Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami attends Ram Katha at Nandprayag, highlighting Lord Ram's ideals and praising Morari Bapu's teachings. He also performed the Mahabhishek Puja at Badrinath Dham as its portals reopened.

Uttarakhand CM Dhami attends Ram Katha at Nandprayag

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami attends Ram Katha at Nandprayag, highlighting Lord Ram's ideals and praising Morari Bapu's teachings. He also performed the Mahabhishek Puja at Badrinath Dham as its portals reopened.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami attended the Ram Katha on Sunday at Nandprayag, the sacred confluence of the Alaknanda and Nandakini rivers, as confirmed by the Chief Minister's Office (CMO).&nbsp;
Speaking at the event, Dhami expressed that it was a privilege to experience the Santvani during the spiritual gathering, describing it as a divine medium for awakening spiritual consciousness and life values through the ideals of Lord Shri Ram.
The Chief Minister emphasized that "the life story of Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram is a medium to awaken spiritual consciousness. Ramkatha is a divine opportunity to awaken our life values and imbibe the ideals of Lord Shri Ram. His ideals show how much importance religion, compassion, truth, service, and devotion have in our lives."
Dhami also praised spiritual leader Morari Bapu, stating that his Amritvani inspires people to make their lives Rammay&mdash;imbued with the essence of Lord Ram.
Highlighting the ongoing cultural renaissance in the country, Dhami credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his leadership. He mentioned the completion of significant religious and cultural projects such as the Vishwanath Corridor, Mahakal Lok, and the grand temple of Lord Shri Ram in Ayodhya as important milestones.&nbsp;
According to Dhami, under PM Modi's leadership, "our Sanatan culture got a new identity at the global level," adding that these achievements reflect a strong commitment to preserving and promoting India&rsquo;s rich spiritual and cultural heritage.
&ldquo;The state government is continuously working towards the overall development of the state as well as preserving and enhancing the cultural heritage,&rdquo; Dhami affirmed in the statement.
Earlier in the day, Dhami performed the first Mahabhishek Puja in honor of PM Modi, praying for the prosperity and happiness of the nation and the state, coinciding with the opening of the Badrinath Dham portals for devotees.&nbsp;
During the occasion, he offered prayers at several temples within the complex, including the Lakshmi Temple, Ganesh Temple, and the Adi Guru Shankaracharya Gaddi. The event witnessed the presence of around 15,000 devotees from across India and abroad.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami addresses concerns over the state's Uniform Civil Code, defending provisions for live-in relationships and highlighting its role in promoting gender equality.

CM Dhami says UCC tool to erase societal discriminations, asks youth to fight lies about it

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami addresses concerns over the state's Uniform Civil Code, defending provisions for live-in relationships and highlighting its role in promoting gender equality.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Saturday urged the youths to step forward and counter the "lies" being spread about the Uniform Civil Code of Uttarakhand Act, which he termed a "constitutional tool" to wipe off caste, religion and gender-based discriminations.
He sought to defend the mandatory registration of live-in relationships under the code, against which multiple court challenges have been registered, saying the concept is a contemporary reality and not part of the age-old Indian culture.
This provision for live-in couples is only meant to provide them safety, the chief minister said and cited the 2022 brutal murder of Shraddha Walkar by her live-in partner in Delhi as an example of ugly turns such alliances can take.
Addressing a workshop on the UCC Act at the Dev Sanskriti Vishwa Vidyalaya in Haridwar, Dhami said implementing the law that aims for uniformity in society while ensuring equal rights and responsibilities for all citizens had been the BJP's ideological commitment since the days of the Jan Sangh.
"It is a necessary reform that will benefit the entire society. It is not against any religion or sect and does not target anyone." He said the law safeguards the property inheritance rights of women and also protects the rights of children born out of live-in relationships on their father's property.
It empowers women by putting an end to evil practices like 'halala', 'iddat', polygamy and child marriage, Dhami said.
"But some people are spreading all sorts of lies, one of which is that registration on the UCC website will help outsiders get domicile certificates. It is an absolute lie, there is no such provision in the law," he asserted.
Dhami urged the youths in attendance at the workshop at the Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya, a private university, to support the government in busting the "wrong notions" being spread about the law.
"Just like the Ganga that originates in Uttarakhand and gives life to the country, all of India will benefit from the Gangotri of UCC which has sprung in this state," the chief minister said.
Uttarakhand implemented the UCC Act on January 27, becoming the first state in the country to do so.
The UCC has been on the BJP's agenda nationally for many years. But the party's government in Uttarakhand became the first to take a concrete step towards implementing it just before the Lok Sabha elections last year. Now, the UCC Act of Uttarakhand might serve as a template for other BJP-run states to enact similar legislation.
Uttarakhand Education Minister Dhan Singh Rawat said seminars on the the law will be held in all the universities of the state with a target of informing 5 lakh students about the benefits of it in three months.

Chardham Yatra 2025 sees overwhelming satisfaction among devotees as the Uttarakhand government, under CM Pushkar Singh Dhami, ensures exceptional facilities, safety, and cleanliness across all four pilgrimage sites.

