Name: PM Modi celebrates India's role in wildlife protection
Uploaded: 2025-03-03T11:20:52.000+05:30
Duration: T01M01S
Channel: PTI
Description: On December 20, 2013, the 68th session of the United Nations General Assembly decided to proclaim March 3 as World Wildlife Day to celebrate and raise awareness about the world's wild fauna and flora.

President Murmu's Holi message highlights unity and diversity. She wishes joy and prosperity, underscoring Holi as a triumph of good over evil. Spread love and positivity this festive season.

President Murmu's Holi Message Celebrates Unity

On Holi's eve, President Murmu's message stresses unity and diversity in India. She emphasizes the festival's joy and the triumph of good over evil, spreading love and positivity for a prosperous celebration.

President Murmu's Holi greeting emphasizes unity and diversity, celebrating India's rich culture. She wishes all a joyous festival, highlighting Holi's symbolism of good over evil and urging the spread of love and positivity.

President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday conveyed her greetings to the fellow citizens on the eve of Holi, saying the festival of colours nurtures the spirit of unity and brotherhood and reflects the values of unity in diversity.
In a message, Murmu extended her warm greetings and best wishes to all Indians living in India and abroad, and said Holi brings along happiness and enthusiasm.
"This festival nurtures the spirit of unity and brotherhood in our lives. The diverse colours of Holi reflect the values of unity in diversity. This festival also symbolises the triumph of good over evil. It teaches us to spread love and positivity around us.
"May this festival of colours fill your lives with joy and prosperity,&rdquo; she said.

Actor Ranya Rao has been arrested for allegedly smuggling 14 kg of gold from Dubai to India, raising concerns about a potential wider smuggling network.

Ranya Rao Arrested for Gold Smuggling

The arrest of actor Ranya Rao for allegedly smuggling 14 kg gold from Dubai highlights potential links to a larger network, according to investigators.

Actor Ranya Rao, stepdaughter of a senior IPS officer, arrested for allegedly smuggling 14 kg of gold from Dubai, highlighting VIP protocol abuse.

Actor Ranya Rao, best known for her debut in the 2014 Kannada film 'Maanikya', has come under the spotlight for her alleged involvement in a gold smuggling operation from Dubai.
Detained at Bengaluru airport on March 3, Rao was found with 14 kg of gold discreetly hidden in her clothing, raising suspicions of a broader smuggling syndicate.
Court documents opposing her bail reveal that Rao, stepdaughter of a senior IPS officer, meticulously planned her smuggling attempt.
Allegedly, she learned how to conceal gold by watching YouTube tutorials. She claimed during interrogation that she was instructed via an internet call to pick up the gold at Dubai International Airport.
According to the documents, at the airport's dining lounge, Rao met a man described as six feet tall with a wheatish complexion and an American accent.
He handed over two packets wrapped in a thick tarpaulin-like material, containing the smuggled gold.
Rao demonstrated forethought by purchasing adhesive tape from a nearby store, pre-cutting the tape given the lack of scissors at the airport.
After receiving the gold, Rao proceeded to a washroom to conceal it. Following online tips, she wrapped the gold bars around her calves and waist using the tape and hid smaller pieces in her shoes and pockets.
Upon arriving in Bengaluru on an Emirates flight, she reportedly bypassed security with assistance from a protocol officer allegedly complicit in the racket, according to the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI).
The protocol officer, Basappa Billur, testified that he had been instructed by Ramachandra Rao, Ranya's stepfather, to provide protocol assistance for his family members, indicating prior connections.
Ranya Rao's frequent travels drew scrutiny, with the DRI noting 27 trips to Dubai in the last six months, including four within a mere 15-day window.
Her movements and subsequent apprehension have now led to widespread investigations, as authorities delve deeper into potential ties to a larger smuggling network.
The case highlights ongoing challenges in combating smuggling through airport protocols and the methods employed by those seeking to evade detection.

Ahead of its budget, Tamil Nadu prioritizes its language by updating the state logo—emphasizing Tamil symbolism over the previously used Devanagari rupee symbol—amid language policy disputes with the Central government.

Tamil Nadu Logo Change: Tamil Symbol Takes Lead

Ahead of its budget, Tamil Nadu highlights Tamil in its state logo, marking a cultural statement amid language policy debates with the Center.

Tamil Nadu updates its state logo to highlight Tamil as its budget nears, reflecting language policy opposition.

