News Analysis India

Tag: Droupadi Murmu

  • India among fastest-growing economies due to Centre’s pro-active interventions: President Murmu

    By ANI

    NEW DELHI: Noting that India has been among the fastest-growing major economies, President Droupadi Murmu has said most sectors of the economy have shaken off the pandemic effect and this has been possible due to “timely and pro-active interventions from the government”.

    In her address to the nation on the eve of the 74th Republic Day, the President said India became the fifth largest economy in the world last year and the achievement came amid high global economic uncertainties.

    The President said that in the country’s mission ‘Sarvodaya’ (the upliftment of all), the most encouraging has been the progress made on the economic front.

    “Last year, India became the fifth largest economy in the world. It needs to be underlined that this achievement comes against the backdrop of high economic uncertainties around the world. The pandemic has entered the fourth year, affecting economic growth in most parts of the world.”

    She said in its initial phase, COVID-19 also hurt India’s economy badly but the country soon came out of the downturn.

    ALSO READ | India to be USD 3.7 trillion economy in 2023: RBI

    “Guided by our able leadership and driven by our resilience, we soon came out of the downturn, and resumed the growth saga. Most sectors of the economy have shaken off the pandemic effect. India has been among the fastest-growing major economies. This has been made possible by timely and pro-active interventions from the Government. The ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, in particular, has evoked great response among people at large.”

    She said there have also been sector-specific incentive schemes.

    “It is a matter of great satisfaction that those on the margins have also been included in the schemes and programmes and they have been helped in tiding over difficulties.”

    The President said that by implementing the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana announced in March 2020, the government ensured food security for poor families at a time when the country was facing economic disruption in the wake of the unprecedented outbreak of COVID-19.

    “Because of this help, no one had to go hungry. Keeping the welfare of poor families paramount, the duration of this scheme was extended successively, benefiting about 81 crore fellow citizens. Further extending this assistance, the Government has announced that even during the year 2023, the beneficiaries will get their monthly ration free of cost,” she said.

    ALSO READ | India@75: How Indian economy regained its mojo and how it can be the bird of gold again

    “With this historic move, the government has undertaken the responsibility of caring for the weaker sections while also enabling them to benefit from economic development,” she added.

    President Murmu said with the economy on a sound footing, the country has been able to begin and carry forward a series of praiseworthy initiatives.

    “The ultimate goal is to create an environment in which all citizens can, individually and collectively, realise their true potential and prosper.”

    She said as education builds the right foundation and for this purpose, the National Education Policy has introduced ambitious changes.

    “It rightly addresses the two-fold aims of education: as an instrument of economic and social empowerment and as a means to explore the truth. The policy makes our civilisational lessons relevant for contemporary life, while also preparing the learner for the 21 st century challenges.

    She said National Education Policy appreciates the role of technology in expanding and deepening the learning process.

    NEW DELHI: Noting that India has been among the fastest-growing major economies, President Droupadi Murmu has said most sectors of the economy have shaken off the pandemic effect and this has been possible due to “timely and pro-active interventions from the government”.

    In her address to the nation on the eve of the 74th Republic Day, the President said India became the fifth largest economy in the world last year and the achievement came amid high global economic uncertainties.

    The President said that in the country’s mission ‘Sarvodaya’ (the upliftment of all), the most encouraging has been the progress made on the economic front.

    “Last year, India became the fifth largest economy in the world. It needs to be underlined that this achievement comes against the backdrop of high economic uncertainties around the world. The pandemic has entered the fourth year, affecting economic growth in most parts of the world.”

    She said in its initial phase, COVID-19 also hurt India’s economy badly but the country soon came out of the downturn.

    ALSO READ | India to be USD 3.7 trillion economy in 2023: RBI

    “Guided by our able leadership and driven by our resilience, we soon came out of the downturn, and resumed the growth saga. Most sectors of the economy have shaken off the pandemic effect. India has been among the fastest-growing major economies. This has been made possible by timely and pro-active interventions from the Government. The ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, in particular, has evoked great response among people at large.”

    She said there have also been sector-specific incentive schemes.

    “It is a matter of great satisfaction that those on the margins have also been included in the schemes and programmes and they have been helped in tiding over difficulties.”

    The President said that by implementing the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana announced in March 2020, the government ensured food security for poor families at a time when the country was facing economic disruption in the wake of the unprecedented outbreak of COVID-19.

    “Because of this help, no one had to go hungry. Keeping the welfare of poor families paramount, the duration of this scheme was extended successively, benefiting about 81 crore fellow citizens. Further extending this assistance, the Government has announced that even during the year 2023, the beneficiaries will get their monthly ration free of cost,” she said.

    ALSO READ | India@75: How Indian economy regained its mojo and how it can be the bird of gold again

    “With this historic move, the government has undertaken the responsibility of caring for the weaker sections while also enabling them to benefit from economic development,” she added.

    President Murmu said with the economy on a sound footing, the country has been able to begin and carry forward a series of praiseworthy initiatives.

    “The ultimate goal is to create an environment in which all citizens can, individually and collectively, realise their true potential and prosper.”

    She said as education builds the right foundation and for this purpose, the National Education Policy has introduced ambitious changes.

    “It rightly addresses the two-fold aims of education: as an instrument of economic and social empowerment and as a means to explore the truth. The policy makes our civilisational lessons relevant for contemporary life, while also preparing the learner for the 21 st century challenges.

    She said National Education Policy appreciates the role of technology in expanding and deepening the learning process.

  • President Murmu speaks glowingly of Andhra Pradesh’s role in nation’s development 

    By PTI

    AMARAVATI: President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday hailed the contribution of people from Andhra Pradesh towards the country’s development, and advised students to tread a fine balance between following traditions and embracing the modern world.