Devotees praise Uttarakhand government’s arrangements for Chardham Yatra 2025

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Chardham Yatra 2025 sees overwhelming satisfaction among devotees as the Uttarakhand government, under CM Pushkar Singh Dhami, ensures exceptional facilities, safety, and cleanliness across all four pilgrimage sites.
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The sacred Chardham Yatra is witnessing a wave of satisfaction and joy among devotees, thanks to the Uttarakhand government&rsquo;s meticulous arrangements under the leadership of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.
Pilgrims from across the country have lauded the state&rsquo;s efforts in ensuring a smooth, safe, and spiritually fulfilling journey.
With the Yatra season in full swing, visitors at the four dhams&mdash;Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri&mdash;have expressed contentment with the state&rsquo;s provisions related to cleanliness, healthcare, traffic management, and security.
Raghunandan Vyas, a first-time visitor from Indore, described the experience as exceptional. &ldquo;From the taxi stand to the shrine, the arrangements across the seven-kilometre climb were flawless. Health camps are active throughout the route, and security personnel from the Uttarakhand Police and administration are consistently present. Such coordination is rare in the country,&rdquo; he said.
Echoing similar sentiments, Usha, also from Indore, appreciated the medical support on the ground. &ldquo;Health workers are prompt and efficient. Anyone feeling unwell is treated immediately. I am truly grateful to the government for this level of care,&rdquo; she said.
Mukesh Kumar, a devotee from Delhi, highlighted the well-organized darshan at Gangotri Dham. &ldquo;There&rsquo;s no overcrowding, and everything&mdash;from drinking water to clean toilets&mdash;is in place. The experience has been joyful,&rdquo; he noted.
Akash Gupta from Ghaziabad, who visited Kedarnath, also thanked Chief Minister Dhami for the effective management. &ldquo;The darshan was peaceful. Cleanliness, facilities, and the overall environment were excellent,&rdquo; he said.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami reaffirmed the state&rsquo;s commitment to the spiritual journey, stating: &ldquo;The commitment of the Uttarakhand government is to ensure that every devotee has a complete experience of faith, convenience, and security during the Chardham Yatra. Continuous monitoring and improvement of arrangements by the administration is also underway to ensure that this sacred journey remains memorable and accessible for all.&rdquo;

Ministers highlighted that the Mann government has shattered the spirit of drug smugglers as well as their ill-gotten houses—a stark contrast, they said, to previous administrations, which had allowed drug smuggling to thrive.

Punjab Launches Yudh Nashiyan Virudh Campaign

Ministers highlighted that the Mann government has shattered the spirit of drug smugglers as well as their ill-gotten houses&mdash;a stark contrast, they said, to previous administrations, which had allowed drug smuggling to thrive.

The &lsquo;Yudh Nashiyan Virudh&rsquo; campaign launched by the Punjab government under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has entered a decisive phase. On a war footing against drugs, cabinet ministers today led awareness programs at district and village levels, strengthening grassroots efforts through Village Defence Committees.
Ministers highlighted that the Mann government has shattered the spirit of drug smugglers as well as their ill-gotten houses&mdash;a stark contrast, they said, to previous administrations, which had allowed drug smuggling to thrive.
In Patiala, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema and Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh led the charge. Administrative Reforms Minister Aman Arora and Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian addressed gatherings in Bathinda. Information and Public Relations Minister Harjot Singh Bains was in Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar; NRI Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, Food and Civil Supplies Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak, and Local Government Minister Ravjot Singh held events in Pathankot. Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar and Defence Services Welfare Minister Mohinder Bhagat were in Gurdaspur; Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO and Revenue Minister Hardeep Singh Mundian in Amritsar; Rural Development Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond and Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur in Malerkotla; and Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal in Fazilka.
Ministers urged citizens to make &lsquo;Yudh Nashiyan Virudh&rsquo; a mass movement, envisioning Punjab as India&rsquo;s first drug-free state. They reaffirmed the government&rsquo;s zero-tolerance policy, warning that no offender&mdash;whether a politician, bureaucrat, or trafficker&mdash;would be spared.
&ldquo;Punjab is a land of warriors, and its people are firmly backing this war against drugs,&rdquo; they said.
On the occasion, ministers also praised Chief Minister Mann&rsquo;s robust stand on the BBMB issue, hailing him as the true protector of Punjab&rsquo;s water rights.

The ceremony marked a major milestone in the state's healthcare infrastructure development.

Aman Arora Inaugurates Rural Health Centre

The ceremony marked a major milestone in the state's healthcare infrastructure development.

