The development triggered sharp criticism on Saturday from the Opposition, which has termed it a clear case of conflict of interest, raising ethical questions over a Minister receiving financial assistance from a board under his own Ministry.

Responding to the controversy while speaking to reporters in Ajmer, MoS Choudhary dismissed the allegations and defended the subsidy, asking, "What is wrong with it?"

He said that the benefit was sanctioned strictly under the rules and that there was no misuse of his official position.

The subsidy was sanctioned under the NHB's Development of Commercial Horticulture scheme for a high-tech polyhouse project established at MoS Choudhary's private farm in Peeh village of Didwana-Kuchaman district.

According to reports, the total project cost stands at Rs 1.99 crore.

MoS Choudhary invested Rs 49.8 lakh from his own resources, while Rs 1.49 crore was financed through an HDFC Bank loan.

The project reportedly received in-principle approval within 14 days of the application submitted in April 2025.

The final approval was granted in March 2026, after which the Rs 99.03-lakh subsidy was directly credited to the bank loan account.

Rejecting allegations of impropriety, MoS Choudhary said he has been engaged in farming for nearly five decades and questioned whether becoming a public representative meant giving up agriculture.

"I am the son of a farmer and have been farming since childhood. Should I stop farming simply because I became an MP or a Union Minister?" he added.

The Union Minister asserted that the subsidy was granted under a standard NHB scheme available to all eligible farmers across the country and denied using his office for personal benefit.

Meanwhile, former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot termed it as "yet another disturbing example of institutionalised corruption and conflict of interest under the Narendra Modi government".

"How can a Union Minister of State for Agriculture receive a subsidy of nearly Rs 1 crore for his own farm under a scheme administered by his own Ministry? This raises serious questions about propriety, ethics, and accountability in public office. While ordinary farmers struggle through endless bureaucratic hurdles for even modest assistance, BJP Ministers and those in positions of influence appear to have privileged access to government benefits worth crores," Gehlot said.

"Whether it is allegations involving BJP-rules state Chief Ministers or these serious questions surrounding Union Ministers, the Prime Minister's continued silence only deepens public concern. What does this silence signify? The Prime Minister once promised the nation, "Neither will I take a bribe, nor will I let anyone else take one." Today, when questions are being raised about the conduct of his own Ministers, why has that commitment been abandoned," he asked.

Meanwhile, MoS Choudhary said details of the project -- including the bank loan and subsidy amount -- have been publicly displayed on an information board installed at his farm.

He added that Agriculture department officials have inspected the project on multiple occasions.

The Union Minister's aides also claimed that MoS Choudhary had first applied for the scheme in 2018, but the proposal was rejected because of incomplete technical documentation, saying that this demonstrated he had followed the prescribed legal process.

The Opposition, however, has intensified its attack, saying that although the subsidy may not violate any statutory provision, it raises serious ethical concerns since the beneficiary is a Union Minister whose Ministry oversees the implementing agency.

The controversy has gained further political significance as it comes amid speculation over a possible Union Cabinet reshuffle.

MoS Choudhary has dismissed the allegations as part of a "politically motivated" campaign aimed at tarnishing his image.

The much-anticipated broadcast, which has become a significant platform for the Prime Minister to share his thoughts on key national issues, policy initiatives, and inspirational stories, will once again reach millions of listeners across the country and abroad.

Scheduled to air live on All India Radio (Akashvani), the programme will be broadcast simultaneously across the entire Akashvani and Doordarshan network.

It will also be available on the AIR News website and the NewsOnAir mobile app, ensuring wide digital accessibility.

For those who prefer online viewing, the episode will be live-streamed on the official YouTube channels of AIR News, DD News, the Prime Minister's Office, and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

In keeping with its inclusive approach, Akashvani will broadcast the programme in various regional languages immediately after the original Hindi version, allowing people from diverse linguistic backgrounds to connect with Prime Minister Modi's message in their preferred language.

'Mann Ki Baat' has evolved into one of the most effective tools of direct communication between the leadership and the public since its inception.

Over the years, the programme has covered a wide range of subjects, including governance, innovation, youth empowerment, environmental conservation, cultural heritage, and welfare schemes.

It has also highlighted ordinary citizens doing extraordinary work, thereby fostering a sense of national pride and unity.

As the 135th episode of 'Mann Ki Baat' approaches, anticipation is high among listeners who look forward to the Prime Minister's reflections on contemporary issues and his vision for India's future.

The programme continues to bridge the gap between the government and the people, encouraging public participation and awareness.

Citizens have been encouraged to tune in at 11 a.m. sharp on Sunday to listen to the Prime Minister's address.

Those unable to catch the live broadcast can access the recorded version later on the same digital platforms.

With its consistent reach and relevance, 'Mann Ki Baat' remains a unique initiative in public communication, strengthening the bond between the Prime Minister and the people he serves.

The development on Saturday triggered sharp criticism from the Opposition, which has termed it a clear case of conflict of interest, raising ethical questions over a Minister receiving financial assistance from a board under his own Ministry.

Responding to the controversy while speaking to reporters in Ajmer, MoS Choudhary dismissed the allegations and defended the subsidy, asking, "What is wrong with it?"

He said that the benefit was sanctioned strictly under the rules and that there was no misuse of his official position.

The subsidy was sanctioned under the NHB's Development of Commercial Horticulture scheme for a high-tech polyhouse project established at MoS Choudhary's private farm in Peeh village of Didwana-Kuchaman district.

According to reports, the total project cost stands at Rs 1.99 crore.

MoS Choudhary invested Rs 49.8 lakh from his own resources, while Rs 1.49 crore was financed through an HDFC Bank loan.

The project reportedly received in-principle approval within 14 days of the application submitted in April 2025.

The final approval was granted in March 2026, after which the Rs 99.03-lakh subsidy was directly credited to the bank loan account.

Rejecting allegations of impropriety, MoS Choudhary said he has been engaged in farming for nearly five decades and questioned whether becoming a public representative meant giving up agriculture.

"I am the son of a farmer and have been farming since childhood. Should I stop farming simply because I became an MP or a Union Minister?" he added.

The Union Minister asserted that the subsidy was granted under a standard NHB scheme available to all eligible farmers across the country and denied using his office for personal benefit.

Meanwhile, former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot termed it as "yet another disturbing example of institutionalised corruption and conflict of interest under the Narendra Modi government".

"How can a Union Minister of State for Agriculture receive a subsidy of nearly Rs 1 crore for his own farm under a scheme administered by his own Ministry? This raises serious questions about propriety, ethics, and accountability in public office. While ordinary farmers struggle through endless bureaucratic hurdles for even modest assistance, BJP Ministers and those in positions of influence appear to have privileged access to government benefits worth crores," Gehlot said.

"Whether it is allegations involving BJP-rules state Chief Ministers or these serious questions surrounding Union Ministers, the Prime Minister's continued silence only deepens public concern. What does this silence signify? The Prime Minister once promised the nation, "Neither will I take a bribe, nor will I let anyone else take one." Today, when questions are being raised about the conduct of his own Ministers, why has that commitment been abandoned," he asked.

Meanwhile, MoS Choudhary said details of the project -- including the bank loan and subsidy amount -- have been publicly displayed on an information board installed at his farm.

He added that Agriculture department officials have inspected the project on multiple occasions.

The Union Minister's aides also claimed that MoS Choudhary had first applied for the scheme in 2018, but the proposal was rejected because of incomplete technical documentation, saying that this demonstrated he had followed the prescribed legal process.

The Opposition, however, has intensified its attack, saying that although the subsidy may not violate any statutory provision, it raises serious ethical concerns since the beneficiary is a Union Minister whose Ministry oversees the implementing agency.

The controversy has gained further political significance as it comes amid speculation over a possible Union Cabinet reshuffle.

MoS Choudhary has dismissed the allegations as part of a "politically motivated" campaign aimed at tarnishing his image.

The event, organised by the Air Force Association, was graced by the presence of the Chief of the Air Staff and several former chiefs, along with distinguished veterans and serving officers of the Indian Air Force, the IAF informed on Saturday through a post on its X handle.

In his memorial lecture, the Lieutenant Governor recalled the extraordinary life and legacy of Sardar Arjan Singh, describing it as one marked by courage, integrity, and selfless service that continues to inspire generations of Indians.

