Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami highlights Uttarakhand's ambition to lead in drone manufacturing, with Surya Drone Tech 2025 showcasing innovative drone technologies to support defence and disaster relief operations.z

CM Dhami envisions Uttarakhand as a defence manufacturing hub

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami highlights Uttarakhand's ambition to lead in drone manufacturing, with Surya Drone Tech 2025 showcasing innovative drone technologies to support defence and disaster relief operations.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami highlights Uttarakhand's ambition to lead in drone manufacturing, with Surya Drone Tech 2025 showcasing innovative drone technologies to support defence and disaster relief operations.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami reaffirmed his commitment to transforming the state into a hub for defence production, particularly in drone and defence manufacturing.&nbsp;
Speaking at the "Surya Drone Tech 2025" program held at Jaswant Ground in Dehradun Cantonment, Chief Minister Dhami emphasized the state government's ongoing efforts to position Uttarakhand as a leader in the industry.&nbsp;
The event, a two-day exhibition organized by the Central Command of the Indian Army in collaboration with the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM), took place from April 29 to April 30, 2025. It featured cutting-edge drone technologies developed in India, aimed at addressing diverse military needs and supporting the "Atmanirbhar Bharat" initiative.
During the event, Chief Minister Dhami highlighted the crucial role of drone technology in disaster relief operations, particularly in Uttarakhand's challenging geographical landscape.
&nbsp;"Drone technology is proving to be a boon for disaster relief operations in a geographically sensitive state like Uttarakhand. Therefore, our government is trying to make our youth not only drone experts but also develop technology-based solutions for civilian use," he remarked.&nbsp;
The Chief Minister also underscored the focus on defence production and technological innovation in the state&rsquo;s new industrial policies.
Surya Drone Tech 2025, described by Dhami as a convergence of science, technology, and talent, offered a platform for showcasing India's technological advancements in drones. The event also served to inspire young innovators in the field.&nbsp;
"Such events not only provide a unique platform to showcase modern technological achievements but also inspire our youth to innovate in the field of drones and technology," he said, adding that it was a significant step toward making Uttarakhand a drone manufacturing hub.
Chief Minister Dhami further expressed pride in India&rsquo;s growing technological self-reliance, noting that the diverse drone technologies on display were evidence of the country&rsquo;s capabilities.&nbsp;
"It is a matter of pride to see that India is now not only becoming self-reliant in the defence sector, but is also playing a leading role in technological innovation," he stated. He emphasized the revolutionary impact of drone technology across multiple sectors, including security, education, disaster management, and agriculture.
Acknowledging the role of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in fostering innovation, Dhami reiterated the state government's commitment to promoting defence production in Uttarakhand. "Understanding the importance of innovation in the military sector, the state government is also working committedly to promote defence production in Uttarakhand," he concluded.
The event saw participation from members of the Central Command, SIDM, drone experts, startups, MSMEs, NCC cadets, and students, all contributing to the success of 'Surya Drone Tech 2025'.

India's External Affairs Minister meets US Secretary over Pahalgam attack; India reacts strongly amid growing tensions.

Jaishankar Discusses Pahalgam Terror Attack with US

Jaishankar raises US concerns on Pahalgam attack; India's strategic actions amid tensions and cross-border challenges.

Jaishankar called for the perpetrators, backers, and planners of the Pahalgam terrorist attack to be brought to justice.