The Punjab Government has taken a significant step towards delivering healthcare services to rural areas with the laying of the foundation stone of a 30-bed Community Health Centre (CHC) by Cabinet Minister Aman Arora in Longowal of Sangrur district. The ceremony marked a major milestone in the state's healthcare infrastructure development. The CHC, to be built at a cost of Rs11 crore, will cater to a population of approximately 1.92 lakh people at the block level, adhering to Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS).
Prior to the ceremony, Aman Arora was warmly welcomed by local dignitaries, including sarpanchs and panchs from over a dozen rural panchayats, as well as Nagar Council officials, who presented him with mementos.
Committed towards a Healthy Punjab
Laying the foundation stone of the health center, Cabinet Minister Aman Arora said that Punjab has become the leading state in the country in the health sector today. The Punjab health model is being praised not only in India but also abroad. In the coming time, more health centers, mobile health units, and telemedicine services will be initiated so that quality treatment can be made available to every citizen of Punjab. Aman Arora said that the health infrastructure is being strengthened in villages and towns to realise the vision of 'equal and excellent health services for all'. This will not only make timely treatment possible but will also reduce the economic and mental distress of the rural people.
30-bed hospital will have all kinds of OPD facility
Aman Arora said that earlier when he had come to Longowal, the local people had then demanded a grant for this hospital wall. On the demand of the people, the government released 38 lakh rupees, but on the same day, I decided to build a new hospital with state-of-the-art facilities for the people. Aman Arora said that today that resolution is going to be fulfilled. Aman Arora said that soon a network of street lights will be laid inside Longowal. On completion of the project, daily there will be a view of Diwali for people of Longowal at night.
Will not spare any drug smugglers in Punjab
Cabinet Minister Aman Arora said that after coming to power, many historic decisions were taken in the interest of the general public under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. For the convenience of the farmers, we are providing an adequate power supply for the agriculture sector during the day, this has happened for the first time in the history of Punjab, when a government bought a private thermal plant itself. 18 toll plazas were closed to prevent looting of people in Punjab; more than 58 thousand youths have been provided government jobs without a bribe or recommendation. Aman Arora said that the biggest curse on Punjab has been drugs, and now the Punjab government is trying to eradicate that curse. As of now, there is a war against the drugs in the entire state, but the government cannot succeed in it till every family and citizen of Punjab participates in that war. Aman Arora made it clear that the government will not forgive those people who destroyed many families in Punjab by selling drugs.
In Punjab, the bulldozer action is being taken against the houses of drug smugglers; during that action, the victim families have been seen showering flowers on the police at many such sites. It is clear that today Punjab is standing with the Bhagwant Mann government in the fight against drugs.
Transformation in Healthcare Services
Aman Arora stated that with the construction of this modern Community Health Centre (CHC), people in rural areas will no longer need to travel to big city hospitals for the treatment of serious illnesses. This CHC will provide facilities including OPD services, general wards, maternity facilities, basic surgical services, lab testing, and emergency medical care for the convenience of the public.&nbsp;
This CHC, catering to a population of approximately 1.92 lakh, will function as a block-level healthcare facility. The old building has been completely demolished, and the new facility is being constructed at a cost of Rs10.97 crore as per Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS).
881 Aam Aadmi Clinics: A Symbol of Strengthened Healthcare
Punjab&rsquo;s health sector has witnessed significant transformation, with several major projects enhancing medical services. Under the Bhagwant Mann-led government, 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics have been established in the last three years, providing patients with 80 essential medicines and 46 types of diagnostic tests free of cost. So far, over 3.25 crore patients have been treated at these clinics, and more than 1.40 crore medical tests have been conducted free of charge.
Boosting Maternal and Child Health
To strengthen maternal and child healthcare, the Punjab government has set up five new Mother and Child Health (MCH) hospitals, including in Jagraon, Phagwara, Budhlada, Kharar, and Nakodar, at a cost of ₹27.39 crore. Additionally, the work of expansion of bed capacity in six new MCH centers and in three existing centers has also been completed expeditiously, with a total investment of ₹73.84 crore.
Revolutionary Projects in Punjab&rsquo;s Health System&nbsp;
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann envisions ensuring accessible healthcare for all, eliminating the need for people to travel long distances for medical services. To achieve this, primary health centers and district hospitals across the state are being upgraded and expanded.
New 30-bed health centers with advanced medical facilities are being established in various cities, including SDH Nabha (₹6.50 crore), CHC Raikot (₹5.82 crore), and DH Faridkot (₹6.27 crore).
Additionally, the work of new SDHs being constructed in Talwandi Sabo and Patti with the cost of ₹6.61 and ₹7.06 crores, respectively, is in the final stage and is nearing completion. Similarly, expansion projects at Faridkot and Bathinda district hospitals with the cost of ₹13.24 crore have been completed, while expansion work in Barnala worth ₹5.11 crore and Ludhiana worth ₹13.01 crore is also progressing swiftly and near completion.
The Punjab government has also upgraded Chamkaur Sahib CHC to SDH at a cost of ₹13.97 crore. Renovation and modernization of hospitals in Dhanaula, Chabbewal, and Giddarbaha have been completed for ₹15.07 crore.
Critical Care Blocks in 13 Districts&nbsp;
Apart from these, Critical Care Blocks (CCBs) are being constructed in 13 districts at a cost of ₹236.97 crore under the PM Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission. Work is progressing rapidly in districts including Bathinda, Ferozepur, Fazilka, SBS Nagar, Gurdaspur, and Tarn Taran, while construction is ongoing in Jalandhar, Patiala, Ludhiana, and other districts.
Strengthening Community Health Infrastructure
The Punjab government has been consistently strengthening community health infrastructure. So far, 61 Health and Wellness Centers (HWCs) have been established at a cost of ₹17.6 crore, and 44 Block Public Health Units (BPHUs) have been completed for ₹12.76 crore. Additionally, construction and development of 79 more HWCs and 37 BPHUs are underway.

The UNSC meets to discuss escalating India-Pakistan tensions after the Pahalgam attack. Greece leads efforts for diplomatic dialogue amid international concern.