    Murmu addressed a gathering after being welcomed at a civic reception hosted here on her first visit to the state upon becoming President.

    “In line with the National Education Policy-2020, our students should earn an eminent place in the modern world while continuing our traditions.

    Eminent scientist Dr Yallapragada Subba Rao did this a century ago,” she noted.

    The President recalled the life of Dr Subba Rao who went to the Harvard Medical School in 1922 to pursue pharmacy and biochemistry.

    “He made great contributions in this field. His research led to the discovery of many life-saving medicines. He was also interested in Ayurveda,” the President said.

    She pointed out that Andhra Pradesh had a leading role in the development of modern science and technology in independent India.

    “People of Andhra Pradesh have enhanced the country’s reputation in science and technology, especially information technology.

    The Telugu diaspora has an influencing role across the world, with majority of them being technology professionals,” she said.

    The President hoped the people of AP would continue their extraordinary contribution in the nation’s development and wished them a golden future.

    Murmu pointed out that AP was one of the states that had a sensitive outlook towards women.

    She recalled freedom fighter Durgabai Deshmukh of the state who worked for the uplift of women and the role of Sarojini Naidu, “daughter-in-law of AP”, in the Salt Satyagraha.

    “When I became Governor of Jharkhand, I always bore in mind the ideals set by Sarojini Naidu to continue to work in public service,” she added.

    The President quoted former president and distinguished scholar Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan to commend the Telugu people’s “progressive and liberal” outlook towards women and their empowerment.

    She also noted that the people of AP “must be feeling proud” celebrating the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ as the national flag was designed by the son of the soil, Pingali Venkaiah.

    The President made a mention of the Buddhist tradition of AP, the classical dance form Kuchipudi, and writer Molla whose Ramayana became famous by her name.

    She also referred to the Sriharikota High Altitude Range of ISRO which stood as a symbol of the scientific advancement of the state.

    “I am fortunate to be visiting the land of Balaji (Sri Venkateswara Swamy). I will pray to him for the welfare of the people of the country,” Murmu said.

    The President, as part of her two-day trip, will visit the holy hill shrine of Sri Venkateswara Swamy on Tirumala Hills on Monday.

    Earlier, Governor Biswabhusan Harichandan, Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy, Union Tourism and Culture Minister G Kishan Reddy and Chief Secretary K S Jawahar Reddy accorded a warm reception to the President on her arrival in the Vijayawada airport at Gannavaram.

    Harichandan and Jagan Mohan Reddy felicitated the President at the civic reception hosted by the state government.

    The Governor presented the President a wood-carved statue of ‘Telugu Talli’ while the Chief Minister presented a portrait of Sri Venkateswara Swamy.

    Union Minister Kishan Reddy, High Court Chief Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra and other dignitaries attended the event.

    After the civic reception, the Governor hosted a banquet in the President’s honour at Raj Bhavan.

    AMARAVATI: President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday hailed the contribution of people from Andhra Pradesh towards the country’s development, and advised students to tread a fine balance between following traditions and embracing the modern world.

    Murmu addressed a gathering after being welcomed at a civic reception hosted here on her first visit to the state upon becoming President.

    “In line with the National Education Policy-2020, our students should earn an eminent place in the modern world while continuing our traditions.

    Eminent scientist Dr Yallapragada Subba Rao did this a century ago,” she noted.

    The President recalled the life of Dr Subba Rao who went to the Harvard Medical School in 1922 to pursue pharmacy and biochemistry.

    “He made great contributions in this field. His research led to the discovery of many life-saving medicines. He was also interested in Ayurveda,” the President said.

    She pointed out that Andhra Pradesh had a leading role in the development of modern science and technology in independent India.

    “People of Andhra Pradesh have enhanced the country’s reputation in science and technology, especially information technology.

    The Telugu diaspora has an influencing role across the world, with majority of them being technology professionals,” she said.

    The President hoped the people of AP would continue their extraordinary contribution in the nation’s development and wished them a golden future.

    Murmu pointed out that AP was one of the states that had a sensitive outlook towards women.

    She recalled freedom fighter Durgabai Deshmukh of the state who worked for the uplift of women and the role of Sarojini Naidu, “daughter-in-law of AP”, in the Salt Satyagraha.

    “When I became Governor of Jharkhand, I always bore in mind the ideals set by Sarojini Naidu to continue to work in public service,” she added.

    The President quoted former president and distinguished scholar Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan to commend the Telugu people’s “progressive and liberal” outlook towards women and their empowerment.

    She also noted that the people of AP “must be feeling proud” celebrating the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ as the national flag was designed by the son of the soil, Pingali Venkaiah.

    The President made a mention of the Buddhist tradition of AP, the classical dance form Kuchipudi, and writer Molla whose Ramayana became famous by her name.

    She also referred to the Sriharikota High Altitude Range of ISRO which stood as a symbol of the scientific advancement of the state.

    “I am fortunate to be visiting the land of Balaji (Sri Venkateswara Swamy). I will pray to him for the welfare of the people of the country,” Murmu said.

    The President, as part of her two-day trip, will visit the holy hill shrine of Sri Venkateswara Swamy on Tirumala Hills on Monday.

    Earlier, Governor Biswabhusan Harichandan, Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy, Union Tourism and Culture Minister G Kishan Reddy and Chief Secretary K S Jawahar Reddy accorded a warm reception to the President on her arrival in the Vijayawada airport at Gannavaram.

    Harichandan and Jagan Mohan Reddy felicitated the President at the civic reception hosted by the state government.

    The Governor presented the President a wood-carved statue of ‘Telugu Talli’ while the Chief Minister presented a portrait of Sri Venkateswara Swamy.

    Union Minister Kishan Reddy, High Court Chief Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra and other dignitaries attended the event.

