News Analysis India

Tag: Narendra Modi

  • India Celebrates Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’ In Ayodhya By Lighting Diyas, Fireworks |

    AYODHYA: Diwali is being celebrated across India with millions of Ram Lalla devotees lighting up earthen lamps (diyas) to celebrate the Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’ in the holy city of Ayodhya on Monday. Fireworks also adorned the night sky over Ayodhya and many other cities to celebrate the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ of Ram Lalla amid full Vedic rituals.

     

    #WATCH | Fireworks adorn the sky over Ayodhya to celebrate ‘Pran Pratishtha’ of Ram Lalla pic.twitter.com/L1zVVNkHPu
    — ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024

     

    In a radiant spectacle, Ayodhya’s Saryu Ghat was illuminated with thousands of ‘diyas’ after the conclusion of the Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony. Thousands of devotees also lit up earthen lamps in Ayodhya’s famous Hanuman Garhi temple, ushering in widespread celebrations for the Ram temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’.

     

    #WATCH | Saryu ghat illuminated with hundreds of diyas after Ayodhya Ram temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’ pic.twitter.com/caYQx815MF
    — ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024

     

    Har Ki Pauri Aglow: Haridwar Celebrates Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’

    Echoing similar sentiments, Haridwar’s Har Ki Pauri was also decorated with earthen lamps, mirroring the jubilation for Ayodhya’s Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’.

     

    #WATCH | Haridwar’s Har Ki Pauri to be lit up with earthen lamps to celebrate Ayodhya Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’ pic.twitter.com/72Zo6F87hX
    — ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024

     

    Nepal’s Janakpur Celebrates ‘Deepotsav’ in Honour of Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’

    In Nepal’s Janakpur, devotees of Ram Lalla joyously celebrated ‘Deepotsav’ to mark the auspicious occasion of Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’.

    Public Darshan Begins: Shri Ram Lalla To Grace Devotees

    Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Chief Priest Acharya Satyendra Das announced that the commencement of public darshan of Shri Ram Lalla will start from Tuesday after the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony.

    Revised Temple Timings For Devotees

    The timings for visiting the Ram Temple have been altered. Starting from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, devotees can now seek the blessings of Ram Lalla. Additionally, the temple will remain closed from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. According to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Trust, Ram Lalla will be offered fruit and milk every hour. The temple will open every day from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

    Colourful Attire For Ram Lalla

    Ram Lalla will now don different coloured attire on specific days: white on Mondays, red on Tuesdays, green on Wednesdays, yellow on Thursdays, light yellow or cream on Fridays, blue on Saturdays, and pink on Sundays. The new attire has been crafted by skilled artisans associated with the Heritage and Handloom Revival Charitable Trust in Pune, involving 10 to 15 lakh artisans.

    Temple Rituals And Schedule

    After the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony concludes on January 23, the temple will remain closed during the day for cleaning, worship, and adornment of the sanctum sanctorum. Around 3:30 PM to 4:00 PM, the idols and ‘Shri Yantra’ will be awakened with mantras, followed by the ‘Mangala Aarti.’ Subsequently, there will be the consecration ceremony, adorned with rituals and offerings. The ‘Shringar Aarti’ will follow, concluding around 5:00 PM. Morning darshan will begin at 8:00 AM, with a break from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Evening darshan will continue from 3:00 PM until 10:00 PM, interrupted only by the evening ‘Sandhya Aarti’ at 7:00 PM.

    PM Modi Leads Pran Pratishtha Rituals

    The holy city of Ayodhya witnessed a moment of divine significance as the idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled at the Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the sacred Pran Pratishtha ceremony on Monday. In the sanctum sanctorum of the grand temple, PM Modi conducted the rituals, creating an atmosphere infused with deep devotion. PM Modi performed the ‘aarti’ of the Ram Lalla idol at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya. He also performed ‘parikrama’ of the deity and did ‘dandvat pranam’. He also took blessings from ‘sadhus’.

    The childhood form of Lord Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed in the main sanctum sanctorum on the ground floor of the temple. The ceremony was marked by Indian Air Force (IAF) choppers showering flower petals over the temple premises during the unveiling of the idol.

    Ram Lalla Won’t Stay In A Tent Now: PM Modi

    PM Modi congratulated people on the Pran Prathistha ceremony in Ayodhya temple and said Ram Lalla will not stay in a tent now. “Many congratulations to all the people of the country for this auspicious occasion,” PM Modi said. He said the grand temple has been constructed after centuries of sacrifice. “After centuries of unprecedented patience, countless sacrifices, renunciations and penances, our Prabhu Ram has come…” he said. “Ram Lalla will not stay in a tent now. He will stay in the grand temple…” the Prime Minister added. 

