News Analysis India

Category: Nation

  • NEET Success Story: Meet Prerna Singh, Auto Driver’s Daughter Who Survived On Single Roti, Cracked NEET Exam With Score Of… |

    New Delhi: The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) stands as one of the country’s most challenging college entrance exams, serving as a prerequisite for those aspiring to pursue MBBS in India. However, the narrative of NEET aspirant Prerna Singh is undeniably inspirational.

    Having achieved a remarkable score of 686 out of 720 in the NEET UG examination, Prerna Singh secured her admission to one of India’s top government medical colleges, a feat that brought immense pride to her family and paved the way for a brighter future.

    Despite her outstanding performance in the medical entrance exam, Prerna Singh confronted her own set of adversities. Hailing from Kota, Rajasthan, the 20-year-old faced the sudden demise of her father, who was the sole breadwinner as an auto-rickshaw driver. This unfortunate event thrust the responsibility of providing for the family onto Prerna’s shoulders.

    Compounding the challenges, Prerna and her mother were burdened with a Rs 27 lakh loan, a financial strain they had to navigate without a steady income. Struggling with limited resources, Prerna often studied on an empty stomach, sustaining herself with just one meal a day—consisting of a single roti and chutney.

    Undeterred by these hardships, Prerna committed herself to 12 hours of daily study, thanks in part to financial support from relatives who lent her money for NEET coaching. Her mother, in the face of financial constraints, secured loans for her children’s education and grappled with an existing home loan.

    The collective efforts of Prerna’s family, coupled with the academic achievements of her siblings, are poised to transform Prerna Singh into a doctor. Despite financial challenges and the loss of her father, Prerna’s commitment to education has positioned her to enroll in a government medical college, a notable achievement celebrated by her family.

    The news of Prerna’s success in the NEET examination brought joy and elation to her family, as she is now on the path to join a premier medical institute in India, quite possibly an AIIMS branch.

  • Weather Update: Delhi NCR Reels Under Cold Wave, Dense Fog, Orange Alert Issued

    As per IMD, the maximum temperature in Delhi today is expected to be around 18 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature is likely to hover around 5 degrees Celsius.

  • Mamata Banerjee Announces Holiday On Prakash Purab In Bengal; Will It Benefit TMC?

    West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee said that the decision is Bengal government’s tribute to Guru Gobind Singh ji.

  • With Development Work And ‘Ram Jyoti’ Appeal, PM Modi Tries To Strike A Chord With ‘Unfavourable’ Kerala Voters |

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi today addressed a gathering in Kerala’s Kochi where he lauded the people of the state for celebrating ‘Ramayan Masam’ and urged people to light ‘Ram Jyoti’ on January 22. “Shri Rama Jyoti should be lit in all houses and temples during the Dhanya Muhurta of Prana Pratishtha in Ayodhya. This message should be conveyed to all,” urged PM Modi to the people. He also asked party workers to focus on their booth saying that every booth is important. PM Modi urged the party workers to conduct contact activities with people and made them aware of the BJP government’s scheme. He also asked all Shaktikendra workers to use the Namo application to get accurate awareness of central schemes. 

    Kerala, once a Congress stronghold, has shifted towards the Left for the last 10 years. The BJP is focussing on ‘development, welfare, and security’ issues to woo the voters. The BJP is already making ground among voters with PM Modi’s roadshows and events. PM Modi recently led a roadshow and a women’s rally in Thrissur on January 3. He also addressed the Nari Shakthi (Women’s Power) conference which was attended by thousands of women.

    Focus On Key Lok Sabha Seats

    The Kerala BJP is focussing on key Lok Sabah seats where its vote share has increased over time. Over the past three Lok Sabha elections of Thiruvananthapuram, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has demonstrated its growing strength as a formidable contender. In the 2009 election, the BJP’s candidate PK Krishna Das secured a notable vote share of 11.40 per cent. Subsequently, in 2014, O Rajagopal significantly increased the party’s influence, garnering 32.32 per cent of the votes. Although there was a slight dip in electoral support in 2019, with Kummanam Rajasekharan achieving a vote share of 31.30 per cent, the BJP continued to establish itself as a robust opponent in the region.