External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Thursday said he discussed the Pahalgam terrorist attack with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and called for justice for those responsible. &ldquo;Discussed the Pahalgam terrorist attack with US @SecRubio yesterday.
Its perpetrators, backers and planners must be brought to justice,&rdquo; Jaishankar wrote on X (formerly Twitter)
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Discussed the Pahalgam terrorist attack with US <a href="https://twitter.com/SecRubio?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecRubio</a> yesterday. Its perpetrators, backers and planners must be brought to justice.
&mdash; Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1917761451789369613?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Following a rise in ceasefire violations by Pakistan along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir, Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with S Jaishankar on Thursday.
During the call, Rubio reaffirmed the United States' commitment to collaborating with India in the fight against terrorism.
He expressed sorrow over the &ldquo;horrific terrorist attack&rdquo; in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists, and encouraged India to engage with Pakistan to &ldquo;de-escalate tensions&rdquo; and ensure peace and security in South Asia, according to US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce.
In retaliation, India has taken several steps against Pakistan, including holding the Indus Water Treaty in abeyance, closing the Integrated Check Post at Attari, and reducing the strength of High Commissions.
The government has granted the armed forces full operational freedom to determine the response to the Pahalgam terror attack.
Indian Army responds to Pakistan's unprovoked fire across LoC The Indian Army has swiftly and effectively responded to Pakistan Army's unprovoked small arms fire across the LoC.
On the night of April 30-May 1, Pakistan Army opened unprovoked small-arms fire across the Line of Control (LoC) in Kupwara, Uri, and Akhnoor sectors for the seventh consecutive night, with the Indian Army responding proportionately.
Similarly, the Indian Army had responded decisively to the firing along the LoC on the night of April 26-27 in areas opposite the Tutmari Gali and Rampur sectors.
In the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, security forces have ramped up anti-terror operations in the Kashmir Valley.
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) met after the Pahalgam terror attack and highlighted its cross-border links, observing that it came after successful elections in Jammu and Kashmir.

Chhattisgarh will reposition 2,621 affected BEd-qualified assistant teachers into science lab roles at state schools, following a court order that nullified their appointments due to an invalid NCTE notification.

Chhattisgarh Absorbs 2,621 BEd Teachers

Following a court ruling, Chhattisgarh reallocates 2,621 BEd-qualified teachers into science roles at state schools, addressing both legal compliance and educator protests.

Chhattisgarh will absorb 2,621 BEd teachers into state school science lab roles after court invalidation.

More than 2,600 assistant teachers with BEd (Bachelor of Education) degrees, whose services were terminated by the Chhattisgarh government following a court order, will be absorbed in vacant posts in science laboratories of state-run schools, an official said on Wednesday.
A decision in this regard was taken at a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai here at Mantralaya (state secretariat), he said.
Sai, in a post on 'X', said, "Known for good governance, our government has done justice to 2,621 BEd-qualified assistant teachers whose services were terminated after appointment through Direct Recruitment 2023.
"We have decided to accommodate all these assistant teachers in the posts of Assistant Teacher Science (Laboratory). The School Education Department has been authorized for this (the absorption process)." The absorption will be done on non-advertised posts. Assistant teachers who have passed 12th from the arts/science faculty will be given three years to complete the prescribed qualification (12th maths/science). These candidates will be given two months of special training through the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) regarding laboratory work, the official informed.
Under the process, the vacant posts in scheduled area districts will be filled first followed by positions lying vacant in border districts. Other districts will be preferred later, he said.
The state government had terminated the services of these assistant teachers of primary schools in compliance with a Chhattisgarh High Court order dated April 2, 2024.
Notably, the issue of their termination stemmed from a notification of the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) which was quashed by the Rajasthan High Court in 2021.
On June 28, 2018, the NCTE, a statutory body of the Centre, had issued a notification stating BEd degree holders were eligible for appointment to the post of primary school teachers (Classes I to V) earlier, for which only DEd (Diploma in Education) or D.El.Ed (Diploma in Elementary Education) holders were considered qualified.
Based on this notification, the Chhattisgarh school education department had issued a notification including BEd as a qualification for appointment to the post of assistant teachers in the state.
While hearing a case pertaining to the appointment of primary teachers in Rajasthan, the Rajasthan High Court quashed the 2018 NCTE notification in 2021, holding BEd candidates to be unqualified for the posts of primary school teachers.
The matter later went to the Supreme Court, which on August 11, 2023, upheld the Rajasthan HC order quashing the 2018 NCTE notification. The apex court, however, noted BEd-qualified teachers appointed prior to this judgement will not be affected by its ruling.
Meanwhile, on May 4, 2023, the Chhattisgarh government published an advertisement for the vacant posts of primary school teachers in which both BEd and DEd holders were invited in the selection process.
On June 10, 2023, recruitment examinations were conducted, and results were declared in July the same year. The appointment process of the selected teachers started in September 2023. However, DEd-qualified candidates approached the Chhattisgarh HC, challenging the appointments of BEd holders as primary school teachers.
On April 2 last year, the Chhattisgarh HC held the notification of qualification of BEd as eligible for the post of assistant teacher (Classes I to V) as illegal and quashed their appointments.
On December 10 last year, the High Court, in a contempt case for not implementing its order dated April 2, 2024, granted the Chhattisgarh government "two weeks" for complying with its order.
Subsequently, the state government sacked the assistant teachers with BEd degrees, triggering state-wide protests by them.
However, on January 3, the government formed an inter-departmental committee headed by the chief secretary to look into the demands of the terminated teachers, which includes their absorption in vacant posts in the education department.