As Tamil Nadu gears up for its budget presentation on March 14, the state government has made a significant change to its official logo by replacing the Devanagari-scripted rupee symbol with the Tamil representation for rupees.
This updated emblem, which carries the message &lsquo;Ellorkkum Ellaam&rsquo; (Everything for Everyone), was unveiled by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin&rsquo;s office on Thursday.
Last year, the logo prominently featured the rupee symbol in Devanagari script.
According to a source from the Chief Minister&rsquo;s Office, this year's design emphasizes the importance of the Tamil language. DMK spokesperson Savaranan Annadurai confirmed, "We just wanted to give importance to Tamil this year."
The alteration comes amidst a simmering conflict between the Tamil Nadu government and the Central government concerning the three-language policy.
Tamil Nadu adheres to a two-language policy of Tamil and English and opposes the addition of Hindi, viewing it as an imposition on Tamil citizens. The state also contests the National Education Policy's endorsement of the three-language formula.
A government insider disclosed that the decision to alter the logo was made by the budget committee, led by Finance Minister Thangam Tennarasu. A DMK leader commented on the motivation behind the logo change: "When our language and civilization are being ridiculed even in Parliament, should we not strive to preserve it?" This statement seemingly references Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's alleged derogatory remarks about Tamil Nadu MPs in the Lok Sabha on March 10. Arun Nehru, a DMK MP, stated, "The minister insulted not just DMK MPs but the Tamil people."
Chief Minister Stalin personally approved the logo decision, as per sources. Amid ongoing language disputes, the source emphasized, "There is an ongoing language tussle. The Centre should acknowledge this. We do not want Hindi imposition on any front."
Interestingly, the rupee symbol originally replaced was crafted by D. Udaya Kumar, whose father is a DMK MLA. Udaya Kumar is currently at the helm of the design department at IIT Guwahati. The symbol, endorsed by the UPA government while under the stewardship of then-Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, was officially adopted in 2010.

Mumbai court cautions SP MLA Abu Azmi over sensitive Aurangzeb remarks, granting bail but highlighting risks of unrest.

Court Warns Abu Azmi: Caution Advised in Remarks

A Mumbai court grants SP MLA Abu Azmi anticipatory bail but emphasizes caution in public remarks to prevent unrest.

A Mumbai court grants SP MLA Abu Azmi bail but urges caution in his public remarks on Aurangzeb to avoid unrest.

Samajwadi Party MLA Abu Azmi has been cautioned by a Mumbai court to exercise restraint during interviews as any &ldquo;irresponsible&rdquo; statement by a senior politician like him can spark riots.
Additional Sessions Judge V G Raghuwanshi schooled Azmi while granting him anticipatory bail on Tuesday in a case filed against the SP legislator for his remarks praising Mughal ruler Aurangzeb.
The offence concerns some statements made during an interview and it means police do not need custody for seizure of any article or interrogation, the court said in the order, a copy of which was made available on Thursday.
Noting that Azmi is a politician and businessman and it was improbable that he would run away from the course of justice, the judge said it was a &ldquo;fit case to exercise discretion&rdquo; in his favour.
&ldquo;Before parting with the order I would like to caution the applicant (Azmi) to exercise restraint on himself while giving interviews, having regards to prevailing circumstances. Any irresponsible statement can flare riots and create law and order problems,&rdquo; the court said.
&ldquo;I hope the applicant, being a senior politician, will understand his responsibility,&rdquo; it added.
The case was registered last week against the MLA, who represents the Mankhurd-Shivaji Nagar constituency in the metropolis, under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) over his remarks eulogising the medieval-era Mughal emperor.
He was booked under BNS sections 299 (deliberate and malicious act insulting the religious beliefs of any group of people), 302 (hurting someone's religious feelings) and 356(2)(defamation).
Azmi, who is also the Samajwadi Party&rsquo;s Maharashtra unit president, had said while talking to the media that during Aurangzeb&rsquo;s reign, India&rsquo;s borders reached Afghanistan and Burma (Myanmar).
&ldquo;Our GDP (gross domestic product) accounted for 24 per cent (of world GDP) and India was called a golden sparrow,&rdquo; the opposition legislator had claimed.
Asked about the fight between Aurangzeb and Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, Azmi had termed it a political battle.
The remarks were made in the backdrop of the blockbuster Hindi film &lsquo;Chhaava&rsquo;, based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, who was captured by Aurangzeb&rsquo;s commander in 1689. Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and his father, legendary Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, are highly revered figures in Maharashtra.
Seeking anticipatory bail, Azmi, who has been suspended from the Maharashtra legislative assembly till March 26, submitted in the court that his statements were made to the press &ldquo;spontaneously without any premeditated intention to insult any personality or hurt the religious feelings of any person&rdquo;.
Azmi&rsquo;s lawyer Mubin Solkar had submitted before the court that the FIR did not disclose any offence against the SP legislator.
&ldquo;The allegations didn&rsquo;t show he had made the statements, deliberately and with malicious intentions of outraging religious sentiments,&rdquo; Solkar had argued.
The prosecution had opposed his plea, saying that after the release of a movie, religious sentiments of people are volatile and in such circumstances the applicant made controversial statements in his interview.
After hearing both sides, the court said that the investigation was at the primary stage and &ldquo;therefore it will not be fair to comment upon the interview given by the applicant&rdquo;.
Further, the judge said that he was surprised to hear that the investigating officer did not have the video recording of the alleged interview till &ldquo;today&rdquo; and he registered an offence without watching it.

