfree exams continuesâ Do watch the second episode of ParikshaPeCharcha26 This episode features ExamWarriors from Devmogra Coimbatore Raipur and Guwahati Their questions and perspectives make this episode a mustwatchâOrganised by the Ministry of Education âPariksha Pe Charchaâ aims to turn exam preparation into a positive experience rather than a source of stressIn this session the Prime Minister will share practical advice on handling board examinations building confidence staying positive and overcoming common challenges such as anxiety and pressureThe format brings together diverse voices from different states allowing students to share their experiences while receiving guidance directly from PM ModiThis yearâs edition has already set a new milestone with over 45 crore registrations from students parents and teachers surpassing previous recordsThe first session aired on February 6 during which PM Modi answered questions and interacted warmly with participantsIn a short video he posted on X lasting one minute and 19 seconds the Prime Minister is seen engaging energetically with students asking them questions and listening to quick responsesHe explained that many students had requested sessions in various parts of the country leading to the new multilocation approachThe programme launched in 2018 has grown significantly over the yearsRegistrations rose from about 388 lakh in 2023 to 226 crore in 2024 and then to 353 crore in 2025 which earned a Guinness World RecordThe massive turnout for the 2026 edition reflects its growing popularity and the trust it has earned as a supportive platform during the exam seasonStudents from states such as Tamil Nadu Chhattisgarh Gujarat and Assam featured prominently in recent interactions bringing regional perspectives to the conversationPM Modi has emphasised treating examinations as a celebration of learning encouraging balanced routines healthy habits and selfbeliefAs board and competitive examinations approach for many this second session promises more inspiring insights Viewers are encouraged to tune in to join the national dialogue on making education joyful and stressfreeThe initiative continues to inspire young minds reminding them that with the right mindset challenges can become opportunities for growth IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-to-interact-with-students-in-second-episode-of-pariksha-pe-charcha-today-661228.html Mon, 09 Feb 2026 15:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/dragging-my-minor-children-into-political-controversy-crosses-all-limits-gaurav-gogoi-661233.html Guwahati Feb 9 IANS Assam Pradesh Congress Committee president and Lok Sabha MP Gaurav Gogoi on Monday strongly criticised Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for allegedly dragging his minor children into a political controversy calling the move unacceptable and crossing all limits of political decencynbspAddressing a press conference here Gogoi said political battles should be fought strictly between leaders and must never involve childrenHe expressed anguish over references made to his fiveyearold and nineyearold children stating that such remarks had no place in public discoursenbspI am prepared to face any personal attack directed at me but I will not remain silent if my children Congress workers or ordinary citizens are targeted Gogoi said warning that he would pursue the issue to the very end if such actions continuednbspHe cautioned the Chief Minister against pushing personal matters furtherAccusing CM Sarma of lowering the dignity of political debate Gogoi said the Chief Minister had gone to the extent of disclosing details related to his childrennbspWe also know about his family everyone knows it But we have never resorted to such conduct he said adding that the remarks had brought embarrassment to AssamnbspQuestioning the veracity of the claims being circulated Gogoi alleged that false information was being deliberately spreadHe said the issue was serious enough to warrant the Supreme Courts attention and suggested that the apex court should take suo motu cognisance of the matternbspDo not force me into a situation where I have to respond Gogoi said issuing a stern warningnbspSpeaking about his family the Congress MP said his wife is an independent individual and is fully capable of taking care of their childrennbspDrawing a personal parallel he said he was largely raised by his mother and that his children were being brought up in a similar mannerWhen they turn 18 they will make their own decisions he addednbspGogoi said the press conference was not meant for political theatrics but to uphold the dignity of the media and the people of AssamnbspHe asserted that dragging children into political attacks had shamed the state and was unbecoming of someone holding the Chief Ministers office I am in politics to raise issues concerning the people of Assam Let the people decide he saidIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/dragging-my-minor-children-into-political-controversy-crosses-all-limits-gaurav-gogoi-661233.html Mon, 09 Feb 2026 15:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/cm-stalin-to-inaugurate-rs-9-000-crore-tata-motors-car-plant-today-5-000-jobs-expected-661238.html