    The Pathanamthitta Lok Sabha seat, which saw agitations related to the Sabarimala temple, is again the focus of the BJP. The party’s vote share in this seat had increased from 7.06 per cent in 2009 to 15.95 per cent in 2014 and to 28.97 per cent in 2019. The BJP is also focussing on the Thrissur and Attingal seats.

    BJP Customising Its Kerala Strategy

    The BJP is customising itself in the state which has a significant number of Christian voters. Shifting away from the traditional strategy of catering primarily to the Hindu community, the BJP is now focusing on the electoral potential within the Christian population in Kerala. The state presents a complex religious demographic scenario, posing a unique challenge for the BJP in its electoral endeavours. Among the 33.4 million inhabitants in Kerala, Christians constitute approximately 18 per cent of the population, while Muslims make up 26 per cent.

    Since the Muslim community in the state largely votes for either Congress or the Left, the BJP is looking to woo Christian voters who are not adverse to the party. Modi’s decision to visit Sacred Heart’s College went beyond merely trying to shape the perspectives of young individuals. It also aimed to portray the BJP as an inclusive party that embraces Christians and genuinely seeks the welfare of the community.

    The BJP’s endeavours to establish a foothold in Kerala politics are showing tangible outcomes, as reflected in the increasing votes and endorsement from influential church figures. Another noteworthy development is the resignation of Johnny Nellore, the vice-chairman of the Kerala Congress, who has declared the formation of a new political party with backing from the Church, purportedly supported by the BJP. Also, by visiting the popular temples, PM Modi has maintained his devotion towards the religion. This will also help woo the Hindu voters. Thus, if the BJP manages to carve out a space for itself among the Hindu and Christian voters, its path will become easier. 

    Development Plank

    PM Modi is presenting the BJP as a party known for carrying out development work. The introduction of the Vande Bharat Express and India’s first Water Metro Service in Kochi is part of a strategic plan. Even today, when the Prime Minister visited Kerala, he inaugurated projects worth over Rs 4000 crore in Kerala’s Kochi. The three major infrastructure projects inaugurated by the Prime Minister included the New Dry Dock (NDD) at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL); the International Ship Repair Facility (ISRF) of CSL; and the LPG Import Terminal of Indian Oil Corporation Limited at Puthuvypeen, Kochi.

    Highlighting the new infrastructure initiatives inaugurated today, the Prime Minister said the Central Government is working to increase the capacity of coastal cities like Kochi. He further asserted that Kochi is set to be the next ship-building hub of the nation. This will send a signal to the youth of the state that they will get better opportunities within the state instead of migrating to other places.

  • BREAKING: Seat-Sharing In INDIA Bloc Will Take Time, Says RJD Supremo Lalu Yadav |

    NEW DELHI: Former Bihar Chief Minister and RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav on Wednesday said that the process of reaching an agreement on seat-sharing within the opposition INDIA bloc is a time-consuming task. He also dispelled rumours of a discord with Janata Dal-United president and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Speaking to reporters, Lalu stated, “Seat sharing does not happen so quickly in an alliance… it will take time.”

     

    Patna, Bihar | RJD chief Lalu Yadav says “Seat sharing does not happen so quickly in an alliance…. I will not go to Ayodhya to attend the pran pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Temple” pic.twitter.com/lvzN7hogQM
    — ANI (@ANI) January 17, 2024

     

    Lalu Declines Ayodhya’s Ram Temple Invite

    Simultaneously, the veteran Bihar politician declined an invitation to attend the Ram Temple Pran Pratistha ceremony scheduled for January 22 in Ayodhya. Clarifying his decision, Lalu told reporters, “I will not go to Ayodhya to attend the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Temple.” Lalu further said that he would go to Ayodhya for a ‘darshan’ of Ram Lalla. He also said that he would write a letter to Ram Temple Trust member Champat Rai, explaining the reason for not coming to attend the ceremony. 

