RNI NO.

: DELENG/2005/15351
MILLENNIUMPOST.IN

PUBLISHED FROM DELHI | KOLKATA | SILIGURI VOL.19, ISSUE 52 | Thursday, 22 February, 2024 | New Delhi | Pages 12 | Rs 5.00
No Half Truths

City: Pg 3 World: Pg 8 Film: Pg 10

Like lord Krishna was present: CM on PPP, PML-N strike power- Bhumi joins
SC’s Chandigarh Mayoral poll order sharing deal in Pakistan ‘Animal’ debate

RELAXES SPACE FDI NORMS CENTRE INVITES FARMERS FOR 5TH ROUND OF TALKS

Govt extends women’s safety One farmer dies of head injury,

scheme, raises sugarcane FRP leaders halt protest for two days
OUR CORRESPONDENT
OUR CORRESPONDENT
Takeaways
Key Decisions: NEW DELHI/ CHANDI- »»The minister also
NEW DELHI: During GARH: Farmers’ protest on appealed to the
Wednesday’s Union Cabi- »»Govt decides to continue women safety scheme till Wednesday was marred by a
net meeting, presided over 2025-26 violent turn as a young pro- protesting farmers to
by Prime Minister Narendra »»Cabinet approves hike in sugarcane FRP by Rs 25 tester died of head injury at maintain peace and
Modi, a number of substantial to Rs 340 per quintal for 2024-25 season Punjab-Haryana border. After engage in a dialogue to
decisions were reached span- the death of the farmer, the find a solution
ning diverse sectors, includ- »»Govt modifies National Livestock Mission protesters announced that the
ing women’s safety, agricultural »»Cabinet approves hike in sugarcane FRP by Rs 25 ‘Delhi Chalo’ march will be »»Reports also came in of a
support, and infrastructure to Rs 340 per quintal for 2024-25 season paused for two days and the 21-year-old farmer having
development. leaders would decide upon the lost his life and a few
Safety of Women Scheme »»Cabinet approves continuation of Flood Manage- future course of action. others sustaining injuries
Extended: ment and Border Areas Programme In another development, following a clash between
The government decided to Union Agriculture Minister A tear gas explodes after being fired upon the protesting farmers
continue the umbrella scheme
»»Govt eases FDI norms in space sector; 100% in mak- Arjun Munda on Wednesday during their ‘Delhi Chalo’ march, near the Punjab-Haryana Shambhu security personnel and
on ‘Safety of Women’ with a Prime Minister Narendra Modi ing components for satellites invited the protesting farmers Border, in Patiala district, on Wednesday PTI protesting farmers
total cost of Rs. 1,179.72 crore for a fifth round of discussion
from 2021-22 to 2025-26. Out Emergency Response Support tors in handling sexual assault supporting farmers’ prosperity. on all issues including the Min- everyone,” Munda told media- auri border point. protesting farmers attacked
of the total project outlay of System (ERSS) 2.0; Upgrada- cases against women and chil- The decision benefits sug- imum Support Price (MSP). persons in Delhi. The deceased had an security personnel with stones
Rs 1,179.72 crore, a total of tion of Central Forensic Sci- dren; and Women Help Desk & arcane farmers across major The minister also appealed Farmer leader Baldev injury to his head but the and sticks, leaving 12 of them
Rs 885.49 crore will be pro- ences laboratories, including Anti-human Trafficking Units. producing states like Maha- to the protesting farmers to Singh Sirsa said the deceased exact cause of his death could seriously injured at the Khan-
vided by the Ministry of Home setting up of National Forensic Hike in Sugarcane FRP: rashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and maintain peace and engage in has been identified as Subh be known after a post-mortem auri border.
Affairs from its own budget Data Centre; Strengthening of The government announced Karnataka. This move aims to a dialogue to find a solution. Karan Singh (21), a resident of examination, Rekhi said, add- The spokesperson further
and Rs 294.23 crore will be DNA Analysis, Cyber Forensic hiking the sugarcane Fair and ensure fair compensation for “We are ready to discuss all Baloke village in Punjab’s Bath- ing the condition of the other said the protesters poured chilli
funded from Nirbhaya Fund. capacities in State Forensic Sci- Remunerative Price (FRP) by their produce and contribute the issues, be it MSP or crop inda district. two is stable. powder on stubble and set it on
This initiative aims to ence Laboratories (FSLs). Rs. 25 to Rs. 340 per quintal to the overall well-being of the diversification. We can find Patiala-based Rajindra Farmers in Khanauri fire after surrounding the secu-
strengthen deterrence against The projects also include for the 2024-25 season starting agricultural sector. a solution only through dia- Hospital’s medical superin- claimed that besides tear gas rity personnel posted at the the
offences, enhance justice deliv- Cyber Crime Prevention October. This decision, taken by Continuation of Flood logue. I have invited them for tendent H S Rekhi told report- shells, Haryana police person- Khanauri border.
ery, and provide institutional against Women and Children; the Cabinet Committee on Eco- Management Programme: the discussion and appealed to ers that three people, one of nel also fired rubber bullets. Reacting to the death of the
support to victims. Projects Capacity building and training nomic Affairs, underscores the Recognizing the increasing them to maintain peace and them dead, were brought to A Haryana police spokes- farmer, Punjab Chief Minister
under this scheme include of investigators and prosecu- government’s commitment to frequency  Continued on P4 find a solution that is good for the hospital from the Khan- person, however, said the Bahgwant  Continued on P4

DEPSANG AND DEMCHOK REMAIN STICKING POINTS ‘All is well’, says Akhilesh
Dalits, backward cannot get Stalemate persists in India-China military after SP and Cong strike
job in Modi’s Ram Rajya
Rahul Gandhi
talks despite ‘friendly and cordial’ tone seat-sharing deal in UP
MPOST BUREAU ing complete disengagement ground in the border areas in Offers 17 Lok Sabha seats to Congress
In today’s NEW DELHI: India and
in the remaining areas along
the LAC (Line of Actual Con-
the interim,” it said.
The Chinese Ministry of
paper China held another round of
high-level military talks on
trol) in eastern Ladakh as an
essential basis for restoration
National Defense echoed the
same sentiment, emphasis-
OUR CORRESPONDENT

City
... February 19, seeking to resolve
the ongoing border stand-
off in eastern Ladakh. While
of peace and tranquillity in the
India-China border areas,” it
said in a statement.
ing the need for an “accept-
able solution” and “turning the
page” on the border situation.
NEW DELHI: After suffering
recent setbacks in seat-sharing
arrangement for the coming Lok
DMRC UNVEILS NEW OCC2 both sides agreed to maintain Depsang and Demchok. How- The MEA said the two The 20th round of military Sabha elections, the Opposition
peace and tranquillity on the ever, sources familiar with the sides shared their perspec- talks were held on October 9 INDIA bloc got a shot in the arm as
Nation ground, and the meeting was discussions reported no tangi- tives on this in the talks held and 10. two key partners — the Congress
NYAYYATRA ON BREAK FROM FEB 26 5 described as “friendly and cor- ble progress. in a “friendly and cordial” Following that round of and the Samajwadi Party (SP) on
dial,” there were no concrete The Ministry of External atmosphere. talks, the MEA had said that Wednesday reached an understand-
Edit signs of a breakthrough. Affairs (MEA) said the two “The two sides have agreed the two sides exchanged views ing for contesting parliamentary Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh
UNFAIR MACHINATIONS 7 The 21st round of Corps sides agreed to maintain com- to maintain communication in a frank, open and construc- seats in Uttar Pradesh which sends Yadav addresses a press conference, in
Commander-level talks, held munication on the way ahead on the way ahead through tive manner for an early and 80 MPs to the Lok Sabha, highest Moradabad, on Wednesday PTI
International at the Chushul-Moldo bor- through the relevant military the relevant military and dip- mutually acceptable resolution from any state.
ISRAELI STRIKES ACROSS GAZA KILL 67 8 der meeting point, saw India and diplomatic mechanisms. lomatic mechanisms. They of the remaining issues along Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh
again emphasise the need for “The discussions built on also committed to maintain the LAC. Last month, Army Yadav said “all is well” with Con- Samajwadi Party
Business resolving lingering issues in the previous rounds, seek- peace and tranquillity on the Chief Gen  Continued on P4 gress, apparently after a phone call
STOCK MARKETS SNAP SIX-DAY RALLY9 from the party’s general secretary chief Akhilesh Yadav
Nine killed in FROZEN said “all is well” with
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.
Sport An alliance with the Congress
will happen in UP, Yadav said, days Congress, apparently
Bihar accident
NAGAL DROPS OUT OF TOP-100  10
after his party said he would join after a phone call from
Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Nyay
Yatra only if its seat-sharing pro- the party’s general
Gaganyaan Mission gets LAKHISARAI (BIHAR): At least nine
posal for the Lok Sabha polls is
accepted. Yadav did not join the
secretary Priyanka
Gandhi Vadra
a boost as key engine people were killed and several injured after
a truck and a tempo collided head-on in
yatra in Raebareli on Tuesday.
“Yes, it (alliance) will happen in
cleared for human flight Bihar’s Lakhisarai district in the wee hours
of Wednesday, police said.
Uttar Pradesh. It will be announced
soon,” the SP chief told media per-
parties, quit the bloc and crossed-
over to the BJP-led NDA. Trin-
The incident took place at Biharaura vil- sons in Moradabad when he was amool Congress, which is led by
MPOST BUREAU lage along Lakhisarai-Sikandra main road. asked about a tie-up with the Con- West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata
The tempo, which was carrying around 15 gress in the state. On Monday, the SP Banerjee, also put the Congress on
BENGALURU: The Indian Space Research passengers, was coming from the opposite had said it offered 17 Lok Sabha seats notice by keeping the seat-sharing
Organisation (ISRO) has cleared a major hur- direction at the time of the collision, police in Uttar Pradesh to the Congress. formula for 42 Lok Sabha seats in
dle in its ambitious Gaganyaan human space- added. Among the deceased are Veer Pas- Both the Congress and the SP are the state hanging by a thread. Aam
flight program with the successful completion wan, Vikas Kumar, Vijay Kumar, Dibana crucial constituents in the INDIA Aadmi Party (AAP) also gave tense
of human-rating tests for its CE20 cryogenic Paswan, Amit Kumar, Monu Kumar, Kisan bloc, formed by about two dozen moments to the Congress by refus-
engine. The engine plays a crucial role in pow- Kumar, and Manoj Goswami, with most of opposition parties to take on the ing to share seats either in Punjab
ering the upper stage of the LVM3 launch them hailing from Munger. BJP in the upcoming general elec- and Delhi which are ruled by it. The
vehicle, which will carry astronauts into orbit. Lakshisarai SP Pankaj Kumar said, “The tions. The Yadav-led party had ear- Congress leadership rushed to con-
“ISRO’s CE20 cryogenic engine is now accident took place around 3am on the Lakh- lier offered 11 seats to the Congress. tain the damage and soothe the tem-
human-rated for Gaganyaan missions,” the isarai-Sikandra main road. While nine peo- The grouping suffered a setback pers but the final formula for seat
space agency said on ‘X” on Wednesday. ple died on the spot, several others sustained Icicles hang from a hotel roof at Gulmarg Ski Resort after fresh snowfall, in Baramulla when JD(U) supremo and Bihar sharing is still work in progress.
Rigorous testing demonstrates the engine’s injuries. All injured were taken to the nearest district, on WednesdayPTI Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, driv- The clincher with the SP was a
mettle, it said, adding the CE20 engine identi- government hospital”.  Continued on P4 ing force in uniting the Opposition phone call to SP  Continued on P4
fied for the first uncrewed flight LVM3 G1 also
went through acceptance tests.
The February 13 final test was the seventh INDIA MOURNS THE LOSS OF RADIO ICON AMEEN SAYANI AND LEGAL DOYEN FALI S NARIMAN

‘Namaste behno aur bhaiyo’ ‘Bhishma Pitamah’ of Indian judiciary

of a series of vacuum ignition tests carried out
at the High Altitude Test Facility at ISRO Pro-
pulsion Complex, Mahendragiri, to simulate

will ring loud & clear forever Fali S Nariman passes away at 95
flight conditions, it said.
The ground qualification tests for the
human rating of the CE20 engine involved
life demonstration tests, endurance tests and
performance assessment under nominal oper- He was part of historic judicial proceedings where SC delivered
ating conditions as well as off-nominal condi- Radio’s most recognised voice of Ameen Sayani ‘falls silent’ at 91
tions with respect to thrust, mixture ratio and path-breaking judgements that protected rights of citizens
propellant tank pressure, it said. MPOST BUREAU
All the ground qualification tests of the More than just a show, MPOST BUREAU Opp. Feroze Shah Kotla Sta-
CE20 engine for the Gaganyaan programme MUMBAI: The legendary voice of Binaca Geetmala dium New Delhi on Thursday,”
have been successfully completed, ISRO said. Indian radio, Ameen Sayani, has became a cultural NEW DELHI: Fali S Nariman, a joint statement issued by his
In order to qualify the CE20 engine for passed away at the age of 91. He suf- a towering figure in Indian son, daughter and daughter-
human rating standards, four engines have fered a heart attack on Tuesday eve- phenomenon. After 1988, judiciary and a key architect in-law said.
undergone 39 hot firing tests under different ning and couldn’t be revived despite Binaca Geetmala moved of modern India’s legal frame- Nariman is survived by his
operating conditions for a cumulative duration medical attention. The last rites will to All India Radio’s Vividh work, passed away on Wednes- son and former Supreme Court
of 8,810 seconds against the minimum human be held on Thursday. Bharati where it ruled the day at the age of 95. He was judge Rohinton Nariman,
rating qualification standard requirement of Sayani’s signature greeting, suffering from various ail- daughter Anaheeta and daugh-
6,350 seconds, according to ISRO. “Namaste behno aur bhaiyo, main Ameen Sayani
charts till 1994 ments including heart disease.
Fali S Nariman
ter-in-law Sanaya. His wife
ISRO has also successfully completed the aapka dost Ameen Sayani bol “We regret to inform you at Parsi Aramgah, Near Khan Bapsi Nariman died in 2020.
acceptance tests of the flight engine identified raha hoon,” resonated with mil- More than just a show, Binaca charts till 1994. The show brought of the sad passing away of our Market, New Delhi on Thurs- Born on January 10, 1929
for the first unmanned Gaganyaan (G1) mis- lions of listeners through his iconic Geetmala became a cultural phe- the magic of Hindi cinema songs dear father Mr. Fali S. Nariman, day. Uthamna (prayer meet- in Rangoon, Burma (now
sion tentatively scheduled for the second quar- radio show Binaca Geetmala every nomenon. After 1988, Binaca Geet- to countless homes. Sayani’s warm aged 95, early this Wednesday ing) will be at 4.00 pm at the Myanmar), Nariman’s family
ter of 2024. Continued on P4 Wednesday on Radio Ceylon from mala moved to All India Radio’s and engaging voice, coupled with morning 21st February, 2024. Parsi Anjuman (Dharamsala) fled to India during the Japa-
1952 to 1988. Vividh Bharati where it ruled the his insightful  Continued on P4 Burial will be held at 10 am at Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, nese invasion Continued on P4
2 City millenniumpost
THURSDAY, 22 FEBRUARY, 2024 | NEW DELHI

GRANDDAUGHTER SEVERELY INJURED | CAUSE OF FIRE WAS SAID TO BE GAS LEAK Noida: Woman, Noida flower show to display
Elderly woman dies after she jumps 3-yr-old daughter about 70 varieties of flowers
die after jumping
off balcony to escape apartment fire
DIPIKA KIROLA egory from five star ranking
at present to seven-star rank-
from 4th floor show with as many as 70 vari- wide variety of flowers, tech-
NOIDA: A three-day flower ing. Apart from showcasing a

eties of flowers on display, is niques to utilize domestic waste

NOIDA: A 32-year-old woman all set to commence in Noida by turning it into organic fer-
and her three-year-old daugh- from Friday. tilizers will also be taught,”
OUR CORRESPONDENT
Highlights »»A neighbour said the fire
was massive and police
in a building and teams
from the police and fire
women took shelter in the bal-
cony of the flat where a fire had
ter died allegedly after they
jumped off a multi-storey resi-
Officials on Wednesday
said that the flower show is
said Noida Authority CEO
Lokesh M.
NEW DELHI: An 83-year-old »»According to the police, and fire department were brigade were trying to broken out but they jumped off dential building in Noida on being organised in a joint ven- “The young generation will
woman died and her grand- the deceased was the building to save their lives. Wednesday, police said. ture of Noida Authority and be motivated towards planting
daughter sustained several seen trying to rescue two rescue two people’ Both were rushed to a The woman jumped off Floriculture Society of Noida. trees and protecting environ-
identified as Jasuri people from the scene
injuries after they jumped off »»Atul Garg, Chief of Delhi nearby hospital, where Jasuri the fourth floor with her two As per officials, the three- ment. A Japanese garden will
the fourth floor of a residential Devi, and the injured as Fire Services, said that Devi was declared brought dead daughters. The other daughter, day flower show will be organ- be prepared in the spot garden
»»‘Around 12 pm, I heard
building in southwest Delhi’s 30-year-old Pooja Pant two women took shelter after suffering serious head inju- aged 4, suffered injuries and ised at Noida Stadium from category by the Noida author-
Dwarka when a fire broke out
the sound of ambulance ries, while Pooja Pant is under- was undergoing treatment at a February 23 to 25. ity’s garden department. Five
»»A Delhi Fire Services and fire brigade engines. in the balcony of the flat
in their apartment on Wednes- going treatment, Garg said. hospital, an officer said. “This time the flower show musical instruments will be
day, police said. official said they received I rushed to the location. where a fire had broken Police said that the spot was Additional Deputy Com- is going to be very special as the played on the inauguration,”
According to the police, the a call around 12.30 There was a massive fire out but they jumped being inspected by a forensic missioner of Police (Noida) model of Ayodhya’s Ram tem- the CEO informed.
deceased was identified as Jasuri pm about a fire in two off the building to save science team and the cause of Manish Mishra said the inci- ple will be displayed which will “One of the main attrac-
Devi, and the injured as 30-year- different flats on the their lives fire is determined to be gas leak. dent took place at the rented be made up of flowers of dif- tions of the show will be the
old Pooja Pant. The cause of the fourth and fifth floor of Deputy Commissioner of accommodation of the woman ferent species,” a senior Noida model of Ram temple that
fire was said to be gas leak. »»‘Both were rushed to a Police (Dwarka) Ankit Singh in Barola village under Sector Authority officer said. will be made from flowers in
Police said that they received Pacific Apartments in nearby hospital, where said the officers first cordoned- 49 Police Station limits dur- More than 80 stalls are the show. It will also be dec-
a call about a fire in a residen- Dwarka’s Sector 10 area Jasuri Devi was declared off the area to keep onlookers ing the day. being set up in the flower show orated with deer, bow and
tial building and teams were »»Six fire engines were brought dead after away from the site and contacted “When alerted about the for the garden lovers with 38 other attraction sculptures,”
immediately rushed to the spot. Mahesh Pant, Devi’s son, who incident, the local police team nurseries and some are being the CEO added.
“The matter was informed pressed into service and suffering serious head immediately reached the site. reached the spot and all three established from Kalimpong Apart from this, Garden
to the fire officials for the res- the blaze was doused by injuries, while Pooja Pant is “We collected details about were taken to a nearby pri- and Bhimtal in Uttarakhand. and landscaping competition,
cue work,” a senior police offi- 1.05 pm: Official FILE PHOTO undergoing treatment’ his house to know that if any vate hospital where doctors Seeds, fertilizers, plants, farm- vegetable carving, color, ran-
cer said. other person was still inside the declared the woman and one of ing tools, garden decorative goli, painting competitions,
A Delhi Fire Services official Six fire engines were pressed trying to rescue two people sive fire in a building and teams house. We have started further the children dead,” Mishra said. items, pesticide pots are being flower exhibition, bonsai, cac-
said they received a call around into service and the blaze was from the scene. from the police and fire brigade investigation into the matter. “The other daughter is brought here. tus, succulents, foliage and
12.30 pm about a fire in two dif- doused by 1.05 pm, the offi- “Around 12 pm, I heard the were trying to rescue two peo- Both — Pooja and Jasuri Devi undergoing treatment. The “The flower show is going decorative floral art, hanging
ferent flats on the fourth and cial said. A neighbour said the sound of ambulance and fire ple,” a neighbour said. jumped from fourth floor which family members of the woman to be attractive because baskets, vertical garden, ike-
fifth floor of Pacific Apartments fire was massive and police brigade engines. I rushed to Atul Garg, Chief of Delhi is around 40 feet above from the have reached the hospital,” the the city must be brought bana will be included in the
in Dwarka’s Sector 10 area. and fire department were seen the location. There was a mas- Fire Services, said that two ground,” DCP Singh said. officer added.  AGENCIES into the garbage-free cat- program.

