Category: SPECIAL

Former MP CM Uma Bharti proposes to give one cow to each ‘Ladli Behna’ scheme beneficiary

Bhopal, Oct 29 (IANS) Veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Uma Bharti said on Wednesday that cow conservation and alcohol prohibition should be linked together to promote cow milk consumption across the state.

BJP leader Bharti noted that she would run a campaign in the state to encourage people to drink cow milk instead of consuming alcohol.

She asserted that the decision will encourage people for rearing cows following which milk production will already increase.

She made this statement during a programme – ‘Gau Samvardhan’ (Cow Conservation) in Bhopal.

The event was organised by an NGO know as Maa Beti Bai Foundation.

“We will run a campaign to encourage people for cow conservation and discourage them for consuming alcohol. We have to increase the number of cows in every home in the state,” BJP leader Bharti said while talking to media persons after participating in the event.

Meanwhile, she also proposed that the state government should provide at least one cow to every Ladli Behna scheme beneficiaries in Madhya Pradesh.

“The step (providing cows) to the beneficiaries of Ladli Behna scheme will help to increase their income from Rs 3,000 to Rs 8,000-10,000 per month. And they would become self-reliant,” BJP leader Bharti said.

Highlighting the importance of expanding cattle resources, she noted that the current cow population in India stands at nearly one for every seven people.

Meanwhile, BJP leader Bharti also praised Chief Minister Mohan Yadav for his efforts to promote animal husbandry to boost milk production and ensure financial benefits for farmers.

–IANS

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National Unity Day: Inmates at Rajasthan’s Shyalwas Jail create map of India

Jaipur, Oct 29 (IANS) In a remarkable display of patriotism and solidarity, inmates of the Special Central Jail, Shyalwas, commemorated National Unity Day and the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel by creating a giant map of India inside the jail premises on Wednesday.

Inspired by Jail Superintendent Paras Jangid and guided by Jailer Vikas Bagoria, more than 400 inmates participated in the initiative.

They formed a large map of India on the open grounds of the jail and sat around it in an organised manner, symbolising the spirit of national unity and integrity.

The centrepiece of the event was a symbolic statue of Sardar Patel, placed in the heart of the map — a creative homage to the Statue of Unity.

This artistic tribute became the main attraction of the event, reflecting the inmates’ respect for the Iron Man of India.

Patriotic slogans echoed through the jail as the atmosphere was filled with patriotic fervour. Inmates waved Tricolour flags and raised slogans such as “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” “Vande Mataram,” “National Unity Zindabad,” and “Hum Sab Ek Hain.”

The giant map was created under the leadership of inmate Sandeep Gupta, with the assistance of Vikas Sharma, Mahesh, Nitin, Dinesh, Rajesh Murtikar, Ramprasad, and Praveen Saini, among others.

The event concluded with the collective singing of the national anthem, a powerful gesture symbolising unity and patriotism.

The initiative aimed to instil Sardar Patel’s ideals of unity, integrity, and brotherhood among the inmates, reminding them that national pride and collective strength transcend all barriers.

–IANS

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MP to celebrate 70th Foundation Day as ‘Abhyudaya Madhya Pradesh’

Bhopal, Oct 29 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh is set to mark its 70th Foundation Day with a grand three-day celebration titled ‘Abhyudaya Madhya Pradesh’ from November 1 to 3, 2025, at Lal Parade Ground in Bhopal.

The state government has declared November 1 as a public holiday to encourage widespread participation in the festivities, which will showcase the state’s cultural, economic, and social journey.

Led by Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav, this year’s theme—“Year of Industry and Employment”—highlights Madhya Pradesh’s developmental strides and commitment to inclusive growth. Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu and Union Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal will also participate as chief guests.

Addressing a press conference, Minister of State for Culture and Tourism Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi said that the celebration is a collaborative effort reflecting the state’s heritage, progress, and public spirit. He announced that every district will host parallel events, ensuring grassroots participation from schools, colleges, and local artists.

The main ceremony will begin daily at 6:30 p.m., starting with a 2,000-drone show on November 1, illustrating the theme “From Heritage to Development.” This will be followed by “Vishwavand – The Musical Journey of Shri Krishna” performed by 500 artists, and a light music concert by Jubin Nautiyal, capped with a fireworks display.

On November 2, the Vishala Cultural Committee of Ujjain will stage the epic play ‘Samrat Vikramaditya’, followed by a performance by Hansraj Raghuvanshi. Due to public demand, the play will be repeated on November 3, concluding with a concert by Sneha Shankar.