Chennai Feb 9 Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin will inaugurate Tata Motorsâ newly established automobile manufacturing plant at the SIPCOT Industrial Estate in Panapakkam Ranipet district on Monday marking a major milestone in the stateâs industrial and employment growth According to an official press release issued by the Ranipet district administration the project involves an investment of Rs 9000 crore and is expected to generate direct employment for nearly 5000 peopleThe foundation stone for the facility was laid by the Chief Minister on September 28 2024 on behalf of the Stateâs Department of Industries Investment Promotion and CommerceWith preliminary works now completed the plant is ready for operations CM Stalin will formally open the factory and flag off the production of the first vehicle from the assembly lineThe event is being seen as a significant boost to Tamil Naduâs automobile manufacturing sector reinforcing the stateâs position as one of Indiaâs leading automotive hubsHandlooms and Textiles Minister R Gandhi Industries Minister Dr TRB Rajaa Members of Parliament MLAs and senior officials are expected to attend the functionThe ministers have been closely monitoring the arrangements ahead of the launchExtensive security measures have been put in place for the Chief Ministerâs visitThe district police department announced that around 1500 police personnel will be deployed under the supervision of Ranipet Superintendent of Police Ayman Jamal to ensure smooth proceedings and public safety Minister R Gandhi personally inspected the venue at the SIPCOT complex in Panapakkam reviewing the stage arrangements for the Chief Minister security protocols the factory tour route and the designated area where the first car will be unveiledOfficials said all preparations including logistics and visitor management have been completedThe Tata Motors plant is expected to strengthen industrial activity in Ranipet and neighbouring districts while creating both direct and indirect job opportunitiesThe project aligns with the state governmentâs broader strategy to attract largescale investments and enhance manufacturing capacityWith the launch of the Panapakkam facility Tamil Nadu takes another step forward in expanding its industrial footprint and fostering economic development across the region IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/cm-stalin-to-inaugurate-rs-9-000-crore-tata-motors-car-plant-today-5-000-jobs-expected-661238.html Mon, 09 Feb 2026 16:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ahmedabad-crime-branch-foils-e-commerce-scam-five-arrested-661178.html Ahmedabad Feb 8 The Ahmedabad Crime Branch on Saturday arrested five members of a sophisticated interstate gang involved in defrauding major ecommerce platforms including Flipkart and Amazon and seized goods and equipment worth Rs 205 lakh The arrested individuals have been identified as Ramlal alias Romil Gehlot 27 Manoj Kumar Mali 30 Bharat Kumar Sundesha 25 Vishal Panchal 29 all residents of Jalore Rajasthan and Vishal Bavri a resident of SuratTwo other members Rishipal Bhati and Vinod remain at largeThe gang operated across cities such as Ahmedabad Vadodara Surat and Jalore They infiltrated the logistics chain to replace genuine electronic items with dummy productsUsing multiple fake user IDs and passwords the gang placed orders for highvalue gadgets which were intercepted by their delivery personnel before reaching customersSpecialised tools were used to remove genuine products carefully and replace them with identicallooking dummy itemsOrders were then officially marked as âcancelledâ or âreturnedâ after which the gang sold the real products in the market for illegal profitAn official told IANS âWe are currently investigating more directions These five were arrested as part of the primary investigation Weâll analyse and reach the root of the caseâPolice have seized eight genuine mobile phones 25 dummy phones three dummy earbuds 12 dummy gaming processors a camera lens an electric hair dryer three glue remover bottles 14 plastic syringes two steel tools used to tamper with parcels packaging material and a Mahindra Scorpio vehicle used to transport the goodsDuring questioning the accused admitted to previous frauds including the theft of an iPhone 17 Pro Max and three iPhone 16 Pro devices in Vadodara in January this year seven mobile phones and 10 Apple Watches in Surat in October 2025 and two Apple Watches in Jalore in December 2025The case has been registered at the Detection of Crime Branch DCB Police Station in the city and is being investigated under Sections 612a and 3165 of the Indian Penal CodeAuthorities have urged customers to remain vigilant while shopping online and warned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found involved in such fraudulent activities IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ahmedabad-crime-branch-foils-e-commerce-scam-five-arrested-661178.html Sun, 08 Feb 2026 00:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ktaka-minister-meets-ashwini-vaishnaw-seeks-approval-for-vande-bharat-sleeper-express-train-661186.html Bengaluru Feb 8 Karnataka Infrastructure Development