He noted that the legendary airman's journey was deeply intertwined with the defining moments in the history of independent India, the IAF said in a post.

Highlighting Sardar Arjan Singh's distinguished career, the LG spoke of his exemplary leadership during the 1965 Indo-Pak conflict, for which he was awarded the Padma Vibhushan. Later, he was conferred the rare and prestigious rank of Marshal of the Air Force, a distinction held by only one officer in the history of the Indian armed forces.

The LG emphasised that the Marshal transitioned seamlessly from operational military command to diplomacy and public administration, serving as Lieutenant Governor of Delhi from 1989 to 1990. Sandhu remarked that it was a privilege to currently serve in the same office once held by this illustrious statesman, adding that the Marshal's tenure carried special significance for the Delhi administration.

He urged public servants to draw inspiration from Arjan Singh's example, reminding them that holding public office is ultimately about duty, responsibility, and service to the people.

The Lieutenant Governor praised the Marshal's remarkable composure under pressure, integrity, and profound humility. He said that Sardar Arjan Singh embodied the highest standards of professionalism and patriotism and that his quiet commitment to service remained a guiding light for all.

The LG said that the finest tribute the nation can offer this exceptional soldier and administrator is to uphold the same ideals in our daily conduct, in our institutions, and in our service to the people.

The meeting focused on water management, irrigation infrastructure, and measures to safeguard the interests of farmers dependent on the dam.

The Chief Minister said the state government is committed to protecting the interests of farmers and ensuring the efficient utilisation of available water resources.

He emphasised that every decision taken regarding the Panchna Dam should be implemented within the prescribed timeline so that people in the region receive timely and lasting benefits.

Reviewing the status of ongoing works, Sharma instructed officials to expedite repair, strengthening, and improvement works at the dam to enhance its operational efficiency and water storage capacity.

He also directed the concerned departments to ensure that all lift irrigation projects linked to the Panchna Dam are completed within the stipulated timeframe.

The Chief Minister said the timely completion of these irrigation projects would ensure that irrigation water reaches farmers cultivating land in higher-altitude areas, where access to canal water has remained a challenge.

He observed that strengthening irrigation infrastructure would not only improve agricultural productivity but also provide long-term relief to farmers by ensuring reliable water availability.

Sharma stressed that effective water management and balanced regional development are among the government's key priorities.

He directed all departments concerned to work in close coordination, maintain regular monitoring of project progress, and remove administrative or technical bottlenecks that could delay implementation.

He further instructed officials to adopt an integrated approach while executing the projects so that the benefits of the Panchna Dam reach the maximum number of farmers and contribute to sustainable agricultural growth in the region.

The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary V. Srinivas, Additional Chief Secretary (Water Resources) Abhay Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Akhil Arora, and senior officials from the concerned departments, who reviewed the progress of ongoing works and discussed the roadmap for the timely execution of the decisions taken during the meeting.

The incident took place near Basti village in Bhaderwah when the driver lost control of the vehicle at a blind curve. The six persons brought to hospital were identified as Imam Din, 65, Zaytoon Bibi, 60, Bashir Mohammad, 50, Masoom Bi, 45, Badar Din, 38, and 12-year-old Yaseen.

Zaytoon Bibi was declared brought dead, while Imam Din succumbed to his injuries during treatment, officials said.

Bad hilly roads, overloading, over-speeding, dangerous overtaking and road rage remain among the major causes of accidents in the hilly districts of Doda, Kishtwar, Rajouri, Poonch, Ramban, Udhampur and Reasi in Jammu and Kashmir.

The vast majority of road accidents are caused by human error, including over-speeding, distracted driving such as the use of mobile phones, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Other contributing factors include ignoring traffic signals, poor vehicle maintenance, hazardous weather conditions and inadequate road infrastructure.

The Traffic Department has deployed special squads to check road accidents in these areas, and drivers found violating rules are regularly punished.

In addition, petrol pump owners have been advised not to provide fuel to two-wheeler riders who arrive without wearing crash helmets.

Regional Transport Officers have been issuing periodic advisories highlighting traffic offences and the penalties they attract.

If a minor is found driving a vehicle, the parents are liable for imprisonment, fines and cancellation of the vehicle's registration certificate.

If drivers are caught violating traffic rules, cancellation of driving licences, in addition to monetary penalties, is among the options available to the authorities.

Representing India at the prestigious championship, Divi produced a commanding performance against a field of more than 85 of the world's leading young players, finishing with nine points from 11 rounds.

She seized sole lead after the seventh round and never relinquished it, before drawing her final-round game against Russia's Alisa Yunker to seal the world title.

The triumph marks Divi's third world title in just two years, further underlining her emergence as one of the brightest young talents in world chess.

She had created history in 2025 by becoming the inaugural FIDE World Cup Under-10 Girls champion and also won the World Under-10 Rapid Championship the same year.

Her latest success also secures qualification for the FIDE World Cadet Championship to be held later this year, where she will once again represent India on the global stage.

Still only 11-years-old, Divi has now amassed 25 medals, including 13 international gold medals, in an extraordinary career that has rapidly placed her among India's most accomplished young chess players.

A Class 6 student of Alan Feldman Public School in Thiruvananthapuram, Divi is the daughter of Bijesh and Prabha and the younger sister of Devnath Bijesh.

Her rise has been nurtured through the Chola Chess talent development programme, with guidance from Woman Grandmaster Aarthi Ramaswamy and Woman FIDE Master Harshini.

Her long-time coach and mentor, Sreejith G.S. of Masters Chess Academy in Thiruvananthapuram, has played a pivotal role in shaping her career.

Already the youngest Woman Candidate Master (WCM) from Kerala and recipient of the Kerala Ujjwala Balyam Award, Divi's latest triumph adds another glittering milestone to Indian chess and reinforces Kerala's growing reputation as a nursery for world-class talent.

Acting on the direct instructions of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, authorities have suspended five pharmacists and two senior officials with immediate effect.

The suspensions follow a thorough review that revealed significant lapses and irregularities in the agency's procurement and management processes at its facilities.

Officials indicated that the probe uncovered discrepancies indicating potential administrative misconduct and possible financial impropriety, prompting immediate intervention to safeguard public resources and restore accountability.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta took a stern stance against corruption. Sources close to the Chief Minister's Office said that she personally reviewed the initial findings and directed senior bureaucrats to act without delay.

A senior official quoted the Chief Minister as saying that the Delhi Government had a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and that every act of corruption or administrative misconduct would invite firm and exemplary action.

The official added that no one, irrespective of their position, would be spared if they betrayed public trust.

This latest move underscores the AAP-led Delhi Government's ongoing efforts to clean up public institutions and ensure transparency in procurement processes that directly impact healthcare and essential services.

The Central Procurement Agency plays a critical role in the supply chain for medicines and medical equipment across government hospitals and health centres in the national capital. Any compromise in its functioning can have serious repercussions on public health services.

The suspended employees have been barred from accessing their offices and official records. A detailed inquiry has been ordered to determine the full extent of the irregularities, identify any broader network involved, and assess the financial impact.

Depending on the outcome of the investigation, further disciplinary and legal action may follow, including possible registration of criminal cases.

Government spokespersons emphasised that such prompt action reflects the administration's firm stand to protect the integrity of public systems.

One official noted that this was not just about punishing a few individuals but about sending a clear message that malpractices would not be tolerated and that systems would be strengthened to prevent future occurrences.

The fruits were produced by six progressive farmers from the Jadol-Tikkar and Bagi areas of Shimla district. This marks a historic and proud moment for the state's horticulture sector.

On the occasion, the minister said the Middle East and Gulf countries are emerging as large and promising export markets for the state's fruits.

He added that this initiative would open new international market opportunities for the state's stone fruits and would play a significant role in ensuring better, more remunerative prices for farmers.

Negi urged farmers to cultivate high-quality fruit varieties in line with international market demand so that the state's fruits could establish a distinct identity in global markets.

He said this is only the beginning, and efforts would be expanded in the future to explore export opportunities for apples and other horticultural produce.

He added that the Himachal Pradesh Horticultural Produce Marketing and Processing Corporation (HPMC) would continue to prioritise the interests of orchardists by developing new export opportunities.

