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  • INDIA Bloc: “Votes against BJP must not get split”: Tamil Nadu CM Stalin urges INDIA bloc leaders

    Chennai: Amid the differences within the opposition alliance, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has urged the INDIA bloc to stay united and make sure that the votes against BJP should not split.

    Speaking at an event in Tiruchirappalli on Friday, MK Stalin said that everyone should have one aim not to allow BJP to come back to power.

    “Everyone should only have one aim- not to allow BJP to come back to power. Votes against BJP must not get split,” he said.Meanwhile, the problems for the opposition’s INDIA bloc to find a common ground for the Lok Sabha elections seem unsolved.

    Earlier after announcing to go solo in Punjab, Aam Aadmi Party announced that they would contest all 90 Assembly seats in Haryana alone.

    “We will contest alone in all 90 assembly seats in Haryana. Regarding the Lok Sabha, we have communicated our stance to the national leadership of our party that we are strong and we can contest the elections in alliance and independently as well. The final decision will be taken by the party leadership,” AAP leader Sushil Gupta said.The reports of CM Nitish Kumar severing his ties with the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) and reuniting with the BJP have triggered concerns about the stability of the 17-month-old, six-party Grand Alliance government.Senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader Sushil Kumar Modi on Friday said that the door can be opened if needed, indicating a possible revival of ties between Nitish Kumar -led JDU.

    “We are keeping an eye on all the developments and if needed an appropriate decision will be taken. No door is permanently closed in politics and the door can be opened if needed…” Sushil Modi said.

    The INDIA bloc is struggling to resolve key challenges including finalising seat-sharing arrangements most importantly deciding on a PM face while the BJP has started executing strategies it laid off in 2023 to secure victory in General elections.

  • On 75th Republic Day Parade, Uttar Pradesh’s Ram Lalla Tableau Steals The Show |

    NEW DELHI: In a spectacular display of artistry and heritage, the Republic Day 2024 tableau representing Uttar Pradesh emerged as the undeniable highlight of the 75th Republic Day Parade held at the illustrious Kartavya Path in New Delhi on Friday. The tableau, themed ‘Ayodhya-Vikshit Bharat-Samradh Virasat,’ captured the essence of Uttar Pradesh’s rich cultural tapestry with a mesmerizing portrayal of Ram Lalla, the deity whose recent consecration at the grand temple in Ayodhya stirred the nation’s soul.

     

    #WATCH | The #RepublicDay2024 tableau of Uttar Pradesh takes part in the parade.

    The theme of the tableau is based on ‘Ayodhya: Viksit Bharat-Samradh Virasat’. The front of the tableau symbolises the Pranpratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla, showcasing his childhood form. pic.twitter.com/VHdsaiVMvo
    — ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2024

     

    A Tribute To Ayodhya’s Legacy

    Ayodhya, revered as the birthplace of Lord Shri Ram, took centre stage as the tableau showcased the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, a poignant moment symbolizing the sanctification of Lord Ram Lalla’s idol, which transpired amidst the sacred rituals earlier this week.

    Pran Pratishtha Ceremony

    The solemn occasion witnessed the august presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who led the ceremony as the newly unveiled Ram Lalla idol graced the Ram Temple, evoking reverence and devotion among the thousands in attendance.

    Global Attention On ‘Ram Nagri’ Ayodhya

    The tableau’s depiction of Ayodhya’s resplendence during the recent festivities, characterized by the illumination of countless diyas and the spectacle of fireworks illuminating the night sky, captured the imagination of viewers worldwide.

    Cultural Heritage As the Driving Force

    Uttar Pradesh’s trajectory of development, infused with its rich cultural heritage, was vividly portrayed through the tableau, which showcased iconic landmarks such as the forthcoming Magh Mela in Prayagraj and the much-anticipated Mahakumbh slated for 2025.

    A Glimpse Into Uttar Pradesh’s Growth Story

    The tableau seamlessly integrated modern marvels with traditional ethos, spotlighting achievements like the ongoing construction of the Jewar Airport, slated to be the world’s fourth-largest international airport and the bustling mobile phone manufacturing hub in Noida.

    Make In India And High-Speed Connectivity

    Symbolizing Uttar Pradesh’s commitment to national progress, the tableau featured the formidable BrahMos missile and highlighted the groundbreaking high-speed rail service (RRTS), a testament to the state’s technological prowess and dedication to innovation.