1 dead after portion of house collapses Ggm: Man sentenced to death Anu Singh Lather
re-appointed
OUR CORRESPONDENT
for rape & murder of 3-yr-old Fire Service (DFS) said that
they received a call of the
as Ambedkar
NEW DELHI: A 32-year-old incident from Gurudwara Road
man was killed and another
injured after a portion of a house
located in south Delhi’s Kotla
in Koltla Mubarakpur around
5.02 pm.
At least seven fire tenders
OUR CORRESPONDENT
GURUGRAM: A local court on
girls were not ready to go, but he
took a three-year-old girl with
him, he added.
“The prosecution presented
strong evidence and witnesses
in the court. CCTV footage was
University’s V-C
Mubarakpur area collapsed on pressed into service, he added. Wednesday sentenced a 25-year- When the girl did not return also presented in the court in OUR CORRESPONDENT
Wednesday evening, police said. The official said the trapped old man to death for rape and home till evening, her parents which the accused was seen
The deceased has been iden- people were brought out from murder of a three-year-old girl began searching for her and taking the girl away. The court NEW DELHI: Dr B.R. Ambed-
tified as Vinay, they said. the debris with the help of the in 2018, police said. lodged a complaint, police said. took this matter seriously and kar University Delhi (AUD) re-
Nathu (30), the man injured locals and police, and taken to The court of Additional Dis- The girl’s body was found in considered all the aspects,” Par- appointed Anu Singh Lather as
in the incident, has been admit- the hospital. trict and Sessions Judge Shashi a mutilated condition next day mar said. its vice-chancellor for a second
ted to the hospital, police said. The rescue operation is pres- Chauhan also imposed a fine in front of a temple in the area, “He was declared guilty on term, an official statement said
An official of the Delhi ently underway, police said. of Rs 25,000 on the accused, they said. February 3 and the verdict on on Wednesday.
they said. While there were cut marks his punishment was reserved. The appointment was made
The court awarded Rs 10 on the girl’s body, her face was The court of Additional Dis- by Delhi Lieutenant Governor
lakh compensation for reha- crushed with a brick, police said. trict and Sessions Judge Shashi VK Saxena and chancellor
bilitation to the victim’s family, The girl’s private part was Chauhan on Wednesday sen- of Ambedkar University, the
police said. also found badly injured, they tenced the accused,” he added. statement added.
Special Prosecutor Sunil said. A case was registered under Ravi Kant, a child rights Lather, who has been serv-
Parmar said that a youth from the Protection of Children from activist, who closely monitors ing as the vice-chancellor of
Uttar Pradesh had raped and Sexual Offences Act (POCSO) POCSO cases in the country, AUD since 2019, was before
brutally murdered a three-year- Act and sections of murder and said: “The primary objective this the pro vice- chancellor of
old girl in Sector 65 police sta- rape, police said. of setting up specialized courts Delhi Technological Univer-
tion area on November 11, 2018. The accused was arrested like Fast Track Special Courts sity, it said.
ANTI-HUMAN The incident took place and the girl’s clothes and other was to provide speedy disposal “On February 22, 2019,
TRAFFICKING UNIT when three girls were playing
outside their house, he added.
evidence were recovered, they
said. The accused was lodged in
of cases, especially those related
to the Protection of Children
Prof Lather assumed office
as the second vice-chancellor
Parmar said that the accused the Bhondsi Jail post his arrest, from Sexual Offences Act of AUD. With a background
lured the girls with money. Two police said. (POCSO) Act. in Psychology and Human
Resource Management, her
INAUGURATION expertise spans areas such as
Strategic HR Management,
Organizational Behaviour and
Innovation Management,” the
release said.
Lather has previously held
various positions with the
UGC, AICTE, DEC, National
Assessment and Accredi-
tation Council (NAAC),
National Board of Accredita-
tion (NBA), Ministry of Social
Justice and Empowerment,
and Ministry of Human
Resource Development
(MHRD), the release said. She
also served as member of the
governing body of the
National Rural Livelihood
Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, Meenakshi Lekhi inaugurated a refurbished New Promotion Society (NRLPS),
Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) public library on Wednesday at Veer Savarkar Park, Lodhi Road  MPOST Ministry of Rural Develop-
ment, it added.

FROM HEADQUARTERS

DMRC unveils new OCC, entire network

now to be controlled in integrated manner
NEW DELHI: The DMRC on The Delhi Metro Rail Cor- control and command centre Line and Yellow Line was oper-
Wednesday unveiled its new poration (DMRC) is presently was inaugurated by DMRC ating from Shastri Park Metro
integrated operation control carrying out construction work Managing Director Vikas station, and OCCs for other
centre (OCC), a major step on a 65.2-km stretch of three Kumar in the presence of other operational lines were operating
towards creating necessary priority corridors spanning 45 senior officials. from fourth and sixth floor of
infrastructure for commence- stations as part of this project. This new OCC will not only the Metro Bhawan, officials said.
Dedicated to locating and reuniting missing individuals ment of operations on Phase- These three corridors are manage operations of Red Line The multi-storey Metro Bha-
with their families 24/7 IV corridors of the Delhi Metro, Janakpuri West-RK Ashram (Line-1: Rithala to Shaheed wan located near Connaught
DP/9642/2024

officials said. Marg (28.92 km), Majlis Park- Sthal New Bus Adda) and Yel- Place here houses the headquar-
With this new OCC, the Maujpur (12.55 km), both of low Line (Line-2: Samaypur ters of the DMRC.
entire DMRC network will now which are extensions of the Badli to Millennium City Cen- With the commissioning of
Officers will assist in filing
a report/FIR
be controlled in an “integrated Delhi Metro’s Magenta Line tre Gurugram) of the existing this new OCC today, the entire
manner” from the Delhi Metro and Pink Line, and Aerocity- network but “will also oversee DMRC network will now be
Rail Corporation’s headquarters Tughlakabad (23.62 km), which train movement on the upcom- controlled in an integrated man-
— Metro Bhawan, they said. is being built as Golden Line to ing corridors/lines of Phase-IV, ner from the DMRC’s headquar-
This new OCC, commis- connect the Violet Line and the namely Delhi Aerocity-Tughlak- ters, the statement said.
For missing children, an FIR is If case remains unresolved beyond 4
sioned on the third floor of Airport Line from their respec- abad, Rithala Bawana-Narela- “Now, the entire train
registered within 24 hours months, AHTU takes over investigations Metro Bhawan, provides remote tive ends. Kundli, Lajpat Nagar-Saket G operation of the DMRC which
visibility, manoeuverability of “In a major step towards Block when these lines will be includes a total 415 km of track
the entire Metro system (roll- creating necessary infrastruc- operational for public,” it said. length, around 388 trains, 301
ing stock, stations, signal, tracks, ture for commencement of the This infrastructure has stations and 40 interchange
etc.) with concourse and plat- operations on Phase-IV cor- been made keeping in view the stations will be controlled
form level monitoring, thus pas- ridors of the Delhi Metro, the requirement of a centralised from one unified building in a
E-mail to CP. Delhi at : cp.sanjayarora@delhipolice.gov.in | Write to : Cp. Delhi at P.O. Box No. 171, GPO, New Delhi sengers and system both are DMRC unveiled its new inte- control room for the upcoming much better way with efficient
always under monitoring from grated Operation Control Cen- new corridors under the Phase- utilisation of staff. (This data
the OCC, the DMRC said in a tre (OCC) today,” it said. IV, officials said. is up to phase-IV of approved
statement. The state-of-the-art new Till now, an OCC for Red corridors),” it said.  AGENCIES

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millenniumpost
NEW DELHI | THURSDAY, 22 FEBRUARY, 2024 City 3
HITS OUT AT BJP OVER ONGOING FARMERS’ PROTEST ‘Khalistani’ jibe
Like Lord Krishna was present: CM on in WB: Sikh IPS
officer insulted,
SC’s Chandigarh Mayoral poll order BJP should
apologise: AAP
OUR CORRESPONDENT
Highlights Parvati are with the country and
the “adharm” of the BJP will NEW DELHI: AAP leader
NEW DELHI: Hailing the »»‘It was a different come to an end and “dharm Gopal Rai slammed the BJP on
Supreme Court’s verdict on the atmosphere in the (righteousness)” will prevail. Wednesday over a Sikh IPS offi-
Chandigarh Mayoral poll, Chief During a hearing on Mon- cer posted in West Bengal being
CM flags off 91st
Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Supreme Court yesterday day, the Chief Justice had voiced allegedly dubbed as a Khalistani
Wednesday said it seemed that (Tuesday), it felt like Lord displeasure over the way the by some saffron party activists

pilgrimage train bound

Lord Krishna was present in the Shri Krishna was right mayoral poll in Chandigarh was and said it should apologise for
court and speaking through the there, speaking through held and told Returning Offi- insulting the officer.
Chief Justice. cer Anil Masih that he could At a press conference
the medium of the Chief
for Dwarkadhish
Invoking the Bhagavad Gita be prosecuted. Masih allegedly here, Rai also alleged that the
in the Delhi Assembly, Kejriwal Justice of India’ put ‘X’ marks on ballot papers Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP),
also slammed the BJP. »»I hope that the chief that were captured on CCTV with its “arrogance of power”,
“It was a different atmo- camera. “hands out certificates” as it
sphere in the Supreme Court minister will also read Speaking in the Assembly, OUR CORRESPONDENT sometimes labels someone as
yesterday (Tuesday), it felt like those verses of Bhagavad Kejriwal asserted that it was In this pilgrimage, a “traitor or a Khalistani or a
Lord Shri Krishna was right Gita where Lord Krishna Lord Krishna who didn’t let the NEW DELHI: In a bid to terrorist or a Naxalite”. The AAP
there, speaking through the cameras be turned off to bring foster religious tourism and
70 to 80 per cent also called for the immediate
explains that humans have
medium of the Chief Justice of
to face the consequences
out the real face of the BJP in ensure spiritual fulfillment are women. Another expulsion of senior BJP leader
India,” the chief minister said. front of everyone. for the masses, Chief Minis- significant reason for Suvendu Adhikari over the inci-
On Tuesday, a bench headed Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal speaks during the Budget session of the of their actions, says He claimed that the Supreme ter Arvind Kejriwal flagged off dent. Condemning the inci-
by Chief Justice DY Chandra- Delhi Legislative Assembly,on Wednesday Virendra Sachdeva Court’s verdict on the Chandi- the 91st pilgrimage train bound this is that men often dent, Rai said the BJP should
chud overturned the result of garh Mayoral poll is a strong for Dwarkadhish as part of the get caught up in their apologise for it, and those who
the Chandigarh mayoral poll Kejriwal’s occasional references where Lord Krishna explains of the Election Commissioner of message to increasing dicta- ‘Mukyamantri Teerth Yatra allegedly uttered the slur should
in which the BJP candidate had to Lord Ram and Wednesday’s that humans have to face the Rawalpindi was awakened who torship in the country. Kejriwal Yojana’. work and get the tender a public apology.
emerged an unlikely winner, and mention of Lord Krishna indi- consequences of their actions,” came and said that he defeated also hit out at the BJP over the With 780 pilgrims on-board, opportunity to travel, It shows how this thinking
declared the AAP-Congress alli- cates his fear of jail in connec- the BJP’s Delhi unit chief Viren- those who were winning with ongoing farmers’ protest and the train embarked on its sacred of hatred is ingrained in their
ance nominee Kuldeep Kumar tion with the excise policy case. dra Sachdeva said. a huge majority and declared said it is not allowing the agi- journey, marking yet another while women are psyche, the AAP leader charged.
as the new mayor. “It is extremely surprising to Alleging rigging in the winners those who were losing,” tating farmers to enter Delhi. milestone in the Delhi govern- engaged in taking The BJP has denied the alle-
Kejriwal said god decided witness Arvind Kejriwal men- Chandigarh Mayoral poll, Kejri- Kejriwal said and added, in a dig “Why don’t they allow the ment’s initiative. care of their families gations and accused the police
to intervene and put an end to tioning verses from the Bhaga- wal claimed in the Assembly at the BJP, “These people turned farmers to come to Delhi? They Addressing the gather- officer of not performing his
the prevailing “adharm (unrigh- vad Gita today. I hope that the that the same thing happened our country into Pakistan.” do not pay the price for their ing before the departure, CM all day long: CM duty as per Constitutional
teousness)” of the BJP. chief minister will also read in Pakistan. He said all the devotees of crops and also do not listen to Arvind Kejriwal reaffirmed his norms. Later, in a statement, the
Hitting back, the BJP said those verses of Bhagavad Gita “Even in Pakistan, the spirit Lord Ram, Lord Krishna, Shiv- them,” he said. commitment to the people of grims, with provisions for food, AAP called for the immediate

L-G Saxena accepts apology, HC asks

Delhi, emphasising his role as a transportation, and healthcare. expulsion of Suvendu Adhikari
caretaker of the city’s residents. “In this pilgrimage, 70 to 80 from the BJP over the incident.
Police seize He underscored the
scheme’s significance in pro-
per cent are women. Another
significant reason for this is
AAP MLA Jarnail Singh
alleged that such actions “epit-
900 kg of suspended BJP MLAs to meet Speaker
viding access to pilgrimage for that men often get caught up omise the BJP’s deep-seated ani-
elders, acknowledging the finan- in their work and get the oppor- mosity towards Sikhs, evidenced
cial constraints faced by many. tunity to travel, while women by their repeated efforts to brand
Mephedrone OUR CORRESPONDENT — Mohan Singh Bisht, Ajay go and meet the speaker in his
Reflecting on his recent visit
to Ayodhya, where he sought
are engaged in taking care of
their families all day long,” he
Sikhs as ‘Khalistanis’. He said
the backdrop of this “disdain”
from S Delhi NEW DELHI: The Delhi High
Mahawar, O P Sharma, Abhay
Verma, Anil Bajpai, Jitender
office but they cannot enter the
legislative chamber.
the blessings of Ram Lalla,
Kejriwal expressed his joy and
remarked, shedding light on
the scheme’s impact on gender
stems from the ongoing farm-
ers’ agitation
Court on Wednesday asked the Mahajan and Vijender Gupta As the lawyer suggested that extended his well wishes to equality and accessibility. Earlier in the day, Rai told
NEW DELHI: In a major seven BJP MLAs, suspended — challenging their indefinite the MLAs should go and meet all citizens. Delhi’s minister of Art and reporters that there has been a
drug haul, police have from the Delhi Assembly for suspension from the assembly. the speaker with a letter of apol- “Just 10-15 days ago, I had Culture, Saurabh Bharadwaj, long history of the Sikh religion
seized around 900 kg of repeatedly interrupting Lieu- During the hearing, the ogy, the judge said he will not the privilege of visiting Ayod- echoed Kejriwal’s sentiments, in India and the role of Sikhs in
Mephedrone — street name tenant Governor’s V K Saxena’s MLAs’ counsel said, “Although say anything on the nature of hya with my family and it was praising the Chief Minister’s the freedom struggle, many of
“Meow Meow” — from two address at the start of the Bud- the court was told that it (their the proposed meeting but the very nice to get ‘darshan’ of Ram dedication to serving the elderly. whom made the supreme sac-
locations in south Delhi, get session, to meet the speaker suspension) wasn’t political, we legislators should go and meet Lalla. I have come back from He emphasised the emotional rifice for the country. He cited
officials said on Wednes- after it was informed that the felt otherwise. We wrote a letter Goel. “I am not interested in the Ayodhya with blessings for all resonance of the pilgrimage the name of revolutionary Bha-
day, putting the total value L-G has accepted their apology. is our continued suspension.” to the L-G. The L-G accepted it. nature of the meeting. I am not Delhiites and the citizens of the initiative, citing instances of gat Singh, saying he enjoys the
of the seizure at more than The counsel for the MLAs Senior advocate Jayant However, there are two devel- interested in what transpires in country,” stated Kejriwal, encap- heartfelt blessings from elderly sobriquet of Shaheed-e-Azam,
Rs 2,000 crore. told the court they would meet Mehta, appearing for the MLAs, opments. Political comments the meeting. I am only saying sulating the spiritual essence of participants. and Kartar Singh Sarabha, and
The seizure was made Speaker Ram Niwas Goel dur- said they have submitted a let- are being made political mes- go and meet the speaker,” the such journeys. “This is the reason why the said there is a long list of mar-
following raids by offi- ing the day. ter of apology to Saxena who sages are floating “ judge said, adding the court is Highlighting the scheme’s CM keeps asking Kamal Bansal tyrs from Punjab. T
cials of Pune and Delhi When Justice Subramo- accepted it. He said a letter was Initially, Mehta said since not a political platform. inclusivity, Kejriwal noted the Ji about the food arrangements his “pagadi” (turban) was
police forces on Tuesday nium Prasad asked the MLAs also sent to Speaker Goel. the legislators have been barred, The court said it deals with significant participation of at the event. He has ensured that once a “guarantee of safety” and
in Kotla Mubarakpur and to meet the speaker, their coun- “Though we don’t think they cannot go inside the law, and if an issue can be women, attributing it to their people with conditions like Dia- now, an officer has been branded
Hauz Khas. sel said, “As legislators, I don’t we did anything wrong, it assembly premises. resolved outside the court, an relentless dedication to family betes are given refreshments on a Khalistani , Rai said, citing
The bust in Delhi was think we should have any dif- was meant as an apology,” he Senior advocate Sudhir attempt should be made. responsibilities. He reiterated regular terms in between the media reports, and added that
based on information from ficulty in meeting the speaker. submitted. Nandrajog, representing the The court listed the mat- the government’s commitment major meals,” Bharadwaj stated, statements have also been issued
the Pune Police, which is However, what we are con- The high court was hearing legislative assembly, however, ter for further hearing on to ensuring a seamless and com- illustrating Kejriwal’s meticu- by the West Bengal Police over
probing a case registered cerned and aggrieved about the pleas by seven BJP MLAs said the suspended MLAs can Thursday. fortable journey for all pil- lous attention to detail. the alleged incident.  MPOST

L-G writes to CM flagging ‘inordinate delay’ in

by it under the Narcotic
Drugs and Psychotropic
Substances (NDPS) Act,
BOOK LAUNCH
they said.

constitution of statutory bodies, appointments

Mephedrone is a syn-
thetic stimulant often asso-
ciated with the “rave party
culture” for its euphoric
effects, a senior police offi-
cer said and added that it is OUR CORRESPONDENT lions in Delhi, also reflect poorly on the under Plastic Waste (Management & Delhi”. The proposal for state level com-
known as “Meow Meow” on state of governance in the city and needs Handling) Rule, 2011; declaration of dis- mittee on plastic waste was moved by
the streets. NEW DELHI: In a five-page letter to to be rectified,” Saxena said. trict magistrates as responsible sanitation the Urban Development department
Over the last two days Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Lt Gov- The L-G “advised” the chief minis- authority (RSA) under Prohibition of through the chief secretary in May 2023.
raids were conducted in ernor V K Saxena has flagged “inordi- ter to issue a directive to his ministers Employment as Manual Scavengers and It was with the urban development min-
Pune and in the national nate delay” in the constitution of some to ensure that all matters submitted to their Rehabilitation Act, 2013; constitu- ister for nearly eight months and was
capital, the officials said and important statutory bodies and related them are disposed of expeditiously in tion of governing council of Rajiv Gandhi forwarded in a routine and perfunctory
added that a total of 1,100 appointments, Raj Niwas officials said larger public interest effecting account- Super specialty Hospital and constitution manner to the L-G, through the chief
kg of Mephedrone worth on Wednesday. ability in governance. of a search-selection committee for the minister, without any value addition on
Rs 2,500 crore in the inter- No immediate reaction was available In a strong worded reprimand, appointment of chairperson to the board January 16, 2024, Saxena mentioned.
national market was seized from the AAP government over the con- the L-G also noted that “it would not of governors of Indraprastha Institute of The file of declaring district mag-
from the two cities. tents of the letter. be an overstatement if one were to Information Technology Delhi, IIITD. istrates as RSA was submitted by UD
“On Tuesday, a team The L-G, in his letter dated February assume that Delhi government is possi- It is “distressing” to note the “unmind- department to the then deputy chief
of the Pune Police’s Crime 19, also remarked that the facts bring bly the only government in the country ful neglect and inordinate delay” in all minister in June 2022. In September Bollywood actor Kabir Bedi and author and ex-diplomat Lakshmi
Branch requested for a joint forth a “set pattern” being followed across where files are held and delayed inordi- the four cases, said the L-G. 2023, the department requested current Murdeshwar Puri at the release of her book titled ‘Swallowing the
raid in connection with the departments where ministers “hold back nately and unjustifiably for months and He sought to draw the attention of urban development minister to expedite Sun’, in New Delhi, on Wednesday  PIC/NAVEEN SHARMA
case registered under the files for months at length for no reason” years together.” the government towards “what seems the matter who, after four months, finally
NDPS Act in Pune. It had without taking any decision. The L-G urged the chief minister to to have become a habit on the part of cleared the file.