Minister MB Patil has submitted representations to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw seeking approval for a Vande Bharat Sleeper Express train from Bengaluru to Vijayapura a highspeed rail corridor between Bengaluru and Mumbai and a daily special train service on the BengaluruVijayapura route After launching an electronics manufacturing facility in the HiTech Hardware Park at Bagalur on Saturday the Minister met Vaishnaw at the venue and handed over the representations The Railway Minister assured him that the proposals would be examined positivelyDescribing Bengaluru as the countryâs technology capital and Mumbai as its financial capital Patil said it was essential to connect the two cities through an efficient and modern transport system He urged that the highspeed rail corridor announced between Mumbai and Pune be extended up to Bengaluru Vaishnaw responded positively to this request as wellThe State Minister pointed out that the distance between Bengaluru and Vijayapura is around 530 km and that the current train journey takes nearly 15 to 16 hours He said this travel time should be reduced to about 10 hours To achieve this he suggested limiting halts between Bengaluru and Hubballi and operating trains via the Hubballi and Gadag bypasses He also sought the introduction of a Vande Bharat Express service on this routePatil further requested the introduction of a daily special train service between Bengaluru and Vijayapura In his representation he stated that all three proposed services would bring significant social industrial and economic benefits to several districts of central and north Karnataka According to Patil the Railway Minister responded positively to all three demandsSenior railway officials including South Western Railway General Manager Ajay Sharma were present during the meeting Earlier speaking after the inauguration of the manufacturing facility Minister Patil said the new unit marked a significant strengthening of Indiaâs capability to design build and deliver highreliability electronics for missioncritical applicationsHe said the facility had been purposebuilt to cater to critical sectors such as defence aerospace and automotive electronics where quality precision and reliability are nonnegotiable With advanced manufacturing lines clean rooms and a worldclass environmental stresstesting laboratory the unit positions itself at the highvalue end of electronics manufacturing he addedPatil also pointed out that the state is investing over Rs 4000 crore to extend assured Cauvery water supply to industrial areas in and around Bengaluru This he said is in addition to sustained investments in roads power and logistics to ensure longterm reliability for manufacturing units IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ktaka-minister-meets-ashwini-vaishnaw-seeks-approval-for-vande-bharat-sleeper-express-train-661186.html Sun, 08 Feb 2026 10:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/cm-stalin-urges-pm-modi-to-expedite-railway-projects-release-required-funds-in-full-661189.html Chennai Feb 8 Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking urgent intervention to accelerate longpending railway projects in the State highlighting delays in fund allocation and stalled land acquisition that have slowed critical infrastructure development In his detailed letter the Chief Minister underscored that Tamil Nadu has already completed most of the groundwork required for railway expansion but is facing setbacks due to the delayed and piecemeal release of funds from the Ministry of RailwaysHe requested the Centre to release the required funds in full and on priority to ensure faster project execution and timely compensation to the landownersAccording to CM Stalin administrative sanction has been granted for acquiring 2500 hectares of land for various Union government railway projectsOf this land acquisition has been completed for nearly 94 per cent of the required area for 19 major projects and the land has been handed over to the RailwaysHowever funds have not yet been sanctioned for over 931 hectares creating bottlenecks in several worksHe pointed out that delays in compensating landowners have disrupted progress and created uncertainty among affected familiesCM Stalin cited the ThiruvananthapuramâKanniyakumari broadgauge doubling project as a key example where funds amounting to Rs 28978 crore for land compensation are still pending thereby holding up the projects completionThe Chief Minister also called for the revival of projects that have been kept in abeyance including the ThoothukudiâMadurai via Aruppukottai line and the TindivanamâTiruvannamalai lineHe further urged the Centre to sanction additional new railway projects in line with Tamil Nadus growing economic statureDescribing Tamil Nadu as Indias secondlargest economy and a major manufacturing and export hub CM Stalin stressed that improved rail connectivity would significantly boost national growthHe assured that the State government has established a robust monitoring system and is fully committed to extending cooperation for speedy implementationExpressing confidence in cooperative federalism CM Stalin said timely Central support would