    Adding a vibrant touch to the tableau were the graceful performances of traditional dances like Charkula and Wadhwa by a group of talented women artists, underscoring the timeless allure of Uttar Pradesh’s folk traditions inspired by the divine Leelas of Bhagwan Shri Krishna. The tableau’s captivating display not only celebrated Uttar Pradesh’s glorious past but also heralded a promising future, resonating with the spirit of unity and progress on India’s 75th Republic Day.

  • 75th Republic Day: Parade To Showcase India’s Growing ‘Nari Shakti’, Military Prowess |

    NEW DELHI: India braces itself for the momentous platinum jubilee celebrations of Republic Day on Friday, (January 26), promising an enthralling display of military prowess and cultural heritage at the grand ‘Kartavya Path’ in the capital.

    President Leads Grand Festivities

    President Droupadi Murmu will lead the nation in commemorating the Amrit Kaal journey, marking 75 years post the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ celebrations, honouring the country’s independence.

    Dominating Themes

    Rich cultural diversity, ‘Aatmanirbhar’ military prowess, and the burgeoning Nari Shakti will take centre stage in the 90-minute parade, graced by French President Emmanuel Macron as the Chief Guest.

    Historic All-Women Contingents

    A groundbreaking moment unfolds with the debut of an all-women Tri-Service contingent marching down the Kartavya Path, symbolizing Nari Shakti. Women pilots soar during the Indian Air Force’s fly-past, showcasing their power.

    Empowering Women

    Even the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) will join the movement, with contingents exclusively comprising women personnel, setting a remarkable precedent.

    Cultural Extravaganza

    Over 100 women artists kick off the ceremony with soul-stirring melodies, setting the stage for a vibrant parade reflecting the unity in diversity of the nation.

    Inclusive Participation

    Around 13,000 special guests partake in the festivities, fostering Jan Bhagidari and inclusivity, aligning with the themes of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Bharat – Loktantra ki Matruka’.

    Grand Ceremonial

    The parade, led by Parade Commander Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, will showcase the nation’s defence forces with captivating displays and marches, epitomizing unity and strength.

    Honouring Fallen Heroes

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi will pay the homage at the National War Memorial, leading the nation in honouring the sacrifices of the fallen heroes, before witnessing the parade at Kartavya Path.

    Historic Renditions

    President Murmu and President Macron will grace the occasion, escorted by the prestigious President’s Bodyguard, marking the Regiment’s 250th year of service.

    Cultural Symphony

    A mesmerizing blend of 30 folk dance styles and contemporary performances in ‘Vande Bharatam’ celebrates women’s accomplishments, echoing the message of unity.

    Anant Sutra – The Endless Thread’

    ‘Ministry of Culture’ will showcase presents ‘Anant Sutra – The Endless Thread’, a tribute to India’s timeless saree, alongside diverse tableaux reflecting progress and unity.

    Empowering Grassroots

    Government beneficiaries and achievers from Self-Help Groups (SHGs) are honoured, symbolizing grassroots empowerment and inclusivity in the nation’s fabric.

    Unprecedented Security

    Over 8,000 security personnel, coupled with advanced surveillance measures, ensure a safe and joyous celebration of Republic Day, echoing the spirit of unity and progress.

  • Elon Musk Terms India Not Having Permanent Seat In UNSC As ‘Absurd’ | world news

    Tesla founder and owner of social media platform Musk made the remarks while replying to a post of American-Israeli businessman Michael Eisenberg who confronted Secretary-General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres’ post backing Africa for a permanent seat.

    “How can we accept that Africa still lacks a single Permanent Member in the Security Council? Institutions must reflect today’s world, not that of 80 years ago. September’s Summit of the Future will be an opportunity to consider global governance reforms & rebuild trust,” said Guterres.

    To this, Eisenberg responded, “And what about India? Better yet is to dismantle the UN and build something new with real leadership.”

    And what about India?

    Better yet is to dismantle the @UN and build something new with real leadership. https://t.co/EYpyooHaH4 — Michael Eisenberg (@mikeeisenberg) January 21, 2024

    Musk responded to Eisenberg’s post saying there needs to be a revision of the UN bodies. “At some point, there needs to be a revision of the UN bodies. Problem is that those with excess power don’t want to give it up. India not having a permanent seat on the Security Council, despite being the most populous country on Earth, is absurd. Africa collectively should also have a permanent seat imo,” said Musk.

    At some point, there needs to be a revision of the UN bodies.