City Briefs
already arrested three people “You would agree that such omis- take “personal interest” in the matter to the government by way of inordinately It reached for L-G’s approval, through
and seized Mephedrone,” the sions and commissions on the part of avoid any recurrence of the same. and inexplicably delaying appointment/ the chief minister, on January 19, 2024,
officer said.  AGENCIES the government and its ministers, apart The letter cited pending constitution constitution of statutory bodies that are after a gap of 19 months since it was ini-
from adversely impacting the lives of mil- of a state-level monitoring committee mandated with welfare of the people of tiated, he said.

PENALTY OF RS 10K FOR 4-WHEELERS, RS 5K FOR 2-WHEELERS MCD plans to install AIIMS, IIT-DELHI TO OFFER AFFORDABLE

Govt issues guidelines for handling

ELBOW REPLACEMENT IMPLANTS
solar panels on rooftop of NEW DELHI: All India Institute of Medical Sciences

historic Hardayal Library

(AIIMS) and the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT

end-of-life vehicles in public places

Delhi) have teamed up to launch elbow replacement
implants, offering affordable and high-quality solutions
to patients in need. Unlike imported setups that can cost
NEW DELHI: The munici- install the solar panels.
pal corporation has planned It was also discussed that
anywhere from Rs 1 to 1.5 lakh, the elbow replacement
OUR CORRESPONDENT (CAQM). The release proce- with towing charge and park- impounded and an online to install solar panels on roof- efforts will be made to rein- implants resulting from the AIIMS-IIT Delhi collaboration
dure of the impounded vehicles ing fee as notified in Delhi platform will be developed for top of the historic Hardayal state a group of old employees are projected to be available at a fraction of the cost,
NEW DELHI: Fresh guide- has been classified under two Maintenance and Manage- the purpose, the guidelines Library in Delhi, officials said on of the library who were earlier ensuring accessibility for a wider patient base. Elbow
lines have been issued by the categories — those who wish to ment of Parking Places Rules, said. Wednesday. The over 160-year- “removed” before the new man- replacement surgery is a critical procedure for those
Delhi government for handling shift their vehicles out of Delhi- 2019 shall be charged before According to the guide- old library in Delhi’s Chandni agement took office last year. suffering from debilitating conditions, such as stiffness
end-of-life vehicles at public NCR and those who wish to releasing of such ELVs. In case lines, the impounded vehicles Chowk area is housed in a heri- On October 30 last year, and immobility in the elbow joint. However, the high cost
places, stipulating a penalty of park their vehicles at private of 2-wheeler, a penalty of Rs will be scrapped in case of three tage building. the officials had said that a new
Rs 10,000 for four-wheelers spaces that are not shared park- 5,000 along with towing charge scenarios — non-submission It was christened as managing committee has been and lack of exact-fit and high-quality implants have
and Rs 5,000 for two-wheelers ing places. and parking fee as notified in of an application for release Hardinge library in 1916 and formed for the Hardayal library hindered patients’ access to this vital treatment in India.
to be imposed on the owners “On plying and parking of Parking Rules 2019 shall be within three weeks of the vehi- boasts of a rich collection of here with Councillor Preeti get-
of impounded vehicles before ELVs in public place in NCT charged...,” it said. cle being impounded, rejection books in Hindi, English, Urdu, ting elected as its secretary. TRIPURA-BASED AGENT HELD IN PASSPORT
being released.
According to the guidelines
of Delhi, once impounded for
the first time, it can be released
According to the guide-
lines, any end-of-life vehicle
of the application submitted
for release and impounding of
Arabic, Persian and Sanskrit.
A meeting of the library’s
The Delhi mayor is the
ex-officio chairperson of this
FORGERY RACKET AT IGI AIRPORT
issued on Tuesday, continuous on the basis of submission of impounded for the second time the same vehicle for the sec- managing committee was held library. Chief Minister Arvind NEW DELHI: The IGI Delhi Airport Police have arrested
enforcement drives should be an undertaking that vehicle and transport vehicles running ond time. on Tuesday, a senior official said. Kejriwal had recently said that a Tripura-based agent involved in a passport forgery
carried out to phase out such will not be plied or parked in on diesel and aged more than The scrap value shall be Among the agenda was five months’ pending salaries racket. The police received the information about the
vehicles from public places in any public place within the 10 years cannot be released. paid digitally to the bank a plan to install solar panels of 96 employees of the Har- agent through an anonymous source at the IGI Airport
the national Capital and daily territory of Delhi and will be The application for the account of the vehicle owner on the rooftop of the historic dayal library had been released,
reports sent to the environ- removed from the city...,” the release of a vehicle, along within 15 days of the vehicle Hardayal Municipal Public adding that there was now an
Police Station. The arrested accused was identified as
ment department for onward guidelines read. with necessary documents, being accepted by the Reg- Library, he said. “honest government” in the Chaishi Mog alias Justin Joy (28), son of Kongia Mog,
submission to the Commission “In case of 4-wheeler, a should be submitted within istered Vehicles Scrapping The official said that a deci- municipal corporation that resident of Bankul Mahamani, Rupaichari, South Tripura.
for Air Quality Management penalty of Rs 10,000 along three weeks of the vehicle being Facility. sion was taken in the meeting to works for commoners.  MPOST
4 Nation millenniumpost
THURSDAY, 22 FEBRUARY, 2024 | NEW DELHI

‘INDIA WOULD NOT SHY AWAY FROM COUNTERING THREATS TO COLLECTIVE WELL-BEING, INCLUDING PIRACY & TRAFFICKING’

Rajnath calls for ‘positive peace’ at MILAN 2024

SIMONTINI BHATTACHARJEE The defence minister nessed the participation of naval fluence,’ continues to symbolize by Singh, highlighted India’s foreign countries. The Indian
acknowledged the dual role of forces and delegations from over the enduring spirit of interna- advancements in naval technol- Navy is making a robust contri-
VISAKHAPATNAM: Union the Armed Forces in both con- 50 friendly countries to India. tional maritime cooperation. ogy, promoting self-reliance in bution to the exercise, deploy-
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh ducting wars and maintaining While advocating for peace, The event, featuring a blend the defense sector. ing nearly 20 ships, including
on Wednesday underscored the peace, citing historical examples the minister also assured that of professional interactions, Warships and aircraft from a the aircraft carriers Vikrant and
importance of positive peace, and emphasising the evolution India would not shy away from cultural exchanges, and tech- diverse array of nations, includ- Vikramaditya. Additionally, the
extending beyond the mere of military forces. countering threats to collective nological displays, is expected ing Japan, Australia, France, Indian fleet includes approx-
absence of direct military con- Singh stressed the signifi- well-being, including piracy tive, encapsulating the spirit of Patrol Aircraft, and delegations to contribute to a more secure Bangladesh, South Korea, Viet- imately 50 aircraft, featuring
flict, and highlighted the need cance of international military and trafficking. He highlighted MILAN as a symbol of ‘Cohe- from friendly countries. The and prosperous future through nam, Indonesia, New Zealand, MiG 29K, Light Combat Air-
for cooperation, justice, and exercises, such as MILAN, in recent challenges in the Western sion, Camaraderie, and Col- exercise, running from Febru- strengthened global maritime Sri Lanka, Fiji, Somalia, the craft Tejas, and P-8I long-range
security on a global scale. fostering friendship, under- Indian Ocean, expressing India’s laboration.’ The event, evolving ary 19 to February 27, aims to cooperation. UK, and Malaysia, have con- maritime reconnaissance and
During his address at the standing, and military interop- commitment to being the First from five IOR navies in 1995 strengthen regional synergy and The MILAN Village was also verged for the 12th edition of anti-submarine warfare aircraft.
formal opening ceremony of erability among nations within Responder and the Preferred to 50 navies across the Indo- achieve the shared objectives of inaugurated by Union Defence the ‘Milan’ exercise. The participation of such
the 12th edition of the multi- the framework of a demo- Security Partner in the Indian Pacific today, reflects the grow- peace and prosperity. The sea Minister Rajnath Singh, show- This multinational initiative a diverse and substantial
nation Exercise MILAN, he cratic world order. He referred Ocean Region. ing importance of collective phase, commencing on Febru- cased the culture, tradition, and aims to strengthen maritime naval and aerial fleet under-
emphasised the collective to MILAN 2024 as a crucial Chief of the Naval Staff maritime endeavors. ary 24, will witness naval forces cuisine of participating nations, cooperation among like-minded scores the commitment to
responsibility of the global com- attempt to build fraternal bonds Admiral R Hari Kumar, in his MILAN 2024, the larg- engaging in advanced drills to fostering a vibrant exchange nations. The exercise kicked fostering collaborative maritime
munity to aspire for peace in across oceans and mountains. remarks, reiterated the Secu- est and most complex edition enhance interoperability and of diversity. Additionally, the off with the arrival of 15 war- efforts and enhancing interop-
this democratic and rules-based The event, hosted in Andhra rity and Growth for All in to date, includes Indian and share best practices. The exer- Maritime Technical Exposi- ships and one maritime patrol erability among the participat-
world order. Pradesh’s Visakhapatnam, wit- the Region (SAGAR) initia- foreign warships, a Maritime cise, meaning ‘a meeting of con- tion (MTEX-24), inaugurated aircraft from these friendly ing nations.

From Page 1 dhi came down heavily on the BJP gov-

ernment over the death of the young
farmer on Khanauri border. “Extremely
police cases and “justice” for the victims
of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence,
reinstatement of the Land Acquisition
and investigation is on”, the SP added.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Naren-
dra Modi condoled the death of nine
pioneer and storyteller lives on, echoing
through the nostalgic corridors of mil-
lions of memories. Sayani wasn’t just a
Constitution and the judiciary from
very close quarters and he had always
been engaged with almost all the impor-
saddened with the death of young Act, 2013, and compensation to the persons. presenter; he was a magician, weaving tant battles in the court that have taken

Govt extends... farmer Shubh Karan Singh in firing on

Khanauri border. I extend my condo-
lences to his family. Modi’s arrogance
families of the farmers who died during
a previous agitation in 2020-21.
Meanwhile, The Organiser, a pub-
“The road accident that happened in
Lakhisarai, Bihar is very sad. My condo-
lences to those who lost their loved ones
his magic with words, weaving together
a tapestry of music and emotions that
captivated generations. His wasn’t the
place,” he said.
Following are some of the notable
cases of which Nariman was part as
had led to sacrifices by more than 700 lication linked to the RSS, issued an in this accident. Along with this, I wish voice of a singer or an orator, but the a counsel or senior lawyer during his
and intensity of floods, the Cabinet farmers last time. Now, it has become an editorial opposing farmers’ calls for a speedy recovery of all the injured. Under voice of a confidante, a friend who wel- illustrious career spanning over seven
approved the continuation of the Flood enemy of their lives once again,’’ Rahul legally mandated MSP. The editorial the supervision of the state government, comed listeners into his world of music. decades:
Management and Border Areas Pro- Gandhi posed on microblogging site X. labeled the demands “unrealistic” and the local administration is engaged in That voice, the deep timbre radiat- *The Golaknath case of 1967: The
gramme (FMBAP) for the period 2021- Farmer leaders of the Samyukta the protests “politically motivated.” This providing all possible assistance to the ing cheer and warmth, has fallen silent Supreme Court held that Parliament
2026. This program, with a total outlay Kisan Morcha (non-political) and the contrasts with the RSS’s past support for victims,” the PMO posted on X. AGENCIES but the refrain of that unforgettable cannot make a law which is capable of
of Rs 4,100 crore, aims to mitigate flood Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, who are lead- the farmers’ movement. WITH AGENCY INPUTS “Namaste behno aur bhaiyo, main aapka infringing the fundamental rights of
risks and address critical aspects of ing the ‘Delhi Chalo’ agitation, had dost Ameen Sayani bol raha hoon” will
Gaganyaan...
citizens. Nariman appeared for an inter-
flood control and anti-erosion measures. threatened to resume their march long ring loud and clear.
Stalemate...
venor supporting the petitioners seeking
The FMBAP comprises two key from Punjab and Haryana borders on preservation of fundamental rights.
components: the Flood Management Wednesday after the fourth round of
‘Bhishma...
*The Kesavananda Bharati case:
Programme (FMP) and the River Man- talks failed on February 18. Nariman assisted noted advocate
agement and Border Areas (RMBA). In the fourth rounds of talks with the This engine will power the upper Nanabhoy Palkhivala in the famous case
The FMP provides central assistance to farmer leaders, a panel of three Union Manoj Pande said that the situation stage of the human-rated LVM3 vehicle that led to the path-breaking judgement
states for critical flood control works, ministers had proposed purchase of along the LAC in eastern Ladakh is “sta- and has a thrust capability of 19 to 22 which laid down the “basic structure
while the RMBA focuses on common pulses, maize and cotton crops by gov- ble” but “sensitive” and asserted that the tonnes with a specific impulse of 442.5 when he was 12. He established him- doctrine” of the Constitution, clipping
border rivers with neighboring coun- ernment agencies at MSP for five years Indian troops are maintaining a “very seconds, it was noted. WITH AGENCY INPUTS self as a brilliant legal mind, enrolling Parliament’s power to amend the Con-
tries. This comprehensive approach after entering into a contract with farm- high state” of operational preparedness in the Bombay High Court in 1950 and stitution. The 1973 verdict simultane-
ensures coordinated efforts at various ers. But the farmer leaders have rejected to effectively deal with any eventualities. quickly becoming a senior advocate
‘Namaste...
ously gave the judiciary the authority to
levels to manage flood risks effectively. the government’s proposal and threat- Gen Pande also said that both India by 1961. His practice spanned over 70 review any constitutional amendment
Liberalization of FDI Norms in ened to resume their march towards the and China continue to hold talks at mil- years, first at the Bombay High Court on grounds of violation of the basic
Space Sector: The government eased national capital. itary and diplomatic levels with an aim and then, from 1972 onwards, at the structure of the Constitution.
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) norms A legal guarantee of MSP and pen- to return to the “status quo ante” that Supreme Court. Appointed as the addi- *The TMA Pai Foundation case: The
in the space sector by allowing 100 per sion for farmers are some of the key existed in the middle of 2020. commentary, made him a beloved tional solicitor general of India in May top court recognised the autonomy of
cent overseas investment in making demands of the protesting farmers. The Indian and Chinese troops are companion and a trusted guide through 1972, Nariman resigned from the post a private educational institutions under
components for satellites. Their ‘Delhi Chalo’ march began locked in a standoff in certain friction the world of Bollywood music. day after the imposition of Emergency Article 19(1)(g) of the Constitution, and
Now, the satellite sub-sector has been on February 13 and since then, farm- points in eastern Ladakh even as the two Born in Mumbai in 1932, Sayani on June 26, 1975. allowed them to operate without exces-
divided into three different activities ers have been staying put at the border sides completed disengagement from started his career at the young age of He was part of historic judicial pro- sive governmental interference. Nari-
with defined limits for foreign invest- points along with their tractor-trolleys, several areas following extensive diplo- 13, writing for his mother’s fortnightly ceedings like in the Golaknath case and man was one of the leading lawyers in
ment in each such sector, according to mini-vans and pickup trucks. matic and military talks. journal Rehbar. He later transitioned to the Kesavananda Bharati case where the the case.
an official statement. Heavy earthmoving equipment, The Indian delegation at the talks radio, initially in English before find- Supreme Court delivered path-breaking *The SP Gupta or First judges case of
Presently, FDI in the space sector is including excavators, and modified was headed by Lt Gen Rashim Bali, the ing his true calling in Hindi. He later left judgements that protected the rights of 1981: The Supreme Court held that the
allowed up to 100 per cent in the area tractors were seen at the protest sites, Commander of the Leh-headquartered Bombay to study in Gwalior. When he citizens and prevented Indian democ- primacy of the CJI’s recommendation in
of satellite establishment and operations with police cautioning that these might 14 Corps while the Chinese team was returned to Bombay post Independence, racy from going adrift. Throughout his judicial appointment and transfer can be
through government route only. be used to break barricades and cause led by the commander of the South Xin- he auditioned for AIR’s Hindi service illustrious career, Nariman left an indel- turned down on cogent grounds by the
By changing the current policy, the harm to security personnel. jiang military district. but was rejected because of a slight ible mark with his involvement in sig- government.
government has allowed up to 74 per Agriculture Minister Munda, who India has been maintaining that its Gujarati accent. nificant cases, including the Bhopal gas However, the judicial discussions
cent FDI under automatic route in sat- is among the three Union ministers ties with China cannot be normal unless The tryst with fame came a few years tragedy, the TMA Pai case (pertaining to finally led to creation of the collegium
ellites-manufacturing and operation, engaging with the farmers’ leaders, has there is peace in the border areas. later. minority rights in educational institu- system of appointment of judges to con-
satellite data products, and ground and appealed to the protesters to main- The eastern Ladakh border standoff In 1952, then information and tions), J Jayalalithaa’s disproportionate stitutional courts in 1993, when the top
user segments. Beyond this limit, gov- tain peace and resolve issues through erupted on May 5, 2020, following a vio- broadcasting minister B V Keskar assets case, and the National Judi- court came out with its judgement in the
ernment approval will be required in discussions. lent clash in the Pangong lake area. banned Hindi film songs from AIR. cial Appointments Commission case, second judges case.
these areas for FDI, it said. Police fired tear gas shells to dis- The ties between the two countries Around that time, Radio Cey- among others. Often referred to as the *The 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy case:
Up to 49 per cent FDI is allowed perse some farmers who started moving nosedived significantly following the lon, which was founded by the British, “Bhishma Pitamah” of the Indian judi- Nariman appeared for the Union Car-
through the automatic route for launch towards the multiple layers of barri- fierce clash in the Galwan Valley in June started becoming popular for its pro- ciary, Nariman authored several books, bide. But he was candid enough to
vehicles and associated systems or sub- cades at the Shambhu border point 2020 that marked the most serious mili- grammes in English, Tamil and Hindi. including “Before the Memory Fades,” admit later that it was a mistake. He was
systems, creation of spaceports for near Ambala in Haryana. By mid-after- tary conflict between the two sides in Broadcast from Colombo, Radio Ceylon “The State of the Nation,” “India’s Legal also instrumental in finalising a deal
launching and receiving spacecraft. noon, there had been at least three decades. As a result of a series of mili- began its journey in 1949. System: Can it be Saved?” and “God between the victims and the company
Beyond 49 per cent, FDI in these rounds of tear gas shelling. A drone was tary and diplomatic talks, the two sides American businessman Daniel Save the Hon’ble Supreme Court.” outside court.
activities would require government also deployed by security personnel at completed the disengagement process Molina saw an opportunity there and He received the Padma Bhushan in *The NJAC case of 2014: A con-
approval, it added. Shambhu to drop tear gas shells. in 2021 on the north and south banks of established his company, Radio Adver- 1991 and the Padma Vibhushan, the stitution bench in 2015 struck down
Further, up to 100 per cent overseas In Khanauri too, police fired tear gas the Pangong lake and in the Gogra area. tising Services in Mumbai. He hired country’s second highest civilian hon- the National Judicial Appointment
investments are permitted under the shells to disperse farmers as they moved WITH AGENCY INPUTS Sayani’s elder brother, former AIR our, in 2007. He was nominated as a Commission which was tasked with
automatic route for manufacturing of towards the barricades. broadcaster Hamid Sayani, to run Radio member of the Rajya Sabha in Novem- the responsibility of making judicial