The festival will also feature the “One District – One Product” crafts fair, “Swad” indigenous cuisine fair, and exhibitions on Developed Madhya Pradesh 2047, Temples of Devlok, and Development through Heritage.

Tribal and folk dances like Karma, Bhagoria, Badhai, and Gangaur will be performed on November 2 and 3 from 3 p.m. onwards. Cultural processions will be held on October 30 and 31, including a special parade.

–IANS

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‘I am not done’: Kamala Harris on possible US Presidential bid again

Washington, Oct 26 (IANS) Former Vice-President Kamala Harris has hinted that she could make another bid for the White House, saying she would “possibly” be President one day and expressed confidence that America will see a woman in the Oval Office in the future.

“I am not done,” the former Vice-President said in an interview to the BBC.

“I have lived my entire career as a life of service and it’s in my bones,” she added.

Harris marked her clearest indication yet that she might launch another Presidential campaign in 2028, following her 2024 defeat to now-President Donald Trump, during an interview with the BBC which would be aired on Sunday.

Reflecting on the possibility of running again, Harris told the BBC that her grandnieces would “in their lifetime, for sure” see a woman President.

“Possibly,” Harris said, when asked whether that woman could be her, confirming that she is still weighing her political future.

Harris however, emphasised that she has not made a final decision but continues to view herself as an active player in US politics.

Addressing polls that place her behind others for the Democratic ticket, the former Vice-President said that she pays little attention to such numbers, saying, “If I listened to polls I would have not run for my first office, or my second office — and I certainly wouldn’t be sitting here.”

She has recently given a series of interviews following the September release of her book, “107 Days”.

It looks back on her experience replacing the then-President Joe Biden as the 2024 Democratic Presidential nominee after he dropped out of the race.

Meanwhile, political jockeying among Democrats for the 2028 presidential contest appears to be playing out even earlier than usual.

Several potential candidates are already taking steps to get to know voters in key states, including California Governor Gavin Newsom, term-limited Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and California Representative Ro Khanna.

As the Democratic party searches for answers about Republican Donald Trump’s decisive victory one year ago, much of the blame has been directed at former President Joe Biden for not standing down sooner.

But there have also been questions raised about whether Harris could have run a better campaign and set out a clearer message on the number one issue, the economy.

The White House was dismissive when asked for a response to Harris’s comments about President Trump.

“When Kamala Harris lost the election in a landslide, she should’ve taken the hint – the American people don’t care about her absurd lies,” said spokeswoman Abigail Jackson.

“Or maybe she did take the hint and that’s why she’s continuing to air her grievances to foreign publications.”

–IANS

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Indian Ambassador to US extends Diwali greetings to citizens, diaspora

Washington, Oct 26 (IANS) Indian Ambassador to the US, Vinay Kwatra, spoke exclusively to IANS, extending Diwali wishes to Indian citizens and members of the diaspora community.

He made the remarks on Saturday during a special Diwali celebration hosted at his residence for members of the Indian diaspora in Washington, DC.

“It gives me great pleasure, on my behalf and on my Embassy’s behalf, to wish everybody a very, very warm, healthy, prosperous Diwali. At the onset of festive season, it’s a great time of the year and should bring the best of blessings, health, prosperity to you and your family members and your loved ones,” he told IANS.

Earlier, Ambassador Kwatra addressed the diaspora members and praised the community’s positive role in strengthening the India-US relationship.

On Thursday, Ambassador Kwatra took part in Diwali celebrations at the World Bank, accompanied by members of the Indian community in Washington, DC.

He posted on X, “Celebrated Diwali with friends of India at the World Bank. It is always a delight to join in celebrations with the strong community of Indian and Indian origin diaspora who work at the World Bank and IMF.”

The special gathering was also attended by World Bank President Ajay Banga and other leading members of the diaspora.

On Tuesday, Ambassador Kwatra attended a special Diwali event at the White House where US President Donald Trump extended his “warmest wishes to the people of India”.

Trump lit the diya in the Oval Office, calling it “a symbol of faith in the victory of light over darkness”.

The Indian Ambassador thanked President Trump for opening up the White House to mark the festival of Diwali.

“You are showcasing the strength of diversity through this celebration. So, it’s truly a great honour. On behalf of my Prime Minister and my own behalf, wish you and your loved ones a very, very happy Diwali greetings, particularly to over five million-strong Indian diaspora in the US and I close by making a wish, which is only we do for Diwali. We wish that the light of Diwali continues to shine on your success and on the strength of India,” he noted.