    Problem is that those with excess power don’t want to give it up.

    India not having a permanent seat on the Security Council, despite being the most populous country on Earth, is absurd.

    Africa collectively should… — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 21, 2024

    India has been vying for a permanent seat in the UNSC but its bid has been blocked by China time and again. Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi had questioned the credibility and effectiveness of the UNSC. PM Modi had once said that the credibility and effectiveness of global institutions is being questioned as there has been no change in these institutions despite the passage of time. “These institutions reflect the mindset and realities of the world 75 years ago,” he had said.

    The reform of the United Nations Security Council has been under discussion for over a decade, yet member nations have not reached a consensus on the council’s size and whether additional nations should possess veto powers. Consequently, the Security Council still mirrors the global power dynamics of 1945, with the P-5 (the USA, UK, France, Russia, and China) retaining their privileged status as victors of the Second World War.

    Countries such as India, Germany, Japan, and Brazil have been advocating for the acquisition of permanent seats on the United Nations Security Council. These nations aspire to have a more significant role in global governance and decision-making within the UN, reflecting their economic and geopolitical importance on the world stage.

  • OnePlus 12 Bank Offers, Discounts In India; How To Get Buds Z2 Headphones Free, Check Here |

    New Delhi: OnePlus has officially launched the OnePlus 12 and OnePlus 12R smartphones in the Indian market. Both smartphones were introduced during the ‘Smooth Beyond Belief’ event hosted on Tuesday in India and globally. The Chinese smartphone maker released the OnePlus 12 series shortly after unveiling another Android flagship device, the Samsung Galaxy S24 series, at the Galaxy Unpacked event. OnePlus promises software updates for the OnePlus 12 for four years.

    OnePlus 12 Offers

    The pre-orders commenced on January 23. The company is providing enticing offers for pre-orders, including a Rs 10,000 trade-in bonus, a Rs 2,000 instant discount, EMI options, and a Rs 2,500 JioPlus Postpaid offer. OnePlus asserts that customers who order the OnePlus 12R in the first 12 hours will receive the Buds Z2 for free.

    Experience #SmoothBeyondBelief with the #OnePlus12 and #OnePlus12R
    Pre-order yours today!
    — OnePlus (@oneplus) January 23, 2024

    Customers also have the opportunity to enjoy an immediate bank discount of Rs 2,000 when using an ICICI credit card or OneCard for the purchase of the OnePlus 12. Additionally, there is a special exchange bonus of up to Rs 10,000. To enhance the buying experience, customers can opt for OnePlus Easy Upgrades, ensuring a 35 per cent guaranteed value at the conclusion of 24 months. (Also Read: OnePlus 12, OnePlus 12R Launched In India; Check Price, Specs, Colour)

    For those eager to secure the OnePlus 12 early, a special pre-booking offer is open for Rs 1,999, allowing customers to place orders starting from January 23. Furthermore, a convenient no-cost EMI option is available for 12 months. The initial 1,000 customers placing orders for the OnePlus 12 will receive exclusive OnePlus Merchandise as part of a special offer.

    To expand the OnePlus experience, users can connect to RCC and receive a special coupon offering a Rs 3,000 discount when purchasing the OnePlus Pad. Additionally, customers have the opportunity to avail themselves of a 50 percent discount on the Accidental Damage Protection Plan, accessible on OnePlus.in, the OnePlus Store App, and OnePlus Experience Stores. (Also Read: Apple Rolls Out iOS 17.3 Update With THESE Features; Check Here)

  • In Big Setback To INDIA Bloc, Mamata Banerjee’s TMC To Contest 2024 Polls Alone In Bengal |

    KOLKATA: In a huge setback to the Opposition INDIA bloc, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday said that her party TMC will contest the upcoming Lok Sabha election in Bengal on all 42 seats. She further stated that TMC will consider a pan-India alliance with the Congress-led INDIA bloc only after the 2024 election results have been declared. Mamata has also reportedly instructed the Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders and supporters to gear up for a fierce electoral battle on all 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state. During a meeting in Kalighat, Mamata asserted, “Be ready to fight on all seats. I wanted to leave two, but Congress wants twelve.”

    She added, “I had no discussions with the Congress party. I have always said that in Bengal, we will fight alone. I am not concerned about what will be done in the country but we are a secular party and, in Bengal, we will alone defeat BJP. I am a part of the INDIA alliance.” 