‘All is well’...
components and systems/sub-systems Following the tear gas shelling, a Ceylon’s production arm. ber 1999. Rich tributes poured in, with appointments.
for satellites, ground and user segments. chaotic situation was witnessed at the Hamid Sayani and Molina were keen Prime Minister Narendra Modi express- The top court considered the sub-
This move aims to attract overseas protest sites with the farmers running to produce a programme on Hindi film ing his sadness over Nariman’s demise. missions of Nariman, appearing for the
players and private companies into the for cover as the smoke enveloped the songs and the elder Sayani zeroed in on “Shri Fali Nariman Ji was among the Supreme Court Advocates on Record
segment, generate employment, enable area. Many protesting farmers were seen chief Yadav by Priyanka Gandhi his young brother. most outstanding legal minds and intel- Association, and quashed the NJAC
technology absorption, and integrate wearing masks and glasses to protect Vadra on Wednesday to break the dead- The rest, as they say, is history. lectuals. He devoted his life to making on grounds that it violated the free-
Indian companies into global value themselves from the gas. lock on Lok Sabha polls seat-sharing in Sayani became a radio presenter in justice accessible to common citizens.” dom of judiciary, a basic structure of the
chains. The decision seeks to liberal- The farmer leaders have asked the UP and give a final shape to an alliance Hindi with Binaca Geetmala, a pro- “I am pained by his passing away. Constitution.
ize the FDI policy provisions in the protesters to maintain calm and peace. at the earliest, knowledgeable sources gramme of Hindi film songs sponsored My thoughts are with his family and *Disproportionate assets case against
space sector, encouraging Make In India Volunteers deputed by the farmer said. by the toothpaste brand, in December admirers. May his soul rest in peace,” the J Jayalalithaa: The former Tamil Nadu
initiatives. leaders at the protest sites have been ask- They said the alliance had been all 1952 and never looked back. prime minister said. CM hired Nariman in 2014 to represent
Modifications to National Livestock ing young farmers not to move ahead. but sealed and the only seat on which For Rs 25 a week, the young Ameen Chief Justice of India D Y Chan- her. The senior lawyer secured her bail.
Mission: Addressing protesters at Shambhu, the SP has to take a call is Shrawasti would select the songs, write, produce drachud remembered him as a “great *The Narmada Rehabilitation case:
Additionally, modifications to farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal which the Congress is asking for. The and compare the programme and also giant of an intellectual” and former CJI Nariman represented the Gujarat gov-
the National Livestock Mission were asked them to maintain peace and calm Congress is likely to fight between 16-18 go through the fan mail. N V Ramana calling him a “conscience ernment in the case, but quit following
approved, incorporating activities such if they wanted to win. “Do you want to seats in Uttar Pradesh in the upcoming The first of its kind show, it ran for keeper for judicial institutions”. news reports of attacks on Christians
as entrepreneurship for equine and win or not?” he asked the farmers. Lok Sabha polls. In the 2019 Lok Sabha 42 years to massive popularity. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said and burning of copies of the Bible.
camel sectors, establishment of fodder He also mentioned the “victory” of polls, the Congress was almost deci- Sayani’s impact transcended enter- not only the legal fraternity but the *The Cauvery water dispute case:
seed processing infrastructure, and sim- farmers during the 2020-21 agitation mated in UP which was once its strong- tainment. He played a crucial role in country has lost a towering figure of Nariman represented Karnataka, irre-
plification of the Livestock Insurance against the now-repealed farm laws. hold as the party could win only Sonia popularising Hindi music and language intellect and wisdom. spective of regime changes in the state,
program. The Centre will provide Rs Dallewal cautioned the farmers to be Gandhi’s seat in Rae Bareli. The BJP had across India, bridging regional and cul- “The country has lost an epitome of in the Supreme Court in the vexed river
10 crore for the establishment of semen wary of elements who could damage swept the state which is so crucial for tural divides. His dedication to his craft what righteousness stood for. A doyen, water sharing dispute involving south-
station and nucleus breeding farm for the agitation. Earlier in the day, while any party to gain a majority in the Lok and genuine connection with his audi- paragon and a legend in his own lifetime ern riparian states of Karnataka, Tamil
horse, donkey, and camel under the speaking to reporters, he said farmers Sabha polls. ence earned him the respect and admi- has left us, leaving the jurisprudence Nadu and Kerala.
modified National Livestock Mission. will march towards Delhi in a peaceful According to an agreement reached ration of generations. enriched by his immense contribution. On September 30, 2016, the jurist
Under the modified NLM, estab- manner. “Our intention is not to disturb after the telephonic conversation He hosted over 50,000 programs, I have always learnt something new by had refused to argue the matter for Kar-
lishment of entrepreneurship for horse, peace,” Dallewal asserted. between Priyanka Gandhi and Yadav, interviewed legends like Lata Mangesh- merely appearing even against him,” the nataka over his differences with the
donkey, mule, and camel with 50 per While accusing the Centre of indulg- the Congress has now got seats such as kar, and even lent his voice to over law officer said in his message. state government on non-compliance of
cent capital subsidy up to Rs 50 lakh ing in “delaying tactics” over the farm- Sitapur and Barabanki. Besides these 19,000 jingles and ads. While radio As soon as a bench led by him the top court’s order asking the state to
will be provided to the individuals, ers’ demands, Dallewal said it should seats, the Congress is also likely to get was his true calling, Sayani also dab- assembled for the day, Justice Chandra- release 6,000 cusecs of water from the
farmer producer organisations, self-help take a decision in their favour. Kanpur, Varanasi, Saharanpur, Amroha, bled in films like “Bhoot Bungla” and chud mourned Nariman’s passing. Cauvery river to Tamil Nadu.
groups, and Section 8 companies. Also, He also condemned the govern- Fatehpur Sikri and Jhansi among others. “Teen Devian.” He believed in clear “Mr Attorney General, we mourn *The Nabam Rebia judgement of
the state government will be assisted for ment for installing multiple layers of The Congress is now getting a “fair deal” and natural speech, emphasising the the sad demise and passing away of Fali 2016: The SC ruled the governor of a
breed conservation of horses, donkeys, barricades at the Punjab-Haryana bor- in the alliance, a source said. power of truth and simplicity in radio Nariman. He was a great giant of an state can act only on the aid and advice
and camels. der points to prevent the farmers from In the Moradabad division, the Con- presentation. intellectual,” Justice Chandrachud told of the council of ministers and the chief
heading towards Delhi. gress was asking for two seats but has Despite his immense popularity, Say- Attorney General R Venkataramani. minister. Nariman appeared for House
agreed on Amroha alone, the sources
One farmer...
In a post on X, the Haryana Police ani remained grounded. He famously Several senior lawyers including vet- whip Bamang Felix. He submitted that
asked owners of excavators to withdraw indicated. said, “My voice was not good... I try to eran advocates Kapil Sibal, Abhishek the governor did not have the power
their machines from the protest sites. If speak from my heart and the attempt is Singhvi, Indira Jaising, Prashant to advance the assembly session as

Nine killed in
they do not do so, action will be taken, that ‘dil ki baat, dil se dil tak pahunche’” Bhushan and Menaka Guruswamy paid this could only be done on the aid and
it said. (Let words from the heart reach hearts). tributes to Nariman. Nariman’s son, advice of the council of ministers.
Mann said there will be a thor- The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non- This inherent humility and sincerity res- Rohinton Fali Nariman, retired as a *The COVID-19 case: Nariman
ough investigation into the death of the
farmer who succumbed to his injuries
at a government hospital in Punjab’s
Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Mor-
cha are spearheading the ‘Delhi Chalo’
march to press the government to accept
Bihar accident onated with millions, making him a true
king of radio.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and
judge of the Supreme Court in August
2021. Bhushan said Nariman was
regarded as the ‘Bhishma Pitamah’ of
represented the Parsi community in
its dispute over the protocol and stan-
dard operating procedure for handling
Patiala. the farmers’ demands. other prominent figures expressed their the legal community. of dead bodies of Parsi Zoroastrian
Mann said his government would The farmers are also demanding the The victims were returning from condolences. They recognised Sayani’s “The passing away of Mr Nariman is COVID-19 victims under which metal-
stand by the farmers and wouldn’t bow implementation of the Swaminathan a wedding ceremony when the acci- contribution to Indian broadcasting the end of an era of our legal history. lic nets were to be installed above
down even if there were a hundred Commission’s recommendations, pen- dent took place, he said, adding that the and the special bond he nurtured with “He was regarded as the ‘Bhishma ‘Tower of Silence’ so that birds did not
threats of President’s Rule in Punjab. sion for farmers and farm labourers, no driver of the truck fled the spot. his listeners. While his physical pres- Pitamaha’ of our legal community. He feed on the corpses and carry the killer
Congress leader and MP Rahul Gan- hike in electricity tariff, withdrawal of “The truck has been seized by police ence is no more, his legacy as a radio had seen the whole unfolding of our virus elsewhere.  WITH AGENCY INPUTS
millenniumpost
NEW DELHI | THURSDAY, 22 FEBRUARY, 2024 Nation 5
POLL PANEL SOUGHT SETTING UP OF 24X7 CONTROL ROOM Dalits, backward can’t get job in
LS polls: EC asks Railways to ensure Modi’s Ram Rajya: Rahul in UP
smooth movement for CAPFs
OUR CORRESPONDENT ward classes, how many were
Dalits and tribals. The tribal
KANPUR: Congress MP president (Droupadi Murmu)
Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday was also not invited. Dalit
accused the BJP-led Centre of former President (Ramnath
OUR CORRESPONDENT FILE PHOTO
Takeaways not creating enough jobs for
the Dalits and other backward
Kovind) was also not allowed
inside,” he alleged.
NEW DELHI: The Election »»As many as 3,400 companies of the CAPFs and state classes, which constitute “90 Gandhi stressed on
Commission (EC) has directed police forces have been requisitioned by the EC for per cent of the population,” and his party’s and allies’ demand
the Railway board to ensure discriminating against them in Rahul Gandhi during the ‘Bharat for a caste census, saying
“smooth and hassle-free” train
ensuring free and fair polls during the upcoming general his ‘Ram Rajya.’ that only such a survey
elections and Assembly polls Jodo Nyay Yatra’, in Kanpur, on
movement for more than 3.4 “What kind of Ram Rajya Wednesday PTI can help know about back-
lakh security personnel being »»The Railways has also been asked to provide medical is this where Backward classes, wards’ well-being in the coun-
deployed for the upcoming facilities or first aid kits on these ‘election special’ coaches Dalits, tribals and minorities, Pratishtha ceremony. How try and how much money
general and Assembly elec- who constitute about 90 per many people were from back- they have.
tions with specific instructions of availability of rolling stock asked to ensure deployment cent of the total population,
to avoid recurrence of delays
noticed in the past.
recurred in the recent elections
in November-December 2023,
of cleaning staff for maintain-
ing hygiene and undertaking
cannot get jobs,” Gandhi said
in Kanpur during his ‘Bharat Rahul to deliver two lectures at Cambridge
The poll panel has sought large-scale” deployment of the and Assembly polls in Andhra resulting into delay in move- pest control measures to ensure Jodo Nyay Yatra,’ in a public
setting up of a 24x7 control
room which will oversee this
Central Armed Police Forces
(CAPFs) and police forces
Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh,
Odisha and Sikkim.
ment of forces, the EC said.
The poll panel has asked
cleanliness in the coaches apart
from directing the Indian
meeting in the city.
“Fifty per cent of the popu-
Univ, Nyay Yatra on break from Feb 26-March 1
mega cross-country movement drawn from various states for It expressed a particular the ministry of Railways to Railway Catering and Tour- lation in the country belongs to NEW DELHI: The Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra will take a break
of the troops over the next few election purpose was essen- concern over “delay” in move- appoint nodal officers at its ism Corporation (IRCTC) to backward classes, 15 per cent from February 26 to March 1 to enable Rahul Gandhi to deliver
months and to make adequate tial as they will undertake and ment of forces and “inconve- headquarters and zonal offices appoint nodal officers for pro- are Dalits, 8 per cent are tribals two special lectures at his alma mater, Cambridge University,
arrangements for fans and air ensure area domination, con- nience” faced by its personnel, for “smooth coordination” of viding meals to the personnel and 15 per cent are minorities. and attend important meetings in New Delhi, the Congress
conditioning in coaches, meals, fidence building measures, which was raised by the min- this movement, ensuring avail- on move. Shout as much as you want but said on Wednesday.
medical facilities at stations on poll day duties and guarding istry of home affairs (MHA), ability of rolling stock (bogies), The Railways has also been you can’t get employment in Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jai-
route, availability of special and of EVM/Centres, etc. during rail travel for election comfortable seating and resting asked to provide medical facil- this country. If you belong to ram Ramesh also said February 22 and 23 will be rest days for
splinter bogies and pest control As many as 3,400 compa- duty in 2022 and 2023. arrangement for security per- ities or first aid kits on these backward, Dalit, tribal or poor the yatra after its Kanpur leg on Wednesday.
in the wagons during this exer- nies of the CAPFs and state The Railways should sonnel and provision of essen- “election special” coaches general category then you can- The Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra will resume on the morning of
cise period. police forces have been requi- address these concerns so as to tial facilities such as electricity, and provision to resolve all not get a job. Narendra Modi February 24 from Moradabad in Uttar Pradesh and thereaf-
The EC, in a commu- sitioned by the EC for ensur- avoid recurrence of such inci- water, fans, ACs, etc., keeping issues related to maintenance does not want you people to ter cover Sambhal, Aligarh, Hathras and Agra districts, before
nication issued to the Rail- ing free and fair polls during dents during train journeys in mind the summer season. and mechanical faults in get jobs,” Gandhi said. arriving in Rajasthan’s Dholpur, Ramesh said. AGENCIES
way board last week, said “a the upcoming general elections of security forces. The issue The ministry has also been these trains. “You saw the Pran

Haryana govt working to Talks for tie-up with Congress in Delhi ‘much delayed’: Kejriwal
implement property ID- OUR CORRESPONDENT be announced soon. the party is prepared for elec- remained tight-lipped on seat holding talks with the INDIA Pathak recently said that the

based registries: Khattar NEW DELHI: The talks between

the AAP and the Congress over
Sources in the Aam Aadmi
Party (AAP) indicated that if
the alliance did not happen with
tions on all the seven constitu-
encies in Delhi.
“The committee headed by
sharing, sources in the party said:
“The Aam Aadmi Party wants to
contest four seats -- North East
bloc partners for a pact in Guja-
rat, Haryana, Delhi, and Goa.
The party has already decided
party has demanded eight out
of 26 Lok Sabha seats from the
Congress in Gujarat.
seat sharing in Delhi for Lok the Congress, the party could Mukul Vasnik is continuously Delhi, West Delhi, South Delhi to go solo in Punjab. The Congress currently does
MPOST BUREAU Sabha polls were “much delayed”, declare its candidates in the next talking to the members of the and North West Delhi.” AAP national general sec- not have any Lok Sabha MP or
Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal few days. INDIA bloc. It would not be The AAP earlier said it was retary (organisation) Sandeep MLA from Delhi.
CHANDIGARH: Haryana Chief said on Wednesday, amid claims When asked by reporters on appropriate for me to comment
Minister Manohar Lal Khattar by sources in both sides that the the possibility of alliance with about that,” he told reporters.
said that the government is mak- chances of an alliance have hit the Congress in Delhi, Kejri- Sources said despite several
ing efforts to make registries a roadblock. wal said, “It is much delayed, rounds of talks between the lead-
only on the basis of property On Tuesday, Kejriwal had it should have happened much ers of two parties, an agreement
ID in urban areas. Sonipat and said that talks for seat shar- earlier. Let us see what happens over number of seats to be con-
Karnal districts have been taken Haryana CM Khattar speaks ing in the national capital were in the next one-two days.” tested by them was yet to be
up in the first phase. With the during Budget session of Haryana in “final stages” and a tie up Delhi Congress president agreed upon.
implementation of this system, Vidhan Sabha on Wednesday between the two parties would Arvinder Singh Lovely said that Although AAP leaders
there will be no need for inte-
qal, registries will be conducted tries. However, the current state
solely based on property ID. government has eliminated the
The chief minister was reply- ‘other’ category, leading to com-
ing to a question during the plications for some individuals.
Question Hour on the second He clarified that while prop-
day of the Budget session of erty ID serves to identify prop-
the Haryana Vidhan Sabha on erties, it does not serve as proof
Wednesday. of ownership. Through the ongo-
Khattar said that previously, ing large-scale mapping project
revenue records categorised areas in the state, mapping efforts are
into urban areas, rural areas, and underway in urban areas. Once
an ambiguous ‘other’ category. this data undergoes verification
While local bodies managed against revenue records, it will
property records in urban areas become authenticated. Conse-
and respective departments han- quently, traditional registration
dled rural areas, the ‘other’ cat- processes will no longer be nec-
egory created loopholes. Some essary; registrations will instead
individuals exploited this ambi- be conducted exclusively based
guity to facilitate improper regis- on property IDs, he added.

EC to take legal action against people

uploading fake news regarding EVMs
MPOST BUREAU

CHANDIGARH: In view of the upcoming Lok Sabha elec-

tions, the Election Commission is closely monitoring social
media platforms and is promptly taking action on the shar-
ing of incorrect information or facts regarding the electoral
process, Model Code of Conduct, and EVMs.
The Election Commission has taken immediate action on
a similar video, in which it was being claimed that fake EVMs
have been caught in Panipat, Haryana. As soon as the mat-
ter came to notice, Haryana’s Chief Electoral Officer Anurag
Agarwal directed the Deputy Commissioner and District
Election Officer, Panipat to take action on it. Upon scrutiny,
it was found that this video was fake and had also been circu-
lated during the 2019 Legislative Assembly elections by mis-
chievous elements.
Anurag Agarwal appealed to the public to refrain from
sharing misinformation on social media regarding elections.
He stated that strict action will be taken against those sharing
false information or fake news.