Kannada actor Ranya Rao is arrested in connection with a gold smuggling racket. The investigation by multiple agencies targets a wide network.

Actor Ranya Rao's Arrest: Gold Smuggling Unveiled

Kannada actor Ranya Rao is arrested in a gold smuggling case, leading to an investigation by ED, DRI, and CBI. The probe aims to dismantle the intricate smuggling network.

Kannada actor Ranya Rao is arrested for smuggling gold, triggering a probe by multiple agencies into the intricate network involved.

In a significant crackdown on an alleged gold smuggling racket, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a money laundering case following the arrest of Kannada actor Ranya Rao.
The actor was apprehended with 14.2 kg of gold at Bengaluru Airport, triggering a multi-agency investigation into the intricate smuggling network involved.
The ED has initiated a money laundering probe, leading to searches at eight locations across Karnataka.
Meanwhile, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) raided nine sites in Bengaluru, including properties linked to Ranya Rao's husband, Jatin Vijaykumar Hukkeri.
The investigation into this high-profile case involves three major agencies.
The DRI is examining Ranya Rao's involvement, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is investigating the broader smuggling network, and the ED is focusing on potential money laundering via Hawala channels.
The 33-year-old actor, who is the stepdaughter of a senior IPS officer, was intercepted last week at Bengaluru Airport carrying gold not just in her luggage but also concealed within her clothing.
Her frequent Dubai trips&mdash;four in just 15 days&mdash;had aroused suspicions, leading to the interception and subsequent search of her residence. Authorities recovered gold jewelry worth Rs. 2.06 crore and cash amounting to Rs. 2.67 crore from her home.
According to officials, Ranya Rao was reportedly part of an extensive smuggling operation, earning Rs 4-5 lakh for every kilogram of gold smuggled from Dubai.
During interrogation, she revealed that she received instructions via an internet call to collect the gold at Dubai International Airport. She met an unidentified man in a white gown at the airport lounge, who handed her the gold wrapped in thick plastic.
She then concealed the gold on her body before boarding her flight to Bengaluru on March 3.
The DRI disclosed that Ranya Rao was able to pass through airport security with the assistance of a protocol officer complicit in the smuggling racket. However, her luck ran out as revenue officials stopped her mere feet away from the airport exit.
Ranya Rao remains in DRI custody, which has been extended until March 24, as the investigation continues to unravel the complexities of the smuggling network and those complicit in this illegal enterprise.

Holi restrictions at Shantiniketan's fair stir political controversy between BJP and TMC with claims of cultural curbs.

Holi Restrictions at Shantiniketan Spark Controversy

A poster at Shantiniketan's fair restricting Holi colors ignites a political clash. BJP accuses TMC of cultural bans as the forest minister clarifies it as an environmental advisory.

Shantiniketan's fair faces controversy with a poster barring Holi colors, sparking political drama between BJP and TMC.