    Distinguished Dignitaries Witness Grand Ceremony

    RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath graced the ceremony, chanting ‘Jai Sri Ram’ along with devotees. Over 8,000 guests attended the ceremony, representing various spiritual and religious sects, including tribal communities. Prime Minister Modi addressed the distinguished gathering and interacted with shramjeevis associated with the temple’s construction.

    Architectural Marvel Of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir

    The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir, constructed in traditional Nagara style, stands magnificently with a length of 380 feet, width of 250 feet, and height of 161 feet. It boasts 392 pillars, 44 doors, and intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities.

    The main entrance on the eastern side, accessed by ascending 32 stairs through Singh Dwar, leads to five Mandaps (Halls). Notable features include Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap, and Kirtan Mandap. The historic Well (Sita koop) and the restored ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiv at Kuber Tila add to the cultural richness.

    The Mandir’s foundation, crafted with a 14-meter-thick layer of roller-compacted concrete (RCC), gives it the appearance of artificial rock. The absence of iron and the use of traditional indigenous technology showcase the uniqueness of the construction. A 21-foot-high plinth of granite safeguards against ground moisture. The Mandir complex boasts a sewage treatment plant, water treatment plant, water supply for fire safety, and an independent power station, seamlessly blending modern amenities with traditional architecture. 

  • Meet Vikramaditya Singh, The Himachal Congress Leader Who Defied Party To Attend Ram Temple Pran Pratishtha In Ayodhya |

    AYODHYA: In a surprising move, Vikramaditya Singh, a prominent Congress leader and minister in the Himachal Pradesh government, went against his party’s official stance on the Ram Temple inauguration. Despite top Congress leaders boycotting the event, Singh visited the holy city of Ayodhya to partake in the auspicious ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony of the Ram Lalla idol on Monday.

    A Lone Stand: Himachal Pradesh Declares Half-Day Amid Congress Resistance

    Interestingly, Himachal Pradesh, the sole Congress-ruled state, took a distinctive step by declaring a half-day for all state government workers, showcasing a unique departure from the party’s overall stance.

    Vikramaditya Singh: The Rebel Congress Leader Who Became A ‘State Guest’ In UP

    Vikramaditya Singh, the son of current Himachal Congress chief Pratibha Singh, made headlines as he reached Lucknow from Chandigarh on Sunday. Despite being a Congress leader, he was treated as a ‘state guest’ by the BJP-led Uttar Pradesh government.

    ‘Once-In-A-Lifetime’ Opportunity: Singh On Ayodhya Visit

    Earlier on January 8, Singh expressed that attending the Ayodhya ceremony was a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.” This came amidst the Congress top brass deciding to stay away from the event, denouncing it as a ‘BJP/RSS event.’

    Congress Leaders Shun Ayodhya Invite

    On January 10, senior Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, and Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury declined the invitation, citing the BJP’s attempt to score political points with the ceremony. The Congress labelled the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony as an “RSS and BJP event,” emphasizing their commitment to the 2019 Supreme Court judgment while respecting the sentiments of Lord Ram’s devotees.

    Vikramaditya Singh: Political Scion’s Background And Journey

    Vikramaditya Singh, born in 1989, represents the Shimla Rural constituency as an MLA. Hailing from a political family, he is the son of the late ex-CM Virbhadra Singh, and his mother, Pratibha Singh, currently serves as the MP from Mandi and is the state Congress chief.

    A post-graduate in History from St Stephen’s College, Delhi, Singh served as the chief of the state youth Congress from 2013 to 2017. With two consecutive victories in the elections of 2017 and 2023, he continues to make a mark in Himachal Pradesh politics.

    PM Modi Leads Pran Pratishtha Rituals

    The holy city of Ayodhya witnessed a moment of divine significance as the idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled at the Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the sacred Pran Pratishtha ceremony on Monday. In the sanctum sanctorum of the grand temple, PM Modi conducted the rituals, creating an atmosphere infused with deep devotion. PM Modi performed the ‘aarti’ of the Ram Lalla idol at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya. He also performed ‘parikrama’ of the deity and did ‘dandvat pranam’. He also took blessings from ‘sadhus’.

    The childhood form of Lord Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed in the main sanctum sanctorum on the ground floor of the temple. The ceremony was marked by Indian Air Force (IAF) choppers showering flower petals over the temple premises during the unveiling of the idol.