‘I-T withdrew Rs 65cr from

banks undemocratically’
Congress’ bank accounts were frozen
on Friday over Income Tax demand
NEW DELHI: The Congress authorities hearing the case,”
on Wednesday alleged that the Maken said.
Income Tax department has He said the banks have been
“withdrawn” a sum of Rs 65 directed by the tax authorities to
crore from its accounts in dif- take out the money in the form
ferent banks “undemocratically” of demand drafts in favour of the
even when the case pertaining to Income Tax department. Giving
their return for previous years is further details, he said while Rs
subjudice. Party treasurer Ajay 60.25 crore has been taken out in
Maken has claimed that “democ- the form of demand drafts from
racy will be over in the country Congress’ three bank accounts,
if the action of probe agencies a sum of Rs 5 crore has been
goes unchecked” and said the withdrawn from the accounts
Congress has full faith in the of Indian Youth Congress.
judiciary. Congress’ main bank accounts
“The Income Tax department were frozen on Friday over an
had written to various banks to Income Tax demand of Rs 210
withdraw a sum of Rs 65 crore crore but an I-T appellate tribunal
from different bank accounts of later allowed it to operate them
the Congress and Indian Youth pending a hearing next week, a
Congress in view of the demand huge relief for the party which
raised by the Income Tax authori- said the move had impacted all
ties earlier, despite the appellate political activity. AGENCIES
6 Nation millenniumpost
THURSDAY, 22 FEBRUARY, 2024 | NEW DELHI

‘Expert committee report on reforms in

PM MODI, GREEK PM DISCUSS ONGOING
DEVELOPMENTS IN EUROPE
PM Modi to
lay foundation
India and Greece agree to arbitration submitted to Law Ministry’ of 550 Amrit
Bharat stations
boost connectivity; firm up
Government will take a call on the report but you circulate it to the parties. on February 26
Report may be given to the parties by March 1, 2024: SC to Attorney General

migration & mobility pact

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister
NEW DELHI: The Centre Narendra Modi will on Febru-
told the Supreme Court on Highlights ary 26 lay the foundation stone
Wednesday the expert com- »»The apex court had in 2017 and 2020 held that a person of 550 Amrit Bharat stations
mittee headed by former to improve facilities at railway
law secretary T K Vishwana-
not eligible to become an arbitrator cannot nominate stations by developing rooftop
OUR CORRESPONDENT another person as one
than has submitted its report plazas and city centres at a cost
NEW DELHI: India and on proposed reforms in the »»However, in another matter in 2020, the Supreme Court of Rs 40,000 crore.
Greece on Monday agreed to arbitration sector to the law had allowed the appointment made by a person who was The Prime Minister will
work towards co-production ministry. ineligible to become an arbitrator also lay the foundation stone of
and co-development of mili- Attorney General R Ven- nearly 1,500 road overbridges
tary hardware and decided to kataramani, appearing for »»Amid a push for making India a hub of international and underbridges across dif-
firm up a mobility and migra- the Centre, told the top court benches in 2021 for the con- arbitration, the government had set up an expert panel ferent states during a function
tion pact as soon as possible that the Union government stitution of a larger bench to led by former law secretary T K Vishwanathan to that will be conducted virtually
with Prime Minister Narendra is yet to take a final view on consider the issue. recommend reforms in the Arbitration and Conciliation Act at over 2,000 railway stations,
Modi and his visiting Greek the report. The apex court had in 2017 officials said on Wednesday.
counterpart Kyriakos Mitso- Taking note of the submis- and 2020 held that a person not
in order to reduce the burden on courts PM Modi will join the func-
takis holding extensive talks sion, a bench headed by Chief eligible to become an arbitra- tion via videoconferencing.
to impart “new energy” to the PM Modi shakes hands with PM of Greece Kyriakos Mitsotakis at the Justice D Y Chandrachud asked tor cannot nominate another Amid a push for making the Union Law Ministry. Prizes will also be given
bilateral ties. Hyderabad House, in New Delhi, on Wednesday PTI the AG to share the report with person as one. However, in India a hub of international Law Ministry’s addi- to about 50,000 school stu-
PM Modi said the two sides the parties concerned. another matter in 2020, the arbitration, the government tional secretary Rajiv Mani, dents who had participated in
have common concerns and Greece in August last year. “With the formation of a “Government will take a Supreme Court had allowed had set up an expert panel led some senior advocates, rep- speech, essay and poetry writ-
priorities in the fight against India-Greece relations were working group in this area, we call on the report but you circu- the appointment made by a by former law secretary T K resentatives of private law ing competitions on the “2047
terrorism and there was a dis- elevated to ‘strategic partner- will be able to increase mutual late it to the parties. The report person who was ineligible to Vishwanathan to recommend firms, officials of the legisla- - Viksit Bharat ki Railway”
cussion in detail on how to fur- ship’ following PM Modi’s trip. coordination on common may be given to the parties by become an arbitrator. reforms in the Arbitration and tive department, Niti Aayog, theme, organised by the Indian
ther strengthen cooperation in In his remarks, Mitsotakis challenges like defence, cyber March 1, 2024,” the bench, also The top court is now adju- Conciliation Act in order to National Highways Authority Railways across 4,000 schools.
this area. said the world today is facing security, counter-terrorism, comprising justices J B Pardi- dicating the issue. reduce the burden on courts. of India (NHAI), railways and The Amrit Bharat Station
In his media statement, the unprecedented challenges that maritime security,” PM Modi wala and Manoj Misra, said. The CJI had on June 26, Venkataramani is also on Central Public Works Depart- Scheme was launched for the
Prime Minister said he and require immediate and efficient said. He said it was agreed to Two references were made 2023 formed a five-judge con- the expert panel set up by the ment (CPWD) are its other development of stations on
Mitsotakis discussed many action and India has a critical link the defence industries of by three-judge apex court stitution bench to examine it. Department of Legal Affairs in members. AGENCIES Indian Railways. AGENCIES
regional and international role to play in this. both the countries.
issues and it was agreed that
all disputes and tensions should
be resolved through dialogue
India welcomes Greece’s
active participation and pos-
itive role in the Indo-Pacific
The pact would provide
employment opportunities for
Indians in Greece besides eas-
Internet suspension in Manipur’s Churachandpur extended
and diplomacy.
At a media briefing, Foreign
and it is a matter of happi-
ness that the European nation
ing flow of students and busi-
ness people between the two The ethnic violence-hit state sees dip in number of students appearing for class 12 board exams
Secretary Vinay Kwatra said has decided to join the Indo- countries.
the two leaders discussed ways Pacific Oceans Initiative, PM “We welcome Greece’s OUR CORRESPONDENT tion in Churachandpur district The policeman was seen are appearing for the council’s
to bolster connectivity includ- Modi said. In the talks, the two active participation and posi- decided to continue suspension with gunmen in a purported examinations from Wednes-
ing through India-Middle East- sides deliberated on increasing tive role in the Indo-Pacific. IMPHAL: The Manipur of internet services and services video. day across 111 centres, he said.
Europe Economic Corridor cooperation in many areas like It is a matter of happiness that government on Wednesday through VPN throughout the Amid ethnic violence, the This year’s examinations
(IMEC) and that the private pharma, medical devices, tech- Greece has decided to join the extended the suspension of whole revenue jurisdiction of number of students appearing were originally scheduled to
sector would be encouraged to nology, innovation, skill devel- Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative,” internet services in Chura- Churachandpur district.” for Class 12 state board exami- be conducted at 114 centres
roll out bilateral flight services. opment, agriculture and space. he said. There has also been a chandpur district for five days Mobile service providers nations in Manipur this year but three schools - one each
PM Modi and Mitsotakis “Our discussions today resolve for cooperation in the in view of the prevailing law are also directed to ensure com- has dropped by around 5,000 in Kakching, Imphal East and
also discussed the ongoing were very meaningful and Eastern Mediterranean region. and order situation in the dis- pliance with the order, it said. FILE PHOTO to over 31,000, an official said Chakpikarong - have been
developments in Europe, Kwa- useful. It is a matter of happi- In his remarks, PM Modi trict, following violence over The government had first on Wednesday. removed from the list as a result
tra said, in an oblique reference ness that we are rapidly moving also referred to the ambitious an action taken against a imposed a temporary suspen- plex, housing the offices of the Last year, more than 36,000 of the “prevailing situation in
to the conflict in Ukraine. towards the goal of doubling India-Middle East-Europe policeman. sion on internet services on superintendent of police and students appeared for the outlying areas of hills and val-
In the talks, the two sides bilateral trade by 2030. We Economic Corridor (IMEC) A home department order, February 16. deputy commissioner, torched Council of Higher Second- ley districts,” he said.
decided on a series of new identified several new oppor- and said it would make a sig- issued by Chief Secretary At least two people were vehicles and ransacked prop- ary School Leaving Certificate Of the 111 centres, 75 are
initiatives to double bilateral tunities to give new energy and nificant contribution to the Vineet Joshi, said: “The state killed and 30 injured in firing erties on February 15, fol- Exams (COHSEM) across 120 in six valley districts and the
trade by 2030, a target that was direction to our cooperation,” development of humanity in government after reviewing the by security forces after a mob lowing the suspension of a centres in the state, he said. remaining 36 are in the hills,
set during PM Modi’s visit to PM Modi said. the long run. prevailing law and order situa- barged into a government com- head constable. Around 31,000 students Singh said.

NGT to conduct ‘Collaboration with WHO Cloud over bulk drug park project as CM HP CM hails SC verdict
NEET-UG Sukhu sets-out ‘terms & conditions’
medical exam
on GIDH is testament of on Wildflower Hall
at centres in 14 shared commitment’ ASHWANI SHARMA in granting approvals, which the works like land develop- OUR CORRESPONDENT eligible to assume possession
require a lot of formalities and ment and engaging consultant. and management of the hotel.
foreign cities NEW DELHI: Union Health SHIMLA: The Rs 1923 crore uniformities with two other bulk Chief Minister Sukhwinder SHIMLA: Himachal Pradesh Originally owned by Lord
Minister Mansukh Mandaviya The GIDH is a bulk drug park, one of three drug parks coming-up in Guja- Singh Sukhu, present in the state Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Kitchener, Wildflower Hall
on Wednesday said India’s col- sanctioned by the Centre in the rat and Andhra Pradesh. Assembly, intervened to convey Sukhu has welcomed the Supreme operated as a hotel under the
OUR CORRESPONDENT laboration with the WHO on WHO managed country, seems to have started A team of officials from the that the earlier government had Court’s decision upholding the management of HP Tourism
the Global Initiative on Digital network which facing rough weather because of industries department was also sacrificed the interests of the state verdict of the Himachal Pradesh Development Corporation until
NEW DELHI: Medical Health (GIDH) is a testament delays in granting various sanc- sent to Andhra Pradesh to study in offering several concessions to High Court regarding owner- a devastating fire in 1993.
entrance exam NEET-UG will of the country’s shared commit-
was unanimously tions even as Himachal Chief implementation of the project the prospective investors which ship of Hotel Wildflower Hall. Attributing the favourable
also be conducted at exam cen- ment towards transforming the adopted by all Minister Sukhwinder Singh there. The government will exe- will not be allowed. Expressing satisfaction on the decision to the meticulous efforts
tres in 14 foreign cities on May digital health ecosystem. G20 countries Sukhu said the government cute the project on PPP mode, CM Sukhu cornered the for- apex court’s ruling, the chief min- undertaken by the state gov-
5, the National Testing Agency The GIDH is a WHO managed will implement the project on which is a viable option as the mer BJP government over the ister said that it safeguarded the ernment in advocating its case
announced on Wednesday. network which was unanimously its own terms without ‘compris- government can’t execute the land given on lease of Rs 1 to interests of Himachal Pradesh. effectively before the SC, Sukhu
The move comes after adopted by all G20 countries, Organisation’s Global Initiative ing’ state’s interests. project of this scale on its own. both the parks, and the ten- The Supreme Court on Tues- said: “Renowned lawyer Mukul
the National Testing Agency invited countries and international on Digital Health (GIDH). The issue figured in the state The minister said it requires year exemption in GST, beside day asked the East India Hotels Rohatgi was engaged to ensure
(NTA) received requests from organisations and collectively “Under the dynamic leader- Assembly on Wednesday when global tendering and some of the few other conditions offered by Limited (of Oberoi group) to comprehensive representation
aspirants as the information launched as a key deliverable ship of Prime Minister Narendra Opposition BJP accused the Con- matters involved are highly tech- the earlier BJP government. He vacate Shimla’s Wildflower Hall and safeguard the state’s interests
bulletin for the exam noti- of India’s G20 presidency dur- Modi, the New Delhi Leaders’ gress government of inordinate nical in nature. He even admitted accused the previous Jairam gov- luxury hotel within one year. in the legal battle. The outcome
fied earlier this month had ing the health ministers’ meet- Declaration of the G20 Summit delays in granting sanctions to that delay in its execution will ernment of selling the interests The takeover of the luxury of this verdict reflects the gov-
no mention of centres out- ing in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, also welcomed the establishment one of the country’s ambitious not be in favour of the state as of Himachal. resort run by the Oberois group ernment’s steadfast dedication
side India for candidates to on August 19, 2023. “Our col- of GIDH within the framework industrial projects which was investors may prefer other two “The government is keen to was ordered by the Himachal to protect the interests of Him-
attempt the test. laboration with the WHO on of the WHO,” he added. granted to Himachal Pradesh destinations having ports. establish the park and also medi- Pradesh High Court recently . achal.” The state government will
“It has been decided that the GIDH is a testament of our Mandaviya said the GIDH through bidding process. He said all guidelines granted cal device park but on its own The High Court had ruled deliberate on the future course
the exam will also be con- shared commitment towards will allow the democratisa- Replying to the issue, Indus- by the Centre and also monitored terms and conditions. We will that Oberoi Group failed to com- of action regarding the property,
ducted in 14 foreign cities in transforming the digital health tion of digital health technolo- tries minister Harshvardhan by the Central agencies will be see that interests of the state are ply with the arbitration award once it gets possession, empha-
12 countries,” said NTA Senior ecosystem,” said Mandaviya, gies in national digital health Chauhan said the government adhered. There is no scope of fully protracted and no undue within the stipulated three-month sising a decision that aligns with
Director (Exams) Sadhna virtually addressing the public transformation particularly was moving ahead on the project any deviation or compromise concessions are given to private time frame. Consequently, the the best interests of Himachal,
Parashar. launch event of the World Health the Global South. AGENCIES maintaining full transparency with the norms and award of investors,” he said. state government was deemed said the chief minister.

Human-drawn boundaries won’t resolve human- Nation Briefs

The 14 foreign cities where
the exam will conducted are
Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Shar-

animal conflicts; joint efforts required: Kerala HC 22,548 CHILDREN PARTICIPATE IN COM-
jah (UAE); Kuwait city in
Kuwait; Bangkok in Thailand;
Colombo in Sri Lanka; Doha
in Qatar; Kathmandu in Nepal;
Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia;
Lagos in Nigeria; Manama in
HC’s intervention comes at a time when Wayanad is witnessing a rise in animal attacks and PETITIONS ORGANISED BY ECR
Bahrain; Muscat in Oman; HAJIPUR: More than 2000
Riyadh in Saudi Arabia; and
Singapore.
incursions in human settlements and has led to loss of several lives in the recent months ROB/RUB/AMRIT railway
The exam will be conducted stations will be inaugurated/
at 554 centres across India.
“Candidates who have
KOCHI: Human-drawn terri-
torial boundaries do not help Closer Look laid the foundation stone
by PM Modi through video
already selected centres in resolve man-animal conflicts »»The High Court suggested that a joint action plan be conferencing on February 26. On this occasion, many
India and paid the fee without and can be contained only by prepared by Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, competitions like poetry, essay, painting etc. are be-
the option for foreign centres concerted efforts, the Kerala “preferably at the level of the Additional Chief
but they want to appear for the High Court has said.
ing organised among the school children by Railways
exam at centres outside India The High Court suggested
Secretaries”, to deal with the issue of wild animal across the country based on the theme “Developed
will have the opportunity to that a joint action plan be pre- incursions in Wayanad Railways of Developed India by 2047”. Several com-
correct their centre and coun- pared by Kerala, Tamil Nadu »»It also directed the Chief Conservator of Forests, Wildlife, petitions based on the theme were organised in 320
try choice during the correc- and Karnataka, “preferably at North Circle, Wayanad, to prepare a map of trenches, schools in all the five divisions of East Central Railway
tion window, which will open the level of the Additional Chief barriers and fences which have been put up by private in which 22,548 children participated.
after the registration window Secretaries”, to deal with the
individuals and the government
closes,” Parashar said.
NEET-UG is the qualifying
issue of wild animal incursions
in Wayanad district of Kerala.
REPRESENTATIONAL PIC
»»The HC bench directed that the map be prepared within
NF RAILWAY AWARDS ‘VISHISHT RAIL
entrance exam for admission A special bench of Justices pare a map of trenches, barriers davit regarding the availability of 10 days SEVA PURASKAR’ ON RAILWAY WEEK
to Bachelor of Medicine and A K Jayasankaran Nambiar and and fences which have been put the details of water tanks, other MALIGAON: The Vishisht
Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), Gopinath P was of the view that up by private individuals and the watering holes artificially created Wayanad, the Superintendent of settlements in those areas in
Bachelor of Dental Surgery it would be appropriate for the government in the areas within and the steps taken to ensure Police, the Additional Director Wayanad district that border Rail Seva Puraskar on the
(BDS), Bachelor of Ayurveda, state governments to organise the jurisdiction of the North and the availability of water during General of Police, the Additional reserve forests,” the court said. auspices of 68th Railway
Medicine and Surgery (BAMS), joint discussions at the level of South Wildlife divisions of the the summer months so as to Chief Secretary, the Chief Con- The High Court’s interven- Week was held at Luitgarh
Bachelor of Siddha Medicine the Additional Chief Secretar- high-range district. prevent wildlife intrusions into servator of Forests, the Chief tion comes at a time when the Railway Officers’ Club in
and Surgery (BSMS), Bachelor ies “so that urgent decisions, The bench, in its order dated human settlements on account Wildlife Warden and the Divi- high-range district is witnessing a Maligaon on Wednes-
of Unani Medicine and Sur- if required to be taken, can be February 19, directed that the of shortage of water within the sional Forest Officer through rise in animal attacks and incur- day. NF Railway General
gery (BUMS), and Bachelor of taken without getting approval map be prepared within 10 days forest areas,” the bench said in video conference. sions in human settlements and
Homoeopathic Medicine and from higher authorities”. and submitted before a com- its order. “The discussions were for has led to loss of several lives in Manager Chetan Kumar
Surgery (BHMS) and BSc (H) “We are hopeful that such joint mittee constituted by the court With the directions the court determining the immediate steps the recent months. Shrivastava gave awards to achievers from various
Nursing courses. committees will be set up towards in March last year to deal with listed the matter for further con- to be taken for addressing inter It has also led to protests departments of the five divisions and headquarters
The last date for submitting the above end,” the court said. man-animal conflicts. sideration on February 27. alia the law and order problems by people of the affected areas of NF Railway. Altogether 56 individual awards, 25
applications is March 9 while It also directed the Chief “He (Chief Conservator of The order was issued pursu- faced in Wayanad district as also demanding a permanent resolu- group awards, 35 Efficiency Shields were distributed
the result for the exam will be Conservator of Forests, Wildlife, Forests, Wildlife, North Circle, ant to the court holding a discus- the steps to be taken to prevent tion to frequent human-wildlife for outstanding performance during last year.
announced on June 14. North Circle, Wayanad, to pre- Wayanad) shall also file an affi- sion with the District Collector, animal incursion into the human conflicts. AGENCIES
millenniumpost
NEW DELHI | THURSDAY, 22 FEBRUARY, 2024 Opinion 7
Enlightening educators
Nexus of Good Integrated Preschool Teachers Training Academy in Hyderabad has been empowering aspiring
teachers with skills, knowledge, and pedagogical tools to foster a learning environment for kids

Unfair machinations
T
he National Educa- and sensory stimulation, i.e.
tion Policy (NEP), GRASS.