benefit both Tamil Nadu and the nation at large IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/cm-stalin-urges-pm-modi-to-expedite-railway-projects-release-required-funds-in-full-661189.html Sun, 08 Feb 2026 14:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/congress-opposes-even-progress-nda-leaders-hail-india-us-trade-deal-highlight-strategic-gains-661201.html New Delhi Feb 8 NDA leaders on Sunday lauded the recently announced IndiaâUS Interim Trade Agreement while criticising the Congress for its opposition to the historic pact JDU spokesperson Neeraj Kumar said Regarding the trade agreement between India and the United States which the Congress party has been continuously opposing it is important for the grand old party to review its history When the Congress was in power the nuclear deal was inked and the party came under scrutiny over issues of national sovereignty and information sharing At that time Congress supported the US nuclear deal but today they are pointing out the shortcomings in the IndiaUS trade pactBJP National Spokesperson C R Kesavan echoed the criticism stating As for the Congress antagonistic reaction the people are growing weary of its politics of pessimism The party is currently facing a credibility crisis as many do not trust Rahul Gandhis statements The Congress appears hostile whenever India makes progress or witnesses development This is evident in the bitter response of the party even when farmers fishermen skilled workers and the people of India stand to benefit from this trade dealHighlighting the economic benefits of the agreement JDU national spokesperson Rajiv Ranjan said This trade deal has greatly benefited India For our business with America only a few items have an 18 per cent tariff which is big news for IndiaMeanwhile UP Minister Om Prakash Rajbhar focused on the strategic and diplomatic significance of the deal noting Whenever our Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits any country others say he comes from the land of Buddha bringing a message of peace This deal is one part of that effort to ensure that people live in peace and harmonyâThe Interim Agreement framework jointly announced by India and the United States aims to reduce tariffs on Indian goods from 25 per cent to 18 per cent particularly benefiting agricultural industrial products and food itemsAccording to a joint statement issued by both sides the framework reaffirms the commitment of India and America to negotiations on a USIndia Bilateral Trade Agreement talks launched by US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 13 2025 Officials said the interim arrangement is designed to deliver early outcomes while supporting more resilient and diversified supply chainsThe Interim Agreement between the United States and India will represent a historic milestone in our countries partnership demonstrating a common commitment to reciprocal and balanced trade based on mutual interests and concrete outcomes the announcement notedEarlier this week President Trump also spoke with Prime Minister Modi and later wrote on his social media handle Truth Social that both countries had agreed on a trade dealHe highlighted reciprocity expanded market access and efforts to address longstanding trade imbalances while underlining the broader strategic importance of economic ties with New Delhi IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/congress-opposes-even-progress-nda-leaders-hail-india-us-trade-deal-highlight-strategic-gains-661201.html Sun, 08 Feb 2026 14:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/deals-must-be-win-win-isolation-not-an-option-mohan-bhagwat-on-india-us-trade-agreement-661206.html New Delhi Feb 8 Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday underscored the importance of India engaging with the global economy He stated that international trade agreements should be designed to provide mutual benefits while also protecting the interests of the nation and its farmers He was speaking on Day 2 of the Mumbai Vyakhyanmala lecture series organised as part of the â100 Years of Sangh JourneyâBhagwat said âPeople believe in power they listen to those who have power behind themâ Reflecting on Indiaâs civilisational message to the world he added âI am going to America soon and I am also going to start my speech with âmy dear sisters and brothersâ but I wonât get applauded the way Swami Vivekananda was People appreciate powerâSpeaking on international economic engagement including IndiaUS trade discussions the RSS chief underlined the need for balanced agreementsâInternational economic affairs will keep going on isolation is not a way In deals if we get something we are supposed to give something also If possible we should make a winwin deal or at least assure our winâ he said Bhagwat also praised the current governance approach remarking âThe administration we are seeing for the last ten years is fearless and can stand stronglyTurning to agriculture Bhagwat stressed that farmers must remain central to policy decisions âIn agriculture farmers should be their own ownersâ he said cautioning against untested reforms Recalling Indiaâs agricultural diversity he noted âOur farmers were once at their peak