Rahul Gandhi calls for decisive action post-Pahalgam terror attack, urging PM Modi for strong response. The opposition pledges full support as Gandhi meets a victim's family seeking martyr status.

Rahul Gandhi Urges Strong Action After Pahalgam

In a call to action, Rahul Gandhi presses PM Modi for a clear response post-Pahalgam attack, emphasizing opposition support. A victim's family in Kanpur seeks martyr status.

Rahul Gandhi calls for strong action after the Pahalgam attack, urging PM Modi to respond decisively. He reassures government support from the opposition and shares a Kanpur victim's family's wish for martyr status.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said on Wednesday that those responsible for the Pahalgam terror attack must pay the price for what they have done and Prime Minister Narendra Modi must act strongly and not dilly dally on the action.
Addressing the media at the AICC headquarters here, the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha said those behind Pahalgam attack must pay the price and be made to realise they cannot do this to India.
He said the government has opposition's 100 per cent support and Modi has to take action.
"The prime minister has to take action. Action has to be clear and strong. The prime minister must not dilly dally and needs to act. He can act in whatever time frame he thinks necessary," Gandhi said.
The Congress MP also said he met the family of a victim of the Pahalgam attack in Kanpur and they want they should be given a martyr status.

Traders in Delhi's Sadar Bazar voiced concerns over high property user charges and requested Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh address parking and traffic issues ahead of the monsoon.

Delhi Traders Demand Solutions from Mayor

At a meeting with Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh, Delhi traders demanded solutions to high user charges on property taxes and traffic chaos caused by parked areas and e-rickshaws, especially before the monsoon.

Delhi traders met with Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh to discuss excessive user charges and traffic issues, seeking pre-monsoon sewer cleaning and action against e-rickshaw congestion.

Delhi traders on Wednesday met the newly elected MCD Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh with a series of demands, including the removal of additional user charges on house taxes and action against encroachment, a statement said.
During the meeting, the Federation of Sadar Bazar Trades Association addressed the mayor regarding problems in Sadar Bazar, expressing anger among traders over the Municipal Corporation of Delhi's 'high user charge' imposition, the statement said.
"Many shops in Sadar Bazar are very small, with a house tax of Rs 500 or Rs 700. Along with that, the Rs 5000 user charge will put a burden on small traders, due to which they are struggling," it said.
Demanding precautions for the upcoming monsoon season, they said, "Water enters the shops during the rainy season, which is why we request the MCD to clean all the sewer lines beforehand." The union also called for the removal of the parking space between Sadar Bazar Police Station and 12 Tooti Chowk, allotted by the MCD, which has led to traffic jams and criminal activities, it stated.
They also demanded action against the various e-rickshaws that are operating without licenses and numbers, further contributing to the traffic woes.
After the meeting, the association claimed that the mayor assured them of appropriate solutions and would work towards developing the area.

Haryana's Environment Minister demands strict enforcement of single-use plastics ban in Gurugram, highlighting illegal usage and pollution concerns.

Gurugram Enforces Ban on Single-Use Plastics

Haryana's Environment Minister urges strict enforcement of single-use plastics ban in Gurugram, citing the city's economic importance and ongoing illegal use.

Haryana's Environment Minister urges strict enforcement of the single-use plastics ban in Gurugram, citing the city's economic importance and persistent illegal use.

Haryana Environment Minister Rao Narbir Singh on Wednesday directed officials to enforce the ban on single-use plastics in Gurugram.
He called for a special campaign in key markets, emphasizing that any unauthorized use of plastic should be penalized in accordance with the rules, an official statement said.
Singh was presiding over a meeting with officers from the Haryana State Pollution Control Board here, it said.
He said Gurugram is regarded as the economic capital of Haryana. It hosts offices of numerous prominent companies and attracts top officials from within the country and abroad. Therefore, maintaining a pollution-free environment in Gurugram is a key priority, he added.
While single-use plastics are banned in Haryana, he noted that due to a lack of awareness, they continue to be used illegally by many shopkeepers, malls, hotels, dhabas, and other establishments.
He pointed out that plastic carry bags made from single-use plastic are often not properly disposed of, contributing significantly to pollution. This form of pollution, he stressed, is particularly harmful.