    After the civic reception, the Governor hosted a banquet in the President’s honour at Raj Bhavan.

  • Why did Congress never think of making an Adivasi our President, asks PM Modi

    By PTI

    DAHOD (Gujarat): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday asked why the Congress did not support Droupadi Murmu in the presidential election if the opposition party was so concerned about tribals.

    He was speaking at an election rally in the tribal-dominated Dahod town of central Gujarat for BJP candidates in the region.

    Constituencies in central Gujarat will go to the polls on December 5, in the second phase of the Assembly elections.

    Speaking at a rally in tribal-dominated Mahuva village in Surat district on Monday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party of snatching away the rights of tribals.

    Modi referred to Gandhi and his ongoing Bharat Jodo Yatra in the speech.

    ALSO READ | Congress gave you MGNREGA, scholarships; BJP took away your land: Rahul to tribals in Gujarat

    “A person is conducting a foot-march to get back power. In his speech, he talks about tribals. I want to ask him, why Congress did not support the BJP’s woman tribal candidate in the presidential election? Instead, they fielded their own candidate to defeat her,” the prime minister said.

    “Despite Congress’ efforts’ Droupadi Murmu became President “with the blessings of tribal people,” he added.

    “Why did Congress never think of making an Adivasi (tribal) our President? It was the BJP which made a tribal person, that too a woman, our country’s President for the first time and sent a message to the world,” Modi said.

    He also accused the Congress of not paying attention to the development of the British-era Parel area of Dahod.

    “But, as PM, I remembered it, and now investment worth Rs 20,000 crore has come here for building railway locomotives. These locomotives will be exported to other countries too. This huge investment will ultimately benefit the locals,” he said.

    Dahod district received a host of facilities and benefits under the BJP government including engineering and nursing colleges, a medical college, tap water connections and development of amenities under the Smart City Project, Modi said.

    DAHOD (Gujarat): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday asked why the Congress did not support Droupadi Murmu in the presidential election if the opposition party was so concerned about tribals.

    He was speaking at an election rally in the tribal-dominated Dahod town of central Gujarat for BJP candidates in the region.

    Constituencies in central Gujarat will go to the polls on December 5, in the second phase of the Assembly elections.

    Speaking at a rally in tribal-dominated Mahuva village in Surat district on Monday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party of snatching away the rights of tribals.

    Modi referred to Gandhi and his ongoing Bharat Jodo Yatra in the speech.

    ALSO READ | Congress gave you MGNREGA, scholarships; BJP took away your land: Rahul to tribals in Gujarat

    “A person is conducting a foot-march to get back power. In his speech, he talks about tribals. I want to ask him, why Congress did not support the BJP’s woman tribal candidate in the presidential election? Instead, they fielded their own candidate to defeat her,” the prime minister said.

    “Despite Congress’ efforts’ Droupadi Murmu became President “with the blessings of tribal people,” he added.

    “Why did Congress never think of making an Adivasi (tribal) our President? It was the BJP which made a tribal person, that too a woman, our country’s President for the first time and sent a message to the world,” Modi said.

    He also accused the Congress of not paying attention to the development of the British-era Parel area of Dahod.

    “But, as PM, I remembered it, and now investment worth Rs 20,000 crore has come here for building railway locomotives. These locomotives will be exported to other countries too. This huge investment will ultimately benefit the locals,” he said.

    Dahod district received a host of facilities and benefits under the BJP government including engineering and nursing colleges, a medical college, tap water connections and development of amenities under the Smart City Project, Modi said.

  • Scheduled tribes victims of economic backwardness: Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda

    Express News Service

    After the elevation of Droupadi Murmu as the 15th President of the country, the Modi government has sought to turn the focus of Indian politics to the estimated over 10.43 crore Scheduled Tribe population of the country. In an interview with Rajesh Kumar Thakur, Union Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda while describing the community as “victims of economic backwardness” says the Modi government continues to work for various denominations of tribal communities within the constitutional parameters.

    Excerpts:

    To what extent has the status of the ST community changed in the country since the Modi government came to power in 2014?The ST communities feel encouraged by various steps the government has taken for their participation in good governance. A slew of schemes have been launched for their empowerment and many more such plans such as the one on the lines of Aayushman Bharat are in the pipeline. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs is working through a focused approach to connect the ST people with mainstream development. The changes are visible.

    What has been the root cause of the ‘economic backwardness’ of STs?No doubt, tribal communities lag behind in modernity, but it won’t be proper to call them ‘backwards.’ They have their own lifestyle, culture, social and traditional values, besides an indigenous identity. We can call them ‘victims of economic backwardness’ in a limited context because of the ever-changing economic policies. My ministry is committed to their empowerment and all-around development. Most tribal communities in the country are blessed with natural resources such as an abundance of minerals. What is lacking is awareness about sincere efforts being made for their development. The present government is working with the idea of sab ka sath, sab ka vikas.

    The linguistic minority of Paharis in J&K will soon get the ST status. Don’t you think it will amount to opening Pandora’s Box?The Paharis are not a linguistic community. It is a ‘characteristic’ community. The government has accorded it the ST status only after it met all characteristic parameters following detailed research work and after completing the constitutionally set formalities. It’s not a political, but purely a Constitutional and merit-based decision.

    The Gujjar community in J&K has also been brought under ST. What is the ground provided for this by Justice GD Sharma Commission?Everything in this regard has been done in line with constitutional parameters. The Gujjar community in J&K is also counted as a characteristic community, so please don’t read anything beyond it.

    What are the other plans for expanding the ST list?We are not supposed to make any political comment on it. Such work continues based on research. At the moment, I can say the work involves many formalities, laid down parameters and research. Then, as I said, the ministry has to follow constitutional provisions. Therefore, the government’s move should not be viewed politically. Nor should it be seen from the point of view of a community-specific programme. One should look at it from the ‘characteristic’ point of view.