    Presence Of Distinguished Dignitaries

    RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath graced the ceremony, chanting ‘Jai Sri Ram’ along with devotees. Over 8,000 guests attended the ceremony, representing various spiritual and religious sects, including tribal communities. Prime Minister Modi addressed the distinguished gathering and interacted with shramjeevis associated with the temple’s construction.

    Architectural Marvel Of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir

    The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir, constructed in traditional Nagara style, stands magnificently with a length of 380 feet, width of 250 feet, and height of 161 feet. It boasts 392 pillars, 44 doors, and intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities.

    The main entrance on the eastern side, accessed by ascending 32 stairs through Singh Dwar, leads to five Mandaps (Halls). Notable features include Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap, and Kirtan Mandap. The historic Well (Sita koop) and the restored ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiv at Kuber Tila add to the cultural richness.

    Innovative Construction Methods

    The Mandir’s foundation, crafted with a 14-meter-thick layer of roller-compacted concrete (RCC), gives it the appearance of artificial rock. The absence of iron and the use of traditional indigenous technology showcase the uniqueness of the construction. A 21-foot-high plinth of granite safeguards against ground moisture.

    Modern Amenities In Traditional Ambiance

    The Mandir complex boasts a sewage treatment plant, water treatment plant, water supply for fire safety, and an independent power station, seamlessly blending modern amenities with traditional architecture. 

  • ‘Treta Yug Casting Its Shadow On Kalyug Today’: Jagadguru Rambhadracharya On Ram Temple Pran Pratishtha In Ayodhya |

    Ayodhya: Noted Seer Jagadguru Rambhadracharya on Monday extended his best wishes to all ‘Sanatan’ followers and urged people to incorporate the values of Lord Ram into their lives as the auspicious Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Lord Ram Lalla kicked off at Ayodhya’s grand Ram Temple. “I extend my best wishes to all the people of the ‘Sanatan’ religion on the occasion of Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla. I want everyone to incorporate the characteristics of Lod Ram into their lives and behaviours. Today, Treta Yug is casting its shadow on Kalyug. A similar joy to that of Lord Ram returning to Ayodhya from ‘vanvaas’ can be experienced today,” said Jagadguru.

    On being asked about the people who declined the invitation to the grand event, Jagadguru said, “Vinash Kaale Viprit Buddhi,” adding that he does not want to comment further on them. Yog Guru Ramdev who is also a witness to the Pran Pratishta said that this was a new beginning of Ram Rajya in the country.

    “We came here when Ram Lalla was in a tent. Today, a grand temple is coming up. A new history of Sanatana is being created today. With the pranpratishtha at Ram Temple, a new beginning of ‘Ram Rajya’ is taking place…” Ramdev said. The sentiment was echoed by Bageshwar Dham’s Dhirendra Shastri who said, “This is a proud day for India…This is the beginning of ‘Ram Rajya’. My heart is full…We too are very happy…”

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi participated in the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Shri Ramlalla in the newly-built Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya on Monday.

    The Prime Minister reached Ayodhya earlier in the day to take part in the auspicious ceremony. “The divine moment of Pran Prathishta of Shri Ram Lala in Ayodhya Dham is an emotional moment for everyone. It is my good fortune to be part of this unique programme. Jai Siyaram,” PM Modi said in a tweet.

    RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and state Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath are also attending the ceremony being held at the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.

    Over 8,000 guests have been invited to the ceremony at the grand temple. Representatives of all major spiritual and religious sects of the country are attending the historic Pran Pratishtha ceremony. People from all walks of life including representatives of various tribal communities are also attending the ceremony. Prime Minister will address this distinguished gathering on the occasion.

    Prime Minister will interact with shramjeevis associated with the construction of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir. He will also visit the Kuber Tila, where the ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiv has been restored.

    The magnificent Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir is constructed in traditional Nagara style. Its length (east-west) is 380 feet; width 250 feet and height is 161 feet; and is supported by a total of 392 pillars and 44 doors. The pillars and walls of the temple showcase intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, gods, and goddesses. 

    In the main sanctum sanctorum on the ground floor, the childhood form of Bhagwan Shri Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed. The main entrance to the Mandir is situated on the eastern side, which can be approached by ascending 32 stairs through the Singh Dwar. There are a total of five Mandaps (Halls) in the Mandir – Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap and Kirtan Mandap. 

    Near the Mandir is a historic Well (Sita koop), dating back to the ancient era. In the southwestern part of the Mandir complex, at Kuber Tila, the ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiv has been restored, along with the installation of a statue of Jatayu.