Deven Bharti assumes the role of Mumbai Police Commissioner, aiming to improve police accessibility and leverage technology for better public service.

Deven Bharti: Mumbai Police Commissioner 2023

Celebrated IPS officer Deven Bharti assumes the role of Mumbai Police Commissioner, focusing on tech-driven and accessible policing initiatives.

Deven Bharti, an experienced IPS officer, takes over as Mumbai Police Commissioner, focusing on accessible, tech-savvy policing.

Senior IPS officer Deven Bharti, who has been a part of probes into many high-profile cases, including the 26/11 terror attacks, on Wednesday took over as the new commissioner of Mumbai police.
The 1994-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer succeeded incumbent Vivek Phansalkar, who retired after 35 years of service.
Soon after taking charge in the evening, Bharti (56) promised to reach out to the last citizen in terms of policing, crime prevention and detection.
"I will try to give effective police service to all Mumbaikars. We will like to reach the last man standing on the ground in terms of providing police service and security net. Wherever there are gaps, we will try to fill them with the help of technology," he maintained.
Bharti was serving as the Mumbai police special commissioner, a post created by the first Mahayuti government in 2023, before his elevation as the city's top cop.
While the state home department issued an order concerning Bharti&rsquo;s appointment, it has downgraded the post to the rank of Additional Director General of Police (ADGP), an official said.
The coveted post of Mumbai police commissioner has traditionally been of the ADGP rank, but it had been upgraded to the DG (Director General) rank in a few recent postings.
During his three decades-long career, Bharti has served in various capacities in Maharashtra and at the Centre. He served the 50,000-strong police force in the metropolis in various roles, including as joint commissioner of police (law and order), additional commissioner of police (crime), and deputy commissioner of police (crime).
He has also headed the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), besides serving as the inspector general of police (law and order ) in the Maharashtra police headquarters.
Known for his investigative skills, Bharti has been a part of many high-profile cases, including the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks in which 166 people were killed, the 2011 murder of journalist J Dey and the Farid Tanasha case.
He is credited with cracking down on homegrown terrorist organization Indian Mujahideen, which was responsible for a string of bomb blasts in the country, including in Maharashtra and Gujarat.
The senior IPS officer is also adept at tackling cyber and financial crimes.

Madhya Pradesh CM Yadav calls for national unity against terrorism, praises PM Modi's leadership, and announces plans to develop Janapav as a religious center.

Madhya Pradesh CM Urges Unity Against Terrorism

Madhya Pradesh CM Yadav advocates unity against terrorism, in line with PM Modi's policies. Announces religious site developments, aligning security efforts with cultural symbolism.

Madhya Pradesh CM Yadav denounces terrorism, aligning with PM Modi's strong stance. Highlights united political front post-Article 370 and plans to make Janapav a major religious center, underscoring security and unity.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Wednesday termed terrorists as "germs" and urged people to remain united in the fight against terror launched by the Modi government in the wake of the Pahalgam attack.
Citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's strong message against terrorism after the Pahalgam terror attack, During a program organized at Janapav, the birthplace of Lord Parshuram, about 50 km from Indore city, Yadav said that Prime Minister Modi has pledged to destroy India's enemies, terrorists, and their supporters, and at such a time, the countrymen should maintain their unity.
Yadav said, "Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, India's flag is flying high in the world today, while some germs (terrorists) are seen buzzing like flies and mosquitoes. They (terrorists) have forgotten that we Indian citizens are descendants of Lord Parshuram. They will not be able to know where they have disappeared." Yadav said that due to India's growing strength and its unity and integrity, all the ruling and opposition parties in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly are strongly condemning Pakistan.
He also said that after the abrogation of Article 370, all of Jammu and Kashmir has joined the "nationalist ideology".
Yadav visited Lord Parshuram's birthplace, situated on the hills of Janapav, during the Parshuram Jayanti celebrations and offered prayers there.
The CM mentioned the mythological importance of Lord Parshuram's birthplace during the ceremony and announced the development of Janapav as a big religious center.