    Has the confidence level in tribal communities gone up?It has surely gone up. The decision to celebrate Birsa Munda’s birth anniversary every November 15 as ‘Janjatiya Gaurav Divas’ is one such measure to make tribal communities realize their significance. In the new education policy too, linguistic, cultural and other traditional identities have been promoted. The SC/ST (prevention of atrocities) Act has also been sharpened. For the first time in the country, a woman coming from a tribal society has become the President of India.

    How has ‘Going Online Leader’ (GOAL), a digital literacy and mentorship initiative, helped the tribal youth?The GOAL project has given encouraging results. Facebook, as part of its philanthropic work, is piloting the project for tribal youths. Our ministry is providing moral support to this social networking-driven initiative. It ensures that the tribal youth are connected through the network-based initiative in their educational empowerment. 

    After the elevation of Droupadi Murmu as the 15th President of the country, the Modi government has sought to turn the focus of Indian politics to the estimated over 10.43 crore Scheduled Tribe population of the country. In an interview with Rajesh Kumar Thakur, Union Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda while describing the community as “victims of economic backwardness” says the Modi government continues to work for various denominations of tribal communities within the constitutional parameters.

    Excerpts:

    To what extent has the status of the ST community changed in the country since the Modi government came to power in 2014?
    The ST communities feel encouraged by various steps the government has taken for their participation in good governance. A slew of schemes have been launched for their empowerment and many more such plans such as the one on the lines of Aayushman Bharat are in the pipeline. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs is working through a focused approach to connect the ST people with mainstream development. The changes are visible.

    What has been the root cause of the ‘economic backwardness’ of STs?
    No doubt, tribal communities lag behind in modernity, but it won’t be proper to call them ‘backwards.’ They have their own lifestyle, culture, social and traditional values, besides an indigenous identity. We can call them ‘victims of economic backwardness’ in a limited context because of the ever-changing economic policies. My ministry is committed to their empowerment and all-around development. Most tribal communities in the country are blessed with natural resources such as an abundance of minerals. What is lacking is awareness about sincere efforts being made for their development. The present government is working with the idea of sab ka sath, sab ka vikas.

    The linguistic minority of Paharis in J&K will soon get the ST status. Don’t you think it will amount to opening Pandora’s Box?
    The Paharis are not a linguistic community. It is a ‘characteristic’ community. The government has accorded it the ST status only after it met all characteristic parameters following detailed research work and after completing the constitutionally set formalities. It’s not a political, but purely a Constitutional and merit-based decision.

    The Gujjar community in J&K has also been brought under ST. What is the ground provided for this by Justice GD Sharma Commission?
    Everything in this regard has been done in line with constitutional parameters. The Gujjar community in J&K is also counted as a characteristic community, so please don’t read anything beyond it.

    What are the other plans for expanding the ST list?
    We are not supposed to make any political comment on it. Such work continues based on research. At the moment, I can say the work involves many formalities, laid down parameters and research. Then, as I said, the ministry has to follow constitutional provisions. Therefore, the government’s move should not be viewed politically. Nor should it be seen from the point of view of a community-specific programme. One should look at it from the ‘characteristic’ point of view.

    Has the confidence level in tribal communities gone up?
    It has surely gone up. The decision to celebrate Birsa Munda’s birth anniversary every November 15 as ‘Janjatiya Gaurav Divas’ is one such measure to make tribal communities realize their significance. In the new education policy too, linguistic, cultural and other traditional identities have been promoted. The SC/ST (prevention of atrocities) Act has also been sharpened. For the first time in the country, a woman coming from a tribal society has become the President of India.

    How has ‘Going Online Leader’ (GOAL), a digital literacy and mentorship initiative, helped the tribal youth?
    The GOAL project has given encouraging results. Facebook, as part of its philanthropic work, is piloting the project for tribal youths. Our ministry is providing moral support to this social networking-driven initiative. It ensures that the tribal youth are connected through the network-based initiative in their educational empowerment. 

  • BJP goes ballistic, calls Udit remark on Murmu ‘anti-tribal’

    Express News Service

    NEW DELHI: Going ballistic against the Congress, the Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday slammed the Congress leadership for promoting “anti-tribal” mindset among its leaders after a “derogatory tweet regarding President Droupadi Murmu” was made on Wednesday.

    Congress leader Udit Raj on Wednesday had tweeted in Hindi (translated here): “No country should get a President like Draupadi Murmu ji. ‘Chamchagiri’ also has its limits. It is said that 70% of people eat salt from Gujarat. If you live eating salt yourself, you will know.”  The tweet drew sharp reactions from ruling BJP terming the tweet a ‘reflection’ of ‘anti-tribal mindset’ of Congress. However, Udit Raj later clarified that his statement was of his own and it has nothing to do with the Congress.

    Taking a dig at the Congress, BJP leader and senior spokesperson Sambit Patra said: “Words used for President Murmu by Congress leader Udit Raj worrisome and unfortunate. This reflects the anti-tribal mindset of Congress leaders”. Patra further lashed out at the Congress, accusing the party of allowing its leaders to  regularly pass such objectionable and derogatory statements. “The Congress leadership should take action against those leaders and should tender an apology,” Patra demanded.

     Prem Shukla, another senior BJP leader and party spokesperson, also slammed the Congress saying that earlier, Congress leaders Adhir Ranjan Choudhary and Ajay Kumar had made derogatory remarks also. “The Congress leadership is promoting anti-tribal mindset among its leadership. The people belonging to ST community will give a befitting reply to the Congress,” Shukla alleged.