The minister expressed confidence that this initiative would not only increase the income of the state's fruit growers but also help establish Himachal Pradesh as a prominent player on the global fruit export map.

The initiative has been undertaken by the HPMC in collaboration with the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) under the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.

The costs associated with grading, packing, quality testing and other export-related arrangements have been borne by the HPMC with the APEDA's support, ensuring that farmers receive the necessary assistance to access international markets.

Air transportation would enable the fruits to reach overseas markets quickly while maintaining their freshness and premium quality.

Investigators claim the accused had searched the internet for information related to suicide attacks and was allegedly being groomed by Pakistan-based handlers for terror activities.

Babita was arrested by the Rajasthan ATS from Jaipur's Vatika area earlier this month.

After completing her custodial interrogation, she was produced before the Court of the Additional Civil Judge and Judicial Magistrate, which remanded her to judicial custody.

She is scheduled to be produced again on June 29.

According to ATS sources, interrogation revealed that Babita had allegedly been in contact with JeM operatives for nearly two years and was suspected to be under preparation for a possible suicide attack.

Investigators claim Pakistan-based handlers were imparting online training and that forensic examination of her digital devices showed searches related to suicide attacks.

Investigators also suspect Babita was planning to leave India through the illegal "donkey route" to reach Pakistan without valid travel documents.

The ATS officials said she did not possess an Indian passport.

The probe also alleges that Pakistan-based handlers trained her online to use social media for establishing contact with Indian Army personnel as part of an alleged honey-trap strategy.

According to the prosecution, a case has been registered against Babita under Sections 38 and 39 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

Officials said the investigation remains sensitive due to national security concerns, and her social media accounts, digital devices, and call records are being examined.

According to ATS officials, Dhakad allegedly used the name "Khadija" online after interacting with individuals connected to the network.

During a forensic examination of her mobile phone, investigators reportedly found a Facebook account under the pseudonym "Duniya Dhokhebaaz", which contained more than 300 foreign contacts, including several individuals based in Pakistan.

The Rajasthan ATS, alongside central intelligence agencies, is currently tracking the network's digital footprint to identify other potential sleeper cells or local contacts. Security officials said that the investigation is ongoing and further details regarding the financial and logistical aspects of the network are expected as the data analysis progresses.

Speaking to reporters, Dass said the initiative to bring the Vrindavani Vastra to Assam has been pursued for several years and has now received strong support from Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

He added that, while associated with the Cultural Department, he had visited London and Paris in connection with this issue, and that it was an international matter requiring sustained effort.

He noted that with the Chief Minister's intervention, arrangements had already been initiated to bring the Vrindavani Vastra from the Victoria and Albert Museum in the UK to Assam for exhibition.

The Speaker said the people of Assam have long cherished the dream of seeing the priceless textile in their home state.

He expressed confidence that the aspirations of the people would soon be fulfilled and that by 2027, the people of Assam would be able to witness the Vrindavani Vastra here.

He added that they were also hopeful that another important Assamese textile preserved in a Paris museum could be brought for public viewing in the future.

The Vrindavani Vastra is regarded as one of Assam's greatest cultural treasures. Commissioned by the 16th-century Vaishnavite saint and social reformer Srimanta Sankardeva and woven by master craftsman Madhavdeva's associates at Tantikuchi near Barpeta, the textile depicts scenes from the life of Lord Krishna and the Bhagavata Purana through intricate silk weaving.

Originally measuring several metres in length, the textile is considered a remarkable example of Assamese craftsmanship, blending religious devotion with artistic excellence.

Today, surviving portions of the historic fabric are preserved at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, making it one of the most significant surviving artefacts of Assam's cultural and spiritual heritage.

The Assam government has been pursuing efforts to bring the textile to the state, at least on loan for a public exhibition, as part of initiatives to preserve and promote the state's rich civilisational legacy.

Reviewing preparations for the Viksit Bharatâ€"Guarantee for Employment and Livelihood Mission (Rural), VB-G Ram Ji Scheme, Chief Minister Sharma directed the concerned departments to complete all arrangements before its launch on July 1.

CM Sharma described the scheme as a major initiative that would accelerate employment generation, strengthen rural livelihoods, and contribute significantly towards achieving the vision of Viksit Rajasthanâ€"2047.

He warned that strict action would be taken against any official found negligent in the conduct of these camps.

Chairing a high-level review meeting at the Chief Minister's residence on Saturday, CM Bhajan Lal Sharma said the camps have emerged as an effective platform for providing on-the-spot solutions to citizens' problems and instructed officials to make them result-oriented and accountable.

The Chief Minister directed departments to prepare separate district-wise lists of newly received and pending cases to ensure systematic disposal and continuous monitoring. He also instructed officials to accord top priority to resolving long-pending revenue cases in rural areas so that villagers receive timely relief.

Chief Secretary V. Srinivas, senior officials from the Chief Minister's Office, and representatives of the Urban Development and Local Self-Government Department, Revenue Department, and Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Department attended the meeting.

Earlier, on the occasion of International MSME Day, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma unveiled a series of major policy initiatives and incentives aimed at accelerating industrial growth, strengthening Rajasthan's MSME ecosystem, promoting entrepreneurship, and positioning the state as a leading destination for investment.

The Chief Minister announced the development of dedicated Haats for artisans and weavers, new incentives for the electronics and semiconductor sectors under RIPS-2024, financial support for 25 startups through the Rajasthan Venture Capital Fund, and the launch of the Rajasthan Industrial Development Policy, among other initiatives.

He also distributed financial assistance worth over Rs 13 crore and RIICO land allotment letters to beneficiaries, reaffirming the government's commitment to inclusive industrial development and employment generation.

The Chief Minister said Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are the backbone of Rajasthan's economic growth, employment generation, and self-reliance.

He reiterated the government's commitment to encouraging youth entrepreneurship, enhancing the global visibility of local products, and transforming Rajasthan into a leading industrial state while preserving its cultural heritage.

On Saturday evening, the rebel Trinamool Congress camp sent a letter to Kolkata Police in this regard. The rebel faction has now decided to observe the Martyrs' Day programme, claiming to be the "real Trinamool Congress".

Taking a dig at the Mamata Banerjee faction, the Chief Whip of the rebel Trinamool camp in the state Assembly, Akhruzzaman, said: "Those who cannot form a parliamentary party in the Assembly and do not have the numbers, will they observe July 21 again? We want to observe that day by bringing the families of martyrs. Until now, the real families of martyrs would have been lost in the crowd of heroes and heroines who annually graced the July 21 programme. This time, we want to pay our true respects to the families of the martyrs on that day."

On Saturday, the Ritabrata Banerjee faction held a preparatory meeting for July 21 at a city hotel. About 50 former councillors of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) were also present.

After the meeting, Akhruzzaman said that they had written to the Kolkata Police Commissioner seeking permission to observe Martyrs' Day at Esplanade on July 21. The development came hours after the Trinamool Congress led by Mamata Banerjee sought police permission with the same demand.

The Trinamool Congress holds its annual Martyrs' Day rally in Kolkata on July 21.

Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee addresses a public meeting during the event to commemorate the 13 people who were killed during a demonstration by the West Bengal Youth Congress -- then led by Mamata Banerjee -- on July 21, 1993.

When the Trinamool was in the Opposition during the Left Front era, large gatherings used to be held on July 21 at Mamata Banerjee's call. But after a decade and a half in power, the Opposition Trinamool now appears to be in a state of disarray, with both factions staking a claim to the party's Martyrs' Day programme.

While services were held up for nearly 25 minutes earlier in the morning, train movement along a particular stretch had to be stopped for nearly an hour in the afternoon.

While one of those who attempted suicide could be saved, the other person did not survive.

The first incident occurred at the Kalighat Metro station at 7:20 a.m. after a person jumped in front of a train moving towards Garia from Dakshineswar.

The motorman applied emergency brakes, but could not stop the train before it reached the spot where the person had jumped.

The rake was then reversed and power to the third rail was switched off before Metro Railway staff could get on the tracks to rescue the person.

Truncated services were run between Dakshineswar and Maidan and Mahanayak Uttam Kumar and Shahid Khudiram during this period.

Normal services could only be restored at 7:44 p.m.

The second attempt took place at the Belgachia station at 3.09 p.m. after a person jumped before another Garia-bound train.