    The foundation of the Mandir has been constructed with a 14-meter-thick layer of roller-compacted concrete (RCC), giving it the appearance of artificial rock. No iron is used anywhere in the Mandir. 

    For protection against ground moisture, a 21-foot-high plinth has been constructed using granite. The Mandir complex has a sewage treatment plant, water treatment plant, water supply for fire safety and an independent power station. The Mandir has been constructed employing the country’s traditional and indigenous technology. 

  • Congress’ Acharya Pramod credits PM Modi for Ayodhya Ram Mandir,says ‘Agar PM Modi Na Hote…’ – The Economic Times Video

    Congress leader Acharya Pramod, who recently demanded his party to reconsider declining invite for Ayodhya Ram Mandir inauguration, has now credited PM Modi for the temple’s construction. Ahead of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, Acharya Pramod said, “This is correct that Ram Mandir has been constructed by Supreme Court’s order, but if the country would have had different Prime Minister other than Narendra Modi, this verdict would not have been possible. I gave the credit of Ram Mandir’s construction and Pran Pratishtha ceremony to Prime Minister Modi.”

  • PM Modi To Visit Ram Setu’s Origin Point, Perform Puja At Dhanushkodi Temple |

    A day ahead of the Pran Pratishta puja at Ayodhya Ram Temple, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will conclude his temple visits today in Tamil Nadu. PM Modi has been visiting temples linked to Lord Ram for the past few days. He started off from Maharashtra’s Nashik and has visited Kerala and Andhra Pradesh as well. Today, Prime Minister Modi will visit the Arichal Munai point, the point from where the Ram Setu was built at 9:30 am.

    PM Modi will perform puja at Sri Kothandarama Swamy temple at 10.15am. The name Kothandarama means Rama with the bow. It is located in Dhanushkodi. It is said that this is where Ravana’s brother Vibhishana first met Lord Ram and asked him for refuge. Some legends also say that this is the place where Lord Ram conducted the coronation of Vibhishana. Earlier yesterday, the Prime Minister visited Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Tiruchirappalli and Sri Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram in the southern state. 

    Blessed moments at the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple. pic.twitter.com/0o0vrlOXUn
    — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 20, 2024

    The idol of Lord Ram has been placed inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple in Ayodhya. The idol of ‘Ram Lalla’ is carved by Mysuru-based sculptor Arun Yogiraj. The idol is 51 inches tall and weighs 1.5 tonnes. The idol portrays Lord Ram as a five-year-old child standing on a lotus also crafted from the same stone.

    Listening to verses of the Kamba Ramayan at the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is an experience I will cherish for my entire life. The fact that this is the very Temple where the great Kamban first publically presented his Ramayan makes it more noteworthy. pic.twitter.com/4Flcq5FlsH
    — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 20, 2024

    Ahead of the much-anticipated ‘Pran Pratishta’ event in Ayodhya tomorrow, which is expected to draw nearly 8,000 VIP guests, the Uttar Pradesh police force has significantly enhanced security measures in the temple town. Additional Director General (ADG) Lucknow Zone, Piyush Mordia, stated that security patrols along the Saryu River are being conducted using boats, and aerial surveillance is being carried out through high-flying drones.

    Honoured to have got the opportunity to pray at the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple. Prabhu Sri Ram’s connection with this Temple is long-standing. I feel blessed to have been blessed by the God whom Prabhu Sri Ram also worshipped. pic.twitter.com/0dLqTW3FeR
    — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 20, 2024

    “Our police force has arrived in Ayodhya for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony. Our Police force, which was to come to Ayodhya, has arrived and has also been deployed. The entire police force was briefed together again today. Briefing and debriefing sessions are being conducted daily with officers. Drones which have been deployed in the entire district are also being used for aerial surveillance. Patrolling on the Saryu River is being undertaken through boats,” the senior police officer said. (With ANI inputs)

  • Last 10 years a ‘Golden Era’ for Northeast: Amit Shah

    Union home minister Amit Shah on Friday said that if the last 10 years in northeast are compared with 75 years after the country’s independence, then this decade will definitely be considered as the golden period of the Northeast.

    He was addressing the 71st plenary session of the North Eastern Council in Shillong. While all the chief ministers and governors of eight northeastern states attended the meeting, Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh skipped it owing to law and situation in his state.