    Shehzad Poonawalla, another BJP spokesperson, also went hammer and tongs against the Congress over Udit Raj’s statement. “The Congress is ‘insulting’ India’s first tribal woman President by allowing such derogatory statements by its leaders. The nation will not forgive the Congress,” he alleged. He demanded immediate expulsion of Udit Raj from the Congress.

    Meanwhile, the National Commission for Women also issued summon to Udit Raj for his objectionable statement.  NCW chairman Rekha Sharma termed the statement ‘highly objectionable’ against Supreme Authority.

    NEW DELHI: Going ballistic against the Congress, the Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday slammed the Congress leadership for promoting “anti-tribal” mindset among its leaders after a “derogatory tweet regarding President Droupadi Murmu” was made on Wednesday.

    Congress leader Udit Raj on Wednesday had tweeted in Hindi (translated here): “No country should get a President like Draupadi Murmu ji. ‘Chamchagiri’ also has its limits. It is said that 70% of people eat salt from Gujarat. If you live eating salt yourself, you will know.”  The tweet drew sharp reactions from ruling BJP terming the tweet a ‘reflection’ of ‘anti-tribal mindset’ of Congress. However, Udit Raj later clarified that his statement was of his own and it has nothing to do with the Congress.

    Taking a dig at the Congress, BJP leader and senior spokesperson Sambit Patra said: “Words used for President Murmu by Congress leader Udit Raj worrisome and unfortunate. This reflects the anti-tribal mindset of Congress leaders”. Patra further lashed out at the Congress, accusing the party of allowing its leaders to  regularly pass such objectionable and derogatory statements. “The Congress leadership should take action against those leaders and should tender an apology,” Patra demanded.

     Prem Shukla, another senior BJP leader and party spokesperson, also slammed the Congress saying that earlier, Congress leaders Adhir Ranjan Choudhary and Ajay Kumar had made derogatory remarks also. “The Congress leadership is promoting anti-tribal mindset among its leadership. The people belonging to ST community will give a befitting reply to the Congress,” Shukla alleged.

    Shehzad Poonawalla, another BJP spokesperson, also went hammer and tongs against the Congress over Udit Raj’s statement. “The Congress is ‘insulting’ India’s first tribal woman President by allowing such derogatory statements by its leaders. The nation will not forgive the Congress,” he alleged. He demanded immediate expulsion of Udit Raj from the Congress.

    Meanwhile, the National Commission for Women also issued summon to Udit Raj for his objectionable statement.  NCW chairman Rekha Sharma termed the statement ‘highly objectionable’ against Supreme Authority.

  • HAL’s integrated cryogenic engine facility to be inaugurated by Murmu in Bengaluru

    Express News Service

    NEW DELHI: The President of India, Droupadi Murmu will inaugurate Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s (HAL’s) state-of-the-art Integrated Cryogenic Engine Manufacturing Facility (ICMF) in Bengaluru on Tuesday which will boost self-reliance in manufacturing of High-thrust Rocket engines.

    As per the HAL the facility will cater to the entire Rocket Engine Manufacturing under one roof for Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). HAL in its statement said, “The Aerospace Division entering into manufacture of Cryogenic Engines is a major step in technology up-gradation cum modernization. Indigenous cryogenic technology is important as it will assist India to further develop its rocket programme for launching heavy satellites.

    The facility is set up over an area of 4500 sq mts housing over 70 hi-tech equipment and testing facilities for manufacturing Cryogenic (CE20) and Semi-cryogenic (SE2000) Engines of Indian Space Launch Vehicles. The commissioning of all the critical equipment for the manufacturing and assembly requirement is completed. The pre-production activities which involve preparation of the process plans, drawings, quality plan etc. has also commenced. HAL will start realising the modules by March 2023.

    HAL said, “HAL Aerospace Division manufactures liquid propellant tanks and launch vehicle structures of PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle), Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) MK-II, GSLV Mk-III and also stage integration for GSLV Mk-II.”

    In 2013, an MOU was signed with ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) for establishing the facility for manufacturing of Cryogenic Engine modules at HAL, Aerospace Division. The MOU for the Cryogenic Engine facility was subsequently amended in the year 2016 for setting up of Integrated Cryogenic Engine Manufacturing Facility (ICMF) with an investment of R208 crores.

    NEW DELHI: The President of India, Droupadi Murmu will inaugurate Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s (HAL’s) state-of-the-art Integrated Cryogenic Engine Manufacturing Facility (ICMF) in Bengaluru on Tuesday which will boost self-reliance in manufacturing of High-thrust Rocket engines.

    As per the HAL the facility will cater to the entire Rocket Engine Manufacturing under one roof for Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). HAL in its statement said, “The Aerospace Division entering into manufacture of Cryogenic Engines is a major step in technology up-gradation cum modernization. Indigenous cryogenic technology is important as it will assist India to further develop its rocket programme for launching heavy satellites.

    The facility is set up over an area of 4500 sq mts housing over 70 hi-tech equipment and testing facilities for manufacturing Cryogenic (CE20) and Semi-cryogenic (SE2000) Engines of Indian Space Launch Vehicles. The commissioning of all the critical equipment for the manufacturing and assembly requirement is completed. The pre-production activities which involve preparation of the process plans, drawings, quality plan etc. has also commenced. HAL will start realising the modules by March 2023.

    HAL said, “HAL Aerospace Division manufactures liquid propellant tanks and launch vehicle structures of PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle), Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) MK-II, GSLV Mk-III and also stage integration for GSLV Mk-II.”

    In 2013, an MOU was signed with ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) for establishing the facility for manufacturing of Cryogenic Engine modules at HAL, Aerospace Division. The MOU for the Cryogenic Engine facility was subsequently amended in the year 2016 for setting up of Integrated Cryogenic Engine Manufacturing Facility (ICMF) with an investment of R208 crores.