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah stresses a socio-economic survey beyond caste census for social justice, amid cabinet hurdles.

Karnataka CM Urges Socio-Economic, Caste Surveys

CM Siddaramaiah requests a socio-economic survey alongside a caste census, emphasizing social justice amid cabinet discussions.

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah advocates for a socio-economic survey, not just a caste census for social justice, amidst cabinet disagreements.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday insisted that the Centre should conduct a socio-economic survey as the caste census alone will not suffice.
In a major decision, the Centre on Wednesday announced that caste enumeration will be included in the forthcoming census exercise in a &lsquo;transparent&rsquo; manner.
Opposition parties, including the Congress, have been demanding a nationwide caste census, making it a major election issue, and some states like Bihar, Telangana and Karnataka have conducted such surveys in their states.
Karnataka carried out a &lsquo;social and educational survey&rsquo; covering 94 per cent of the state population. After nine years of the exercise since 2015, the then Backward Class Commission Chairperson Jayaprakash Hegde submitted the report to the chief minister in February 2024.
Amid internal differences over the caste census report, a special meeting of the state cabinet that met on April 17, 2025, to discuss it, ended inconclusive, without any major decision.
Speaking to reporters here, Siddaramaiah said, "We (Congress) had said in our manifesto that a socio-economic and caste census should be conducted. I don&rsquo;t know whether they would do just a caste census or a socio-economic survey as well. I will react after going through it (Centre&rsquo;s decision)." Siddaramaiah said a socio-economic survey was necessary for social justice.
"They (Centre) have said they would do a census and caste census. Socio-economic survey is very important. If we have to do social justice, then socio-economic survey has to be done," he added.
When he was reminded that he faced criticism for tabling the caste census at a cabinet meeting held recently, the chief minister said he had told all the ministers to give their opinion.
"After the ministers submit their opinion in writing, we will present it in the cabinet and discuss the socio-economic survey report," Siddaramaiah added.

Javed Akhtar confronts social media trolls, advocates for artist royalties, and reflects on iconic films 'Sholay' and 'Deewar'. He emphasizes the need for government intervention for fair royalty distribution.

Javed Akhtar Battles Trolls, Honors Film Legacy

Javed Akhtar confronts trolls, seeks artist royalty rights, and reflects on the lasting influence of 'Sholay' and 'Deewar'.

Javed Akhtar, tackling trolls and advocating artist rights, reflects on his iconic film legacy and its cultural impact.

As someone who often schools faceless people on social media for their communal and hateful remarks, veteran screenwriter-poet Javed Akhtar says trolls should know they can also be subjected to the same treatment when the need arises.
Whether it's supporting Indian cricketer Mohd Shami during the recent 'roza' row, getting back at trolls who targeted him for praising Virat Kohli or condemning the Pahalgam terror attack in strong words, the lyricist is known for openly voicing his opinions on X.
Asked whether his family asks him to steer clear of social media trolls, Akhtar told PTI, "Yes, absolutely. Even my friends say 'let it be. Why do you want to get into it? You are above all these things. Forgive me for my immodesty; I mostly feel above these trolls, but sometimes you have to come down and tell them that, 'No, you can't take this liberty, and if you do, I'll pay you back in the same coin." The 80-year-old writer, who also serves as the chairperson of the Indian Performing Right Society (IPRS), was speaking on the sidelines of the "IP and Music: Feel the Beat of IP" conference organized by FICCI on Tuesday here.
Akhtar, who took over the IPRS in 2017, said the copyright body needs government support so that artists receive their fair share of public performance royalty.
"If there are a few lakh people who are not paying us public performance royalty, we can't have a few lakh cases in courts, it is not possible. It is only the government that can put pressure by making some kind of a rule or a sub-rule to make it mandatory to pay.
"Whenever I have contacted any political party or ministry, they have been extremely sympathetic about the cause. They have respect for Indian artists; they have often gone out of their way to help us. I have no such problems. What we have to do now is to go again (to the authorities) and tell them what is wrong. You have made a fantastic law, but it is not working on the ground," he said.
"Sholay" and "Deewar", which he co-wrote with Salim Khan, are celebrating their 50th release anniversary. Asked what was the reason behind the enduring relevance of these films, the writer said it's impossible to predict how a movie is going to connect with people while writing it.
"Kuch achhe kaam hote hain jo reh jaate hain public memory mein (there are a few good works that remain etched in public memory). And the films you're talking about they have somehow (have stayed in public memory)... Why, I don't know. If I knew, I would've done it again and again. They have become a part of the Indian psyche, culture, and common language.
"Dialogues of a 50-year-old film are being referenced in stand-up comedy, other films, and even in political speeches till today. How and why has it happened? I mean, what is charisma? There is no definition of charisma. It happens, and then you try to reason it out, find some rationale or logic in it. But I think it is beyond it," he added.