A poster restricting the use of colors at Shantiniketan&rsquo;s famous artisan fair, Sonajhuri Haat, has ignited a political controversy in West Bengal.
The situation intensified as the celebration coincides with Holi, a vibrant festival marking the arrival of spring. Shantiniketan, the renowned residential community founded by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, lies about 180 km from Kolkata.
The poster, which went viral, reads in Bengali: "Reserved forest area: Playing with colours, car parking, videography and drone camera usage are prohibited."
This sparked accusations from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), claiming that the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) was effectively banning Holi celebrations.
Suvendu Adhikari, Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal assembly, alleged this was not an isolated case but part of a larger trend of governmental appeasement.
He noted perceived police interference during Holi, citing past instances such as a 2025 police station initiative coinciding with Ramzan and alleged directives to wrap up the Basanta Utsav celebrations by 10 am in Shantiniketan.
Basanta Utsav, overlapping with Holi and Dol Jatra, is a distinctive celebration initiated by Tagore in the 1920s. It fuses cultural events with the joy of spring.
State Forest Minister Birbaha Hansda refuted claims of restrictions on playing Holi, maintaining the poster was merely an environmental advisory.
She accused the BJP of politicizing the issue, asserting, "There is no restriction. If anyone wants to play Holi, they can." She also called for a report from the District Forest Officer to further investigate the matter.
As the situation unfolds, the political discourse continues to grow heated ahead of the upcoming Holi festival.

Rahul Gandhi condemns exam paper leaks, calling it a systematic failure threatening millions. He urges political unity to address this critical issue, eyeing education reform.

Rahul Gandhi Urges Action Against Exam Paper Leaks

Confronting paper leaks, Rahul Gandhi calls for cross-party efforts to tackle this critical issue affecting millions of students, emphasizing the need for education reform.

Rahul Gandhi condemns exam paper leaks, urging for cross-party collaboration to combat this systematic failure, stressing its impact on 8.5 million students.

Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Thursday said examination paper leaks were a "systematic failure" and asserted that the "serious problem" would be eradicated only when all political parties and governments forget their differences to take strict steps together.
The former Congress chief said the future of 85 lakh children in six states is at risk as paper leak has become the most dangerous "padmavyuh" for our youth.
"Paper leaks put hardworking students and their families into uncertainty and stress, taking away the fruits of their hard work. It also sends the wrong message to the next generation that dishonesty can be better than hard work, which is completely unacceptable," he said in a post in Hindi on X.
"It has not even been a year since the NEET paper leak shook the country.After our protest, the Modi government hid behind a new law and called it a solution, but so many recent leaks have proven that to be a failure as well," he said.
This serious problem is a systematic failure, Gandhi asserted.
It will be eradicated only when all political parties and governments forget their differences and take strict steps together, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha said.
"The dignity of these exams is the right of our children and it has to be protected at all costs," Gandhi asserted.
Using the 'chakravyuh' metaphor as a leitmotif, Gandhi had last year claimed that an atmosphere of fear prevails all around with a group of six trapping the entire country in a 'chakravyuh' he promised would be broken by the INDIA bloc.
Chakravyuh' refers to a multi-layered military formation aimed at trapping a warrior by opponents placed strategically in an alignment resembling a lotus-shaped labyrinth.
Gandhi had said the 'chakravyuh' is also called a 'padmavyuh' for its resemblance to a lotus (BJP's election symbol) formation.

Punjab government to develop an online portal for tracking paddy seeds, ensuring transparency and stopping the sale of uncertified seeds.

Online portal to combat sale & purchase of uncertified paddy seeds in Punjab soon

Punjab government to develop an online portal for tracking paddy seeds, ensuring transparency and stopping the sale of uncertified seeds.

In a major step to curb the sale of uncertified seeds in Punjab, the Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department has been directed to develop an online portal within a month to track and trace paddy seeds.
The portal will require registered seed producers to log details of every paddy seed transaction, including purchases, sales, and quantities, ensuring a transparent and accountable seed supply chain.
During a high-level meeting with sheller owners and officials from the Agriculture and Food &amp; Civil Supplies departments, it was emphasized that strict monitoring of the seed supply chain is crucial.
&ldquo;This initiative is a testament to our commitment to safeguarding the interests of our farmers and ensuring the quality of Punjab's agricultural produce,&rdquo; said the Agriculture Minister. Officials were instructed to ensure that PAU-recommended quality paddy seeds are readily available to farmers.
It was reiterated that no one will be allowed to exploit farmers by selling substandard and uncertified paddy seeds, which lead to lower yields and financial losses. Uncertified seeds often lack genetic vigor and disease resistance, resulting in stunted growth, reduced grain production, and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases. These issues also create challenges for the sheller industry in milling paddy into rice, impacting overall production and market value.
The introduction of the online portal is expected to enhance transparency and accountability in the seed supply chain, contributing to a more sustainable and productive agricultural sector. Eliminating uncertified seeds will help improve crop yields, boost agricultural productivity, and enhance consumer confidence in Punjab&rsquo;s rice quality.
PAU-Recommended Paddy Seed Varieties
Farmers are encouraged to purchase paddy seed varieties recommended by PAU, Ludhiana, and obtain proper receipts and bills for seeds and other agricultural inputs. PAU has recommended 11 varieties of paddy, including PR 131, PR 130, PR 129, PR 128, HKR 47, PR 127, PR 126, PR 122, PR 121, PR 114, and PR 113.
Officials present at the meeting included the Director of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Special Secretary of Agriculture, and the Director of Agriculture.