    INDIA Allies Grapple With Seat-Sharing Consensus

    Despite numerous rounds of discussions, INDIA allies continue to grapple with the challenge of reaching a consensus on seat-sharing for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. The ongoing struggle further intensified with Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar declining the offer to become the convener of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA).

    Growing Discord Within INDIA Bloc

    The Janata Dal (United) has expressed disappointment over the bloc’s failure to finalize seat-sharing arrangements and strategize for the upcoming parliamentary polls. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge emerged as the consensus chairperson, but West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee opposed Nitish Kumar’s candidature as convener.

    Seat-sharing talks in Bihar among the ruling coalition members faced hurdles over differences in seat adjustment and allotment. JD(U), Congress, and the Left parties, particularly CPI-ML (Liberation), played hardball during the negotiations.

    Kumar’s Strategic Move: Refusal To Become Convener Raises Stakes

    Despite being offered the post, JD(U) chief Kumar declined to become the convener of INDIA, reinforcing his commitment to not taking up any post in the coalition. This strategic move by Kumar keeps opposition parties guessing about his next steps, adding complexity to the ongoing political dynamics.

    Kumar’s refusal to become convener is anticipated to elevate his stature in Bihar politics. As a key figure in the state’s triangular politics, involving the RJD, BJP, and JD(U), Kumar’s decision provides him with multiple strategic options. The upcoming weeks are deemed crucial in Bihar politics, with all parties striving to align their equations effectively, according to political analysts.

  • PM Modi To Visit Guruvayur Temple, Inaugurate Several Projects Worth Rs 4000 Crore In Kerala Today |

    Kochi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Kerala on Tuesday where he was accorded a warm reception from state’s Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Governor Arif Muhammad Khan at Nedumbassery airport. The visit holds significance as PM Modi is scheduled to partake in spiritual rituals at the Guruvayur Temple on Wednesday, alongside inaugurating three major infrastructure projects collectively valued at over Rs. 4,000 crore.

    Visit To Guruvayur Temple

    Prime Minister Modi is set to enrich his visit with a visit to Guruvayur Temple, engaging in pooja and darshan, infusing a spiritual aura into the diplomatic proceedings.

    Unveiling Crucial Infrastructure Projects

    The prime focus of PM Modi’s Kerala visit is the inauguration of three pivotal infrastructure projects, emphasizing India’s commitment to technological advancement and strategic self-sufficiency:

    1. New Dry Dock (NDD) at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL)

    The Rs 1,799 Crores flagship project at CSL in Kochi showcases India’s engineering prowess. The 310-meter-long stepped dry dock, with state-of-the-art technology, positions India as a global player in maritime capabilities. This infrastructure, capable of handling large vessels, promises a leap forward in the country’s shipbuilding capabilities.

    2. International Ship Repair Facility (ISRF) at CSL

    Built at a cost of Rs 970 Crores on 42 acres at Willingdon Island, Kochi, the ISRF project is a unique facility with a ship lift system and multiple workstations. Its strategic location and advanced features contribute significantly to India’s maritime prowess.

    3. LPG Import Terminal by Indian Oil Corporation at Puthuvypeen, Kochi

    An investment of Rs 1,236 Crores, this terminal strategically located in Kochi is set to become a vital hub for LPG distribution in Southern India. The project not only ensures a steady LPG supply but also boasts state-of-the-art infrastructure, anticipating annual logistic savings and a reduction in CO2 emissions.

    Strategic Impact and Economic Implications

    These infrastructure projects are poised to elevate India’s standing in the global maritime sector. The New Dry Dock, in particular, signifies a significant step forward in handling strategic assets, reducing dependency on foreign nations for national emergencies, and fostering economic growth through employment and skill development.