UNSC Addresses India-Pakistan Tensions Post-Attack

UNSC to hold ‘closed consultations’ on India-Pakistan tension over Pahalgam attack today

The UNSC discusses rising India-Pakistan tension post-Pahalgam attack amid international focus on diplomatic solutions.

Amid the rising tensions in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people, the UN Security Council on Monday will hold closed consultations on the situation between India and Pakistan.
Pakistan, rattled with India's punitive measures, had sought an emergency meeting on the issue, news agency PTI reported. Islamabad is a non-permanent member of the 15-nation UNSC, over which Greece is presiding for May.
Islamabad reportedly "requested closed consultations" on the tension between the two nuclear-armed neighbours, and the Greek Presidency scheduled the same for the afternoon of May 5.
The UN Security Council has five veto-wielding members, namely China, France, Russia, the UK and the US. The other 10 non-permanent members are Algeria, Denmark, Greece, Guyana, Pakistan, Panama, South Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia and Somalia.
Twenty-six people, mostly tourists, died in the Pahalgam terror attack. India has taken several punitive actions against Pakistan, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, cancellation of all visas issued to Pakistani nationals and a ban on all imports from Islamabad. Last week, Ambassador Evangelos Sekeris, Permanent Representative of Greece to the UN and President of UNSC for May, said he thinks that if a request came for a meeting to discuss the Indo-Pak situation then it should take place "because, as we said, maybe it's also an opportunity to have views expressed and this might help to diffuse a bit of tension".
&ldquo;We are in close contact...but this is something which might happen, I would say, sooner rather than later. We will see, we are preparing,&rdquo; Sekeris had said. The Greek Ambassador had said that the issue of India being a victim of cross-border terrorism from Pakistan "is very pertinent".
"As I said before, as a position of principle, we strongly condemn any act of terrorism, and this is what we did" on the "heinous attack" that took place in Kashmir, he added.
He noted that while the UNSC condemns terrorism in all its forms, it is also concerned about the mounting tensions in the region. "Two very big countries. Of course, India is far more bigger (than Pakistan)", Sekeris said. Jaishankar speaks to UNSC members External affairs minister S Jaishankar had spoken to all the Council members over the weeks following the Pahalgam attack, excluding China and Pakistan.
Jaishankar emphasised bringing to justice the perpetrators, backers and planners of the terror attack in these calls. The EAM also had a "good conversation" with his Greek counterpart, George Gerapetritis, and discussed the Pahalgam attack. Jaishankar had said that India welcomed Greece's stance on cross-border terrorism, adding that "our Strategic Partnership reflects the depth of our ties". In addition, Jaishankar also spoke with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, UK foreign secretary David Lammy, French foreign minister Jean-No&euml;l Barrot.
UN urges India, Pak to exercise 'maximum restraint' Just days after the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, the United Nations urged India and Pakistan to exercise "maximum restrain" to prevent further escalation. UN Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric had condemned the terrorist attack and said that issues between the two nuclear-armed neighbours should be resolved peacefully via "meaningful mutual engagement".
Last week, UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres called S Jaishankar and Pakistan prime minister Shehbaz Sharif separately and condemned the Pahalgam attack.

The image of a woman's frozen expression as she sits beside her dead husband, murdered in a ghastly terrorist attack on April 22 in Pahalgam, has shaken the country to its core.

A Haunting Image and the Memories of Pahalgam Terror attack in Kashmir

Every image conveys a distinct viewpoint. How we want to see the different aspects of the image depends on our individual perspectives.