The White House event was also attended by the new US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, FBI Director Kash Patel and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard.

Leading business leaders from the Indian diaspora were also part of the celebrations.

Ambassador Kwatra later posted on X, “Deeply honoured to join President Donald J. Trump at the White House today to celebrate Diwali. Wished him on behalf of Prime Minister @narendramodi a Happy Diwali and thanked him for this beautiful gesture.”

–IANS

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Hanshika and Sarika win silver medals; Indian women’s team becomes champion of U-23 Senior World Wrestling C’ship

Novi Sad (Serbia), Oct 26 (IANS) Hanshika Lamba (53 kg) and Sarika (59 kg) won silver medals in their respective weight categories as both wrestlers reached the finals but lost to Japanese opponents in the U-23 Senior World Wrestling Championship at Novi Sad, Serbia.

The two silver medals ensured that the Indian women’s team, giving a great performance in the event, became the overall champions. The team had won five bronze medals on Friday.

With their strong performances, the Indian women’s wrestling team won the overall champion trophy of the 2025 Under-23 World Championship by scoring 125 points. The USA finished second with 102 points, and Japan came third with 92 points.

Indian women wrestlers delivered an outstanding performance by winning five bronze medals in their respective weight categories. The medals were won by Nishu (55 kg), Neha Sharma (57 kg), Pulkit (65 kg), Shrishti (68 kg), and Priya (76 kg).

“This is a proud moment for Indian wrestling and shows the hard work and talent of our young women wrestlers,” said Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) President Sanjay Singh in a release on Saturday.

Earlier on Tuesday, India’s Vishvajit More, competing in the 55 kg Greco-Roman category, brought glory to the nation by winning the bronze medal at the Under-23 Senior World Wrestling Championship being held in Novi Sad, Serbia.

In the bronze medal bout, Vishvajit displayed exceptional skills and determination to defeat the Kazakh wrestler with a close 5–4 scoreline, securing India’s first medal in the championship.

India has put up a strong contingent in the ongoing Under-23 Senior World Wrestling Championship, with strong competitors in the Greco-Roman, Women’s section, and men’s freestyle sections. The Men’s freestyle competitions will be held next in the event.

–IANS

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Andhra bus tragedy: Bike was lying on road after hitting divider, says police

Kurnool (Andhra Pradesh), Oct 25 (IANS) The motorcycle, which became the cause of the deadly bus fire that killed 19 passengers, was lying on the road as the man riding it and the pillion-rider had met with an accident before the bus passed through the spot, police said on Saturday.

The police concluded after questioning Erriswamy alias Nani, the pillion rider who had fled the scene after surviving the crash with minor injuries.

Shiva Shankar, who was riding the bike, died on the spot after the two-wheeler skidded and rammed into the road divider.

Kurnool district Superintendent of Police Vikrant Patil said Erriswamy told the police that he pulled Shiva Shankar to the roadside and was about to move the bike lying in the middle of the road when the speeding bus hit the bike and dragged it some distance.

As the fire engulfed the bus, he panicked and fled the scene and went to his native village, Tuggali.

Police identified Erriswamy after scanning the CCTV footage from a petrol pump, where the duo refuelled the bike around 2.24 a.m. The footage indicates that Shiva Shankar was under the influence of alcohol, and at one point, it appeared that the bike may skid.

The two friends had left Lakshmipuram village around 2 a.m. on a Pulsar bike for Dhone town in Nandyal district. After refuelling the bike, when they reached Chinnatekur on the outskirts of Kurnool, Shiva Shankar lost control of the bike and hit the divider. Shiva Shankar died on the spot, while Erriswamy escaped with minor injuries.

The private bus, which was carrying 44 passengers and was on its way to Bengaluru from Hyderabad, met with the ghastly accident near Chinnatekur village on the outskirts of Kurnool between 3-3.15 a.m.

While 19 passengers, including two children, were charred to death, 27 passengers, including both drivers, escaped by breaking glass windows.

Preliminary investigation suggests that as the motorcycle got stuck under the bus’s belly, the friction and fuel leakage from the bike ignited the massive fire.

However, the cause of the accident had remained a mystery. Shiva Shankar’s body was found about 200 metres away from the spot where the bus caught fire. It was not clear if the bus hit the motorcycle or the motorcycle rammed into the bus.