The same procedure had to be followed.

However, it took longer as the person had died.

Truncated services were run between Girish Park and Shahid Khudiram stations while the tracks were cleared.

Normal services resumed at 3:56 p.m.

The Metro Railway's Blue Line where the disruptions occurred is the oldest metro stretch in the country. It has no platform screen doors to prevent suicide attempts, unlike the other metro lines in Kolkata.

The Metro's Blue Line is also the busiest and called the "lifeline of Kolkata". It connects Kolkata's northern suburbs to the city's extreme south, carrying 6.5 to 7 lakh passengers daily.

Any disruption in service in this line, particularly during the monsoons, results in severe inconvenience to students, office-goers and others.

Over the years, Metro Railway has taken several steps to try and prevent suicides.

Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel and Metro staff have been instructed to keep a lookout for people behaving in a strange manner after entering the stations.

Motormen also reduce speeds of trains before entering the platforms, so they may be able to control them better. However, this is not always possible.

A defence spokesman said that the operation was carried out in the Mungiakami area of Khowai district based on specific intelligence inputs. During the operation, the joint team intercepted a vehicle suspected of carrying narcotics. However, on noticing the security personnel, the driver abandoned the vehicle and fled into a densely populated area, evading arrest.

A thorough search of the vehicle led to the recovery of approximately 50,000 methamphetamine tablets with an estimated market value of more than Rs 5 crore. The recovered narcotics and the seized vehicle have been handed over to the Customs Department for further investigation and legal action.

The successful operation reflects the unwavering commitment of the Assam Rifles, in close coordination with the Customs Department, to curb narcotics trafficking and ensure peace and security in the region, the spokesman said.

Meanwhile, in Mizoram, the Assam Rifles organised interaction programmes with village authorities, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and Young Mizo Association (YMA) leaders at Zokhawthar, Khawbung and Farkawn in Champhai district, and Sangau in Lawngtlai district, as part of its continued efforts to strengthen civil-military cooperation and promote peace in border areas.

Around 40 participants, including Village Council Presidents, CSO representatives and YMA leaders, attended the programmes. During the interactions, participants discussed border security, measures to curb drug trafficking and other illegal activities, public welfare, local grievances and ways to strengthen civil-military coordination for community development.

The meetings provided a common platform to enhance mutual understanding, improve coordination and reinforce cooperation in maintaining peace and harmony along the India-Myanmar border.

In Manipur, the Assam Rifles, in collaboration with the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Imphal, organised a high-impact Training-cum-Awareness Programme at the Mantripukhri Garrison in Imphal East district.

The programme was aligned with this year's global theme, "World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses," and aimed at equipping frontline security personnel with advanced knowledge and practical skills to combat drug trafficking.

According to the defence spokesman, experts from the NCB conducted intensive technical sessions focusing on the evolving narcotics scenario in Manipur, methods for identifying various contraband substances and the latest trends in drug trafficking.

Participants were also trained on the relevant provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and the legal framework under the newly enforced Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) to strengthen operational effectiveness and ensure lawful enforcement.

Highlighting the importance of inter-agency coordination, senior Assam Rifles officers felicitated the visiting NCB officials, and the programme concluded with a commemorative group photograph. Nearly 220 personnel from the Indian Army and the Assam Rifles participated in the training programme.

The spokesman said the initiative has significantly strengthened coordination between specialised narcotics intelligence agencies and security forces, enhancing their collective capability to combat drug trafficking, assist law enforcement agencies and systematically dismantle the drug network operating in the region.

Responding to allegations regarding the excessive use of polyester in government-supplied school uniforms, Pegu told reporters in Sivasagar that the uniforms are procured as per government guidelines and that random samples are tested to verify their quality.

"The specifications clearly mention the required polyester and cotton composition. We conduct laboratory tests on randomly collected samples from schools to check whether the fabric meets the prescribed standards," the minister said.

He said that suppliers found violating the norms are issued notices and that appropriate action is taken against them.

Pegu clarified that the government does not permit the supply of uniforms made entirely of polyester.

"We have prohibited 100 per cent polyester uniforms. The specifications require around 30 per cent cotton in the fabric, and this is verified through laboratory testing," he said.

The minister said that earlier the prescribed cotton content was around 30 per cent and that the procurement process continues to follow approved standards for blended fabric.

Referring to concerns raised by some experts over the health impact of polyester, Pegu said the issue should be viewed in perspective.

"Today, many garments available in the market contain polyester blends. It is not correct to say that every polyester fabric is harmful. The important issue is whether the prescribed blend of cotton and polyester has been maintained," he said.

Pegu maintained that if any school receives uniforms that do not meet the prescribed specifications, the government is prepared to investigate the matter.

"If anyone points out a particular school where the polyester content exceeds the prescribed limit, we will immediately conduct a verification. We are already carrying out random testing of uniforms supplied to educational institutions," he added.

The minister asserted that the state government remains committed to ensuring quality standards in school uniforms supplied under its welfare programmes.

New Delhi, June 27 (IANS) The proposed Chinaâ€"Myanmarâ€"Bangladesh Economic Corridor (CMBEC) is another attempt at Beijing trying to reshape South Asia's connectivity trying to strengthen its Belt and Road footprint and direct access to the Indian Ocean.

Additionally, alongside Gwadar Port in Pakistan and Hambantota Port in Sri Lanka, Chinese presence in Bangladesh's Mongla and Chittagong Ports is an effort at furthering Beijing's "string of pearls" strategy, surrounding India's maritime sphere.

The port modernisation projects will directly impact the Rohingya community living in Chittagong camps who stand to face displacement as land is repurposed for industrial and port expansion.

This will finally result in pushing them toward India's eastern and northeastern parts on the one side, and into Southeast Asia, on the other.

Beijing frames these projects as economic, and avoids direct involvement in the Rohingya issue -- potentially leaving these unresolved and worsening instability.

China's record in dealing with the Turkic-speaking Muslim Uyghur minority, as mentioned in various reports, highlight their conditions in the Xinjiang Province.

Washington enacted the Uyghur Forced Labour Prevention Act (UFLPA) in December 2021, preventing goods made with "forced labour" connected to the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR) from entering the United States.

In Bangladesh, refugee camps at the Chittagong region, particularly Cox's Bazar, reportedly host hundreds of thousands of Rohingyas, mainly from Myanmar's Rakhine State, who are fleeing military crackdowns since 2017.

India already faces severe challenges in managing an influx amidst rising security concerns.

Increased traffic will further strain border management, heighten communal tensions, and complicate humanitarian responses.

The CMBEC is slated to start from Kunming, capital of China's Yunnan province, and reach Mandalay in Myanmar.

From there, according to earlier reports, one part was to be extended to Yangon and another to the Kyaukphyu deep sea port in Rakhine State.

Following the recent visit of Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, China has reportedly proposed to connect Myanmar's Rakhine State to the Chittagong and Cox's Bazar regions through road and railway networks.

A similar Chinaâ€"Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was launched in 2015, involving a network of highways, railways, pipelines, and energy projects stretching from Xinjiang region to the Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea.

The corridor gave China direct access to the Arabian Sea, and Indian Ocean.

For Pakistan, in an economic crisis, CPEC promised infrastructure development and economic growth.

Concerns have surfaced since then on transparency, environmental impact, and the sustainability of debt incurred to finance these projects.

Apart from Pakistan, China has been investing heavily in infrastructure projects across South Asia, often through loans and financing arrangements.

While these projects offer development opportunities, they have also led to mounting debt burdens.

Several reports suggest such investments leading to risks creating a "debt trap", where countries lose economic sovereignty and strategic assets due to unsustainable borrowing, while China gains geopolitical leverage in the region.

Sri Lanka's Hambantota Port is a notable example, where inability to repay loans forced the government to lease the port to China for 99 years.

Similarly, Pakistan's reliance on Chinese loans for CPEC projects has raised fears of long-term financial dependency. It is all part of Beijing's aim to counter New Delhi's influence in South Asia through a multi-layered strategy; and creating a debt trap for nations.

It generally supports regimes in unstable environments, like Pakistan, Afghanistan, post-coup Myanmar, among others, to secure borders and investments while limiting India's influence.