Punjab AGTF, in a joint operation with Moga Police, arrested gangster Malkit Singh alias Manu after an exchange of fire, recovering weapons.

Punjab Police arrests gangster after brief encounter in Moga

Punjab AGTF, in a joint operation with Moga Police, arrested gangster Malkit Singh alias Manu after an exchange of fire, recovering weapons.

In a significant breakthrough against organized crime, the Punjab Police&rsquo;s Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF), in a joint operation with Moga Police, arrested an operative linked to foreign-based gangsters Gaurav alias Lucky Patyal and Davinderpal Singh alias Gopi Lahoria of the Davinder Bambiha Gang. The operation, conducted in Moga city, resulted in the capture of the accused after a brief exchange of fire, said Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav on Wednesday.
The arrested individual has been identified as Malkit Singh alias Manu, a resident of Dosanjh Talwandi in Moga. Police teams recovered a .32 caliber pistol along with four cartridges from his possession.
DGP Gaurav Yadav revealed that Manu, an active member of the Davinder Bambiha Gang, has a criminal record with at least seven cases registered against him, including murder, attempted murder, violations under the NDPS Act, and the Arms Act.
He further stated that on the orders of jailed gangster Dharminder Baji, Malkit Singh alias Manu, along with his accomplice Manpreet Singh alias Mani, carried out an attack on a rival in Kapura village, Moga, on February 19, 2025. The attack resulted in one fatality, while a woman sustained a bullet injury. Additionally, Manu was involved in a firing incident at Raja Dhaba in Jagraon on February 26, 2025, which was orchestrated by foreign-based gangster Lucky Patial.
DGP Yadav confirmed that investigations are ongoing to uncover further links in the case.
Providing details of the operation, Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) AGTF Promod Ban stated that based on human and technical intelligence, special AGTF teams, under the supervision of AIG Gurmeet Chauhan and DSP Bikramjit Brar, tracked down the accused at a rented accommodation near Dosanjh Road, Moga.
During the raid, Manu attempted to evade arrest by opening fire at the police, prompting the team to retaliate. He sustained bullet injuries in the exchange and was initially admitted to a local hospital before being referred to Baba Farid Medical College in Faridkot for further treatment.
ADGP Ban added that a .32 caliber pistol with four cartridges was recovered from Manu&rsquo;s possession.
AIG Gurmeet Chauhan stated that preliminary investigations suggest Manu was assigned to execute a high-profile crime in the Tricity area on behalf of his foreign-based handlers, Lucky Patyal and Gopi Lahoria.
Meanwhile, SSP Moga Ajay Gandhi confirmed that a fresh FIR (No. 52) dated 12/3/2025 has been registered under sections 109, 132, 221, and 111 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and sections 25(6) and 25(7) of the Arms Act at Police Station City Moga. Further investigations are underway.

Punjab Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar directs officials to enhance bus services, expedite BS-6 bus purchases, and improve transport infrastructure.

Punjab government to ensure bus service on every route in the state

Punjab Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar directs officials to enhance bus services, expedite BS-6 bus purchases, and improve transport infrastructure.

Punjab Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar has instructed transport department officials to ensure government bus services operate on all routes across the state.
During a review meeting of Punjab Roadways/PUNBUS, PRTC, and the State Transport Commissioner's office, Bhullar emphasized the need to speed up the procurement of new buses. He urged officials to meet departmental targets on time and implement measures to enhance government revenue.
The minister directed the officials to acquire new BS-6 stage buses, as per guidelines that only BS-6 buses are allowed to operate at Delhi Airport to curb pollution. He also insisted that the tender process for bus procurement be completed without delay.
Bhullar stressed the importance of maintaining and cleaning bus stands statewide. He emphasized that public transport services should be made more efficient, and service delivery should be time-bound to benefit passengers.
Key officials present at the meeting included PRTC Vice Chairman Balwinder Singh, Additional Chief Secretary Transport D.K. Tiwari, STC Jaspreet Singh, and MD PUNBUS Rajiv Kumar Gupta.