  • President Murmu inaugurates Dasara festivities in Mysuru

    By PTI

    MYSURU: The famous 10-day-long Dasara celebrations commenced in this palace city on Monday with religious and traditional fervour, with President of India Droupadi Murmu inaugurating the festivities.

    Celebrated as ”Nada Habba” (state festival), the festivities will be a grand affair this year depicting Karnataka’s rich culture and traditions, coupled with reminiscence of royal pomp and glory, after muted celebrations for the last two years in view of the COVID-19 pandemic.

    The President inaugurated the festivities during the auspicious “Vrushchika Lagna” by showering flowers on the idol of goddess Chamundeshwari, the presiding deity of Mysuru royals, amid chanting of vadic hymns, at the premises of Chamundeshwari temple atop the Chamundi Hills here.

    Murmu is the first President to take part in Mysuru Dasara.

    She was accompanied by Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai, Union Ministers Pralhad Joshi and Shobha Karandlaje and several Ministers in the state cabinet among others at the inaugural.

    The President also visited the Chamundeshwari temple and offered prayers to the goddess, who is referred to as the “Naada Devate” (state deity), ahead of the inaugural.

    This is also her first visit to any state as the President of India.

    The 10-day event, like every year, is set to showcase Karnataka’s cultural heritage resplendent with folk art forms, and attracts large crowds and tourists, after it was scaled down for the last two years due to COVID-19.

    MYSURU: The famous 10-day-long Dasara celebrations commenced in this palace city on Monday with religious and traditional fervour, with President of India Droupadi Murmu inaugurating the festivities.

    Celebrated as ”Nada Habba” (state festival), the festivities will be a grand affair this year depicting Karnataka’s rich culture and traditions, coupled with reminiscence of royal pomp and glory, after muted celebrations for the last two years in view of the COVID-19 pandemic.

    The President inaugurated the festivities during the auspicious “Vrushchika Lagna” by showering flowers on the idol of goddess Chamundeshwari, the presiding deity of Mysuru royals, amid chanting of vadic hymns, at the premises of Chamundeshwari temple atop the Chamundi Hills here.

    Murmu is the first President to take part in Mysuru Dasara.

    She was accompanied by Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai, Union Ministers Pralhad Joshi and Shobha Karandlaje and several Ministers in the state cabinet among others at the inaugural.

    The President also visited the Chamundeshwari temple and offered prayers to the goddess, who is referred to as the “Naada Devate” (state deity), ahead of the inaugural.

    This is also her first visit to any state as the President of India.

    The 10-day event, like every year, is set to showcase Karnataka’s cultural heritage resplendent with folk art forms, and attracts large crowds and tourists, after it was scaled down for the last two years due to COVID-19.

  • Ex-IPS officers write to President against Kejriwal’s ‘boorish’ behaviour with police personnel 

    By PTI

    NEW DELHI: More than two dozen retired IPS officers have written to President Droupadi Murmu, urging her to “counsel” Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal against his “high-headed and boorish behaviour” with police personnel, prompting the AAP to allege that it is the handiwork of the BJP.

    The letter signed by several former state police chiefs cited a recent spat involving Kejriwal and Gujarat Police officials over the former’s insistence to ride an autorickshaw during his poll campaigning in the state and said the AAP leader’s “words and actions” created an “unfair spectacle” of the police force. 

    In a statement, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) said the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) prospects in the Gujarat Assembly polls, slated to be held later this year, are “very bad”, which is why the letter was written.

    “Obviously, the BJP is behind this letter. The BJP’s prospects in Gujarat in the forthcoming elections are very bad. Their own leaders lack any mass appeal and are completely discredited. That is why the BJP has to now sought the help of some retired police officers.

    The AAP is gaining ground exponentially and the BJP is clueless on how to tackle the AAP, which is why such a letter has been written,” the statement said.

    Former Jammu and Kashmir Police chief SP Vaid, who is one of the signatories to the letter, said, “As experienced police officers, we know that a politician, especially one holding a post like that of a chief Minister, is free to conduct his business as he wishes but he should also understand that police are duty-bound to protect him and should not be needlessly dragged into politics.

    “Through his “unpleasant words and actions”, Kejriwal “intended to paint himself as a political martyr,” the letter said, adding that however, in doing so, he “unfairly created a spectacle of the police force” not only in Gujarat, but throughout the country.

    “We, therefore, humbly request you to intervene as the Head of State and counsel Mr Kejriwal against such high-headed and boorish behaviour that is intended to undermine the police force of our country,” the letter read.

    The AAP national convenor is involved in intense campaigning in poll-bound Gujarat, which is ruled by the BJP.

    AAP leaders, led by Kejriwal, have launched a no-holds-barred attack on the saffron party ahead of the Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh Assembly polls.

    Citing the Gujarat incident, the letter written to Murmu by the retired Indian Police Service (IPS) officers said the police officials enjoined with the duty of providing security to the chief minister acceded to his request to go to an autorickshaw driver’s home in his autorickshaw.

    In order to ensure that the requisite level of security was maintained and to prevent any lapses in the chief minister’s safety, the police official concerned said he would accompany Kejriwal to the location, it said.

    “However, in response to the police official’s prudent suggestion, Mr Kejriwal made certain distasteful and inconsiderate remarks.

    These curt remarks have caused deep injury to the police force,” the letter claimed.

    As Kejriwal is the chief minister of the country’s capital city, police were duty-bound to ensure his safety, it said.

    “It was disheartening to note that in order to score a political brownie point, Mr Kejriwal conducted himself in a manner that utterly belittled the police officers for diligently obeying their duties,” it added.

    The letter also alleged that Kejriwal “unfortunately” was involved in such incidents earlier as well.