Police had taken both bus drivers into custody. The bus driver who was at the wheel had told police that the motorcycle was lying on the road and that the bus had hit and dragged it some distance.

Erriswamy’s statement has validated the bus driver’s statement. The driver apparently failed to notice the motorcycle lying on the road due to the darkness.

The bus driver, however, is facing charges of negligent driving leading to the huge tragedy. The police were continuing the investigation to ascertain if the bus was being driven at a very high speed.

–IANS

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Rahul Gandhi’s presence motivated everyone else to visit IPS officer’s family: Ajay Rai

New Delhi, Oct 14 (IANS) Reacting to Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi’s visit to the residence of Haryana IPS officer Y. Puran Kumar, who committed suicide, Congress leader Ajay Rai on Tuesday said Gandhi’s presence had a ripple effect.

“Our leader, Rahul Gandhi, visited the site and met everyone, offering his full support and cooperation. Rahul Gandhi, a leader who stands firm like a rock, inspired others. His presence motivated everyone else to go as well,” Rai said, highlighting Gandhi’s impact during a sensitive and tragic moment.

Rai said this as Rahul Gandhi’s meeting with the family was followed by a visit from Union Minister Chirag Paswan.

Earlier in the day, Rahul Gandhi met with the family of IPS officer Y. Puran Kumar, who committed suicide on October 7 in Chandigarh. The officer, a Dalit, had reportedly faced systemic caste-based discrimination throughout his career.

Gandhi described the situation as a “tragedy” and demanded immediate action from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini.

“The Haryana CM assured the family that justice would be done, but three days have passed and no action has been taken,” Gandhi said. “Y. Puran Kumar has two daughters who have lost their father and are under immense pressure. It sends a wrong message to crores of Dalits that no matter how successful or intelligent you are, you can be suppressed.”

Calling the discrimination against the officer “systematic and deliberate,” Gandhi alleged that certain officers actively worked to destroy Kumar’s career and reputation over the years.

“The couple is Dalit, and it is clear that there was systematic discrimination for years to demoralise this officer,” he stated.

Hours after Haryana DGP Shatrujeet Kapur was sent on leave amid the controversy surrounding Puran Kumar’s suicide, Om Parkash Singh was given additional charge of the Director General of Police. The government had sent State DGP Kapur on leave amid the demand of Kumar’s family for action against him and other officers for harassing him (Puran Kumar).

–IANS

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Infosys wins UK NHS contract worth 1.2 billion pounds to modernise workforce solution

Bengaluru, Oct 14 (IANS) IT bellwether Infosys on Tuesday said it has awarded a 1.2 billion pounds, 15-year contract by the UK’s NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA) to deliver the Future NHS Workforce Solution in England and Wales.

Infosys said it will develop a cutting-edge, data-driven workforce management solution that will replace the current Electronic Staff Record (ESR) system and continue to pay 1.9 million NHS employees in England and Wales over 55 billion pounds in payroll annually.

“Delivering the Future NHS Workforce Solution is a critical step in supporting the ambitions of the 10-Year Health Plan. The solution will go far beyond simply replacing ESR — it will be a strategic enabler for building a workforce that is fit for the future,” said Michael Brodie, Chief Executive, NHSBSA.

By working with Infosys, “we’re creating a modern, data-driven solution that will help the NHS better attract, retain and support its people”, he added.

Following a rigorous procurement process, Infosys was chosen for its proven track record in delivering large-scale digital transformation programs, its innovative approach to user-centric design, and its commitment to operational excellence.

The Future NHS Workforce Solution supports the NHS 10-year Health Plan and the mission to create a workforce that is fit for the future.

Powered by advanced technologies, the new solution will deliver a modern, flexible, and integrated platform that supports the entire employee lifecycle – from recruitment and onboarding to payroll, career development, and retirement.

Salil Parekh, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Infosys said, “The NHS is a cornerstone of life in the UK providing vital services that touch the lives of millions every day.

“We are honoured to be chosen by the NHSBSA to deliver generational change for employees of the NHS in England and Wales through the Future Workforce Solution,” he mentioned.

“With our extensive experience in delivering digital transformation and organizational change for global entities, combined with elements of our AI offering – Infosys Topaz, we will deliver a platform that not only drives efficiency today but empowers the NHS to elevate it’s invaluable work into the future,” Parekh noted.

The NHSBSA is an arm’s length body of the Department of Health and Social Care and provides a range of critical central services to NHS organisations, NHS contractors, patients and the public.

–IANS

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