My aunt is seventy years old. She returned from a trip to Kashmir about ten days ago. It was her first time visiting the region. Despite her ailing health, she roamed around almost every corner of Kashmir for nearly a month. As she was narrating her stories upon returning home, I observed how happiness and the true essence of serenity lit up her wrinkled face and eyes while she talked about the 'Paradise on Earth' and its people.
In our country, there are many people around us who do not use smartphones. They do not use social media. They are not keen to squander their time watching news channels on television, either. The morning newspapers are still their most trustworthy access to the news. My aunt is one such person. It was on April 23, a day after the Pahalgam terror attack. She was trembling while holding the newspaper. I saw her eyes. The eyes, which were previously bright with elation, filled with unendurable sadness. I noticed she was staring intently at a photograph. Her eyes were full of tears. She was mumbling, 'Eto boro sorbonaash keno hoye gelo bol toh?' (Why did such a huge disaster happen?)
There is a very popular saying that we all know: 'A picture speaks a thousand words.' What does a picture or a photograph essentially do? It represents a scene. That scene is interwoven with the thoughts of the viewers. Thoughts weave their way across our minds continuously. A recent study suggests that people generally have over 6,000 thoughts in a day. But what if, stuck in one image, our thinking automatically comes to a standstill?
Over the past seven days, the image of a woman, Himanshi Narwal, wearing bridal bangles and locked in silent despair as she sits beside her dead husband, Navy officer Vinay Narwal&mdash;murdered in a ghastly terrorist attack on April 22 in Pahalgam&mdash;has shaken the country to its core. The picture does speak, indeed. But it does not always tell the entire story. The responsibility lies with the viewers, who have to identify those overlooked aspects within the image. Now, the way we see things is affected by what we know or what we believe. Although the relation between what we see and what we know is never fully resolved. We only see what we look at. To look is an act of choice. As a result of this choice, what is seen is metaphorically brought within our reach.
Each image tells us a particular perspective. How we want to see the different aspects of the image depends on our individual perspectives. Images are, to an enormous extent, more accurate and richer than written words, as no other text in the past can provide firsthand evidence regarding the world that other individuals experienced at other times. The same goes with photographs. It becomes a medium through which the photographers want us to see their interpretation of the visible. That is where the requirement of our approach enters. When we 'see' a landscape, we subconsciously situate ourselves in it. It also allows us to go back and recreate other landscapes within that we are not perceiving. Likewise, as we keep looking at that one picture of Pahalgam, several situations start arising in our minds.
We recall having seen three-year-old Aylan Kurdi deceased on a Turkish beach, which jolted the world. We recall the grisly war between Israel and Palestine in Gaza. We recall the devastation, the terror, and the loss that the population has been burdened with, enduring perpetual suffering. We recall Ukraine. Others may go back to recalling memories of brutality in Hitler's notorious Auschwitz.
At this point, it suddenly becomes apparent that what lies before us is not merely a picture but a portrait. The truth of that portrait lies in the heart of eternity, which shows a disturbing illustration of human suffering that spans across different times and places.&nbsp;
We are affected by the charm of nature diversely and sometimes in the ways we least anticipate. It forms its thought in a realm detached from concrete reality. Without characters, without situations. The fascinating aspect of nature's magnificence is that it consistently allows you to immerse yourself deeply through your reasoning mind and creative imagination. Although I have never been to' Pahalgam' (which in Kashmiri signifies 'village of shepherds'), if I close my eyes and start dreaming about the place, I feel that I would never regret it if the rest of the world disappeared from my eyes forever! The same might be the case with almost every citizen of this country! No matter how many times we go there or even if we never do, a portion of the valley still remains within. Such is the influence Kashmir has on us.
Let us return to the image where it all began. The image that depicts the true form of the vast emptiness of life. Grief comes to us naturally. We grieve because we feel connected. We grieve because we have been loved. And because, in grieving, we find a way to honor what once made life whole. As we continue to look, it becomes clearer that the image is uncovering more than despair at the loss. It holds the raw truth of humanity, along with the profound portrayal of empathy and love.
This single photograph creates a faint, sacred space. That space is precisely unmarred by the violence, hatred, ethnic venom, and political cruelty of our mundane existence. And, in that very moment, it appears to embody the unfathomable depths of pain of the whole nation. We may have the luxury of distance from Kashmir. We may have the luxury of distance from this image as well. Yet, the greenness of that grief covers us fully. In that utter silence, we are all revealed.
Seven days have passed since the attack. More afternoons, more nights, more evenings&mdash; perhaps for another seven lives, this image may still be recognizable in our minds. We will remember, we will remember in countless repetitions, the sight that surfaced at nearly 2,800 meters above sea level, which silently reminded us once again how sorrow stands like a rock in the midst of various disputes. It reminded us how love keeps watch beside envy and hatred. All these emotions were packed in that single image (that effectively captured the wounded hearts of the valley of pristine whiteness). A single image that, despite being just a 'picture,' appeared to completely disregard the common saying that 'a picture speaks a thousand words' and, on that day, in fact 'could not speak.'

Karnataka Speaker Khader rejected Minister Shivanand Patil's conditional resignation, highlighting non-compliance with assembly rules and Yatnal’s lack of resignation intent.

Speaker Denies Patil's Resignation in Karnataka

Assembly Speaker U T Khader rejected Minister Patil's conditional resignation due to rule non-compliance and Yatnal's lack of intent; emphasizing the importance of procedural norms.

Karnataka Speaker Khader rejected Minister Shivanand Patil's conditional resignation, citing rule non-compliance and Yatnal's non-resignation; emphasizing public decision.