    High-Level Review and Notable Presence

    Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, along with key officials including T K Ramachandran IAS and Rajesh Kumar Sinha IAS, meticulously reviewed the preparations for these transformative projects on Tuesday.

    As the nation eagerly awaits the outcomes of these inaugurations, Prime Minister Modi’s Kerala visit blends spiritual reverence with tangible progress, marking a crucial chapter in India’s developmental journey.

  • ‘Lord Ram Is A Symbol Of Good Governance’: PM Modi In Andhra Pradesh |

    NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is in Andhra Pradesh, said on Tuesday that the entire nation is filled with the spirit of Lord Ram ahead of the Ram Temple inauguration in the holy city of Ayodhya. “These days, the entire country is filled with the spirit of Ram. The life of Lord Rama, his inspiration, and the realm of faith and devotion associated with him go beyond words. The symbols of governance and discipline embodied by Lord Rama can serve as significant inspiration not only for individuals but also for institutions,” PM Modi said in Andhra Pradesh.

     

    #WATCH | PM Modi says, “Nowadays the whole country is filled with ‘Rammay’…Lord Ram is a symbol of governance and good governance in social life, which can become a great inspiration for your organization also” pic.twitter.com/RzDdkEHyf1
    — ANI (@ANI) January 16, 2024

     

    Transforming Taxation In Lord Ram’s Style

    Reflecting on Ram Rajya’s principles, PM Modi highlighted how tax systems should emulate nature –  like rain returning to the earth. He emphasized the reforms in India’s tax system over the last decade, ensuring ease and benefit for taxpayers. ” In the past 10 years, we made several reforms to the tax system, the tax system which existed earlier was not easily understandable to the common people. Due to a lack of guidance, honest taxpayers and businessmen were affected. In the form of GST, we introduced a modern tax system. Govt made the Income Tax system also easy. We started a faceless tax assessment system in the country. Because of all these reforms, record tax collection happening in the country now,” PM Modi said.

    Record Tax Collections

    Due to these reforms, the country has witnessed record tax collections. The income tax exemption limit was raised from 2 lakhs to 7 lakhs, resulting in savings of over 2.5 lakh crore for citizens.

    Acknowledging Taxpayer’s Contribution, People-Driven Progress

    PM Modi acknowledged the diligent taxpayers, emphasizing that their contributions are dedicated to the nation’s welfare. This, he stated, echoes the essence of Ram Rajya – a governance founded on good principles. The increasing number of consistent taxpayers indicates a responsible and growing society. The funds collected are being utilized for the overall welfare of the citizens.

    ” Fight against corruption and action against corruptors were our government’s priority…you all must have got information on the Niti Aayog report that was released yesterday. When a govt is sensitive about poor people and when a govt works with a clear motive to eliminate the sufferings of the poor, there will be results. Niti Aayog has said that, in our 9 years govt, around 25 crore people have escaped poverty. In the country where for years there were slogans of ‘Garibi Hatao’, 25 crore people escaped poverty in 9 years, it is historic,” the PM said in a blistering attack on Congress.

    Strengthening Infrastructure In Andhra Pradesh

    Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the National Academy of Customs, Indirect Taxes, and Narcotics (NACIN) campus in Palasamudram, Sri Sathya Sai District, Andhra Pradesh, emphasizing the importance of customs, taxes, and narcotics education.

    PM Modi Visits Lepakshi Temple

    PM Modi, donning traditional attire, earlier visited the Veerabhadra temple in Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh, just days before the grand Ram Mandir’s Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya.

    Spiritual Significance

    The Veerabhadra temple holds paramount significance in the Ramayana, believed to be where Jatayu, wounded by Ravana, fell after battling for Goddess Sita.

    Roadshow In Kochi

    The Prime Minister is slated to hold a roadshow in Kochi, Kerala, where he is scheduled to perform pooja and darshan at Guruvayur Temple and Thriprayar Shree Ramaswami Temple on January 17.