    Ahead of the 2017 Punjab Assembly polls, the AAP leader had raised a “similar grievance” against the state police, demanding complete withdrawal of his security, it said.

    Soon after the campaigning concluded, in a “completely conflicting stance”, Kejriwal cited “threat perception” and alleged that he was not given adequate protection, the letter added.

    NEW DELHI: More than two dozen retired IPS officers have written to President Droupadi Murmu, urging her to “counsel” Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal against his “high-headed and boorish behaviour” with police personnel, prompting the AAP to allege that it is the handiwork of the BJP.

    The letter signed by several former state police chiefs cited a recent spat involving Kejriwal and Gujarat Police officials over the former’s insistence to ride an autorickshaw during his poll campaigning in the state and said the AAP leader’s “words and actions” created an “unfair spectacle” of the police force. 

    In a statement, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) said the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) prospects in the Gujarat Assembly polls, slated to be held later this year, are “very bad”, which is why the letter was written.

    “Obviously, the BJP is behind this letter. The BJP’s prospects in Gujarat in the forthcoming elections are very bad. Their own leaders lack any mass appeal and are completely discredited. That is why the BJP has to now sought the help of some retired police officers.

    The AAP is gaining ground exponentially and the BJP is clueless on how to tackle the AAP, which is why such a letter has been written,” the statement said.

    Former Jammu and Kashmir Police chief SP Vaid, who is one of the signatories to the letter, said, “As experienced police officers, we know that a politician, especially one holding a post like that of a chief Minister, is free to conduct his business as he wishes but he should also understand that police are duty-bound to protect him and should not be needlessly dragged into politics.

    “Through his “unpleasant words and actions”, Kejriwal “intended to paint himself as a political martyr,” the letter said, adding that however, in doing so, he “unfairly created a spectacle of the police force” not only in Gujarat, but throughout the country.

    “We, therefore, humbly request you to intervene as the Head of State and counsel Mr Kejriwal against such high-headed and boorish behaviour that is intended to undermine the police force of our country,” the letter read.

    The AAP national convenor is involved in intense campaigning in poll-bound Gujarat, which is ruled by the BJP.

    AAP leaders, led by Kejriwal, have launched a no-holds-barred attack on the saffron party ahead of the Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh Assembly polls.

    Citing the Gujarat incident, the letter written to Murmu by the retired Indian Police Service (IPS) officers said the police officials enjoined with the duty of providing security to the chief minister acceded to his request to go to an autorickshaw driver’s home in his autorickshaw.

    In order to ensure that the requisite level of security was maintained and to prevent any lapses in the chief minister’s safety, the police official concerned said he would accompany Kejriwal to the location, it said.

    “However, in response to the police official’s prudent suggestion, Mr Kejriwal made certain distasteful and inconsiderate remarks.

    These curt remarks have caused deep injury to the police force,” the letter claimed.

    As Kejriwal is the chief minister of the country’s capital city, police were duty-bound to ensure his safety, it said.

    “It was disheartening to note that in order to score a political brownie point, Mr Kejriwal conducted himself in a manner that utterly belittled the police officers for diligently obeying their duties,” it added.

    The letter also alleged that Kejriwal “unfortunately” was involved in such incidents earlier as well.

    Ahead of the 2017 Punjab Assembly polls, the AAP leader had raised a “similar grievance” against the state police, demanding complete withdrawal of his security, it said.

    Soon after the campaigning concluded, in a “completely conflicting stance”, Kejriwal cited “threat perception” and alleged that he was not given adequate protection, the letter added.

  • AAP MLAs seek time from President Murmu, to apprise about ‘Operation Lotus’ 

    By PTI

    NEW DELHI: AAP MLA Atishi Marlena on Thursday said she has sought time from President Droupadi Murmu to apprise her about the BJP’s alleged attempts to “destabilise” state governments in the country.

    This comes a day after the CBI ‘accepted’ a complaint against the BJP’s alleged ‘Operation Lotus’.

    “I have sought time with the custodian of democracy of India – the Hon’ble President,” Atishi tweeted. “A delegation of @AamAadmiParty MLAs wants to meet her to discuss ‘Operation Lotus’ – the attempts of BJP to destabilise state governments across the country,” she added.

    I have sought time with the custodian of democracy of India – the Hon’ble President. A delegation of @AamAadmiParty MLAs wants to meet her to discuss ‘Operation Lotus’ – the attempts of BJP to destabilise state governments across the country.
    — Atishi (@AtishiAAP) September 1, 2022
    On Wednesday, a 10-member delegation of the AAP MLAs including Atishi went to meet CBI Director Subodh Kumar Jaiswal to demand a probe into BJP’s alleged attempts to topple other parties’ governments in the state even though his office had not given any response to their request for the meeting.

    As they were not allowed to enter the CBI headquarters, the AAP legislators sat on a dharna outside in protest.

    Amid the agitation, some CBI officials took AAP’s chief whip in Delhi Assembly Dilip K Pandey and Kalkaji MLA Atishi inside the agency premises to lodge their complaint.

    “We finally lodged the complaint and got a receipt as well. But, it is very unfortunate that 10 elected representatives of people were made to wait for almost two hours on the road and none of the officials met us,” Atishi had told reporters.

    It seems the CBI gets scared when there is a complaint against the BJP, she had charged.

    NEW DELHI: AAP MLA Atishi Marlena on Thursday said she has sought time from President Droupadi Murmu to apprise her about the BJP’s alleged attempts to “destabilise” state governments in the country.

    This comes a day after the CBI ‘accepted’ a complaint against the BJP’s alleged ‘Operation Lotus’.