A
announced in 2020, At IPTTA Fest 11, held on
powerful Supreme Court bench com- rightly places enor- February 10, 2024, based on
prising Chief Justice of India DY mous emphasis on pre-school the theme ‘Nature, the teacher’,
Chandrachud, and Justices JB Pardi- education and founda- instead of making teaching
wala and Manoj Misra did something tional learning. A number of aids, objects from around
very unprecedented on Tuesday by nullifying ANIL SWARUP researches have revealed that nature and surroundings were
the Chandigarh mayoral poll results and declar- the initial few years of a child, used to teach all the concepts
ing AAP’s Kuldeep Kumar as the “validly elected even before she/he goes to covered in early childhood.
candidate.” The usual course would have been to school formally, are extremely More than 600 teachers from
quash the entire election process itself. It is per- critical. Hence, appropriate various schools across Telan-
tinent to understand the forces that nudged the intervention at this stage is gana attended the fest and were
apex court to override the ‘usual’ and opt for the necessary. This recognition inspired by the teaching meth-
‘unprecedented.’ came about in the NEP. How- ods displayed.
ever, all this is easier said than IPTTA provides for the
The Bharatiya Janata Party, ostensibly, put its done. How do you get trained following verticals:
entire weight behind the annual election of the human resources to take care 1. Teachers training diploma
mayor in a municipal unit. In the first place, the of these initial years of a child? (offline course);
election was postponed from January 18 to Janu- Integrated Preschool Teachers 2. Online teachers training
ary 30 due to the “illness” of the presiding offi- Training Academy (IPTTA) in course;
cer. Then, during the counting of the votes, as the Hyderabad has made consid- 3. Workshops for existing
Supreme Court found from a video evidence, the In today’s highly erable headway in this regard, teachers;
presiding officer “put his own mark for the pur- competitive well before the announce- 4. Curriculum development for
pose of creating a ground for treating the ballot as ment of NEP. Under the able schools (Nursery to Grade 2);
invalidly cast.” The SC bench found that the “offi-
world, IPTTA can guidance of its founder, Sonal 5. Collaboration for setting up
cer is guilty of a serious misdemeanour in doing proudly claim to Andrews, they have set the ball teachers training centres;
what he did in his role and capacity as presiding have established rolling. 6. End-to-end solutions for
officer.” Situated in the heart of The glorious journey of IPTTA began in 2013 REPRESENTATIONAL IMAGE ECE;
itself as a Hyderabad, Integrated Pre- 7. Consultant for ECE;
In the meantime, the elected BJP candidate brand known to school Teachers Training active and creative minds, manner that she teaches not inely value continuity of teach- 8. Audits for the early years’
resigned and three AAP councillors switched over Academy (IPTTA) stands as understanding and compas- just out of books but out of pas- ing and know how important centre.
to the BJP — putting the saffron party in a com- hold expertise a pioneering institution com- sion for children, and the cour- sion. To that end, the aim has consistency is in a student’s life, IPTTA has already gar-
fortable position in case of re-election. Perhaps this in training mitted to preschool educators’ age to act on their beliefs. The been to unleash the potential which is why the team is made nered accolades and a number
might be one of the reasons that the apex court holistic training and develop- stress is on the total develop- of every woman interested in of full-time educators only. of awards. It has successfully
changed the result in light of the evidence before it, candidates in the ment. With a dynamic cur- ment of each aspirant: spiri- making a difference in a child’s IPTTA offers offline and highlighted an extremely
rather than announcing re-election, which would Early Childhood riculum tailored to meet the tual, moral, intellectual, social, life through education. For a online diploma courses in early important aspect of early-
have been a façade of justice. The court clarified evolving demands of early emotional, and behavioural. woman, the most important childhood care and education. childhood education, and
that “allowing the entire election process to be set Education sector childhood education, IPTTA The objective is to create a gen- thing to do is to know herself The HSE-Harmonious Spec- managed to put in place a
aside would compound the destruction of the fun- strives to empower aspiring eration of early childhood edu- completely, who she is, what trum Education Curriculum, model that is replicable and
damental democratic principles which has taken teachers with the skills, knowl- cators who would then guide she believes in, and in which a cooperation between alterna- scalable in the true spirit of
place as a consequence of the conduct of the Pre- edge, and pedagogical tools the nation’s future! direction she wants to go. tive ideas and existing learning Nexus of Good through pub-
siding Officer”. Also, it would be “inappropriate to necessary to foster a nurtur- IPTTA strives to create and IPTTA is affiliated to both tools, is followed. It focuses on lic-private partnership. The
set aside the entire election process when the only ing learning environment for unleash a whole new genera- JNCTE and All India Early social development, which is protocols and standard operat-
infirmity is found at the stage when the counting young children. tion of ‘evolved’ Early Child- Childhood Care & Educa- essential to creating a humanly ing procedures for addressing
of votes was recorded by the Presiding Officer”. The journey began in the hood Educators to enable tion (AIECCE), an Educa- friendly environment. It also early childhood education-
year 2013. IPTTA’s vision was mothers to gain knowledge tional Organisation that takes provides fully trained and related issues have been cre-
It may be noted that ahead of the elections, the to establish an effective Teach- about raising their children guidance from NCERT and equipped teachers to teach in ated and their efficacy clearly
AAP-INC combine was comfortably placed to seal ers’ Training Institute through and, eventually, making a is accredited by the Interna- schools across the country. established. A number of state
a victory. In order to change the ground realities, the quality training program career of guiding the future cit- tional Accreditation Organiza- Every year, IPTTA train- governments who recognize
the presiding officer, who belongs to the BJP, had in the Early Childhood sector. izens of the country and mak- tion (IAO), a symbol of quality. ees showcase all they have the need and necessity of early
to apparently indulge in activities that were quite There was a belief in constantly ing every woman independent, IPTTA’s diploma is accepted learnt through an exhibi- childhood education, so prom-
visibly unfair and unethical. Thanks to the machi- upgrading as per the needs of not only financially but also and recognised internationally. tion of teaching aids, which is inently outlined in NEP, have
nations of the presiding officer, the apex court was the changing trends in the field socially and emotionally. It is India’s only teachers’ train- called IPTTA Fest. Based on come forward to adopt this
forced to invoke Article 142 of the Indian Consti- of education. In today’s highly Recognizing tremendous ing institute to be ISO certified a selected theme, the trainees model. What Sonal Andrews
tution. Article 142 empowers the Supreme Court competitive world, IPTTA can potential of womenfolk and by the Centre of Assessments create interesting, cost-effec- and her committed team have
of India with unique and expansive powers to do proudly claim to have estab- with the motto “Happiness for Excellence (COAE) tive, and creative teaching put in place has the potential
“complete justice” in cases before it. This provi- lished itself as a brand known is the Attitude; Passion is the IPTTA’s team of mentors aids and cover the entire syl- of transforming early child-
sion grants the court authority to pass any order or to be the expert in training Aptitude, and Humanity is is fully qualified, very experi- labi from Nursery to Grade 2, hood education. This silent
decree necessary for the purpose of enforcing or candidates in the Early Child- the Ultimate Religion!”, Sonal enced, and highly dedicated and make sure that they are revolution in Telangana is all
securing the enforcement of fundamental rights, hood Education sector. endeavoured to build a soci- to its roles – many have been teaching it using interesting set to change the landscape
or any other right conferred by any law. IPTTA’s aim is to develop ety where every Early Child- with the academy since it modes like games, rhymes, sto- dramatically.
passionate candidates with hood Educator is trained in a opened in 2013. They genu- ries, activities, art and craft, Views expressed are personal
It is unfortunate that what should have been

Bridging the divide

a clear-cut election with minimal consequence,
has been turned into a national political drama —
questioning the core democratic values India is
often associated with. It is very important that the
errant officer is dealt with strictly, setting an exam-
ple ahead of the upcoming general elections. No
party or party person should be allowed to stoop
to such low for petty political gains. The unforgiv-
able act of the presiding officer is compounded by
the fact that he provided false information before
Proper streamlining of minimum wages across India, among other things, can help address
the SC bench. The bench directed the Registrar
Judicial to issue a notice to the presiding officer, to concerns regarding working environment and opportunities in both rural and urban areas

R
show cause as to why steps should not be initiated
against him under Section 340 of CrPC. The entire ates of minimum
episode showcases an unethical lust for power, RAAVI BIRBAL wage are distinct
which should necessarily meet reprimands and in rural and urban
rational checks. areas. Rural workers
are paid much less than their
urban counterparts. There is
regional disparity and signifi-
cant differences in minimum
wages.

DearEditor The rural-urban divide,

to a certain extent, has been
curbed by many government
policies, as well as by investing
GLARING ANOMALIES in the necessary infrastructure.
Undoubtedly, there has been a
This is in reference to the news report, "FARMERS rebalancing of economic bet-
terment for local communi-
WANT MSP ON ALL 23 CROPS, NOT JUST THE FIVE
ties. Some more long-term
OFFERED". A panel of Union ministers proposed the solutions, as well as legisla-
purchase of pulses (tur, urad and masoor), maize and tive amendments, are needed.
cotton crops by government agencies at the minimum Long-term For example, there is a further
support price (MSP) for a five-year period after entering solutions as well need to shift certain industrial
into an agreement with farmers. The offer was made and administrative offices to
during the fourth round of talks between the Centre’s
as legislative places where there are lower
representatives and farmer leaders, who have rejected amendments rates of employment. This will
it as they want a legal guarantee for procurement at the are needed enable people to stay close to
MSP for various crops. In 2015, the Shanta Kumar-led their families and work, rather There is a need for proportionate distribution of work and the workforce
High-Level Committee on Restructuring of FCI had urged to rebalance than staying isolated in expen-
the government to revisit the MSP policy. The panel had the economic sive cities, thus also reducing prices of commodities, pay- nesses. For example, a Spe- ket situation. There can be a extent. Many companies have
said: ‘Effectively, price support operates primarily in wheat pollution and other shortages. ing capacity, productivity, and cial Economic Zone (SEZ) focus on developing areas with redefined their remote work-
and paddy and that too in selected states. This creates
betterment of Needless to say, this would other local conditions influ- governed by the Special Eco- the lowest minimum wages. ing policies, hiring people from
highly skewed incentive structures in favour of wheat local communities ipso facto lead to the develop- encing the wage rate. The vast nomic Zone Act, 2005, is a spe- Article 19(1)(g) of the distant and aloof places. This
and paddy.’ The committee had noted that wheat-paddy ment of rural areas, inter alia disproportion also needs to be cially dedicated zone built by a Constitution of India ensures trend reverses excessive urban-
procurement did not directly benefit more than 6 per cent enhancing education, skills, reduced to stop locals from country for promoting busi- that all citizens have the right isation, as well as catering skills
of India’s agricultural households. Indeed, this lopsided lifestyle, etc. It would also help rushing to cosmopolitan cit- nesses and economic growth. to practice any profession or to remote areas.
system continues to hamper crop diversification, besides control the attrition rate in ies. Needless to mention, sim- Companies set up in the SEZ engage in any occupation, With the combined efforts
urban areas, which is skyrock- ply increasing wages would not get relaxation on taxes by the trade, or business, subject to of all, as already existing, there
leaving the majority of the nation’s farmers at the mercy
eting. The massive increase is be a solution, as that may lead government, etc. Setting up certain reasonable restrictions. has been enhancement of
of unscrupulous market forces. The government’s MSP largely due to higher demand to reduced employment. In of SEZs in remote areas could Enabling rural areas with bet- education, public health and
plan for five crops was a non-starter in the absence of a in metropolitan areas. Con- fact, making wages too high be an added benefit for indus- ter employment opportunities sanitation, women’s empow-
robust system for guaranteed nationwide procurement. trarily, in rural areas, people in urban areas is not of much tries, especially foreign inves- would fulfil the objective of this erment, infrastructure devel-
The larger objectives of enhancing food security, increasing are ready to work for lesser help as the cost of living is too tors, to consider investing more provision. The Universal Dec- opment, facilities for extension
farmers’ income and reducing dependence on imports can amounts. expensive and hardly any sav- in rural areas. laration of Human Rights and and research, etc., in various
be achieved if the glaring anomalies in the MSP regime are Furthermore, section 3 of ings remain. The solution lies Almost every country has the International Covenant on parts of the country. With more
removed. the Minimum Wages Act, 1948, more in the distribution of a minimum wage. The details Economic, Social and Cultural balancing, legislative amend-
empowers the appropriate gov- work and the workforce. vary, such as some countries Rights, both of which have been ments, and use of current pro-
— KHOKAN DAS, KOLKATA via email ernment to fix the minimum Exercising some provisions like France fixing a universal acceded by India, in Article 23 visions, grassroots issues in the
rates of wages in scheduled available in the law, there can minimum across the economy, and Article 6 respectively, rec- remotest parts as well as exces-
millenniumpost.in employments as well as revise be development of areas that while others, such as India and ognise the right to work in an sive congestion in urban areas
the minimum rates at appro- need attention. An economy New Zealand, differentiat- employment of one’s choice. can be resolved.
Log on to write letters to the editor or send them to priate intervals. The variation can be strengthened in many ing between types of workers In the last few years, the The writer is a practising
letter2editor.mp@gmail.com. You can also send your comments to The Editor, of minimum wages between ways, the most efficient way owing to regional differences concept of working from Advocate in Supreme Court
Millennium Post, Pratap Bhawan, 5 Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, New Delhi 110 002 the States is due to differences being to provide incentives on in the cost of living, economic home as well as outsourcing and High Court of Delhi.
in socio-economic conditions, taxes to industries and busi- development, and labour mar- has bridged the gap to a good Views expressed are personal
8 World millenniumpost
THURSDAY, 22 FEBRUARY, 2024 | NEW DELHI

GOVERNMENT OF WEST BENGAL POLITICAL TUSSLE IN PAK

PPP and PML-N strike
power-sharing deal in
Pak; Shehbaz to be PM
ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan
Muslim League-Nawaz and
the Pakistan Peoples Party
have struck a power-sharing
deal to form a coalition gov-
ernment led by ex-prime min-
ister Shehbaz Sharif, a move
that could effectively keep
their arch-rival Imran Khan
out of power after the contro-
versial elections.
Both the PML-N and the
PPP won fewer seats in Parlia-
ment than candidates backed
by jailed former prime min-
ister Imran Khan in an elec-
tion mired in controversies,
including vote rigging. Khan, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto
who could not contest the Zardari
GOVERNMENT OF WEST BENGAL February 8 elections due to
his convictions in some cases, 74, was earlier confident of
including that of corruption, securing a record fourth term.
has been barred from holding However, his party failed to
any public office for 10 years. win enough seats to form a
At a joint news confer- government on its own.
ence here late Tuesday night “I had offered the indepen-
after marathon negotiations, dent candidates to form the
Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) government first as nobody
Chairman Bilawal Bhutto- had a clear mandate; now we
Zardari announced that Pak- have the required number,”
istan Muslim League-Nawaz Sharif said.
(PML-N) president Sheh- “It would not be an easy
baz Sharif, 72, will assume ride. We will work together
the role of the prime minis- to bring this country on the
ter once again. Similarly, PPP path of development and
co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari, progress,” Shehbaz Sharif, also
68, will be the joint candidate the president of the PML-N
for the president’s office. said. “The PPP and PML-N
Last week, the PML-N, in have achieved the required
a surprise move, announced number, and (now) we are in
that the party supremo and a position to form the govern-
three-time former premier ment,” Bilawal told reporters
Nawaz Sharif has nominated without revealing the number
GOVERNMENT OF WEST BENGAL his younger brother Sheh- of lawmakers they have in the
baz as a candidate for the slot National Assembly after the
of prime minister. Nawaz, elections. AGENCIES

Israeli strikes across Gaza kill

67 Palestinians overnight
JERUSALEM: Israeli strikes the bodies arriving in ambu-
across Gaza killed at least 67 lances and private vehicles.
Palestinians overnight and Also Wednesday, the
into Wednesday, including aid group Doctors Without
in areas where civilians have Borders said that two peo-
GOVERNMENT OF WEST BENGAL been told to seek refuge. ple were killed when a shel-
The Al-Aqsa Martyrs ter housing staff in the Gaza
hospital in Deir al-Balah Strip was struck during an
says it received 44 bodies Israeli operation in an area
after multiple strikes in cen- where Palestinians have been
tral Gaza. AP reporters saw told to seek shelter. AGENCIES

EU agrees on
new sanctions
GOVERNMENT OF WEST BENGAL against Russia
BRUSSELS: European
Union countries on Wednes-
day agreed on a new package
of sanctions against Russia to
target individuals and busi-
nesses suspected of assisting
Moscow in its war against
Ukraine, including Chinese
companies.
The decision coincides
with the second anniver-
sary of Russia’s full-scale
invasion, which began
on February 24, 2022, and
comes days after the death
of Russian opposition leader
Alexei Navalny.
Belgium, which cur-
rently holds the rotating
presidency of the 27-nation
bloc, said the “package is
one of the broadest approved
by the EU”. AGENCIES

US spacecraft
enters orbit
around moon
CAPE CANAVERAL: A pri-
vate US lunar lander reached
the moon and eased into a
low orbit Wednesday, a day
before it will attempt an even
greater feat landing on the
gray, dusty surface.
A smooth touchdown
would put the US back in
business on the moon for the
first time since NASA astro-
nauts closed out the Apollo
program in 1972. The com-
pany, if successful, also would
become the first private outfit
to ace a moon landing.
Launched last week, Intu-
itive Machines’ lander fired
its engine on the back side of
the moon while out of con-
tact with Earth.
Flight controllers at the
company’s Houston head-
quarters had to wait until
the spacecraft emerged to
learn whether the lander
was in orbit or hurtling
aimlessly away.  AGENCIES
millenniumpost
NEW DELHI | THURSDAY, 22 FEBRUARY, 2024 Business 9
FM asks regulators to Stock markets snap six-day rally
take more steps to curb MUMBAI: Equity benchmark
indices Sensex and Nifty broke NSE NIFTY BSE SENSEX profits. "Global markets treaded
cautiously awaiting the US Fed-
Teck, services and capital
goods were the other losers.

illegal lending apps

their six-day winning run on Intra-day on February 21, 2024 Intra-day on February 21, 2024 eral Reserve (meeting) minutes BSE Realty was the only
Wednesday and settled with a High: High: while Chinese markets were defiant among all sectoral indi-
steep fall amid fag-end selling 22,249.40 73,267.80 buoyed by policy interventions. ces, closing with a gain of 1.96
triggered by a rush for profit Open: Previous Open: Previous "Concerns lingered since per cent.
booking and mixed global cues. 22,248.85 close: 73,267.48 close: investors were heavily betting Brent crude futures, the
NEW DELHI: Finance Min- The 30-share benchmark 22,196.95 73,057.40 on a US Fed rate cut, which is global oil benchmark, declined
ister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sensex stayed mostly firm put at risk by January's higher- 0.68 per cent to USD 81.78 per
Wednesday asked financial sec- during intra-day but settled than-expected inflation," he barrel.
tor regulators, including the 434.31 points or 0.59 per cent noted. Asian stocks witnessed
Reserve Bank of India (RBI), to lower at 72,623.09 points. It Low: Low: The BSE Midcap index mixed trends while European
take further measures to check touched the intra-day low of -141.90 21,997.95 Close: -434.31 72,450.56 declined sharply by 1.27 per markets were trading largely
Close:
spread of unauthorised lending 72,450.56, down 0.83 per cent (-0.64%) 22,055.05 (-0.59%) cent and Smallcap by 0.84 per in the negative zone. The US
72,623.09
through online apps. from the previous closing level cent. The fall in the large cap stocks ended Tuesday's session
Addressing the 28th meet- of 73,057.40 points. 9am 10 11 12 1pm 2 3 4 9am 10 11 12 1pm 2 3 4 index was contained at 0.59 with losses.
ing of the Financial Stability and Similarly, the broader Nifty KBK Infographics per cent. On Tuesday, Sensex contin-
Development Council (FSDC) also paired all its intraday gains Analysts attributed the ued its upward movement for
here, Sitharaman also asked reg- before closing 141.90 points or session with losses. and SBI ended 1.51 per cent steep decline in midcap and the sixth straight session and
ulators to maintain constant 0.64 per cent down at 22,055.05 NTPC was the biggest loser higher. smallcap indices to investors' jumped 349.24 points to close
vigil and be proactive towards points. among the Sensex constituents, Vinod Nair, Head of concern about volatility at 73,057.40 points while Nifty
detecting emerging financial The 50-share barometer had ending with a loss of 2.71 per Research at Geojit Financial ahead of the release of US Fed went up 74.70 points to end the
stability risks, given the domes- hit a lifetime peak of 22,196.95 cent. It was followed by Pow- Services, said the Indian market minutes. day at 22,196.95 points.
tic and global macro-financial Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman with Reserve Bank of points on Tuesday and remained erGrid, Wipro, HCLTech, L&T is facing stiff resistance at higher Among sectoral indices, Foreign Institutional Inves-
situation. India Governor Shaktikanta Das during the Financial Stability and mostly in the upward trajectory and Tech Mahindra. levels and the valuation of a BSE Utilities fell the maximum tors (FIIs) were net sellers on
The FSDC deliberated on Development Council Meeting, at Vigyan Bhawan, in New Delhi  PIC/PTI on Wednesday. In contrast, Tata Steel, SBI, broader index is at a significant by 2.10 per cent, followed by Oil Tuesday as they offloaded
issues related to macro finan- In the Sensex pack, 20 stocks JSW Steel and IndusInd Bank premium, leading to an unfa- & Gas at a loss of 1.78 per cent securities worth Rs 1,335.51
cial stability and India's pre- ended in the red while 37 of the closed in the positive territory. vourable risk reward, which and Power which went down crore, according to exchange
paredness to deal with them, The FSDC deliberated on issues related Nifty constituents closed the Tata Steel gained 1.99 per cent influences investors to book by 1.66 per cent. data.  AGENCIES
an official statement said after
Govt says Coal India may Govt says 20% export duty on parboiled
the meeting. to macro financial stability and India's
The ongoing inter-regula- preparedness to deal with them, an
exceed capex target of rice to continue beyond March 31
tory issues were also discussed
to support GIFT IFSC in its stra- official statement said after the meeting
tegic role to become one of the
world's premier international
financial centres and perform
removed over 2,500 fraudu-
lent loan apps from its Play
members on the previous deci-
sions of the FSDC. Rs 16,500 crore for FY24 local stock and keep domestic end date. Besides, duty-free
its envisioned role of facilitat- Store between April 2021 and Besides Das, Securities prices under check. It was later import of yellow peas, too,
ing foreign capital and finan- July 2022. and Exchange Board of India NEW DELHI: The govern- of NLC India Ltd (NLCIL) for extended till March 31, 2024. has been extended beyond
cial services for the domestic The objective is to remain Chairperson Madhabi Puri ment of Wednesday said the the ongoing financial year is In a notification, the finance March 31, subject to the con-
economy, it said. proactive, maintain cyber secu- Buch, Insurance Regulatory state-owned Coal India Ltd Rs 2,880 crore. The Ministry ministry said the 20 per cent dition that the bill of landing
The FSDC discussed various rity preparedness with constant and Development Authority (CIL) is likely to exceed its of Coal's capex target for FY24 export duty will continue is issued on or before April 30,
issues related to the formulation vigilance, and take appropriate of India (Irdai) Chairman Deb- capex target of Rs 16,500 crore is Rs 21,030 crore. beyond March 31 without an 2024. AGENCIES
of strategy to implement the and timely action to mitigate asish Panda, Insolvency and for the current financial year. Over the past few years, coal
FSDC decisions and the Union any such vulnerabilities in the Bankruptcy Board of India Coal India accounts for Central Public Sector Enter-
Budget announcements. Indian financial system. (IBBI) Chairman Ravi Mital, over 80 per cent of domes- prises (CPSEs) have been over-
These included prescrib- Fraudulent loan apps have Pension Fund Regulatory and tic coal output. "As we navi- achieving their capex targets. NEW DELHI: The govern-
ing uniform KYC norms, defrauded many gullible bor- Development Authority Chair- gate through the current fiscal In FY22, CIL and NLCIL ment on Wednesday extended
inter-usability of KYC records rowers of their money, leading man Deepak Mohanty, and year of 2023-24, both CIL and had achieved 104.88 per cent the 20 per cent duty on export
across the financial sector, and to distress in many cases. International Financial Services NLCIL are on track to exceed and 123.33 per cent of their of parboiled rice beyond March
simplification and digitalisa- The FSDC members also Centres Authority Chairman their capex targets yet again... capex targets, respectively. 31. A 20 per cent export duty
tion of the KYC process; kick- decided to strengthen inter- K Rajaraman also attended the both CIL and NLCIL will In FY23, both companies was levied on parboiled rice
starting fund-raising by social regulatory coordination to fur- meeting. exceed their annual capex tar- achieved around 113 per cent on August 25, 2023 till October
enterprises through social ther develop the financial sector Senior officials, including gets, further bolstering India's of their target.  AGENCIES 16, 2023 to maintain adequate
stock exchanges and to arrest so that it continues to provide Finance Secretary T V Som- economic
the harmful effects of unau- the requisite financial resources anathan, Department of Eco- growth tra-
thorised lending through online for inclusive economic growth. nomic Affairs Secretary Ajay jectory," the
apps and measures to curb their The FSDC also took note of Seth, Department of Financial coal minis-
further spread. the activities undertaken by the Services Secretary Vivek Joshi, try said in a
The government in Decem- FSDC Sub-Committee chaired and Revenue Secretary San- statement.
ber informed Parliament that by RBI Governor Shaktikanta jay Malhotra also attended the The
Google has suspended or Das and the action taken by meeting.  MPOST capex target