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On December 20, 2013, the 68th session of the United Nations General Assembly decided to proclaim March 3 as World Wildlife Day to celebrate and raise awareness about the world's wild fauna and flora.

Modi Praises Indian Wildlife Preservation Protection Efforts

PM Modi celebrates India's role in wildlife protection

On December 20, 2013, the 68th session of the United Nations General Assembly decided to proclaim March 3 as World Wildlife Day to celebrate and raise awareness about the world's wild fauna and flora.

On World Wildlife Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday reiterated the commitment to protect and preserve the incredible biodiversity of the planet.
On December 20, 2013, the 68th session of the United Nations General Assembly decided to proclaim March 3 as World Wildlife Day to celebrate and raise awareness about the world's wild fauna and flora.
"Today, on #WorldWildlifeDay, let's reiterate our commitment to protect and preserve the incredible biodiversity of our planet," Modi said.
"Every species plays a vital role -- let's safeguard their future for generations to come! We also take pride in India's contributions towards preserving and protecting wildlife," the prime minister said.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Arvind Kejriwal marked three years of governance by highlighting major achievements, including free electricity, job creation, healthcare reforms, education initiatives, improved irrigation, etc.

Punjab government completes three years of transformative governance

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Arvind Kejriwal marked three years of governance by highlighting major achievements, including free electricity, job creation, healthcare reforms, education initiatives, improved irrigation, etc.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, accompanied by former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, visited Sri Harmandir Sahib, Bhagwan Valmiki Tirth Sthal, and Sri Durgiana Mandir on Sunday to express gratitude for the successful completion of three years of the state government.
Both leaders expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to serve the people of Punjab and usher in an era of unprecedented development. Bhagwant Singh Mann and Arvind Kejriwal emphasized their commitment to following the teachings of the great Sikh Gurus in serving the public, pledging to further accelerate the state's progress. They noted the significant transformation in Punjab over the past three years and envisioned the state leading the nation in various fields in the coming two years.
Reflecting on his tenure, the Chief Minister recalled that on this day in 2022, he had assumed office in the native village of Shaheed Bhagat Singh. He acknowledged the immense responsibility entrusted to him by the people through a decisive mandate in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha elections. Since then, Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, the government has been dedicated to positioning Punjab at the forefront in every sector.
The Chief Minister highlighted the launch of free power services in 2022, benefiting 90% of households with zero power bills. This initiative, he stated, has significantly alleviated financial burdens for common citizens. He further expressed pride that farmers, alongside domestic consumers, are receiving free and uninterrupted electricity.
He also recalled the resumption of coal supply from the Pachwara mines shortly after assuming office and the state&rsquo;s historic acquisition of the Goindwal power plant from a private company. Bhagwant Singh Mann underscored that, unlike previous administrations that sold state assets at minimal prices, his government has reversed the trend by bringing private power plants under public ownership.
In an effort to empower youth, the Punjab government has provided over 51,000 government jobs in just 36 months, a record-breaking initiative executed purely on merit, without corruption or favoritism.
To enhance healthcare accessibility, the state government has established 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics, which have transformed the medical landscape in Punjab. Bhagwant Singh Mann noted that over 2.70 crore people have benefited from these clinics, highlighting their widespread impact.
On the education front, the Punjab government is committed to upgrading 118 Government Senior Secondary Schools into Schools of Eminence, featuring modern classrooms, well-equipped laboratories, and sports facilities. He mentioned that government school enrolment in pre-primary classes has surged by approximately 17%, while teachers and principals are being sent abroad for specialized training to enhance their expertise.
The Chief Minister also emphasized Punjab&rsquo;s progress in irrigation, stating that while only 21% of canal water was previously utilized for agriculture, the figure has now risen to 75%. This has ensured that farmers at the tail ends of the canal system receive their fair share of water while simultaneously conserving groundwater.
As part of citizen-centric governance, the Punjab government introduced the "Bhagwant Mann Sarkar Tuhade Dwar" initiative, offering doorstep delivery of 43 essential government services. This scheme, he stated, has significantly improved administrative efficiency and convenience for residents.
Bhagwant Singh Mann further highlighted Punjab&rsquo;s peaceful environment and investment-friendly policies, which have attracted around ₹94,000 crore in investments from companies like Tata Steel and Sanatan Textiles. He credited the state&rsquo;s excellent infrastructure, skilled workforce, and conducive business atmosphere for this economic boost.
To facilitate spiritual journeys, the government launched the Mukh Mantri Teerth Yatra Scheme, enabling citizens to visit pilgrimage sites free of cost. More than 35,000 pilgrims have already benefited from this initiative.
Additionally, Punjab introduced a pioneering road safety initiative, the Sadak Surakhya Force, to enhance security on highways and reduce road accident fatalities. With 1,597 specially trained personnel and 144 advanced vehicles, the force has contributed to a 48.10% decline in accident-related casualties since its inception. This initiative has been widely praised, even at the national level.
Meanwhile, former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal lauded the Punjab government&rsquo;s historic decisions over the past three years, expressing confidence that the coming years would bring further transformative changes. He emphasized the administration&rsquo;s commitment to uplifting weaker and underprivileged sections of society.
Kejriwal reaffirmed the government's determination to ensure justice for all, accelerate economic growth, and eliminate corruption and drug-related issues. He expressed optimism about Punjab&rsquo;s future, envisioning it as a peaceful, prosperous, and progressive state with active youth participation in its development.