India "Neighbourhood First", meanwhile, is a foreign policy doctrine that prioritises strong, cooperative relations with its immediate neighbours through aid, connectivity, trade, and cultural ties.

Answering a question in Lok Sabha in March, Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita asserted that India's relationship with Bangladesh is independent of its relationship with third countries.

New Delhi also continues to monitor developments having a bearing on India's national interests and take all necessary measures to safeguard them, he added.

Meanwhile, India remains an important partner for Myanmar in areas such as development assistance, humanitarian support, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, education, capacity building and infrastructure development.

As per an official note, India's timely assistance during natural disasters, including humanitarian relief and reconstruction efforts, as well as its role as a trusted development partner, has created an immense goodwill among the people of Myanmar.

President U. Min Aung Hlaing of Myanmar was in India on his first official visit between May 30 to June 3 this year where he met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and others.

Talks included bilateral, regional and global issues of mutual interest and the way forward for the relationship.

New Delhi, June 27 (IANS) The proposed Chinaâ€"Myanmarâ€"Bangladesh Economic Corridor (CMBEC) is another attempt at Beijing trying to reshape South Asia's connectivity trying to strengthen its Belt and Road footprint and direct access to the Indian Ocean.

Additionally, alongside Gwadar Port in Pakistan and Hambantota Port in Sri Lanka, Chinese presence in Bangladesh's Mongla and Chittagong Ports is an effort at furthering Beijing's "string of pearls" strategy, surrounding India's maritime sphere.

The port modernisation projects will directly impact the Rohingya community living in Chittagong camps who stand to face displacement as land is repurposed for industrial and port expansion.

This will finally result in pushing them toward India's eastern and northeastern parts on the one side, and into Southeast Asia, on the other.

Beijing frames these projects as economic, and avoids direct involvement in the Rohingya issue -- potentially leaving these unresolved and worsening instability.

China's record in dealing with the Turkic-speaking Muslim Uyghur minority, as mentioned in various reports, highlight their conditions in the Xinjiang Province.

Washington enacted the Uyghur Forced Labour Prevention Act (UFLPA) in December 2021, preventing goods made with "forced labour" connected to the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR) from entering the United States.

In Bangladesh, refugee camps at the Chittagong region, particularly Cox's Bazar, reportedly host hundreds of thousands of Rohingyas, mainly from Myanmar's Rakhine State, who are fleeing military crackdowns since 2017.

India already faces severe challenges in managing an influx amidst rising security concerns.

Increased traffic will further strain border management, heighten communal tensions, and complicate humanitarian responses.

The CMBEC is slated to start from Kunming, capital of China's Yunnan province, and reach Mandalay in Myanmar.

From there, according to earlier reports, one part was to be extended to Yangon and another to the Kyaukphyu deep sea port in Rakhine State.

Following the recent visit of Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, China has reportedly proposed to connect Myanmar's Rakhine State to the Chittagong and Cox's Bazar regions through road and railway networks.

A similar Chinaâ€"Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was launched in 2015, involving a network of highways, railways, pipelines, and energy projects stretching from Xinjiang region to the Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea.

The corridor gave China direct access to the Arabian Sea, and Indian Ocean.

For Pakistan, in an economic crisis, CPEC promised infrastructure development and economic growth.

Concerns have surfaced since then on transparency, environmental impact, and the sustainability of debt incurred to finance these projects.

Apart from Pakistan, China has been investing heavily in infrastructure projects across South Asia, often through loans and financing arrangements.

While these projects offer development opportunities, they have also led to mounting debt burdens.

Several reports suggest such investments leading to risks creating a "debt trap", where countries lose economic sovereignty and strategic assets due to unsustainable borrowing, while China gains geopolitical leverage in the region.

Sri Lanka's Hambantota Port is a notable example, where inability to repay loans forced the government to lease the port to China for 99 years.

Similarly, Pakistan's reliance on Chinese loans for CPEC projects has raised fears of long-term financial dependency. It is all part of Beijing's aim to counter New Delhi's influence in South Asia through a multi-layered strategy; and creating a debt trap for nations.

It generally supports regimes in unstable environments, like Pakistan, Afghanistan, post-coup Myanmar, among others, to secure borders and investments while limiting India's influence.

India "Neighbourhood First", meanwhile, is a foreign policy doctrine that prioritises strong, cooperative relations with its immediate neighbours through aid, connectivity, trade, and cultural ties.

Answering a question in Lok Sabha in March, Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita asserted that India's relationship with Bangladesh is independent of its relationship with third countries.

New Delhi also continues to monitor developments having a bearing on India's national interests and take all necessary measures to safeguard them, he added.

Meanwhile, India remains an important partner for Myanmar in areas such as development assistance, humanitarian support, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, education, capacity building and infrastructure development.

As per an official note, India's timely assistance during natural disasters, including humanitarian relief and reconstruction efforts, as well as its role as a trusted development partner, has created an immense goodwill among the people of Myanmar.

President U. Min Aung Hlaing of Myanmar was in India on his first official visit between May 30 to June 3 this year where he met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and others.

Talks included bilateral, regional and global issues of mutual interest and the way forward for the relationship.

Known for its rich aroma, unique taste, and nutritional value, the mango has become the identity of the Govindgarh region and a source of pride for the state.

According to the Madhya Pradesh government, the Sundarja mango grows only in Govindgarh because the area's soil, climate, and temperature are ideal for the variety.

It ripens naturally after the first monsoon showers, giving it a distinct flavour and fragrance that set it apart from other mangoes.

"The Sundarja mango is one of the state's unique horticultural products. Its special aroma, taste, and quality have made it popular among consumers in India and abroad," the government said in a statement on Saturday.

The note also mentions that the fruit is rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and iron and has antioxidant properties. Its relatively low sugar content also makes it a preferred choice for many diabetic consumers.

Apart from the fruit, the leaves, bark, and seeds of the Sundarja tree are also considered useful for different traditional and medicinal purposes.

The popularity of the mango has helped Rewa emerge as an important horticultural centre in Madhya Pradesh.

Sundarja mangoes are now being exported to countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, and France, creating better income opportunities for local farmers.

To promote mango cultivation, research is being carried out at the Fruit Research Centre in Kathuliya, Rewa.

The centre has developed an orchard with 2,345 mango trees representing different varieties.

These include Bombay Green, Dasheri, Langra, Amrapali, Mallika, Indira, and Gadhua, along with several local varieties.

The Govindgarh area itself is known for its rich mango diversity, with nearly 237 varieties grown in its orchards.

The government also credited the Bansagar Dam canal with improving horticulture in Rewa and nearby districts.

Better irrigation has helped farmers expand orchards and has encouraged the growth of small food-processing units based on mango products.

According to the Office of President of the Seychelles, addressing guests at the dinner, President Herminie affirmed the enduring bond between the two nations.

"India has been a steadfast friend to Seychelles, a sentiment warmly reciprocated by our people and our vibrant Indian diaspora," President Herminie said.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), during the banquet, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen the steadfast partnership between India and Seychelles.

The dinner was attended by External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar, Seychelles' Speaker of the National Assembly Azarel Ernesta, Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora, Barry Faure, and members of Cabinet, among other guests.

"This year carries particular significance for both nations, as 2026 also marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Seychelles and India, a partnership built on shared democratic values, maritime cooperation, and enduring people-to-people ties. The concurrent celebrations of Seychelles' Golden Jubilee as a Republic and five decades of bilateral friendship lend the visit exceptional symbolic weight," the President's office noted.

"Prime Minister Modi's presence as Guest of Honour at the National Day celebrations underscores the depth and vitality of the Seychelles-India relationship as both nations look to the next fifty years of partnership," it added.

Seychelles and India have maintained close and mutually beneficial relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1976, with India remaining a committed development partner across sectors, including infrastructure, defence, health, and maritime security.

Prime Minister Modi arrived in Victoria on Saturday to a formal welcome befitting the historic occasion, marking his second State Visit to Seychelles.

Upon arrival at the airport in Victoria, Mahe, Prime Minister Modi was warmly received by President Herminie and accorded a ceremonial welcome.

A number of Seychellois dignitaries and members of the Indian community also joined the welcome ceremony, which included vibrant cultural performances, reflecting the strong people-to-people ties between the two countries.