CAs from UK and Canada might be

allowed to practice in India: ICAI Prez
NEW DELHI: Chartered accoun- of India (ICAI) on February 12, said.
tants from the UK and Canada might It will be the first To a query about what could be
be allowed to practice in India on a the impact of chartered accountants
reciprocal basis, with the apex body time that an overseas from foreign countries practising
ICAI making the proposal to the chartered accountant in India, he said, India is a develop-
government. ing country and they are developed
ICAI President Ranjeet Kumar
will be allowed to countries, referring to the UK, Can-
Agarwal on Wednesday said the pro- practice in India ada and Australia. "It will be in our
posal will be implemented strictly on interest because our members can go
the reciprocal basis that chartered Once the reciprocal system is there...," he added.
accountants from India will also be implemented, the chartered accoun- He emphasised that Indian char-
allowed to practice in the United tants from the foreign countries will tered accountants because of their
Kingdom and Canada. have to be registered with the ICAI, capabilities and expertise are in huge
It will be the first time that an which will be regulating them. demand outside.
overseas chartered accountant will "It will be reciprocal basis and not As per ICAI estimate, there is
be allowed to practice in India. The on standalone basis. If they agree, likely to be a need for around 30 lakh
proposal is part of India's ongoing it will be a win-win for both coun- chartered accountants in the next
negotiations for Free Trade Agree- tries... we are very much hopeful... 20-25 years.
ments (FTAs) with the UK and in the UK, there is an ageing popula- The institute has more than 4
Canada. tion and most of the work has shifted lakh members and 8.5 lakh students.
Agarwal also said that a similar from the UK to India...," Agarwal, Currently, around 42,000 chartered
arrangement is being looked with who took over as the President of the accountants from India are working
Australia. Institute of Chartered Accountants overseas.  AGENCIES

Digital public infra added 0.9%

to India’s GDP in 2022: Nasscom
Contribution of this segment is likely to triple by 2030, says a report
NEW DELHI: Digital public infra-
structure like Aadhaar, UPI and
FASTag generated a value of USD
31.8 billion in 2022, adding 0.9 per
cent to India's GDP and the contribu-
tion of this segment is likely to triple
by 2030, says a report.
Industry body Nasscom in a
report said digital public infrastruc-
ture (DPIs) such as Aadhaar, UPI
(Unified Payments Interface), and
FASTag have witnessed exponen-
tial adoption. Going ahead there is
an opportunity for further scalabil-
ity, reaching even the most remote
segments of the population by 2030.
"By 2030, adoption across
matured and budding DPIs has the
potential to scale up. The economic
value addition of these DPIs by 2030 oping DPIs, driving societal trans- in early discussions to implement
has the potential to increase to 2.9-4 formation through inclusive digital India's DPIs like UPI, Aadhaar, and
per cent of GDP, from 0.9 per cent in adoption and substantial contribu- Beckn in their countries for boosting
2022," the report said. tions to the Indian economy," Brajesh social and financial inclusion.
The Nasscom-Arthur D. Little Singh, President, Arthur D. Little "India's digital transformation,
report titled 'Digital Public Infra- India, said. propelled by Digital Public Infra-
structure of India - Accelerating "... DPIs hold vast potential in structure, marks a leap towards a
India's Digital Inclusion' said Indian revolutionising the entire Indian digitally empowered economy," said
DPIs' foundational layers are based economy and the world and paints a Debjani Ghosh, President at Nass-
on transparency and trust, which hopeful picture of an interconnected, com. India's position as a global
promotes paperless transactions, open, inclusive world with infinite leader in developing DPIs has been
reduces bureaucracy, and advances possibilities, empowering each and enabled by the support of the govern-
the concept of digital identity and every one across the globe," Singh ment, the IT intellectual capital, and
document management. added. The report said presently over the start-up ecosystem, the report
"India leads globally in devel- 30 countries are either adopting or said.  AGENCIES
10 mp Sport millenniumpost
THURSDAY, 22 FEBRUARY, 2024 | NEW DELHI

AHEAD OF FOURTH TEST AGAINST ENGLAND Nagal drops PVL: Kolkata Thunderbolts go down against
Rohit Sharma to lead with out of top-100 Ahmedabad Defenders in straight sets

‘cool & composed’ captaincy

NEW DELHI: India’s top
singles player Sumit Nagal OUR CORRESPONDENT plenty of attacking options to
dropped out of top-100 after his side.
losing 16 points from his kitty, KOLKATA: Season 1 win- The pipe attacks from
resulting in him sliding three ners Kolkata Thunderbolts Nandha only added more
spots to 101 in the latest ATP went down against Ahmed- pressure on Kolkata. Onur
rankings. abad Defenders in the bat- Cukur’s aggressive passing
S.KANNAN Last year in the same week, tle of Champions on Sunday, presented a challenge for
Nagal had earned 41 ranking with a scoreline of 13-15, 9-15 Defenders, but middle blocker
RANCHI: As the Indian points by reaching the semifi- and 6-15 in the third sea- LM Manoj took responsibility
cricket caravan criss-crossed nals of the Chennai Challenger son of RuPay Prime Volley- on him to close down the play.
its way into Ranchi, there are as a qualifier. He was defending ball League at the Jawaharlal Angamuthu, who had
plenty of questions being asked those points and could earn Nehru Indoor Stadium. game in balance. Including been quiet for most of the
on how a side which has been only 25 in Bengaluru last week. Nandhagopal was named middle blocker Ashwal Rai, game came alive in the final
struggling with fitness issues is Nagal had become one of the Player of the match. Kolkata tried to inch ahead. few minutes, and showcased
still fired up ahead of the fourth the few Indian tennis players to Muthusamy led his side But a couple of unforced variations in attack to help
Test against England. crack the top-100 following his with solid passing, and Max errors from Thunderbolts, his side. A smart review call
Shubman Gill spoke to the tremendous show in Chennai Senica and Nandha contrib- and a powerful smash from earned Ahmedabad a super
media on random topics from where he won his fifth Chal- uted with solid spikes to give Angamuthu allowed Ahmed- point, and the defending
Virat Kohli not being there to lenger level title. the Defenders a strong start. abad to get in front. champions followed it with a
the importance of Jasprit Bum- India’s next best singles With Vinit’s consistent attacks Muthu’s passing only kept super serve to register a state-
rah. The former is in England, player, Ramkumar Ramana- on the lines, Kolkata played improving as the game pro- ment-making win over the
after being blessed with a than, gained 42 places to get to to their strengths to keep the gressed as he kept providing Thunderbolts.
bonny boy, Akai, while Bum- 420 and was followed by Sasi-
rah returned to Ahmedabad. kumar Mukund (457, -20), S D
He will be back for the fifth Test
in Dharamshala, hopefully.
Prajwal Dev (595) and Digvijay
Pratap Singh (623, -11).
TT: LIKELY TO QUALIFY FOR PARIS OLYMPICS
Indian men, women lose in pre-QF
For the average cricket fan, Nagal is competing in the
there may be a worry, as some Pune Challenger this week. He
players are facing frequent is scheduled to take on Niki
breakdown issues owing to fit- Poonacha in the second round
ness. What needs to be high- Rohit Sharma during a practice session ahead of the fourth Test cricket match between India and England, at on Thursday. BUSAN: The Indian men’s and pei in the round of 16 while the will be made on March 5 after
lighted is, no player is getting the JSCA International Stadium Complex, in Ranchi on Wednesday PTI In the doubles, Rohan women’s teams came up short men were blown away by South including the points from the
into the XI unless he is per- Bopanna continued to be world in the pre-quarterfinals of the Korea for the second time in the World Championships.
fectly fit. There is no question he has handled the personnel ning XI is no longer a given. number one player and was fol- World Table Tennis Champi- competition, losing 0-3. “In all likelihood, the men
of a player getting in despite
a niggle.
Rohit has faced available to him. For someone
who has been around for so
Changes have been made and
will be made. That the changes
lowed by Yuki Bhambri (60,
+1), N Sriram Balaji (80, -1),
onships here on Wednesday but
their performance, in all likeli-
The event offered Olympic
quotas to the quarterfinalists
and women have qualified for
the Olympics but we will have
The rigours of modern criticism but not long, captaincy has been easy. have worked is the good part. Vijay Sundar Prashanth (81, hood, will be enough to send but the men and women from to wait till March for official
cricket, be it white ball or red minded it. He knows, He has been a natural skipper, Looking at the Ranchi Test, +1), Saketh Myneni (89, +16) them to the Paris Olympics. India are likely to make the cut announcement,” said a Table
ball, is not easy to understand. though any comparison with home of MS Dhoni, there is and Anirudh Chandrasekar The Manika Batra-led wom- through their world rankings. Tennis Federation of India
Most important, anyone with this is a thankless his predecessors, Kohli and chatter over who will replace (94, -4). AGENCIES en’s team lost 1-3 to Chinese Tai- The final announcement (TTFI) official. AGENCIES
a mild injury or strain is being job. He has been MS Dhoni, would be purely Bumrah, Mukesh Kumar or
sent for rehab to the NCA in
Bengaluru. In such a backdrop, sincere and at the academic.
Dhoni was seen as a defen-
another newcomer like Akash
Deep. On Wednesday,. Akash Jaiswal breaks into top-20 of ICC Test Rankings
it is fantastic that skipper Rohit same time forceful sive captain in Tests, which is did impress with his pace and
Sharma has led with fair, feel pretty ridiculous, as he has won bounce but the final call will
and fluency. two ICC Trophies, in 2007 in not be taken in a hurry. Debutants Sarfaraz and Dhruv also entered in 75th and 100th positions
There was a grouse, Rohit cricket, are not there. the T20 format and the 2011 Indeed, Rohit and Rahul
was not scoring runs in Tests. Rohit has led well, as his ODI World Cup. Rohit came Dravid are open to experimen- DUBAI: Young India opener ond essay at Rajkot to contrib- climbed a rung to the second
He answered that as well in the Test record speak. In 14 Tests, close to success in 2023, before tation. It has bordered on bold Yashasvi Jaiswal on Wednes- ute in the home team’s massive position behind pace spear-
third Test in Rajkot with a ton. he has won eight, drawn two the Aussies were too good in and beautiful, so not only Bum- day broke into the top-20 of 434-run victory over England head Jasprit Bumrah.
A captain is not supposed to be and lost four. The next two Tests the ODI final last November. rah, one has to see if the skip- the ICC Test Rankings, rising that took them 2-1 up in the Jadeja and Ashwin contin-
scoring runs in every match, are important against England, Rohit has faced criticism per persists with Rajat Patidar. 14 spots to 15th in the batting series. Ravindra Jadeja, who ued to hold on to the first two
really. He is the leader and in who will be also under pres- but not minded it. He knows, He failed in two Tests in a row. charts after scoring back-to- was the player-of-the-match spots in the Test all-rounders
the current situation, has to sure for many reasons. The this is a thankless job. He has What has also been unique in back double centuries in the in Rajkot, also climbed up in rankings. Jadeja consolidated
play the role of a mentor to the good part about Rohit is he is been sincere and at the same this series is Tests being given ongoing series against England. the batting rankings from 41st his position among the all-
hilt. cool bloke, someone who may time forceful. Look at the quirk to centres which are not tradi- The 22-year-old left-hander to 34th position after his knock rounders, going from 416 to a
Three years ago, when be feeling hot under the collar of fate. Rohit lost captaincy of tional Test venues like Delhi, joined a select band of seven of 112 in the first innings, the career-best 469 rating points.
India were touring Australia, and yet does not show it out- Mumbai Indians in the IPL and Kolkata and Mumbai. So far, cricketers to score double cen- ICC said in a statement. India captain Rohit Sharma
Virat Kohli had taken a pater- wardly. His man-management the new skipper Hardik Pandya the Indian team has liked the turies in two consecutive Tests He also returned with a moved up one spot to 12th in
nity break. Ajinkya Rahane skills have been good, though is one rehab last three months new places and the newcomers including two Indians -- Vinod seven-wicket match haul that the batting list after scoring 131
was the stand-in captain and he does not go around publi- plus. Pandya is the butt of ridi- are coming in and delivering. Kambli and Virat Kohli. lifted him three places to sixth in the first innings at Rajkot,
did a great job in tandem with cising it. cule while Rohit stays focused. Ranchi will be interesting to Jaiswal scored 209 in India’s in the bowling rankings. Vet- while Shubman Gill (91) pro-
coach Ravi Shastri. Today, Rah- On the field, he is sharp To be sure, there is a change watch. What more tricks Rohit first innings in the second Test eran off-spinner Ravichandran gressed three places to 35th
ane and Cheteshwar Pujara, and shrewd and this series has in philosophy these days. The has rolled up in his sleeves will at Visakhapatnam and then hit Ashwin, who entered the elite after coming close to a century
two romantic relics of Indian offered finite pointers to how old concept of retaining a win- unfold from Friday. unbeaten 214 runs in the sec- Yashasvi Jaiswal 500 Test wicket club at Rajkot, in the second innings. AGENCIES

Leisure

Bhumi joins
‘Animal’ debate
The actor feels every filmmaker ‘should
have freedom of expression’

S andeep Reddy Vanga’s latest film ‘Animal’

has become a conversation starter, with
every viewer having a different opin-
ion about the Ranbir Kapoor-starrer. While

Triptii becomes a part

some find the film overly misogynistic and
violent, for others, it’s a complete entertainer.
Recently, Bhumi Pednekar watched the film
and shared her opinion on it. She said that

of ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’
though she isn’t a fan of ‘hyper-masculine
films’, she feels every filmmaker ‘should have
freedom of expression’.
Joining the debate on ‘Animal’, Bhumi said
while a film director can say whatever they
want to say through their film, it’s on the audi- ‘Welcome to the world of Bhool Bhulaiyaa,’ says Kartik

H
ence what they take away from it. On being
asked about her opinion on the film during ours after actor Kartik Aaryan
an interview with ‘Jist’, Bhumi said, “My genre teased a new ‘mystery girl’ for his He shared a series of posts
as an audience is not hyper-masculine films. upcoming film ‘Bhool Bhulai- teasing her entry into the
I get bored while watching them. My genre is yaa 3’, he unveiled his new co-star: Triptii
rom-com and romance. I enjoy this genre. I She said it’s on the audience Dimri. Taking to ‘Instagram’ on Wednes- horror comedy franchise
don’t understand action films.” day, Kartik posted a puzzle piece with a
However, she added, “I do feel every film- to decide from which film they woman’s face on it. Kept on a table with Sharing the picture, Kartik wrote, “Solve
maker has the right to self-expression, but want to draw inspiration candles, a lantern, a lock and a key, the kijiye iss Bhool Bhulaiyaa ko (Solve this
how the audience perceives that self-expres- cropped photo showed a girl smiling. A Bhool Bhulaiyaa).”
sion is where it becomes tricky. It’s a film- film. He is an anti-social element of society.” card near it had the film’s name on it. Reacting to the post, a fan said, “Well,
maker’s prerogative, but as an audience, it’s As per the ‘Dum Lag Ke Haisha’ star, it’s Finally revealing it is Triptii Dimri, last who needs Akshay Kumar when you have
also on us to see where we are leading with on the audience to decide from which film featured in Ranbir Kapoor-starrer ‘Ani- Triptii Dimri?” “Will Manjulika get Trip-
our society.” they want to draw inspiration, a ‘12th Fail’ or mal’ (2023), who will be seen in ‘Bhool tii this time?” asked a person. “Bhabhi 2
Bhumi also opined that Vanga never justi- ‘Animal’. “As a filmmaker, you need to have Bhulaiyaa 3’, Kartik posted on ‘Instagram’ in ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’,” read a comment.
fies the actions of Ranbir’s character Ranvijay: freedom of expression, but as an audience, we on Wednesday, “Welcome to the world of “Bhabhi 2’s entry in Rooh Baba’s ‘Bhool
“When I look at ‘Animal’, I look at a character need to understand that while watching ‘12th ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa’, TriptiI Dimri.” Bhulaiyaa’,” commented another ‘Insta-
who is the avatar of max toxic masculinity. I Fail’, you know you have to be like that person Kartik shared a series of posts teasing gram’ user.
am addressing the fact that I don’t want my and take inspiration from him similarly. You Triptii’s entry into the horror comedy fran- In another post, Kartik shared a photo
son to become that. I don’t think even the film- don’t have to take inspiration from that char- chise. One of the posts had a picture: “A and wrote, “Kaafi galat answers aa rahe
maker is justifying his action anywhere in the acter (Animal’s Ranvijay),” said Bhumi.AGENCIES chilling smile that instills terror in hearts.” hain.” AGENCIES

Austin Butler reveals ‘Dune 2’ set ‘became a microwave’

A ustin Butler endured
a challenging time
while filming ‘Dune:
Part 2’, battling extreme heat
and witnessing people pass-
ment Weekly’, as reported by
‘Variety’.
The 30-year-old actor
suffered through scorch-
ing temperatures of 110
He witnessed
people passing out
from heat stroke
match on Harkonnen’s home
planet was the first scene he
shot for ‘Dune 2’. In the scene,
he battles fighters to prove
he should be his uncle’s heir.
“I felt that because he grew
up with the Baron, the Baron
would be a big influence on
him in many ways,” Butler
said regarding his character.
ing out from heat stroke dur- degrees Fahrenheit (43.3°C) Additionally, Butler shared “So, then I started thinking
ing his first week on set. The while wearing a bald cap succumbed to heat stroke dur- that he was heavily focused about the way that he speaks
actor, who plays Feyd-Rautha between two sound stages. ing the first week of shooting, on Stellan Skarsgard’s vocal and that being linked to the
in the epic franchise, revealed He described the environ- creating a bonding experience performance in the original person that you see with the
the gruelling conditions in ment as a ‘microwave’ and for the entire crew. ‘Dune’ movie as it influenced most power from the time that
an interview with ‘Entertain- revealed that multiple people Feyd-Rautha’s gladiator his portrayal of Feyd-Rautha. you’re a child.” AGENCIES
mp millenniumpost
NEW DELHI 11
THURSDAY, 22 FEBRUARY, 2024

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE:
THE DRIVING FORCE IN LOGISTICS
The integration ing images and catching any issues.
“AI will also be used to make
of AI in logistics decisions. Companies will use AI
technology and software for data
not only enhances analytics and determine the best
way to ship their products without
efficiency but human intervention. For exam-
ple, if there is a shortage of trucks
also helps meet on a certain day due to inclement
weather, then AI can determine
sustainability which products need to be shipped
first so that customers are not left
goals and waiting for their orders,” mentioned

CEO
Flowspace, an ecommerce
saves costs AI
logistics and fulfillment
company.
According to
is like a Euronews, a Nor-
ANINDITA ACHARYA sion-making, leading to cost sav- not only makes
super inspector in wegian start-up

D
ings, improved efficiency, and safer things run called Aviant
o you know Amazon working conditions. For instance, smoother but warehouses, checking has expanded