    “I gave many proposals but they rejected them from the beginning. From then, we have decided to fight the elections in Bengal alone,” the TMC chief said.

     

    West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee says “I had no discussions with the Congress party. I have always said that in Bengal, we will fight alone. I am not concerned about what will be done in the country but we are a secular party and in Bengal, we will alone defeat BJP. I am a part of… pic.twitter.com/VK2HH3arJI
    — ANI (@ANI) January 24, 2024

     

    The Bengal Chief Minister also claimed that she had not been informed of Rahul Gandhi’s Nyay Yatra passing through Bengal, contrary to claims by the Congress that they had invited INDIA bloc parties to join the Yatra. “They did not even bother to inform me that they would be coming to West Bengal as a matter of courtesy even though I am a part of the INDIA bloc. So there is no relation with me as far as Bengal is concerned” Mamata Banerjee said.

    Warning Shots: TMC’s Seat-Sharing Deadlock

    With seat-sharing discussions with Congress yielding no results, Mamata had earlier cautioned that TMC is prepared to independently contest all 42 Lok Sabha seats if not given the “due importance.” This declaration sets the stage for a potential showdown within the INDIA bloc.

    Strategic Meeting In Murshidabad: Rallying The Troops

    Mamata’s message was delivered during a closed-door organisational meeting of the party’s Murshidabad district unit, known for its significant minority population and historical ties to the Congress. Emphasizing the need for victory in all three Lok Sabha seats in the district, Mamata urged TMC workers to be battle-ready.

    Congress’ Waning Influence: Bengal’s Political Chessboard

    In the 2019 general elections, Congress managed to retain only the Baharampur seat in West Bengal, highlighting its diminishing political foothold. The state’s political dynamics reveal a complex scenario with TMC, Congress, and CPI(M)-led Left Front allying against the BJP, creating rifts within the Opposition.

    The INDIA Bloc Turmoil: TMC’s Offer And Congress’ Rejection

    Tensions escalated as TMC reportedly offered Congress only two seats, a proposal rejected by the grand old party. Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, state Congress president, emphasized that Congress would not “beg” for seats. The fallout raises concerns about the unity of the Opposition ahead of the crucial Lok Sabha elections.

    Last week, the TMC abstained from an INDIA bloc virtual meeting, underscoring the necessity for Congress to recognize its limitations in West Bengal. The ruling party emphasized its role in spearheading the state’s political battle, hinting at growing discontent within the alliance.

    Historical Alliances: TMC’s Past Ties With Congress

    The Trinamool Congress had previously allied with Congress in the 2001 assembly polls, 2009 Lok Sabha elections, and the 2011 assembly polls, leading to the ousting of the CPI(M)-led Left Front government after 34 years. The current discord between TMC and Congress adds a new chapter to their political history. With Mamata’s decision to go alone, it now appears that the doors are closed for the Congress in Bengal. For the INDIA bloc, stitching together a formidable alliance has proven to be a stumbling block and it appears that now the alliance may not be able to put together a united front against the BJP.

  • Chinese Research Vessel Heading To Maldives: Report | world news

    BEIJING: A Chinese research vessel is heading to Maldives, Reuters reported, citing an Indian military official and an independent researcher. The timing coincides with Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu’s recent state visit to China, aimed at strengthening ties. This development raises concerns in New Delhi, as India has previously viewed the presence of such vessels near its shores, including in Sri Lanka in 2022, as problematic. These vessels are not military ships officially. However, it will spark concerns for India and others about the military use of their research.

    Relations between India and the Maldives have strained since President Muizzu took office in November, shifting the government’s focus towards China and requesting the withdrawal of nearly 80 Indian troops stationed in the Maldives, according to Reuters report. The Chinese vessel is heading to Male, according to post shared by open source intelligence researcher Damien Symon on social media platform to run an ocean survey operation in the Indian Ocean region raising concern in #India”.

    An Indian military official has confirmed Symon’s finding and said they are monitoring its movement, Reuters reported. Previously, India has flagged similar visits by other Chinese research vessels with its neighbor Sri Lanka, which has not permitted China to dock such vessels on its ports since 2022. This comes as India and the Maldives on January 14 “agreed to fast-track the withdrawal of Indian military personnel” from the island nation, according to the Maldives’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

    On January 14, India and Maldives held a core group meeting. During the meeting, both sides deliberated on finding a “mutually workable solution” to ensure the “continued operation” of Indian aviation platforms providing humanitarian and Medvec services, the Ministry of External Affairs said. The MEA announced that the next meeting will be held in the national capital. During the core group meeting, both nations delved “on several aspects of the bilateral relationship,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said during a weekly briefing on January 18 while sharing insights on the deliberations that took place in the meeting.