Karnataka Legislative Assembly Speaker U.T. Khader on Friday said Minister Shivanand Patil's "conditional resignation" as MLA cannot be accepted as per rules.
This decision from the Speaker came hours after Patil met him and submitted his resignation as MLA from the Basavana Bagevadi segment, stating that he was doing so, accepting the challenge thrown at him by Vijayapura City MLA Basangouda Patil Yatnal to contest against him electorally.
Patil, who holds the textiles, sugarcane development, and agricultural marketing portfolios, had, however, requested the speaker to accept his resignation as MLA only if Yatnal too quits and his resignation is accepted.
"Basangouda Patil Yatnal has neither resigned as an MLA nor has he personally met me to submit his resignation, and Yatnal's resignation has not been received by the Assembly office. In this light, I explained to Shivanand Patil that it is not possible to accept his conditional resignation, as per the Assembly rules," Speaker Khader said.
Speaking to reporters here, he said, "I told Shivanand Patil that the state of Karnataka needs his experience and service for a long time. I wish him well." Responding to a question about the format of the resignation, the Speaker said, "It is not as per rules and hence cannot be accepted." In his resignation letter, Patil said Yatnal had challenged him, stating that he would resign as MLA from his Vijayapura City Assembly constituency and would contest against him from his Basavana Bagevadi segment.
"I have accepted his challenge and have decided to contest against him in the election. Hence, I'm resigning as MLA from Basavana Bagevadi, which I'm representing," he said.
"Hence, I request you (Speaker) to accept my resignation only after Basangouda Patil Yatnal, as challenged, resigns from his MLA post and his resignation is accepted," he added.
Yatnal had won from the Vijayapura city segment in the 2023 assembly polls as a BJP candidate. He was recently expelled by the BJP from the primary membership of the party for six years for repeated violations of the party discipline.
Speaking to reporters earlier, Patil said Yatnal had set the Friday deadline for him to resign, and he had resigned before that, accepting the challenge.
"I have accepted the challenge and resigned. I only requested him (Yatnal) that you asked me to contest against you. You too resign as MLA from Vijayapura city, as I have. If you want me to contest from there (Vijayapura city), I will contest from there, or if you want to contest from Basavana Bagevadi, I am ready for it," he said.
"Let this end here. Either I or he should survive politically. The people of Vijayapura or Basavana Bagevadi will decide. So I have resigned. I have requested the Speaker to accept my resignation an hour before Yatnal resigns. Let my resignation be accepted before his. Let's face the people and let the people decide," he added.
Patil said this decision of his was purely personal and had nothing to do with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah or the Congress party.
"I have no pain about losing a minister post. When I quit as MLA, naturally I will have to quit as minister too," he added.
Patil also hit out at Yatnal for commenting that his family's original surname was "Hachadad" and not Patil and for making personal remarks against him.
"When I was born, my father's name was Patil. What can I do...?" he said.
However, Yatnal, speaking to reporters in Mangaluru, said he had made it clear that Patil's resignation should be accepted and a gazette notification regarding it should be published by Friday. "Please go through the video of what I had said (while challenging)." "He (Patil) should be ashamed....Will anyone put conditions while giving resignation? As per the rules, only two lines should be written stating that I'm resigning due to personal reasons. If this much is there, resignation will be accepted. If conditions are put, it is nothing but a drama."

Safdar Ali, a fugitive wanted since 2009 for a kidnapping, was caught in East Delhi. This marks a pivotal point in a long-standing investigation as he confessed and faces additional charges.

16-Year Fugitive Caught in East Delhi

Proclaimed offender Safdar Ali, on the run for 16 years for a 2009 kidnapping, was captured in East Delhi. His arrest unlocks new developments in a prolonged investigation.

Safdar Ali, a fugitive evading capture for 16 years over a 2009 kidnapping case, was arrested in East Delhi.

A proclaimed offender on the run for the past 16 years in a kidnapping case was nabbed from east Delhi's Sabzi Mandi area, police said on Friday.
At the time of his arrest, Safdar Ali, 57, was hawking vegetables in a local market.
In April 2009, Safdar Ali allegedly abducted Kalicharan, a resident of Prem Ka Gakaan village in Delhi, after he married his sister Shama.
Kalicharan called his mother and told her he had been kidnapped and taken to Bisauli in Uttar Pradesh.
Police launched a hunt for Kalicharan and arrested one Agar Ali. Safdar Ali remained out of bounds and was declared a proclaimed offender in 2012 by a court.
Since then, he kept shuttling between Delhi and Bareilly till a tip-off led to his arrest on Thursday.
He was tracked down to the Sabzi Mandi area in Mulla Colony, where he sold vegetables.
He said he had been working as a daily wage laborer and at times a vegetable seller.
Safdar Ali confessed to kidnapping Kalicharan and was also found involved in another criminal case registered in Bareilly, police said.

Congress responds to PM Modi's political comments at Vizhinjam Port inauguration, emphasizing pressing national issues over rhetoric.

Congress Counters Modi at Vizhinjam Port Event

At Vizhinjam Port inauguration, Congress criticizes PM Modi's political focus, calling for attention to pressing issues like the caste census and national security.

Congress criticizes PM Modi for political focus during the Vizhinjam Port inauguration, stressing national issues like the caste census.

The Congress on Friday hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his "sleepless nights to many" swipe, saying they will continue to hold him accountable for issues like the Pahalgam terror attack and caste census.
Modi, while commissioning the Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala in the presence of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, took a swipe at the opposition INDIA bloc, saying their presence will give "sleepless nights" to many.
Reacting to it, AICC general secretary, organization, K. C. Venugopal said in a post on X, "Even after the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam, our PM remains fixated on disturbing the sleep of opposition leaders instead of confronting the real threat&mdash;Pakistan. His priorities are crystal clear: appeasing his real master&mdash;Adani.
"But rest assured, PM, while you&rsquo;re busy with your distractions, our sleepless nights will be spent holding you accountable," he said.
"We will relentlessly pressure you to set a timeline for the caste census, remove the 50 percent cap on reservations, and finally deliver the strong, decisive response that Pakistan so rightly deserves," he also said.
At the event, Modi also referred to Vijayan as a "pillar" of the opposition INDIA bloc.
The prime minister told Vijayan and Tharoor, who were on the dais, that their presence at the inauguration event would give "sleepless nights" to many. However, the person translating his speech did not translate it properly, and it prompted the PM to say, "The message has gone across to whom it was meant."