    “I have sought time with the custodian of democracy of India – the Hon’ble President,” Atishi tweeted. “A delegation of @AamAadmiParty MLAs wants to meet her to discuss ‘Operation Lotus’ – the attempts of BJP to destabilise state governments across the country,” she added.

    I have sought time with the custodian of democracy of India – the Hon’ble President. A delegation of @AamAadmiParty MLAs wants to meet her to discuss ‘Operation Lotus’ – the attempts of BJP to destabilise state governments across the country.
    — Atishi (@AtishiAAP) September 1, 2022
    On Wednesday, a 10-member delegation of the AAP MLAs including Atishi went to meet CBI Director Subodh Kumar Jaiswal to demand a probe into BJP’s alleged attempts to topple other parties’ governments in the state even though his office had not given any response to their request for the meeting.

    As they were not allowed to enter the CBI headquarters, the AAP legislators sat on a dharna outside in protest.

    Amid the agitation, some CBI officials took AAP’s chief whip in Delhi Assembly Dilip K Pandey and Kalkaji MLA Atishi inside the agency premises to lodge their complaint.

    “We finally lodged the complaint and got a receipt as well. But, it is very unfortunate that 10 elected representatives of people were made to wait for almost two hours on the road and none of the officials met us,” Atishi had told reporters.

    It seems the CBI gets scared when there is a complaint against the BJP, she had charged.

  • India set to become Atmanirbhar Bharat, says Droupadi Murmu

    Express News Service

    NEW DELHI:  Indian President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday expressed hope that the country will be able to fully realise all the dreams of freedom fighters by 2047. In her address to the nation on the eve of Independence Day, Murmu said, “We have given a concrete shape to the vision of those who, led by Babasaheb Ambedkar, drafted the Constitution. We are already on course to build an Aatmanirbhar Bharat — India that would realise its true potential.”

    She added: “While celebrating the Independence Day, the country is celebrating Bharatiyata. The works done with the spirit of ‘Nation First’ are reflected in every decision and every sector.” Hailing the country’s performance, she said every citizen should be aware of their fundamental duties and follow it in letter and spirit to take the nation to a new height of power and prosperity.

    The President said the keyword for today’s India is ‘compassion’ — for the downtrodden, the needy and all those on the margins of society. “When the world has been battling the economic consequences of the great crisis, India got its act together and is now moving forward. India is among the fastest growing major economies in the world,” she said.

    She added that India will realise the dreams of freedom fighters by 2047. “We will have given by 2047 a concrete shape to the vision of those who, led by Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedakar, drafted the Constitution,” the President said, hailing the government’s decision to observe Nov. 15 as Janajatiya Gaurav Divas as a welcome decision.

    The President said when India won independence, there were many international leaders and experts who were sceptical about the success of the democratic form of government in India due to poverty and illiteracy at that time.

    “But we Indians proved the sceptics wrong. Democracy not only grew roots in this soil, it was enriched too,” she said as she asked citizens to pledge to give everything for the sake of the safety, security, progress and prosperity of the country. She also lauded India for crossing the 200-crore mark in cumulative vaccine coverage, and said India’s confidence is reflected in the spirit of its youth, its farmers and above all, its women.

    Describing girls as the biggest hope for the nation, the President said that they are scaling great heights, becoming pilots and space scientists. She also called upon the countrymen for conserving water, soil and bio-diversity as part oftheir duty towards the nation and children.

    “Our country is full of diversity. But at the same time, all of us have something in common. It is this common thread that binds all of us together and inspires us to walk with the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshth Bharat’,” she said. India has helped the world discover the true potential of democracy and the keyword for the country today is compassion for the downtrodden, needy and those on the margins, she added.

    NEW DELHI:  Indian President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday expressed hope that the country will be able to fully realise all the dreams of freedom fighters by 2047. In her address to the nation on the eve of Independence Day, Murmu said, “We have given a concrete shape to the vision of those who, led by Babasaheb Ambedkar, drafted the Constitution. We are already on course to build an Aatmanirbhar Bharat — India that would realise its true potential.”

    She added: “While celebrating the Independence Day, the country is celebrating Bharatiyata. The works done with the spirit of ‘Nation First’ are reflected in every decision and every sector.” Hailing the country’s performance, she said every citizen should be aware of their fundamental duties and follow it in letter and spirit to take the nation to a new height of power and prosperity.

    The President said the keyword for today’s India is ‘compassion’ — for the downtrodden, the needy and all those on the margins of society. “When the world has been battling the economic consequences of the great crisis, India got its act together and is now moving forward. India is among the fastest growing major economies in the world,” she said.

    She added that India will realise the dreams of freedom fighters by 2047. “We will have given by 2047 a concrete shape to the vision of those who, led by Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedakar, drafted the Constitution,” the President said, hailing the government’s decision to observe Nov. 15 as Janajatiya Gaurav Divas as a welcome decision.

    The President said when India won independence, there were many international leaders and experts who were sceptical about the success of the democratic form of government in India due to poverty and illiteracy at that time.

    “But we Indians proved the sceptics wrong. Democracy not only grew roots in this soil, it was enriched too,” she said as she asked citizens to pledge to give everything for the sake of the safety, security, progress and prosperity of the country. She also lauded India for crossing the 200-crore mark in cumulative vaccine coverage, and said India’s confidence is reflected in the spirit of its youth, its farmers and above all, its women.

    Describing girls as the biggest hope for the nation, the President said that they are scaling great heights, becoming pilots and space scientists. She also called upon the countrymen for conserving water, soil and bio-diversity as part oftheir duty towards the nation and children.

    “Our country is full of diversity. But at the same time, all of us have something in common. It is this common thread that binds all of us together and inspires us to walk with the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshth Bharat’,” she said. India has helped the world discover the true potential of democracy and the keyword for the country today is compassion for the downtrodden, needy and those on the margins, she added.