we had 89 thousand rice varieties but now we have only 34 thousand Wide varieties were taken awayâ He warned that ârapid experimentation and adopting things without proper testing is not good for our farmers everything should be tested well before implementationâBhagwat also spoke about the ethical dimension of growth asserting that economic progress should benefit humanity at large âEconomic development should also lead to the development of the world not just oneâs own development That is what makes us human not animalsâ he saidOn Saturday during the first session of the event the RSS chief said Indiaâs trade agreements must be finalised strictly on its own terms and not under external pressure âWe cannot isolate ourselves from the world but the deal should be on our terms and conditions We will not do it under anybodyâs pressure nor by seeing tariffsâWithout naming any country or leader he added âWe are watching what the superpower is doing We donât want to become one who intimidates others As Vishwaguru we want to lead from within and become an example for the worldâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/deals-must-be-win-win-isolation-not-an-option-mohan-bhagwat-on-india-us-trade-agreement-661206.html Sun, 08 Feb 2026 15:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/hindu-identity-not-caste-determines-rss-sarsanghchalak-selection-says-mohan-bhagwat--661209.html Mumbai Feb 8 IANS Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday asserted that caste is not a determining factor in the selection of the organisations Sarsanghchalak chief or head stating that being a Brahmin is not a prerequisite for the position while emphasising that being a Hindu is the only qualificationnbspBhagwat made these remarks while addressing an event titled 100 Year of Sangh Journey New Horizons in MumbainbspHis statement comes amid allegations from the Congressled INDIA bloc which has accused the RSS of allowing only Brahmins to hold the top leadership position and raised questions about caste representation within the organisationResponding to such claims Bhagwat rejected the allegations and clarified the organisations position regarding leadership selection stating Who will become the Sarsanghchalak of the organisation So no Brahmin can become the Sarsanghchalak of the organisation No Kshatriya Vaishya or Shudra can become the Sarsanghchalak Only a Hindu will become the Sarsanghchalak The head of the organisation can be appointed to that post and if theres something else he can be appointed to that toonbspExplaining the organisational structure and functioning of the RSS Bhagwat said the Sangh does not appoint its workers or leaders based on caste identity or proportional representationOur workers are not appointed based on this the caste system Because we dont have such a proportional system Whoever works will be the one Initially the Sangh was small The work of the Sangh started in a single locality It was a Brahmin locality So initially all the officebearers of the Sangh from top to bottom were Brahmins Then people said that this is a Sangh of these people he saidnbspBhagwat further elaborated that the organisations growth has been guided by geographical expansion rather than caste considerations He said the nature of expansion has gradually diversified the Sanghs composition over timeWe dont expand based on caste we expand geographically We have our own people but the work of the Sangh has expanded We dont expand based on caste but geographically So this is a natural thing that happens in the Sangh Therefore I cannot answer whether there will be an SCST tomorrow or not because the person who has to do it will think about it he saidnbspHighlighting the criteria for leadership Bhagwat stressed that competence and availability play a crucial role in selecting individuals for key organisational rolesHe said that the decision is based on who is best suited and able to shoulder responsibilities at a given timenbspOne should be the best and also available I am the Sarsanghchalak There are other better people but they are not available The one who could be made available was the only one Thats why I was made the Sarsanghchalak So therefore being an SCST is not a disqualification Being a Brahmin is not a qualification he addedIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/hindu-identity-not-caste-determines-rss-sarsanghchalak-selection-says-mohan-bhagwat--661209.html Sun, 08 Feb 2026 16:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/elizabeth-gogoi-transmitted-confidential-report-to-pakistani-national-assam-cm-661211.html Guwahati Feb 8 IANS Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday claimed that Elizabeth Gogoi the wife of Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi had transmitted a confidential report to the Pakistani individual Ali Tauqeer Sheikh whose antiIndia activities are under the lens raising what he described as serious national security concernsnbspCM Sarma said the allegations have emerged from findings highlighted by a Special Investigation Team SITnbspAccording to the Chief Minister the SIT has pointed to a document dated August 5 2014 which allegedly records the transmission of a 50page report