SPEAKS
robots can lift up to AI-powered tools can automate also saves costs. its drone deliv-
1,250 pounds? With over repetitive tasks, such as inventory Did you know goods for defects ery service. These
750,000 of these mobile
robots in action, they’re equipped
management, and improve predic-
tive accuracy over time, adapting to
Zebra Technol-
ogies automa-
using smart visual drones can handle
harsh winter condi-
with tiny cameras to identify peo- changing market conditions,” said tion systems have inspections tions and deliver up to
ple, pods, and other robots. These Eugene Panfilov, General Manager, reduced the time 1.5kg of goods like medi-
FROM DATA TO DELIVERY: The AI cameras, both front and under-
neath, also scan QR codes on the
floor for precise navigation, pre-
Borzo India and Brazil.
In 2024, warehouse tech is on
the rise, changing how we handle
workers walk to complete
a task by 40 percent?
“Automation in logistics helps
cine, groceries, and meals
from local restaurants. Drones are
becoming useful for businesses to
Revolution in Logistics and Transportation venting collisions in the fulfill-
ment center. Their main job is to
help Amazon workers by fetching
goods. Intelligent machines, guided
by smart algorithms and AI, are
optimise vehicle trips, labour usage,
inventory levels, warehousing, and
reach places where ground trans-
port is difficult or not sustainable.
taking over transportation. Thanks supplier management. This will in AI is changing how back office
DR SANKU BOSE shelves of products. Once found, to advancements in tech like AI, turn, reduce wastage, drive efficien- work is done by automating tasks
tasks such as picking, packing, and the robots bring them to employ- sensors, and computing power, cies and support sustainability in like scheduling and tracking. In

T
sorting, reducing labour costs and ees who pack items for customer we’re seeing the boom of auton- logistics. In the long run, businesses logistics, chatbots are a game-
he logistics and transportation increasing throughput, showcasing orders. This speeds up deliveries omous vehicles. These vehicles can increase revenue at lower oper- changer for customer service, han-
sector is the very bedrock on the synergy between AI and human and makes inventory checks faster. aren’t just about efficiency. They’re ating costs, enhance customer dling things like delivery requests,
which modern society is built on. expertise in driving operational In recent years, the logistics a game-changer for cutting costs service and achieve their sustain- order changes, shipment tracking,
Modern logistics and transpor- excellence. industry has experienced a major in transportation and logistics. By ability goals,” mentioned TCS in its and FAQs. It makes work smoother
tation systems are the lifelines that sustain »» Zipline: Zipline is revolutionis- shift, driven by the booming growth ditching human drivers, compa- research on AI in logistics. and improves customer service.
our interconnected world. AI has emerged ing medical supply chain logistics of ecommerce since the 2000s. This nies can save big on labour costs for Thanks to technology, real-time “Routine and repetitive tasks
as a transformative force in this sector, with AI-powered drones delivering transformation is accelerating even wages, benefits, and rest periods. tracking has made things easier in such as route planning, vehicle
reshaping traditional paradigms and pro- life-saving supplies to remote areas, further thanks to rapid advance- In the future, AI and ML will transportation. AI-powered systems maintenance scheduling, and even
pelling the industry into a new era of effi- ensuring timely deliveries with intel- ments in Artificial Intelligence (AI). be big players in warehouses. They track where goods are, thus making autonomous driving in some cases,
ciency and innovation. From optimising ligent route planning and real-time These technological breakthroughs can process lots of data quickly, the supply chain work better. could see automation through AI
supply chain management to revolutionis- monitoring, transforming healthcare are reshaping the landscape of logis- giving real-time info on inven- AI is like a super inspector in technologies. This could impact
ing last-mile delivery, AI technologies are delivery paradigms. tics and transportation, ushering tory, demand, and the best layouts. warehouses, checking goods for jobs related to manual data entry,
tackling challenges in novel ways, ushering »» C.H. Robinson: C.H. Robinson is in a new era of efficiency and inno- With AI, decisions like when to defects using smart visual inspec- basic route navigation, and cer-
in disruptive changes and redefining the optimising freight transportation net- vation. From route optimisation, restock and the best routes for pick- tions. It ensures only top-quality tain administrative roles. How-
sector’s dynamics! works using AI algorithms to analyse inventory management, workforce ing orders can be automated. This products go to customers by analys- ever, it’s crucial to note that AI can
One of the primary problems AI is data, identify cost-saving opportuni- management, reduction of opera- also create new opportunities for
addressing is the optimisation of sup- ties, and optimise routes, providing tional costs, sustainability, efficient skilled workers in areas like AI sys-
ply chain operations. Traditional sup- tailored solutions to maximise opera- use of space to vehicle tracking and tem development, maintenance,
ply chain management often grapples tional performance and cost-effective- safety, AI is streamlining logistics and oversight. On the cost front,
with inefficiencies, such as overstocking, ness for customers. and transportation. According to a AI holds the ‘promise’ of signifi-
underutilised capacity, and unforeseen Indian companies are also actively par- McKinsey report, AI will create an cant savings for businesses in this
disruptions. However, AI-powered pre- ticipating in this AI-led revolution. Portea entirely new “logistics paradigm” sector. Automated route optimisa-
dictive analytics are revolutionising this Medical is harnessing AI to anticipate by 2030. tion, real-time tracking, and pre-
aspect by forecasting demand patterns, patient needs and streamline medication “In today’s logistics and trans- dictive maintenance can lead to
identifying potential bottlenecks, and deliveries, enhancing service efficiency portation landscape, the integration more efficient resource utilisation,
optimising inventory levels in real-time. and cost-effectiveness. Rivigo’s AI-driven of AI, ML, IoT, RFID, and other fuel savings, and reduced opera-
Companies like Amazon and Walmart predictive analytics are optimising truck- advanced technologies is revolu- tional downtime. The cost reduc-
are at the forefront of leveraging AI to ing routes, reducing fuel consumption, tionising supply chain manage- tion percentage will vary based on
enhance their supply chain efficiency, and bolstering reliability in India’s trucking ment. These technologies are not the extent of AI implementation
ensuring timely delivery and minimising industry. Delhivery is revolutionising last- just enhancing existing processes; and the specific processes involved,
operational costs. mile delivery with AI-powered routing they are fundamentally reshaping but studies suggest potential sav-
AI is revolutionising the logistics sec- algorithms, efficiently managing inven- the way goods move from source to ings can be in the range of 10% to
tor by enhancing route optimisation and tory and meeting e-commerce demands. destination. AI and ML play a cru- 30% in logistics operations. It will
fleet management. Delivery routes can Indian Railways is employing AI for real- cial role in optimising transporta- take some years till we see the ‘cost-
be dynamically adjusted based on real- time monitoring and predictive mainte- tion routes, automating warehouse savings’ potential of AI,” said Pan-
time traffic conditions, weather forecasts, nance, ensuring enhanced reliability across operations, and improving demand filov of Borzo, a global on-demand
and other relevant data points, leading its extensive freight network. Additionally, forecasting. They enable smart deci- delivery service firm.
to shorter delivery times and reduced Blue Dart is enhancing express logistics
fuel consumption. Companies like UPS efficiency in South Asia with AI, optimiz-
and FedEx have integrated AI-driven ing routes and improving on-time delivery
algorithms into their operations, result- performance through chatbots and predic-
ing in significant improvements in route tive analytics.
efficiency and customer satisfaction. This virtuous cycle of interlocked
Moreover, AI is revolutionising last-mile benefits through AI usage is also
delivery, which has long been a bottle- encouraging the incubation of new
neck in the logistics chain. Companies start-ups with innovative and disruptive
are experimenting with autonomous ideas. Some of them are: Canada has revamped rules for Post
vehicles and drones for delivering pack- »» Nuro: Specialising in autonomous
BUZZER ROUND
AROUND THE WORLD IN LEARNING

ages to customers’ doorsteps, bypassing delivery vehicles for last-mile logis- Graduation Work Permit for all master's
traffic congestion and reducing delivery tics, using AI for navigation in urban degree programmes
times. Amazon Prime Air and Alphabet’s environments.
Wing are pioneering the use of drone »» Einride: Developing electric and In 2025-26, students of Class 10 and 12
technology for last-mile delivery, show- autonomous freight vehicles, utilis- exams will have the option to appear for Q. When was Twitter invented?
casing the potential of AI-driven innova- ing AI and sensors for navigation and board exams twice
tions in transforming the final leg of the safety, aiming to reduce emissions in Send us your replies to
logistics journey. transportation. IIT Bombay will celebrate National Science careersmp22@gmail.com.
Another area where AI is making a »» Starship Technologies: Providing Day on February 28 to commemorate the
significant impact is in predictive mainte- autonomous delivery robots for local We shall publish the names of the first 3
nance. By analysing vast amounts of data urban deliveries, powered by AI for
discovery of ‘Raman Effect’
correct entries in next week’s edition
from sensors and IoT devices installed in sidewalk navigation and package IIM Lucknow achieved 100% placement
vehicles and equipment, AI algorithms delivery.
can predict potential equipment failures »» Locus Robotics: Offering autono- record, with the highest international
salary package of Rs 1.23 crore Answer to our February 15 edition question: Iranian Rial
before they occur, allowing for proactive mous mobile robots for warehouse
maintenance interventions and minimis- operations, optimising picking and Correct answers were sent by: Anjum Banu, Himadri Ghosh, Kaustav Mitra
ing costly downtime. For instance, com- packing processes with AI to improve BIMTECH HOSTED THE FOURTH
panies like DHL are utilising AI-powered efficiency.
predictive maintenance systems to ensure »» Robomart: Developing self-driving EDITION OF ITS BUSINESS
the reliability of their fleet and equip-
ment, ultimately enhancing overall oper-
ational efficiency.
Let us have a closer look at how some
grocery stores on wheels, utilising AI
for navigation, allowing customers to
shop directly from the vehicle via a
mobile app.
LITERATURE FESTIVAL IN 2024
NEWS & VIEWS
other companies are leveraging new AI
technologies:
The integration of AI into the logis-
tics and transportation sector is reshap- AI research hub in Maharashtra soon P M Narendra Modi
inaugurated the T he results of the Graduate Aptitude
Test in Engineering (GATE 2024) will
»» Maersk: Maersk is utilising AI to opti- ing the way goods are delivered, services newly-constructed be out on March 16, and you can download
mise container shipping, partnering are optimised, and businesses operate. OUR CORRESPONDENT signed a MoU to begin work on Academic Complex East your scorecards from March 23. The test
with tech firms like IBM to analyse With AI-driven innovations companies establishing the centre. The part- and Academic Complex happened on February 3, 4, 10, and 11 in
data, predict vessel arrivals, and opti-
mise routes, resulting in minimised
worldwide are revolutionizing traditional
practices, unlocking new efficiencies, and
delays, reduced fuel consumption, and driving unprecedented levels of reliability
T he University of Birming-
ham has partnered with
the Government of Maharash-
nership aims to develop a rich
environment of collaborative
research between the University
West at IIT Delhi’s Hauz
Khas campus through
video conferencing on
two sessions each day, morning (9:30 am to
12:30 pm) and afternoon (2:30 pm to 5:30
pm) at centers across the country. The
improved supply chain reliability. and customer satisfaction. As the indus- tra to set up a specialist research of Birmingham, and the state- Tuesday. This is the question papers had two parts: one
»» Uber Freight: Uber Freight is lever- try continues to embrace AI technolo- and innovation hub to tackle funded universities in the fields largest ever single-time with general aptitude questions and
aging AI to match carriers with ship- gies, the future promises even greater challenges in key state priority of AI and data science. There construction activity for the other with questions related to
pers in real-time, predicting market advancements, transforming the way we areas including agriculture and will also be opportunities for research and academic the candidates’ chosen subjects.
demand, optimising load assignments, move and connect in our increasingly healthcare, using Artificial Intel- PhD research. “The University purposes in the history Meanwhile, The Indian Institute
and adjusting pricing dynamically, interconnected world! ligence (AI). Shailendra Deolan- of Birmingham is a global ‘civic’ of IIT Delhi. The two of Science (IISc Bangalore) has
reducing inefficiencies and enhanc- The author is the Group CEO of Techno kar, Director, Higher Education, university and we’re committed academic complexes recently released Master
ing profitability for both carriers and India Group, a visionary and an educator. Department of Higher and Tech- to forging meaningful research have 200 faculty offices, Question Papers and
shippers. Beyond his corporate role, he is also a nical Education, Government partnerships in India that dem- 10 committee rooms Keys for several test
»» DHL: DHL is employing AI-powered mentor who guides students towards of Maharashtra and Professor onstrate our commitment to the and 13 conference papers on its official
robotics in warehouses to automate resilience and self-discovery Adam Tickell, Vice-Chancellor country as a strategic partner,” rooms. website.
of the University of Birmingham said Tickell.
 millenniumpost
12 NEW DELHI
THURSDAY, 22 FEBRUARY, 2024
mp

PROMPT ENGINEERING Session on

challenges

THE FUTURE SMART JOB

to judicial
independence held

Prompt engineering blends elements of art, coding, logic, and unique modifiers
OUR CORRESPONDENT
PROF (DR) SAIKAT MAITY Prompt engineering blends elements of respondents who reported using imagination and come up with fresh KOLKATA: Xavier Law

T
of art, coding, logic, and, occasion- AI claim their companies have rules methods to ask questions or give School, St Xavier’s Univer-
he process of creating excel- ally, unique modifiers. The prompt in place controlling how workers directions. You must be able to think sity, Kolkata, hosted a ses-
lent prompts that direct may contain text in the form of natu- utilise generative AI technologies at of several strategies and test them. sion on the ‘challenges to
machine learning (ML) ral language, graphics, or other input work. When we questioned specifi- Analysis and assessment abili- the judicial independence in
models to generate precise data kinds. While natural language cally about the risks associated with ties: To study the model’s output and contemporary India’. Justice
results is known as prompt engineer- questions can be processed by the implementing gen AI, only a few assess the calibre of the responses, Indra Prasanna Mukherji of
ing. It entails picking the right kind most popular generative AI tech- respondents said their organisations you’ll need the appropriate resources. the High Court of Calcutta
of prompts, arranging and arranging nologies, different AI services and are reducing the risk of inaccuracy, Linguistic knowledge: To for- graced the occasion as the
them in the best possible order, and tools will probably produce differ- which is the most frequently men- mulate instructions and questions chief guest.
assessing how relevant they are to ent results for the same prompt. It’s tioned danger. Inaccuracy is men- effectively, you must be fluent in The session delved into
the work at hand. People in a variety also crucial to remember that every tioned by respondents more often grammar, syntax, and semantics. the significant role played
of positions, such as data scientists, tool includes unique modifiers that than cybersecurity and regulatory Furthermore, he or she needs to by the judiciary as an essen-
marketers, educators, journalists, make it simpler to explain the compliance, which were the two be able to comprehend how words tial organ of the government
authors, corporate executives, and layout, perspectives, styles, most often mentioned risks associ- and language constructions influ- task with the interpretation
entrepreneurs, might benefit from
prompt engineering. People can
word weights, and other
characteristics of the MORGAN ated with AI overall in earlier polls.
Comparably, only 32% of respon-
ence the model’s reactions. You
ought to have some technical
of laws and the administra-
tion of justice. Emphasis was
acquire vital skills, enhance perfor- intended answer. STANLEY dents believe they are limiting inac- training as a philologist. placed on the pivotal respon-
mance in their fields, and obtain a Let us examine curacy, compared to 38% who say Basic knowledge of program- sibility of judges in uphold-
competitive edge in the labour mar- the banking sector as plans to launch an bank using gener- three-quarters of all respondents they are mitigating cybersecurity ming: You should be able to modify ing justice. The lectures
ket by studying quick engineering. a single illustration AI assistant utilising ative AI. Respon- expect gen AI to cause significant threats. It’s interesting to note that and alter commands as necessary. stressed the judges should
One artificial intelligence (AI) engi- of quick engineering’s dents across or disruptive change in the nature the percentage below is far lower Proficiency in teamwork and sway back and forth like
neering technique that accomplishes potential utility. Gen- GPT-4 in Sept regions, industries, of their industry’s competition in than the 51% of respondents who feedback: You will usually be work- the pendulum maintaining
several goals is prompt engineering.
It includes honing input to different
erative AI offers banks a
lot of benefits. According
2023 and seniority levels
say they are already
the next three years. Survey respon-
dents working in the technology
said they mitigated cybersecurity
linked to AI last year. In general, as
ing in multidisciplinary teams.
Despite being a relatively young
equilibrium in the pursuit
of justice. Justice Mukherji
generative AI services so that they to McKinsey, generative AI using generative AI tools. and financial-services industries are has been observed in prior years, profession, quick engineering is in underscored the importance
produce text or graphics, as well as technologies might generate value Based on McKinsey’s most the most likely to expect disruptive the majority of participants state high demand now and is expected of safeguards that insulate
the process of fine-tuning large lan- via higher productivity of up to 4.7% recent AI survey, companies are change from gen AI. that their companies are not taking to continue to develop in the years judges from external pres-
guage models, or LLMs, with partic- of yearly industrial revenues. That’s starting to modify their employ- Some popular Prompt Engi- AI-related risks seriously. to come. sure. The appointment pro-
ular prompts and suggested outputs. an additional over $340 billion ment procedures to align with neering Techniques are not limited To do your job well, you need to In the coming years, prompt cedure of judges, the privacy
Prompt engineering will be crucial in annually. Banks can benefit from their goals for generative AI. This to Chain-of-thought prompting, be able to combine technical and cre- engineering is probably going to be of the judiciary as supported
producing various types of content, prompt engineering’s assistance in involves appointing engineers on Tree-of-thought prompting, Maieu- ative abilities. These are the most sig- a more popular job category, but by the Constitution and
such as robotic process automation realising this value. time. The survey reveals two sig- tic prompting, Complexity-based nificant of them: companies also anticipate reskilling the landmark judges’ case
bots, 3D assets, scripts, robot instruc- Morgan Stanley plans to launch nificant changes. First, roles in prompting, Generated knowledge Knowledge of language models: their current workforce in artificial were discussed as protective
tions, and other kinds of content an AI assistant utilising GPT-4 in prompt engineering are being hired prompting, Least-to-most prompt- This entails being familiar with the intelligence. Only 8% of respon- mechanisms.
and digital artefacts, as generative AI September 2023. The assistant’s by organisations utilising AI: 7% ing, Self-refine prompting, and last features, architecture, and technical dents who reported their compa- Meanwhile, Xavier Busi-
technologies advance. primary function is to aid tens of of respondents whose organisa- but not least Directional-stimulus specifications of the particular model nies’ use of AI believe that the size of ness School hosted HR con-
Using a specific data set and zero- thousands of wealth managers in tions have embraced AI indicated prompting. you are working on. their workforces will reduce by more clave 2024 recently at the
shot learning instances, this AI engi- efficiently locating and combin- that they are hiring in this category. Comprehending the task and its than a fifth, while nearly 40% of university campus in asso-
neering technique helps fine-tune ing vast quantities of data from the Secondly, companies utilising AI SOME POTENTIAL RISKS context: It’s critical to comprehend respondents who reported AI adop- ciation with IIDR, Kolkata
LLMs for particular use cases. It also company’s internal knowledge base. are employing many fewer software FROM GEN AI the particular task or issue that the tion expect more than a fifth of their chapter. Rev Dr John Felix
measures and enhances LLM perfor- The model allows wealth manag- developers with experience in AI prompt is being optimised for. The workforces to be reskilled. Raj, SJ Vice-Chancellor, St
mance. However, there are signifi- ers to find and customise informa- than they were in 2022: The per- According to a recent survey of domain and context in which the The author is the professor, Xavier’s University, Kolkata,
cantly more people using the current tion for each customer at any time by centage of companies that reported the market, few businesses appear language model will be used must Department of CSE, Sister Nivedita emphasised on quality edu-
tools than developers are working combining search and content pro- hiring for these positions was 28%, to be completely ready for the wide- also be well understood by you. University. He was formerly associated cation towards forming men
on new ones, and prompt engineer- duction. A virtual specialist in envi- compared to 39% the previous year. spread application of advanced AI Innovation and original with TransStadia Education and and women for others and
ing for various generative AI tools ronmental, social, and governance In these early days, expecta- and the potential business dangers thought: To receive more specific Research Foundation Ahmedabad, leaders of tomorrow.
tends to be a more common use case. issues was created by a European tions for gen AI’s impact are high: these tools may provide. Only 21% and pertinent responses, use your Gujarat as programme director.