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A Delhi court permits NIA to collect voice and handwriting samples from 26/11 accused Tahawwur Rana, following his extradition to India.

Delhi Court Allows NIA to Collect Samples from Rana

Delhi court allows NIA to gather crucial voice and handwriting samples from Tahawwur Rana. Key step in the investigation of 26/11 attacks.

A Delhi court has allowed NIA to collect voice and handwriting samples from Tahawwur Rana, a key accused in the 26/11 case.

A Delhi court has allowed the NIA to collect the voice and handwriting samples of 26/11 Mumbai attack accused Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a source said.
Special National Investigation Agency (NIA) Judge Chander Jit Singh, who on April 28 extended Rana's custody for 12 days, passed the order on April 30 on an application moved by the agency.
Rana, a close associate of 26/11 main conspirator David Coleman Headley, alias Daood Gilani, a US citizen, was brought to India after the US Supreme Court on April 4 dismissed his review plea against his extradition to India.
On November 26, 2008, a group of 10 Pakistani terrorists went on a rampage, carrying out a coordinated attack on a railway station, two luxury hotels, and a Jewish center after they sneaked into India's financial capital using the sea route.
As many as 166 people were killed in the nearly 60-hour assault.

Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath and Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami hailed the Centre’s move to include caste enumeration in the upcoming census, calling it a historic and revolutionary step toward social justice and inclusive governance.

Centre's caste census decision gets backing from UP and Uttarakhand CMs

Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath and Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami hailed the Centre&rsquo;s move to include caste enumeration in the upcoming census, calling it a historic and revolutionary step toward social justice and inclusive governance.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday welcomed the Union Cabinet&rsquo;s decision to include caste enumeration in the upcoming national census, calling it a major step toward achieving social justice and data-driven governance.
In a post on X, Adityanath said, "The decision of CCPA under the leadership of Honorable Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji to include caste census in the upcoming census in the overall interest of 140 crore countrymen is unprecedented and welcome."&nbsp;
&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="hi" dir="ltr"&gt;140 करोड़ देशवासियों के समग्र हित में आदरणीय प्रधानमंत्री श्री &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;@narendramodi&lt;/a&gt; जी के नेतृत्व में CCPA द्वारा जाति जनगणना को आगामी जनगणना में शामिल किए जाने का निर्णय अभूतपूर्व एवं स्वागत योग्य है।&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;वंचित, पिछड़े और उपेक्षित वर्गों को सही पहचान और सरकारी योजनाओं में उनकी उचित&hellip;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/myogiadityanath/status/1917566105012560341?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;April 30, 2025&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;
He described the move as a significant stride towards recognizing and empowering marginalized and backward communities. "Heartfelt gratitude to the respected Prime Minister, under whose leadership the BJP government has taken this historic decision to transform social justice and data-based good governance into reality," he added.
Echoing his sentiments, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami also praised the decision, hailing it as a transformative step to ensure equity and dignity for all.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Congress opposed caste census for decades and always tried to shine its politics on this issue. The biggest example of this is that a caste census was never conducted to date after independence. Congress used them only as a vote bank by promoting division among castes," Dhami said in a post on X.
&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="hi" dir="ltr"&gt;कांग्रेस ने दशकों तक जातिगत जनगणना का विरोध किया और इस मुद्दे पर हमेशा अपनी राजनीति चमकाने का प्रयास किया। इसका सबसे बड़ा उदाहरण यह है कि स्वतंत्रता के बाद आज तक जातिगत जनगणना कभी नहीं करवाई गई। कांग्रेस ने जातियों के बीच विभाजन को बढ़ावा देकर उन्हें सिर्फ वोटबैंक के रूप में&hellip;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; Pushkar Singh Dhami (@pushkardhami) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/pushkardhami/status/1917565416299278456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;April 30, 2025&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;
&ldquo;Today, under the leadership of the respected Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji, the Central Government has taken a historic decision, in which caste census will be included in the census process. This decision is not only an important step towards bringing the backward classes of the society into the mainstream but it is also a revolutionary step towards ensuring social equality, respect and justice,&rdquo; he added.
The decision was announced following a Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs (CCPA) meeting. Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed that caste data would now be officially collected as part of the census process.
Vaishnaw took aim at previous Congress-led governments, stating, &ldquo;Caste was not included in all the census operations conducted since independence. In 2010, the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singhji had assured the Lok Sabha that the matter of caste census would be considered in the cabinet.&nbsp;
A group of ministers was formed to consider this subject. Most political parties recommended a caste census. Despite this, the Congress government decided to conduct only a survey of caste instead of a census. That survey is known as SECC.&rdquo;
The announcement marks a policy shift that could have broad implications for social welfare programs, electoral dynamics, and the allocation of government resources.