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The Shivraj Singh Chouhan government in Madhya Pradesh has become the first state government to come to the rescue of kids who have become orphans&nbsp;or lost either of their parents/guardians due to the Covid pandemic.
While maintaining that all such children, who&rsquo;ve lost their parents or&nbsp;guardians due to the viral infection, are the responsibility of the state, the CM announced that all such children and families will get ₹5,000 as monthly pension.
He also announced that the surviving parent, guardian tasked with taking their care will be disbursed interest-free loans to start a business for the survival and care of the kids.

MP govt to give ₹5,000 per month, free education and ration to Covid orphans

The MP govt will give ₹5,000 per month to children who lost their parents or guardian to Covid-19

MP govt comes to rescue of kids orphaned due to Covid-19
Shivraj&nbsp;Chouhan: orphaned&nbsp;children are a ward of the state
CM: orphans&nbsp;children and families will get ₹5,000/month
Guardian will be given interest-free loans to start a business
&nbsp;

The Shivraj Singh Chouhan government in Madhya Pradesh has become the first state government to come to the rescue of kids who have become orphans&nbsp;or lost either of their parents/guardians due to the Covid pandemic.
While maintaining that all such children, who&rsquo;ve lost their parents or&nbsp;guardians due to the viral infection, are the responsibility of the state, the CM announced that all such children and families will get ₹5,000 as monthly pension.
He also announced that the surviving parent, guardian tasked with taking their care will be disbursed interest-free loans to start a business for the survival and care of the kids.

The Punjab Education and Information department acts to safeguard Punjab's interests through collaboration with media and strategic policy implementation, ensuring the state's educational goals are achieved.

Punjab Education Dept: Safeguarding State Interests

The Punjab Education and Information department plays a pivotal role in safeguarding state interests by collaborating with media, ensuring effective education policies, and helping Punjab prosper.

Punjab Education and Information department ensures the state's interests are safeguarded through collaboration with media and strategic policy implementation, playing a significant role in education and information dissemination.

Standing at the forefront to safeguard Punjab&rsquo;s interests, Punjab Education and Information &amp; Public Relations Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains today made a visit to Bhakhra Dam at Nangal consecutively for the fourth day to ensure no excess water release to Haryana.
After assessing the situation, S. Harjot Singh Bains emphasised that water is crucial for Punjab's economy, which heavily relies on agriculture. He reaffirmed that the Chief Minister, S. Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab government, is standing firm on the decision taken regarding water.
"We're closely monitoring the situation. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has already visited Nangal Dam and also called a special Punjab Vidhan Sabha session tomorrow (May 5) to address the issue. The Punjab government is steadfast in fighting for farmers' rights, and we won't let the BJP-led Centre and other states violate our rights. Our Aam Aadmi Party workers have been vigilantly guarding Nangal Dam. With paddy sowing season approaching, our farmers need water, and we can't afford to spare any extra water for any other state,&rdquo; the education minister made it clear.
He also inquired from officials about water release from Nangal Dam while assuring the people of Punjab that their interests are safe.
S. Harjot Singh Bains also highlighted the challenges posed by excess water during heavy rains in Himachal Pradesh, which often affects Punjab's villages with the flash flood in Swan Nadi. He questioned why the neighboring states wouldn't accept the excess water during times of need yet expect Punjab to share its water when it's crucial for the state's farmers as the paddy season is approaching.&nbsp;
He informed that the current government's pro-people initiatives have enabled irrigation for an additional 10,000 acres this year. Future plans include a lift irrigation scheme via pipeline to benefit the semi-mountainous Changar region.
Taking stock of the arrangements being made to prevent floods during the rainy seasons, S. Bains said that the state government is vigilantly monitoring water bodies and strengthening weak dams.

Punjab Police successfully prevented espionage activities, a crucial step in maintaining national security, praised by CM Mann for their vigilance.

Punjab Police Stops Espionage: Ensures National Safety

Chief Minister Mann praises Punjab Police for disrupting espionage plots, emphasizing their dedication to the nation's safety and integrity.

Punjab Chief Minister Mann applauded Punjab Police for disrupting espionage plots, highlighting their dedication to national security.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday patted the Punjab Police for setting another benchmark of effective Policing by arresting traitors involved in spying.
In a statement, the chief minister said that it is a big achievement of the Punjab Police, who have foiled this anti-national activity aimed at jeopardizing the unity, integrity, and sovereignty of the country. He said that Punjab Police has done a commendable job by foiling this conspiracy, which is a matter of great pride and satisfaction for us. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that being a border state, Punjab Police is vigilant for safeguarding the borders of the country.
The Chief Minister said that safeguarding the borders of the country is our moral duty and we are discharging it zealously. He said that Punjab has always remained the sword arm of the country and the state will continue to uphold this glorious tradition. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the valiant and vigilant Punjab Police is upholding its rich legacy by foiling all such attempts aimed at breaching the safety and security of the country.

UP CM Yogi Adityanath emphasized self-reliance in cow shelters, boosted green fodder production, and directed immediate relief for storm-hit areas during a review meeting and public grievance session.