Later on Saturday afternoon, at a special function, the Indian Prime Minister handed over the Fast Patrol Vessel ‘Lespwar’ (‘Hope’ in Creole) to President Herminie as a gift for the Seychelles government. In addition, 10 utility vehicles, 5 laser radial boats and 6 ambulances were also handed over.

"These will enhance Seychelles’ maritime security and defence capabilities," the MEA noted.

The programme was attended by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.

Residents and society office-bearers raised concerns about roads, drainage systems, stormwater management, drinking water supply, and railway crossings, while also acknowledging ongoing development works in the area.

Addressing the gathering, Shah said: "The Union government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi was extending financial assistance to street vendors in order to support their livelihoods and recognise their contribution to the informal economy. 8,970 street vendors in the Gandhinagar constituency had received loan assistance."

He recalled his 30-year public life, beginning in 1997, while interacting with residents of Ranip and adjoining areas, and expressed his appreciation for their continued support.

"Development in the region had been continuous and would further accelerate in the coming years. Efforts are underway to develop Ranip West as a key urban centre," he emphasised.

He further stated that his objective, since being elected to the Lok Sabha, had been to develop the Gandhinagar constituency as the most developed constituency in the country, and said, "progress was being made in that direction through coordinated efforts of the state and local administrations".

He also noted that various civic infrastructure projects, including community halls, parks, gardens, lakes, roads, libraries and gyms had been developed across the constituency.

"161 village libraries had been established, and another 100 were scheduled for inauguration in August, with around 3.5 lakh books distributed in rural areas," he said.

He also highlighted welfare initiatives, including a "toy bank" under which 28,000 toys had been collected for distribution to Anganwadi children, and free meals provided by party workers to attendants of patients at Sola Civil and Gandhinagar Civil hospitals.

"Green cover in the constituency had increased by 12.5 per cent, with a further 12 per cent expansion targeted during the monsoon season," he said.

Officials said that the constituency had recorded significant progress in water conservation through percolation wells and solar rooftop installations, and that 88 per cent of citizens above 70 years of age had been covered under the Ayushman health scheme.

Shah urged residents to participate in plantation drives, solar energy adoption and groundwater conservation initiatives, and called for collective efforts to develop the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha constituency as a "green constituency".

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, in his remarks, said it was a matter of pride for the constituency to be represented by Amit Shah and noted his "continued engagement in development and public welfare activities across the region".

The meeting was attended by local representatives, including municipal and administrative officials, who participated in discussions on civic issues and development projects.

Speaking at the 517th Kempegowda Jayanthi event at Kempegowda Layout, developed by the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA), the Chief Minister said: "The government has decided to include the names of landowners who give up land without any objections for public welfare projects such as industrial areas, schools, lakes and road construction on a Wall of Gratitude. Through this, the sacrifice of these landowners will be commemorated."

"Ambedkar has said that one who forgets history cannot create history. More than reading or remembering history, I like to create history," he said.

"The work of constructing a shorter tunnel road near Hebbal will begin in a few days. Bengaluru is a city of the world. To relieve traffic congestion here, many projects, including the construction of a large tunnel road, have been planned. Along with this, a team of officials will be formed. I will continue to live up to the immense trust you have placed in me," he assured.

"Today, we have inaugurated a 10-lane road named after former Chief Minister S.M. Krishna. This road will not stop at 11 km. Going forward, it will be extended into a 123-km corridor. We are taking steps to build a Wall of Gratitude along this road. Through this, the Government of Karnataka will, in the coming days, undertake the work of permanently preserving the names of those who gave their land for this road. This will be done everywhere," he said.

"We are concerned about those who lose their land. How were Kengeri and Yelahanka towns built? Parameshwar is taking steps to build a township in Tumakuru. Aren't those also land? Birth is accidental, death is certain. What matters is what achievement or sacrifice we make between this birth and death. I offer my salutations to all those who sacrificed their land for this 10-lane road," he said.

"A green Bengaluru must be built, and through that Kempegowda's far-sighted vision must be realised. With that aim, 15 lakh saplings have been planted today on behalf of the BDA. This is a historic decision. We cannot forget that, during Krishna's time, Balagangadharanatha Swamiji took a vow to plant 5 crore saplings. In the same way, in Bengaluru, every school should take charge of one area each, and a programme should be carried out to have children plant and nurture trees there. On this matter, a competition will be organised on behalf of the GBA," he said.

"It has been decided to establish a Kempegowda Study Centre at Bengaluru University. Minister K.H. Muniyappa has provided 9.5 acres of land in his constituency, and it has been decided to establish the Kempegowda Study Centre there. A development programme worth Rs 10 crore is being undertaken at Huthridurga. Remembering S.M. Krishna's achievements, we have named this road after him. It was S.M. Krishna who built Arkavathi Layout, Kempegowda Layout, Shivaram Karanth Layout, and Vikasa Soudha," he said.

He described Kempegowda as "a great soul of far-sighted vision, a Bhagiratha who built lakes, a devout man of God who constructed temples, and a courageous leader of all communities who built various petes (markets), gave priority to people of all communities, and infused them with economic strength".

"The people of Bengaluru must remember three Ks: Kempegowda, who built Bengaluru; Kengal Hanumanthaiah, who built the Vidhana Soudha; and S.M. Krishna, who took Bengaluru to the international level. After Nirmalanandanatha Swamiji and Nanjavadhoota Swamiji together decided that Kempegowda Jayanti should be celebrated on June 27, we have been celebrating Kempegowda Jayanti. I extend my congratulations to Revanna, who stood in support of me at that time," he said.

"Earlier, the government had decided to build a Peripheral Ring Road, but it was not put into action. After I took on the responsibility of Bengaluru city, we have moved forward to implement this project. Because Kempegowda, Kengal Hanumanthaiah, and Krishna have left behind a legacy, we are today remembering these three," he said.

"The process of constructing the 123-km-long Bengaluru Business Corridor road is underway, and tenders have been called. We will shortly issue the final notification for the stretch connecting Mysuru Road with Electronic City as well. Without this road, Bengaluru cannot survive. Therefore, I am going to make a bold decision. The government is moving to give landowners who lose their land 35 per cent commercial land, 40 per cent residential land, and TDR (Transferable Development Rights). Landowners may take whichever option they prefer," he explained.

The decisions were taken during a high-level review meeting held in Ahmedabad under the chairmanship of Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah.

The meeting was attended by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi and senior administrative officials, including Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Das.

According to the plan, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) will develop 101 oxygen parks equipped with walking tracks, lighting, signage, parking facilities and children's play areas.

The Home Minister directed that details of all parks, including photographs, videos, and GPS locations, be made available on a single online platform to ensure public access to information in one place.

Separately, a major plantation drive will be carried out at 308 identified locations across the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha constituency on July 12, with coordination between administrative departments and public participation initiatives.

The programme forms part of a broader effort to increase green cover across urban and semi-urban areas.

The Forest Department has been assigned a target of planting over 60 lakh saplings and developing 82 green protection zones described as "Van Kavach".

Overall, the combined plantation target across agencies has been set at more than 1.26 crore trees, including contributions from municipal bodies, development authorities, industrial institutions and voluntary organisations.

Under the distribution of responsibilities, the AMC is expected to plant 31.43 lakh saplings in the Lok Sabha constituency and 9 lakh in Ahmedabad district, Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation with 6.27 lakh, Gandhinagar district with 12.5 lakh, AUDA with 4 lakh, GUDA with 1.67 lakh, and GIDC with 1 lakh.

In addition, 121 organisations, including social groups, banks and industries, have committed to the plantation and maintenance of around 28.50 lakh trees. More than 2.33 lakh volunteers are expected to participate in the campaign.

To encourage wider public participation, households in tenements, row houses and bungalows are to be provided with one free sapling each.

The initiative is part of the broader campaign titled "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0", under which institutions are also expected to undertake plantation activities through corporate social responsibility commitments.

"After the INDI alliance has reached the point of becoming irrelevant today, the first and last chairperson of the now-defunct UPA alliance, Mrs Sonia Gandhi ji, has once again set her sights on the trade of radical vote and expressed grief for Gaza," the BJP leader posted on the social media platform X.