Construction of the Ram Darbar at Ayodhya's Ram Temple is underway with the first gold door installation, while the temple's peak is complete. Seven mandaps are expected to finish by April, with the temple's completion targeted for October 2025.

Ram Darbar construction progresses rapidly at Ayodhya Ram Temple

Construction of the Ram Darbar at Ayodhya's Ram Temple is underway with the first gold door installation, while the temple's peak is complete. Seven mandaps are expected to finish by April, with the temple's completion targeted for October 2025.

The construction of the Ram Darbar on the first floor of Ayodhya's Ram Temple is progressing rapidly, with the installation of the first gold door underway, according to Champat Rai, General Secretary of the Shree Ram Janmabhoomi Tirtha Kshetra.&nbsp;
Alongside this, the main temple&rsquo;s construction is also advancing at a swift pace, with the temple's peak now complete and flagpoles installed on April 29.&nbsp;
Champat Rai mentioned that all seven mandaps of the temple are expected to be completed by the end of April, with the Ram Darbar idols scheduled to arrive in May.
"The statue of Maharishi Agastya was installed in the Sapt Mandap, and its worship was completed. The statue was built courtesy of the Retired Director General of the Indian Border Security Force, KK Sharma, who attended the ceremony with his family. The worship included reciting 108 names of Maharshi Agast and praising Maharishi through Aditya Hridya Stotra," Rai explained.
He also highlighted that the Lord Shiva temple is being constructed at the northeastern corner of Parajota, while the Sun God temple is located at the southwestern corner of the complex.&nbsp;
"All seven mandaps are expected to be completed within the next 10 days of April, and all idols have also arrived... The target for completion is October 2025... Ram Darbar is expected to arrive in May," said Rai.
In a significant step, urns were installed on the Shiva temple and the Surya Bhagwan temple. With the completion of the temple&rsquo;s peak and the installation of the urn, work continues toward the planned completion of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple by October 2025.&nbsp;
Additionally, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust performed the Kalash Puja ceremony at the Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya in April, marking another milestone in the temple&rsquo;s construction.

CM Pushkar Singh Dhami assures a safe and smooth Char Dham Yatra with over 22 lakh devotees registered, as the doors of Shri Yamunotri Dham open and disaster management measures are put in place in Uttarakhand.