    “We mentioned that both sides held discussions on finding a mutually workable solution to enable continued operation of Indian aviation platforms that provide humanitarian and Medvec services to the people of the Maldives,” he also said. “The next meeting is to be held in India to take discussions forward. So that is where the situation as far as the Maldives is concerned,” Jaiswal added.

    When asked if India received a formal request from Maldives to withdraw the Indian military, Jaiswal said, “Whatever’s discussed was put out in the press release. That is where the situation actually stands. It is an ongoing process. Both sides held discussions on finding mutually workable solutions…This is an ongoing discussion, so things will go forward or things will be discussed in the next meeting of the core group subsequently soon.”

    Recently, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed traveled to China for a state visit. Upon arrival at Velana International Airport, Mohamed Muizzu announced that agreements to assist the Maldives in expanding agricultural growth to cater to food security were signed with the Chinese government. The agreements were signed following the official talks between China and Maldives during Muizzu’s state visit to China. The two nations exchanged 20 key agreements at the signing ceremony.

    Speaking on the agreements signed between the two nations, Muizzu stated that deliberations were conducted to initiate a specific agricultural scheme at Uthuru Thila Falhu (UTF), the Maldives President’s Office said in a press release. He stressed that the envisioned project will guarantee the cultivation of the most frequently used agricultural commodities, sufficient for a minimum population of 200,000 people.

  • ram mandir: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee condemns Babri Masjid demolition

    Kolkata: Trinamool Supremo Mamata Banerjee slammed BJP for resorting to vote bank politics ahead of elections and dividing votes on the basis of religion, hinting at Ram Temple consecration ceremony on Monday. Banerjee condemned the Babri Masjid demolition and divisive politics and spoke about religious inclusiveness.

    The Trinamool Supremo kicked off a ‘harmony procession’ on Monday after offering puja to Goddess Kali at Kalighat Temple, on the day of ‘pran pratishtha’ in Ram Temple at Ayodhya.

    “When the election comes, a group of people try to sell the country for the sake of votebank. You (BJP without naming them) are doing politics in time of election…Where were they (BJP) when Babri Masjid was demolished and people died here. Many areas in Kolkata were burning. I provided relief to people voluntarily and helped both Hindu and Muslims. This is history and reality which youth must know,” Mamata Banerjee said while speaking at a public rally following the harmony procession.

  • Breaking: Indian Plane Heading To Moscow Crashes In Afghanistan; Casualties Feared

    As of now, official sources have not provided information on casualties or the cause of the crash.

  • PM Modi to consecrate Ram Lalla in Ayodhya after 550 years, says home minister Amit Shah

    Guwahati: Union Home minister Amit Shah said that on January 22 Prime minister Narendra Modi in Ayodhya will do the Pran Pratishtha (consecration) of Ram Lalla, who was disrespectfully out of his home for almost 550 years.

    Shah while attending the passing out parade of Assam Police commandos in Guwahati said, “I want to congratulate you all, on January 22 our Prime minister will do the Pran Pratishtha (consecration) of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya. After staying away from his home disrespectfully for almost 550 years, Narendra Modi j.e will do the consecration and will establish the Lord in the large temple. It is a matter of pride for the whole country.”

    He said, “Under Modi’s leadership India is emerging as a power in the whole world. Modi has decided that by 2047 India will be a developed and self-reliant country and the beginning has started with the Lord Ram adorning his temple. This is a matter of joy and good wishes for the whole country.”Shah on Saturday in Sonitpur said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s mission of bringing peace and development in the northeast has been successful.

    The Congress had a policy to “divert attention from problems and enjoy power, which led to the deaths of thousands of people in the region”, particularly in Bodoland, Shah said at the 13th Triennial Conference of the All Bathou Mahasabha.

    “When I became home minister, the Bodo movement was underway and I made a sincere attempt to understand the problems and demands of one of the largest communities of the northeast,” he said.The prime minister also viewed it from a new perspective and the problem was resolved with Bodoland “today being free from bomb blasts, firing and violence”, Shah said.During the last three years, there has been no incident of violence in Bodoland, and it is scripting a new story by walking on the path of development, Shah asserted.