Writing in an English newspaper, Sonia Gandhi had launched a scathing attack on the Union government, alleging that its "stony silence" and "inaction" on Israel's "Gaza genocide" are not just morally reprehensible but are also undermining the nation's interests.

Trivedi began his post by pointing to the series of electoral setbacks suffered by the Opposition alliance in recent times, where the Congress is its principal constituent, and to the political reverses following the withdrawal of some of its regional partners.

"By displaying grief for Gaza, Sonia ji believes she will somehow offset the sorrow of being out of power or diminish Modi ji's influence, but this is her misconception," he said.

Pointing out that Iran recently "personally invited" Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the state funeral of its late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, he asked what better proof there could be of the current cordial relations with Iran.

Raising the issue of persecution elsewhere, he questioned why "those who consider speaking out on the murders of Hindus in Bangladesh and Pakistan as an insult to themselves are now becoming so deeply sorrowful over Gaza".

Trivedi further alleged that Congress leaders remained silent on the October 2023 killings of Israelis carried out by Hamas and other Palestinian militant groups.

"The country wants to know, and Congress must clarify: By maintaining absolute silence on the October 2023 massacre, yet raising an uproar over Gaza, is the Congress party, through this article, indirectly providing cover fire to terrorist organisations like Hezbollah and Hamas?" he said.

A joint memorandum was submitted to the Prime Minister by the UNC, Naga Women's Union and the All Naga Students' Association, Manipur, demanding immediate intervention against what the organisations described as a proxy war against the Nagas by Kuki militant groups, who are now under a Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with the government.

The Naga bodies claimed that the Kuki militant groups and the Myanmar-based KNA (B) are not only violating the Indo-Naga Framework Agreement signed on August 3, 2015, but also pose a serious threat to India's eastern frontier security.

UNC President N.G. Lorho and other senior Naga leaders, Vareiyo Shatsang, Samson Remei, A.C. Thotso, K.S. Paul Leo and L. Adani, are holding a series of meetings with political leaders, civil society organisations, women's groups, peace activists and concerned citizens besides the media in Delhi to present the Naga perspective and seek immediate constitutional and political intervention.

The Naga bodies' move came after the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) expressed regret on June 25 over what it described as a "grave mistake" in the killing of six Naga hostages in Manipur's Kangpokpi district on May 13.

The UNC said this was the first time that Naga elders from Manipur had addressed the national media in New Delhi since the recent cycle of violence, which it alleged had directly threatened Naga people and their ancestral lands.

It said the incidents occurred while the state was still struggling to recover from the Meitei-Kuki ethnic conflict that began in May 2023, and claimed the recent developments reflected a deeper conspiracy against the Naga people and their commitment to peace. The Naga bodies also questioned the ability of both the state and Union Governments to protect civilians and maintain law and order.

The UNC said that following the killing of three Thadou church leaders on May 13 this year, 20 Naga civilians were allegedly abducted by Kuki militant groups from Leilon Vaiphei and Sapermaina Kuki villages. Fourteen of them were released on May 15, while six remained missing despite repeated appeals and extensions granted by the UNC to the Manipur Government to secure their release.

The UNC said that on June 10, Naga village guards, facilitated by the UNC and the Naga People Organisation, Senapati, released 14 Kuki detainees as a humanitarian gesture despite widespread public anger. However, the following day (June 11), the bodies of the six missing Naga civilians were recovered in a mutilated and dismembered condition.

The UNC described the killings as deeply traumatic and said the incident had severely shaken public confidence in the government's ability to ensure the safety of innocent civilians. The Council demanded a time-bound, independent and court-monitored investigation into the abduction and killing of the six Naga civilians.

It also sought concrete security guarantees for all Naga-inhabited areas, particularly vulnerable regions where civilians have allegedly faced intimidation, hostage-taking and armed incursions.

The UNC maintained that large parts of present-day Kangpokpi district are historically ancestral lands of the Zeliangrong Nagas and asserted that any violence, militarised assertion or demographic intimidation in these areas should be treated as a serious issue of Naga security and territorial integrity.

Referring to its memorandum submitted to the Prime Minister, the Council argued that the situation should not be viewed merely as a law-and-order issue or an internal communal conflict.

It alleged that the attacks on Naga villages in Ukhrul and Kamjong districts on May 7, including Namlee-Wanglee, Choro and Kaka villages, involved cross-border armed movement, military-grade weapons, drones, rocket launchers and coordinated assaults by armed cadres.

The doctors have also called for a comprehensive scientific study into suicides in the medical fraternity, saying the issue extends beyond mental health and points to a regulatory gap in the handling of anaesthetic drugs.

According to them, more than 20 medical professionals are believed to have died by suicide in Kerala and other parts of the country in recent years.

They contend that unsuccessful suicide attempts among healthcare workers are likely to be several times higher than officially recorded deaths, underscoring the need for systematic research into what they describe as an emerging public health concern.

Dr S. Anzar, an anaesthetist at Government Medical College, Pariyaram, told IANS that doctors and healthcare workers possess specialised knowledge of anaesthetic drugs and have legitimate access to them as part of their profession, creating a unique occupational risk that has received little policy attention.

"These medicines are indispensable for patient care, but the present system does not adequately regulate access once they are available within hospitals. This is no longer just a mental health issue; it is also one of access, accountability and regulation," he said.

Dr Anzar said observations from recent years suggested a marked shift in the pattern of suicides among medical professionals.

While earlier cases largely involved methods seen in the general population, an increasing number of recent deaths appeared to involve anaesthetic drugs available in hospitals.

Calling for a multi-pronged response, he urged governments, medical colleges, hospitals and professional bodies to treat doctor suicides as both a mental health challenge and a patient-safety issue.

Alongside expanding counselling and psychological support, he advocated bringing commonly used anaesthetic drugs under the stricter Schedule X category of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules instead of the present Schedule H classification.

He also recommended installing Automated Drug Dispensing Cabinets (ADCs) in operation theatres, intensive care units and emergency departments to electronically monitor and restrict access to high-risk medicines.

Dr Harris Azees, an anaesthetist in the private sector, said the existing regulatory framework had failed to keep pace with modern hospital practice.

"Most anaesthetic drugs continue to be classified under Schedule H, allowing them to be dispensed on the prescription of any registered medical practitioner. That framework no longer adequately reflects the risks associated with these medicines. It is time the regulations were revisited and oversight strengthened," he said.

He added that certain anaesthetic agents leave only a very narrow window for life-saving medical intervention, making prevention through tighter institutional safeguards all the more critical.

Supporting the need for regulatory reforms, veteran anaesthetist Dr Thomas Kurian recalled that during his student days and early years in the profession, he could not remember suicides involving anaesthetic drugs among medical professionals.

"Most cases then involved conventional methods. The change we are witnessing today should prompt serious introspection within the medical community and among policymakers," he said.

The doctors said medical professionals spend years overcoming intense academic competition before entering one of the country's most demanding professions.

Protecting their mental well-being while simultaneously strengthening safeguards governing access to high-risk medicines, they said, should now become an urgent priority for governments, regulators and healthcare institutions.

Sonam, who was arrested for the alleged murder of her husband Raja Raghuvanshi last year, was granted conditional bail by a lower court, citing certain technical shortcomings in the investigation.

Raja's mother Uma Raghuvanshi told IANS that Ketan Agarwal's case is "exactly" like that of her son.

Drawing similarities between both the cases, Uma Raghuvanshi said: "Just like Sonam Raghuvanshi had planned, weaved a story; Siya Goyal too conspired and pushed her fiancee off the cliff."

"I can understand the pain of that mother as I have still not been able to overcome the pain of losing my son," the emotional mother added.

Referring to Siya and Sonam, she said: "If girls do not want to get married then don't, but please don't kill other people's sons. And please speak to your parents, they don't have the right to murder."

She also added that such accused should be immediately punished but "neither they are being hanged nor punished".

Pointing to Sonam Raghuvanshi's bail, Uma Raghuvanshi said: "Her bail is sending a wrong message to the society. Accused may think that they, too, will easily come out of prison after committing such heinous crimes, if they are caught."

"Firstly, they (the accused) are not scared of being caught and even if they are arrested, the accused think that if Sonam can be released then they too will be let out," she added.

Emphasising that Siya might have committed the crime looking at how Sonam got bail, Uma Raghuvanshi remarked: "She became 'choti Sonam'."