CM Dhami ensures smooth Char Dham Yatra experience for pilgrims

CM Pushkar Singh Dhami assures a safe and smooth Char Dham Yatra with over 22 lakh devotees registered, as the doors of Shri Yamunotri Dham open and disaster management measures are put in place in Uttarakhand.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami marked the beginning of the Char Dham Yatra on April 30, attending the opening ceremony at Shri Yamunotri Dham. This event signaled the start of the pilgrimage season as the doors of the holy shrine were opened to devotees.
In a conversation with the media, CM Dhami assured the public that the state government is diligently monitoring all aspects of the Yatra to ensure a smooth and safe experience for the pilgrims.
The Char Dham Yatra, a major religious event for Uttarakhand, has witnessed a significant rise in pilgrimage numbers, a result of the infrastructural improvements and development initiatives led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
CM Dhami addressed the challenges associated with the Yamunotri route, noting that it is more difficult compared to the other Dhams. He mentioned that the government is working on a comprehensive master plan to improve accessibility and ease the journey for pilgrims.
"We are monitoring the situation from every angle to ensure that the Char Dham Yatra pilgrims do not face any problems... The journey to Yamunotri Dham is slightly more challenging than that to the other Dhams. For this, we are working on making a master plan... Pilgrimage has increased significantly since 2014, following the work undertaken on all four Dhams under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi," Dhami said.
The Chief Minister also discussed ongoing efforts to manage the disaster at Yamuna Ghat, where a recent incident caused damage. He confirmed that large helicopters are being arranged to assess the situation and ensure the safety of the area.
"Due to a disaster on the Yamuna Ghat, arrangements for big helicopters are being made for the damage around the complex," Dhami added.
The Char Dham Yatra, which holds significant cultural and religious value for Uttarakhand's people, is underway with all preparations in place. "Char Dham Yatra has begun, the portals of Gangotri and Yamunotri have opened. It is like a festival for the people of Uttarakhand. All the preparations have been done. We want the yatra to be safe, easy, and hassle-free. Various departments have made arrangements. We will be working to facilitate easy yatra for people," CM Dhami stated.
With the Char Dham Yatra 2025 officially starting, more than 22 lakh devotees have already registered at the Rishikesh Transit Camp, en route to their sacred destinations. The government has committed to ensuring that the pilgrimage remains a seamless and spiritually fulfilling experience for all visitors.

CM Pushkar Singh Dhami assures pilgrims of a smooth Char Dham Yatra with over 22 lakh devotees registered, as the doors of Shri Yamunotri Dham open and disaster management efforts continue in Uttarakhand.

CM Dhami ensures safe Char Dham Yatra as pilgrims begin journey

CM Pushkar Singh Dhami assures pilgrims of a smooth Char Dham Yatra with over 22 lakh devotees registered, as the doors of Shri Yamunotri Dham open and disaster management efforts continue in Uttarakhand.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami attended the opening ceremony of the Char Dham Yatra on April 30, marking the beginning of the pilgrimage season with the opening of the Shri Yamunotri Dham doors.&nbsp;
Speaking to the media, CM Dhami reassured devotees that the state government is closely monitoring the situation to ensure a smooth and safe journey for all pilgrims.
The Char Dham Yatra, a significant religious event for the people of Uttarakhand, has seen a marked increase in pilgrim numbers, thanks to the infrastructure and development efforts led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;
CM Dhami highlighted the challenges posed by the Yamunotri route, which he described as more difficult compared to the other Dhams. To address this, the government is working on a master plan to improve access and ease the journey for devotees.
"We are monitoring the situation from every angle to ensure that the Char Dham Yatra pilgrims do not face any problems... The journey to Yamunotri Dham is slightly more challenging than that to the other Dhams. For this, we are working on making a master plan... Pilgrimage has increased significantly since 2014, following the work undertaken on all four Dhams under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi," Dhami said.
The Chief Minister also addressed the ongoing disaster management efforts around the Yamuna Ghat, which was affected by a recent disaster. He confirmed that arrangements are being made for large helicopters to assess the damage and ensure the safety of the complex.
"Due to a disaster on the Yamuna Ghat, arrangements for big helicopters are being made for the damage around the complex," Dhami added.
The Char Dham Yatra, often considered a festival for the people of Uttarakhand, is set to continue with full preparations in place. "Char Dham Yatra has begun, the portals of Gangotri and Yamunotri have opened. It is like a festival for the people of Uttarakhand. All the preparations have been done. We want the yatra to be safe, easy, and hassle-free. Various departments have made arrangements. We will be working to facilitate easy yatra for people," CM Dhami assured.
As the Char Dham Yatra 2025 kicks off, more than 22 lakh devotees have already registered for the pilgrimage at the Rishikesh Transit Camp and are heading toward their sacred destinations. The government has vowed to ensure that the Yatra remains a smooth and spiritually enriching experience for all visitors.

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