Punjab Cabinet Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal flagged off new bus services from Lehragaga, improving connectivity to Hoshiarpur and Khanauri. This initiative aims to ease travel for residents, traders, and students.

Punjab government launches new bus routes for better connectivity

Punjab Cabinet Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal flagged off new bus services from Lehragaga, improving connectivity to Hoshiarpur and Khanauri. This initiative aims to ease travel for residents, traders, and students.

In a significant move to enhance transportation facilities for the residents of Lehragaga constituency, Punjab Cabinet Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal flagged off buses on two new routes from the Lehragaga Bus Stand on Sunday.&nbsp;
This initiative, taken under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, aims to provide much-needed relief to passengers.
Addressing the gathering, Cabinet Minister Goyal highlighted the challenges faced by traders and locals traveling from Lehragaga to Hoshiarpur due to the absence of a direct bus service. &ldquo;From now onwards, a bus will depart daily from Lehragaga Bus Stand at 6:45 AM, traveling via Sunam, Sangrur, and Ludhiana, and reaching Hoshiarpur by afternoon. The return journey will begin from Hoshiarpur at 2:37 PM. The passengers traveling on this 422-kilometer route will experience significant relief with this new service,&rdquo; he stated.
He further announced the launch of another bus service for passengers commuting between Moonak and Khanauri, a route where students, in particular, faced difficulties due to the lack of government transport. &ldquo;Now, this problem has been permanently resolved,&rdquo; he assured.
Expressing gratitude towards Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar, and PRTC Chairman Ranjodh Singh Hadana, Goyal criticized previous governments for neglecting rural development needs. &ldquo;While previous governments ignored demands for better transport and other public amenities, the Punjab government led by the Aam Aadmi Party has initiated a wave of development projects across villages and cities, ensuring there is no shortage of development work anywhere in Punjab,&rdquo; he said.
Several prominent personalities attended the event, including Gaurav Goyal, Market Committee Chairman Sheeshpal Anand, PA Rakesh Kumar Gupta, retired teacher Ramesh Kumar, Commission Agent Rakesh Kumar, Nand Lal, and Dr. Sethi.

As part of Punjab’s ‘War Against Drugs’ campaign, Ferozepur Police demolished the illegal house of an absconding drug peddler and reclaimed one acre of encroached land. 

Punjab Police demolishes drug peddler’s illegal house in Ferozepur

As part of Punjab&rsquo;s &lsquo;War Against Drugs&rsquo; campaign, Ferozepur Police demolished the illegal house of an absconding drug peddler and reclaimed one acre of encroached land. Authorities warn strict action against drug traffickers, vowing to curb the menace.