Urging Ketan Agarwal's family to keep fighting for justice, Raja Raghuvanshi's mother said: "I have not yet received justice for my son but I would urge his family to not lose hope till the accused is given death penalty."

"All of them, Siya, Sonam and Muskan should be hanged," she added.

Muskan Rastogi along with her alleged lover, purportedly murdered her husband last year before stuffing his dismembered remains in a cement filled blue drum.

She urged parents to listen to her children while arranging a marriage.

"Parents should not go ahead with a match if the girl objects to it," she stressed.

Bhopal, June 27 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh Urban Development Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya has triggered a political debate with his remarks on the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), saying that although the organisation has expanded significantly after the BJP came to power, there is a growing shortage of "good human beings" within its ranks.

The BJP leader's comments come at a time when the Congress has intensified its attack on the RSS and the BJP over alleged financial irregularities linked to the Ram Mandir and has questioned the organisation's transparency and accountability.

Speaking at a programme on Friday in Bhopal, Vijayvargiya said many government officials now claim to have longstanding ties with the RSS after the BJP formed the government.

"Every officer who joins our government says, 'I too have worn the belt and shorts of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh.' After the government came to power, everyone became associated with the Sangh. One officer told me his father used to attend RSS shakhas, while another said his father was the president of a shakha, although there is no such post," Vijayvargiya said.

He said the rapid expansion of the organisation should not come at the cost of its core values and character.

"Today, there are crowds of all kinds, yet there is a scarcity of good human beings amidst them. This is the reality. The organisation is growing, and the ideology is spreading too. But if there are no good human beings, what is the significance of this ideology? We need to reflect deeply on this," he said.

Recalling some prominent senior RSS workers present at the programme, Vijayvargiya described them as examples of individuals whose integrity and commitment embodied the organisation's ideals.

He said such personalities were becoming increasingly rare and called for introspection within the organisation.

His remarks have assumed political significance as they coincide with renewed Opposition criticism of the RSS.

He said the poaching of Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs was strategically designed by internal forces to trim CM Devendra Fadnavis' wings so that he never emerges as a future competitor for the Prime Minister's post.

He warned that the Shinde faction has zero independent future and will eventually be discarded like trash by the BJP.

Launching a fierce counteroffensive following the defection of six Lok Sabha MPs, Thackeray held a massive rally in Hingoli, targeting the rebels and the ruling alliance.

Thackeray dismissed claims of an "Operation Tiger" orchestrated by DCM Shinde, suggesting instead that the political script was an "Operation Devendra" masterminded by the BJP leadership to clip Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis's wings.

Focusing his wrath heavily on Hingoli MP Nagesh Patil Ashtikar, who was among the six dissidents to jump ship to the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, Thackeray labelled him the "chief of traitors" (gaddaraancha sardar).

He told the crowd that some people were warning him that he would defect, but he refused to believe them, adding that now, he had not just broken away but had emerged as the leader of these traitors.

Thackeray shared an anecdote about how a few MPs had skipped a crucial parliamentary meeting in Delhi under false pretences. He recounted a phone call from Yavatmal MP Sanjay Deshmukh, who claimed he had to stay back to arrange his daughter's marriage alliance.

He added that he had no idea that he was not fixing his daughter's alliance, but was instead bargaining to increase his own market value, using sharp language to call out Ashtikar and the other defectors.

He described the rebels as "wolves, foxes, and donkeys wearing tigers' skins" whom the party had affectionately placed on its shoulders.

Thackeray questioned the political logic behind the six MPs joining Eknath Shinde's faction, which he repeatedly mocked as the subservient Sena, rather than directly merging with the BJP. He reiterated a deeper conspiracy within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) targeted at Maharashtra's leadership.

Thackeray sought to boost his cadre's morale, asserting that the poaching of a few lawmakers cannot extinguish the real spirit of Shiv Sena.

Dismissing the narrative that his party has been weakened by splits, Thackeray declared that elected representatives are transient, whereas the true foundation of Shiv Sena lies in its fiercely loyal grassroots workers.

Targeting the rebel MP Nagesh Patil Ashtikar from Hingoli, who defected, Thackeray expressed deep betrayal. He said that many thought that poaching two or five MPs, or a handful of MLAs, meant the Shiv Sena was finished, but they did not understand that lawmakers were separate from hardcore Shiv Sainiks.

He added that betrayal occurred twice in Hingoli, and that the former MP left but had to enter through the back door. He questioned how they would face the public to seek votes now, adding that they had brought shame upon themselves.

Apologising to the voters for backing candidates who later switched sides, Thackeray called them "donkeys and jackals masquerading in lions' skin" and added that their actions showed "treachery is in their blood." Thackeray levelled specific, severe allegations against current Hingoli MP Nagesh Patil Ashtikar, labelling him the "traitor of traitors."

He recounted a behind-the-scenes incident from a parliamentary party meeting, saying that he had called a meeting of their MPs and that three were physically present at his residence while others joined online, including an MP from Yavatmal.

He added that the previous day he had called him, saying he could not come because suitors were visiting to see his daughter for a marriage alliance, but little did he know they were not fixing his daughter's alliance; they were negotiating his own price tag while assuring him they were with him.

He also accused defecting leaders of switching loyalties solely to secure political tickets and futures for their children, throwing the BJP's "nepotism" (Gharanashahi) allegations right back at the Shinde camp.

Shifting focus to public issues, the former Chief Minister drew a sharp contrast between the luxurious lifestyles of current ruling leaders and the misery of ordinary citizens.

Thackeray slammed ministers for flying in chartered planes while farmers in Marathwada struggle to gather money to buy seeds and fertilisers. He raised concerns over the Shaktipeeth Highway project, highlighting the displacement of local landowners.

He took the government to task over the recent paper leak scandals in the TET (Teacher Eligibility Test) and NEET examinations, accusing the ruling combine of being obsessed with power politics while neglecting students' futures.

Concluding his address, Thackeray urged the people of Hingoli and Marathwada to create history in the upcoming elections by electing loyal leaders.

He rallied the Shiv Sainiks, saying the traitors were gone, but the hardcore Shiv Sainiks were with them, and urged them to take charge of their regions and show that loyalty could not be bought with money.

In a letter to Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, K.V. Shamsudheen, Chairman of Pravasi Bandhu Welfare Trust, said the government's proposal to shift the Kerala diaspora from being merely remittance providers to long-term investors could begin with the ambitious railway project proposed under the leadership of Metro Man E. Sreedharan.

Drawing parallels with the successful financing model adopted for the Konkan Railway, Shamsudheen suggested that the state issue secured, redeemable, tax-free, non-convertible bonds to Non-Resident Keralites to mobilise funds for the project.

"I had the privilege of promoting Konkan Railway tax-free bonds among NRIs in the UAE. I witnessed first-hand the tremendous enthusiasm expatriates showed for nation-building projects. I believe Malayali expatriates will respond similarly if a credible investment opportunity is created for Kerala," he said.

Shamsudheen noted that while Malayalis remit an estimated Rs 2.3-2.5 lakh crore to Kerala annually -- nearly one-fifth of India's total inward remittances -- over Rs 3 lakh crore of Non-Resident External (NRE) deposits remain parked in banks in Kerala, earning modest returns instead of being deployed for productive investments.

"If even a fraction of these savings is channelled into infrastructure, industries and employment-generating projects, Kerala can fundamentally transform its economy," he said.

He argued that Kerala's greatest challenge was not a shortage of capital but the absence of avenues to convert household savings into long-term investments.

According to him, a substantial portion of expatriate wealth continues to flow into non-productive assets such as gold and real estate rather than sectors capable of creating jobs and accelerating economic growth.

Shamsudheen said the proposed investment model aligns closely with the policy direction announced by Satheesan in his Budget, where the Chief Minister observed that while Kerala's diaspora had long been the backbone of the state's economy through remittances, the next phase should focus on converting those remittances into investments.

Besides the high-speed railway, he urged the government to explore similar bond-based financing for other major infrastructure projects, saying Kerala possessed enormous untapped financial and human resources waiting to be productively harnessed.

"Kerala is not merely a land of opportunities, it is a land of untapped resources. What is required is an investor-friendly ecosystem capable of inspiring confidence among the global Malayali community," he said.