    Kochi Infrastructure Projects

    PM Modi will also inaugurate major infrastructure projects in Kochi, including the New Dry Dock (NDD) at Cochin Shipyard Limited, the International Ship Repair Facility (ISRF), and the LPG Import Terminal of Indian Oil Corporation Limited at Puthuvypeen.

    New Dry Dock: An Engineering Marvel

    The New Dry Dock, a flagship project costing around Rs 1,800 crore, showcases India’s engineering prowess, becoming a vital marine infrastructure in the region. Prime Minister Modi’s insightful words during his visit to Andhra Pradesh highlight the enduring influence of Lord Rama’s principles on the nation. His emphasis on incorporating these ideals in both personal and institutional realms reflects a commitment to fostering a society rooted in governance, discipline, and inspiration.

  • Fog-Hit Delhi Airport Upgrades Runway, Scindia Reveals Steps To Address Passenger Issues |

    New Delhi: Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Tuesday said that the Delhi airport has upgraded its runway 29L to CAT III, which will enable low-visibility landings amid dense fog. He also shared the latest initiatives taken by the aviation authorities to address the fog-related disruptions that have affected flight operations in the past few days.

    Scindia said that he had issued Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to all airlines on Monday to ease the passenger inconvenience caused by flight delays and cancellations. He also said that he had asked for incidence reporting three times a day for all the six metro airports. He said that the compliance of the @DGCAIndia Directives, SOPs, and CARs will be regularly monitored and reported.

    In view of the fog-induced disruptions, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) on mitigating passenger inconvenience were issued yesterday to all the airlines.

    1. In addition to these SOPs, we have sought incidence reporting thrice daily for all the 6 metro airports.

    2.… https://t.co/346YXjxGdH
    — Jyotiraditya M. Scindia (@JM_Scindia) January 16, 2024

    Scindia also said that he had set up ‘War Rooms’ at the six Metro Airports, where airport and airline operators will work together to solve any issues related to passenger discomfort in real-time. He also assured that there will be enough CISF personnel available 24/7 to ensure the security and smooth operations at the airports.

    “Enough CISF manpower availability will be guaranteed 24/7. RWY 29L at @DelhiAirport has been made CAT III operational today. We will also operationalize RWY 10/28 as CAT III at Delhi Airport after re-carpeting,” Scindia said in his post.

    Scindia appeals for calm, cautions against unruly behaviour

    On Monday, Scindia also requested the travellers to be patient and assured them that all stakeholders are working tirelessly to reduce the fog-related impact. He said, “It is my sincere request to all travellers to bear with us during this tough period. All stakeholders are doing their best to minimize passenger inconvenience.”

    He also cautioned against any cases of unruly behaviour by the passengers and said that they will be dealt with firmly according to the existing legal provisions. He said, “Cases of unruly behaviour amidst this are unacceptable, and will be dealt with firmly according to the existing legal provisions.”

  • India’s Rising Stature In Global Diplomacy: How Jaishankar’s Iran Visit, PM Modi’s Phone Call With Putin Is Changing Narratives |

    NEW DELHI: In the ever-evolving global order, India is fast emerging as a pivotal ‘World Partner,’ actively contributing to solutions for global crises. Whether it’s the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the oil crisis, Israel-Hamas tensions, or the most recent turmoil in the Red Sea, India’s global diplomacy is taking the center stage every where.

    Seas In Turmoil

    Commercial ships navigating the Red Sea face threats from rebels supported by Iran, amplifying tensions. Simultaneously, the Gulf of Aden witnessed strikes on Houthi positions by the US and UK. India, with the Arabian Sea at its doorstep, feels the impact. In the past 24 hours, Prime Minister Modi made a phone call to Russia’s President, while in Tehran, Foreign Minister Jaishankar addressed the escalating crisis.