CM Yogi Adityanath pushes for self-reliant cow shelters and rural reforms

UP CM Yogi Adityanath emphasized self-reliance in cow shelters, boosted green fodder production, and directed immediate relief for storm-hit areas during a review meeting and public grievance session.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday emphasized the need for concrete measures to make cow shelters economically self-reliant, according to an official statement from the Chief Minister&rsquo;s Office (CMO).
"Concrete efforts should be made for the economic self-reliance of cow shelters. Paints prepared from cow dung should be used on government buildings too," the statement noted.
During a review meeting with officials from the Agriculture Department and the Regional Cooperative Dairy Federation at his official residence, the Chief Minister issued several directives aimed at strengthening rural and agricultural infrastructure. He highlighted the need to boost green fodder production and called for the establishment of a dedicated fodder bank.
"CM directed to increase the capability of green fodder production, he said that it is essential to establish a fodder bank," the statement said.
Additionally, the Chief Minister instructed that economically weaker families should be supported through the provision of cattle. "CM also directed that poor families should be provided with one cattle each," it added.
Earlier in the day, CM Yogi held a Janata Darshan at his residence in Lucknow, where he listened to public grievances, including those raised by women attendees. He personally reviewed their concerns and assured appropriate action would be taken.
Separately, the Chief Minister had on Thursday directed officials to accelerate relief efforts in districts impacted by storms, heavy rainfall, and hailstorms. He stressed the importance of swift compensation and medical aid for affected individuals.
"Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has instructed the officers of the concerned districts to conduct relief work with full promptness in view of the storm, rain and hailstorm," the Chief Minister's Office posted on X.
He also directed officials to visit impacted areas to assess damage and monitor ongoing relief operations on the ground.
"Also, in case of loss of life and animal loss due to lightning, storm, rain, etc., relief amount should be distributed to the affected people immediately. The injured should be given proper treatment," the post continued.
To address flooding issues, CM Yogi called for prompt drainage solutions. "The Chief Minister has instructed that the officers should conduct a survey and assess the crop loss and send a report to the government so that further action can be taken in this regard. In case of waterlogging, arrangements for drainage should be made with priority," the statement said.
Meanwhile, CM Yogi expressed his condolences on the passing of Padma Shri awardee and celebrated yoga guru Swami Sivananda Saraswati, who died in Varanasi at the age of 128.

Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath emphasized transforming farmers into active development partners, highlighting a sharp rise in food grain production, focus on seed innovation, natural farming, and transparency in agricultural schemes.

Farming foundation of prosperity in 'new' Uttar Pradesh: CM Adityanath

Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath emphasized transforming farmers into active development partners, highlighting a sharp rise in food grain production, focus on seed innovation, natural farming, and transparency in agricultural schemes.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday said that farmers in Uttar Pradesh will not just be beneficiaries of government schemes but active partners in the state's development. &nbsp;
"In the new Uttar Pradesh of a new India, farming will not just be a means of livelihood but a foundation for prosperity and self-reliance," he said at a review meeting of the Agriculture Department.
During the meeting, he highlighted that while Uttar Pradesh accounts for 11.41 per cent of the country&rsquo;s agricultural land, it contributes 20.89 per cent to national food grain production, and added that the food grain output has increased to over 725 lakh metric tonnes in 2024&ndash;25 from 557 lakh metric tonnes in 2016-17. &nbsp;There has also been more than a two-fold rise in the production of pulses and oilseeds during the same period, he underscored.
In the meeting, he also touched upon seed quality and directed officials to develop climate-specific seeds for early and late sowing seasons. He stated these seeds should be properly certified and offered to farmers at subsidised rates.
He also instructed the Uttar Pradesh Seed Development Corporation to increase payments to farmers for seed purchases and ensure the availability of processed seeds.
Expressing the need for maximum use of institutions like the Uttar Pradesh Agricultural Research Council, the chief minister called for accelerating technology-based agricultural innovations and also instructed officials to immediately begin working on the proposed Chaudhary Charan Singh Seed Park in Lucknow. &nbsp;To further ensure fairness in farm equipment distribution, he stressed transparency in the subsidy process. &nbsp;
The UP CM also stressed the promotion of "Shri Anna" (millets) and called for stronger procurement systems. &nbsp;He underlined the importance of promoting natural farming and insisted on building a robust certification process for organic produce so farmers can earn better market prices.
During the meeting, officials said that over 2.81 crore farmers have benefitted from the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana.

The Uttar Pradesh government has approved ₹200 crore to strengthen flood protection measures across vulnerable districts, focusing on river embankments and anti-erosion projects before the 2025 monsoon.

UP govt approves Rs 200 cr for flood protection projects

The Uttar Pradesh government has approved ₹200 crore to strengthen flood protection measures across vulnerable districts, focusing on river embankments and anti-erosion projects before the 2025 monsoon.

The Uttar Pradesh government has approved Rs 200 crore for flood protection projects in the vulnerable districts ahead of the monsoon season, officials said on Sunday.
According to an official statement, the funds will focus on strengthening the embankments along the Saryu, Ganga, Rapti and Rohin rivers.
The irrigation department has been directed to urgently implement the state and NABARD-funded projects, which include building RCC pillars, embankment repairs, anti-erosion measures, and setting up new pumping stations, the statement said.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has emphasised timely completion of the projects and zero tolerance for negligence, it added.
The key projects include allocations for pumping stations and embankment work at Gorakhpur, bridge replacements at Amethi, embankment strengthening at Shravasti, slope pitching at Azamgarh, anti-erosion measures at Ghazipur, protection work at Bulandshahr, and embankment construction at Sitapur, the statement said.&nbsp;

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