    Shah said that the last 10 years under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi have been the most significant for the development of the northeast in 75 years since independence. Shah said that the northeast, which was struggling with various ethnic, linguistic, border and extremist group-related problems, has also had the beginning of a fresh and durable era of peace in these 10 years.Shah urged all the states to control the Gross Fiscal Deficit and said that Manipur, Assam, Nagaland and Tripura have made commendable efforts in this direction. The Union home minister said that from 2004 to 2014, a total of 11,121 violent incidents took place in the northeast. It declined by 73% to 3,114 from 2014 to 2023. Deaths among security forces dropped by 71% from 458 to 132, while civilian deaths declined by 86%.

  • 132 Lok Sabha Seats, Four States: PM Modi’s Spiritual Outreach -Unveiling Strategy Behind BJP’s Southern Quest |

    Lord Ram is worshipped across the country and in many foreign countries as well. Ram Lalla’s consecration ceremony on January 22 will mark his return to Ayodhya after a gap of around 450 years. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the consecration ceremony, he is visiting several temples in the south which has strong connections with Lord Ram. Starting from Maharashtra, PM Modi has so far visited Andhra Pradesh and Kerala as well. 

    Now, he will be visiting various significant temples in Tamil Nadu on 20-21 January. On 20th January, he will participate in a programme at Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu. He will also listen to various scholars reciting verses from the Kamba Ramayanam in this temple. Thereafter, he will reach Rameswaram and perform Darshan and Pooja in Sri Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple. On 21st January, the Prime Minister will perform Darshan and Pooja at Kothandaramaswamy Temple, Dhanushkodi. Near Dhanushkodi, Prime Minister Modi will also visit Arichal Munai, which is said to be the place from where the Ram Setu was built.

    Maharashtra – 48 Lok Sabha Seats

    Nashik holds significant connections to the Aranya Kand of the Ramayana, the epic where Lord Ram, Sita, and Lakshman resided along the banks of the Godavari River. Notably, it is the locale where Lakshman cut off Surpanakha’s nose. The revered Shree Kala Ram Mandir which PM Modi visited, stands in the Panchavati Area of Nashik, a place deeply intertwined with the events of the Ramayana. Panchavati holds a special significance as it witnessed key episodes of the epic. Lord Ram, accompanied by Sita and Lakshman, spent a considerable time in the Dandakaranya forest, which encompasses the Panchavati region. The legend has it that Lord Ram chose this region for his abode due to the auspicious presence of these five significant trees – Panchvati – five banyan trees. Now, by visiting the temple, PM Modi sent a message to the people of Maharashtra that the Ram Temple is ready for devotees. Maharashtra has 48 Lok Sabha seats and BJP is facing tough competition there due to the NCP-Sena UBT-Congress alliance. 

    Andhra Pradesh – 25 Seats

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi performed darshan and puja at Veerbhadra Temple in Lepakshi, Puttaparthi, in Andhra Pradesh on January 16. PM Modi heard verses from the Ranganatha Ramayan in Telugu and witnessed the tale of Jatayu visually presented through the traditional shadow puppetry art form from Andhra Pradesh known as Tholu Bommalata. Lepakshi’s historical significance is rooted in the Ramayana, as it is believed that the injured bird Jatayu, wounded by Ravana during the abduction of Goddess Sita, descended at this location after an intense battle and attended Mokhsa. Even if the BJP manages to win three to five seats out of 25 in the state, it will be a boost for the saffron party.

    Kerala – 20 Lok Sabha Seats

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi performed darshan and puja at Guruvayur Temple in Guruvayur, Kerala on January 17. PM Modi appealed to people to light Ram Jyoti on January 22 to mark the Ram Temple consecration ceremony. The BJP has significantly increased its vote share in some of the seats including Thiruvananthapuram, Pathanamthitta, Thrissur and Attingal seats. Of the 20 seats, the BJP is trying to win at least 3-5 seats with the help of Hindu and Christian voters.

    Tamil Nadu – 39 Lok Sabha Seats

    The BJP has gained significant popularity in the state under state unit chief K Annamalai. Now, with PM Modi’s regular visits and temple darshans, the BJP is trying to carve a niche among the Hindu voters. PM Modi’s popularity clubbed with the dynamism of Annamalai is likely to increase BJP’s vote share. And if this translates into victory, it would mark the saffron party’s south expansion. There are 39 Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu. 

    With the Lok Sabha elections just three months away, the BJP is working round the clock to increase its vote share in the southern states.

  • ‘OrdinaryExtraordinary Success Story’: United States Lauds Policies Of Modi Government

    Addressing the World Economic Forum, Secretary Blinken highlighted that discussions between India and the United States consistently emphasize the importance of democracy and human rights.

  • 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.

  • 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.