    Jaishankar’s Strategic Discussions in Iran

    In Tehran, Jaishankar emphasized the critical importance of securing the Red Sea, urging swift action against maritime threats. The route from the Red Sea to the Suez Canal is vital for global trade, and India’s rerouting of ships increases travel time but ensures safety. Meanwhile, Qatar’s refusal to send LNG tankers through the Red Sea raises concerns about heightened costs.

    Collaborative Efforts By The US, India, And Iran

    Jaishankar conveyed India’s concern to Iran about attacks on ships near its waters, emphasizing the direct impact on India’s energy needs and economic interests. His visit coincides with discussions with the US Secretary of State on the Red Sea crisis. Diplomatically active, India engages with Iran on issues ranging from Ukraine and Afghanistan to the situation in Gaza. The discussions extend to the strategic Chabahar Port, strengthening the robust ties between the two nations.

    A Unified Global Stand

    Despite challenges, India navigates geopolitics with finesse. PM Modi’s conversation with Vladimir Putin and Jaishankar’s talks in Iran underscore the collaborative approach to addressing shared concerns. Both leaders express mutual wishes for success in upcoming elections in their respective countries. The recent strengthening of military and technological cooperation between India and Russia further solidifies their alliance.

    In conclusion, India’s diplomatic leadership in today’s world assures the global community that collective efforts can bring security and prosperity. The events in the Red Sea serve as a testament to India’s role as a responsible global player, ensuring stability and progress for all.

  • Dense Fog Spurs Travel Woes In Delhi, Around 30 Flights And Trains Delayed |

    NEW DELHI: As the national capital woke to freezing weather on Tuesday, around 30 flights departing from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport were delayed and 17 were cancelled due to weather conditions, airport officials said. The minimum temperature was recorded at 5 degrees Celsius. Many passengers were seen waiting at the airport with their luggage.

    “My flight was about to depart at 8:40 am but it is now scheduled to depart at 10:30 am…The reason they have given is mainly due to weather and fog,” a passenger told ANI. The Delhi airport issued an advisory in this regard that stated, “Low visibility procedures are in progress at Delhi airport. All flight operations are presently normal. Passengers are requested to contact the airline concerned for updated flight information.”

    रफ्तार गई थम… विजिबिलिटी बेहद कम #DelhiNCR #Fog #Winter #ColdWave | @anchorjiya @supreetanchor @anushkagarg2000 pic.twitter.com/AMQjvjbxj1
    — Zee News (@ZeeNews) January 16, 2024

    Meanwhile, 30 trains were also delayed due to the low visibility caused by fog. Visuals from Nirankari colony showed a thick blanket of fog covering the area. Meanwhile, the Indian Meteorological Department said that the Palam and Safdarjung airports have reported 500-meter visibility.
    Taking to ‘X’, the weather department wrote, “Delhi Palam (VIDP) and Safdarjung Airports are reporting 500 m visibilities at 0530 hrs IST of today, the 16th January.”

    As per the MeT department, fog is considered to be ‘shallow’ when the visibility stands up to 500 metres. ‘Moderate’ fog occurs when the visibility remains up to 200 metres. As the visibility is up to 50 metres, the fog is categorised as ‘dense’. It is categorised as ‘very dense’ when the visibility reaches below 50 metres.

    Earlier on Monday, visibility was recorded as ‘zero for the first time this winter season in Sri Ganganagar in Rajasthan, Patiala, Ambala, Chandigarh, Palam, Safdarjung (New Delhi), Bareilly, Lucknow, Bahraich, Varanasi, Prayagraj, and Tezpur, as per the weather department. As the temperature dropped below a freezing point, people took refuge in the government-run ‘Rain Baseras’ (Shelter homes).

    The night shelters in Delhi are aimed at providing a refuge to homeless people, who live on the streets and have nowhere else to go in the cold. The shelters offer blankets, beds, hot water, and food to those seeking shelter.