As part of its ongoing &lsquo;War Against Drugs&rsquo; campaign, the Ferozepur Police and District Administration took strict action on Sunday by demolishing the illegally constructed house of an absconding drug peddler.&nbsp;
The accused, already facing three cases, had also encroached upon one acre of Forest Department land in Jhuge Hazara village.
SSP Ferozepur Bhupinder Singh Sidhu identified the accused as Gurcharan Singh, who had built the illegal structure in the jurisdiction of Sadar police station. A JCB machine was used to carry out the demolition, and authorities confirmed that the encroached land will also be reclaimed soon.
&ldquo;This action has been taken on the directions of Chief Minister Punjab Bhagwant Singh Mann and DGP Punjab Gaurav Yadav. A large number of drug smugglers have already been arrested under this campaign,&rdquo; said SSP Sidhu.
He further warned that strict action will be taken against all those involved in drug trafficking. &ldquo;Drug dealers should abandon this trade immediately, or they will face similar consequences. Properties acquired through illegal means will either be seized or demolished,&rdquo; he added.
The demolition drive was witnessed by a large gathering of villagers, who lauded the Punjab Government&rsquo;s firm stance against drug peddlers. They expressed hope that such measures would help eradicate the drug menace from Punjab in the near future.

PM Modi criticizes global organizations like the UN amid current conflicts, urging for reform and cooperation. He stresses on India's push for UNSC reform to reflect modern realities.

Modi Critiques UN Effectiveness Amid Global Conflicts

PM Modi highlights UN's inefficacy amid global tensions, urging reforms for modern relevance. He stresses India's UNSC campaign and global cooperation post-pandemic.

Indian PM Modi critiques the UN's effectiveness amid conflicts, highlighting post-pandemic disunity and suggesting global cooperation over expansionism.

During a podcast interview with American scientist Lex Fridman, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the effectiveness of international organizations, such as the United Nations, in addressing current global conflicts, pointing to ongoing Middle East wars and tensions between China and the US. PM Modi expressed concerns about the increasing irrelevance of these institutions due to a lack of reform, stating that they are unable to enforce laws or curb the actions of those disregarding rules. Reflecting on the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, PM Modi highlighted how it exposed vulnerabilities across nations, despite their advancements and progress. He lamented that instead of fostering global unity, the pandemic was followed by increased disunity and uncertainty on the world stage, exacerbated by ongoing conflicts. Emphasizing the need to shift from conflict to cooperation, PM Modi advocated for a development-focused approach, highlighting that in a world as interconnected and interdependent as ours, expansionism is not viable. He urged nations to support one another and expressed hope for alleviating global conflicts. In the past, at the UN's 'Summit of the Future', PM Modi emphasized the necessity of reform in the United Nations to maintain its relevance, urging that global actions must align with global ambitions. India has long campaigned for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), arguing that the current structure, established in 1945, no longer reflects contemporary geopolitical realities. India served as a non-permanent member of the UNSC in 2021-22, and while the council's permanent members&mdash;Russia, the UK, China, France, and the US&mdash;hold veto power, the US, UK, and France have shown support for India joining as a permanent member.

Hansraj, 25, was strangled in Dausa, Rajasthan, after resisting Holi colors, sparking a protest demanding justice and compensation for his family.

Young Man Strangled Over Holi Dispute in Rajasthan

In Dausa, Rajasthan, 25-year-old Hansraj was strangled after a Holi dispute, leading to protests demanding justice and compensation for his family.

In Rajasthan's Dausa, 25-year-old Hansraj was strangled to death after resisting Holi colors. Family protested for justice.

In a tragic incident in Rajasthan's Dausa district, a 25-year-old man named Hansraj was allegedly strangled to death after attempting to prevent three men from applying Holi colours on him. The incident occurred on Wednesday evening in Ralwas village, authorities have confirmed.
According to police reports, Ashok, Bablu, and Kaluram approached Hansraj at a local library, where he was busy preparing for competitive exams, to celebrate Holi by smearing him with colours. Hansraj, however, resisted their attempts, leading to a violent confrontation. In a shocking turn of events, the trio reportedly kicked him, beat him with belts, and ultimately strangled him, as stated by Additional Superintendent of Police, Dinesh Agarwal.
In the aftermath of this brutal incident, enraged family members and villagers gathered to protest, displaying Hansraj&rsquo;s body and blocking a national highway in the process. The demonstration, seeking justice for Hansraj, continued until early Thursday morning.
Protesters have demanded a compensation of Rs 50 lakh for Hansraj's family, alongside a government job for a family member. They have also called for the immediate arrest of the suspects involved in the tragic incident.
The highway was finally cleared following assurances from the police that action would be taken against those responsible for this heinous crime.

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