marked confidential by Elizabeth Gogoi to Ali Tauqeer Sheikh in PakistanCM Sarma claimed that since the report was sent to a country of concern its status amounted to a classified intelligence communication and a field intelligence reportnbspThe Chief Minister further claimed that the contents of the report included references to Intelligence Bureau communications strategic recommendations for low risk low visibility operations in India and suggestions to bypass Central government oversight through subnational engagementnbspHe asserted that prima facie the act appeared to attract provisions of Section 2 of the Official Secrets Act 1923CM Sarma said the state government has taken the matter seriously and will pursue all legal options based on the SITs findingsnbspHe told reporters here Elizabeth Gogoi was an integral part of LEAD Pakistan a climatechange nonprofit founded by Pakistani national Ali Tauqeer Sheikh during her stint in Islamabad She reportedly worked on international climate projects that were linked to both India and Pakistan including shared involvement in the global Climate and Development Knowledge Network CDKNnbspThe SIT probe revealed that Elizabeth Gogoi maintained a shadow employment setup a Pakistani NGO employed her in Islamabad and later transferred her work to IndiaCM Sarma said that a Pakistanbased firm hired Elizabeth Gogoi and then later transferred her to India with her salary allegedly paid by SheikhnbspThese payments from abroad as per the SIT findings were routed through Indian bank accounts in potential violation of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act FCRAnbspIn effect the SIT says a unit called LEAD India was set up in New Delhi as a conduit for foreign funds bypassing FCRA limits CM Sarma saidnbspThe Chief Minister also accused Elizabeth Gogoi of transmitting sensitive government information to her Pakistani associateThe SIT findings reportedly found that she handed over an internal confidential Assam government report containing material deemed classified to Sheikh during her Pakistan tenure If true this transfer of official documents could breach Indias Official Secrets ActnbspThe Assam government has cited the confidentiality of this allegation and has not released the full SIT textnbspAddressing reporters here CM Sarma has questioned why Elizabeth Gogoi continued to act as a foreign national while participating in Indian elections and whether she should have disclosed her Pakistan ties to authorities The Chief Minister asserted that these findings are a matter of national security and not politicsIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/elizabeth-gogoi-transmitted-confidential-report-to-pakistani-national-assam-cm-661211.html Sun, 08 Feb 2026 16:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/president-droupadi-murmu-pays-tribute-to-dr-zakir-husain-on-birth-anniversary-661214.html New Delhi Feb 8 IANS President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday paid floral tributes to former President Dr Zakir Husain on his birth anniversary at Rashtrapati Bhavan an official saidnbspDr Zakir Husain served as the third President of India holding office from May 13 1967 until his demise on May 3 1969 He was the first Muslim to serve as President of the countrynbspBorn on February 8 1897 in Hyderabad Dr Husain was not only an eminent Indian politician but also a distinguished educationist and intellectual whose influence transcended political boundaries and generationsAfter receiving his early education in Hyderabad Dr Husain proceeded to Aligarh Muslim University where he earned a PhD in Economics His strong interest in education and intellectual pursuits led him to cofound the National Muslim University in Aligarh which later shifted to Delhi and was renamed Jamia Millia IslamianbspDr Husains career was marked by a deep and abiding commitment to education and its pivotal role in nationbuilding He served as the ViceChancellor of Aligarh Muslim University and later as the ViceChancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia transforming both institutions through his visionary leadership and emphasis on inclusive learningIn addition to his work in the field of education Dr Husain was an active participant in the Indian freedom struggle PostIndependence he held several significant constitutional and political positions including Governor of Bihar from 1957 to 1962 and Vice President of India from 1962 until he assumed the presidencynbspOn May 13 1967 Dr Husain was elected as the President of India becoming the first Muslim to hold the office and also the first President to die while in office His presidency was marked by erudition an unwavering commitment to democratic values and a deepseated belief in the transformative power of educationDr Zakir Husain passed away on May 3 1969 His lasting contributions to education and his vision for a more egalitarian and educated India continue to inspire generations according to the official websitenbspDr Zakir Husain was succeeded as President by VV Giri on August 24 1969 https://dailyworld.in/politics/president-droupadi-murmu-pays-tribute-to-dr-zakir-husain-on-birth-anniversary-661214.html Sun, 08 Feb 2026 18:56:00 +0530