Shimla MP Suresh Kashyap critiques Rahul Gandhi for claiming credit on the caste-based census decision. Kashyap highlights Congress's inconsistency on caste measures while praising Modi's decisive actions in contrast.

BJP MP Suresh Kashyap slams Census Claim of Rahul Gandhi

Suresh Kashyap expresses criticism of Rahul Gandhi's caste census credit. He contrasts Congress's history of inconsistencies on caste issues with Modi's landmark decision, highlighting Congress's past failures.

Shimla MP Kashyap criticized Rahul Gandhi for credit claims on caste census, praising Modi. He highlighted Congress's inconsistent stance on caste issues, citing past leaders' actions and contrasting them with BJP's proactive approach.

Shimla MP and former state president of BJP Suresh Kashyap on Thursday lashed out at the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, over "claiming" credit for the central government's decision to conduct a caste-based census across the country.
He said, "Rahul Gandhi is claiming credit for something Congress could never deliver in 60 years while being in power." Addressing the media in Shimla, Kashyap said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decision to conduct a caste-based census is a historic decision aimed at society's welfare.
Criticizing the Congress party, Kashyap cited historical instances and said, "When Jawahar Lal Nehru was the PM, he had written a letter to chief ministers in which he had expressed his opposition to caste-based reservation... Not only this, but Congress had also suppressed the Kaka Kalelkar Commission's report, which recommended measures for backward classes." He further said that when the Mandal Commission was introduced in the 1980s, then PM Indira Gandhi opposed its report. "Rahul Gandhi should also remember his father Rajiv Gandhi's stance on the issue of a caste-based census." Kashyap further said that the UPA government led by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Sonia Gandhi had assured to consider a caste-based census in a cabinet meeting, and a group of ministers was also formed, but no such census was carried out.
Only a survey, known as the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SEC), was conducted, which was also riddled with errors, he pointed out.

Congress leaders meet to deliberate on Pahalgam terror attack and caste census plans, aiming for decisive actions and strategic resolutions.

Congress Examines Terror Attack and Caste Census

The Congress Working Committee discusses the Pahalgam terror attack and the caste census. Emphasis is on urging decisive actions and implementation strategies.

Congress Working Committee discusses Pahalgam terror attack responses and caste census strategies, with emphasis on swift actions and detailed implementation.

Top Congress leaders will deliberate on the Pahalgam terror attack and the caste census announced by the Centre at a crucial meeting of the party's working committee, its highest decision-making body, on Friday evening.
Party general secretary Jairam Ramesh told reporters that the entire Congress Working Committee (CWC) would sit and discuss the two crucial issues before the country.
Sources said the CWC is likely to pass resolutions seeking concrete action against Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack and for allocating funds to get the caste census conducted as soon as part of the national census exercise.
"There is a meeting of the CWC at 4 pm on Friday, and we will discuss this. The most important issue is the Pahalgam attack, and we will discuss that as it is the biggest political issue before the country. The country is waiting (for action), and those who have lost their family members are seeking justice," Ramesh said.
The CWC meeting would be held at the party's 24 Akbar Road headquarters here.
Ramesh said the party leadership will also discuss the issue of the caste census that the government announced on Wednesday.
"We will raise the issue of removal of the 50-percent reservation cap in Parliament," he added.
The Centre announced on Wednesday that caste enumeration will be part of the next population census, with the inclusion of caste details for the first time since independence.
The CWC also met on April 24 in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack.
Former Congress chief Rahul Gandhi said on Wednesday that the perpetrators of the April 22 attack, in which 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed, must be held accountable and the prime minister should act firmly.
He also welcomed the government's "sudden" decision to include caste enumeration in the next census exercise after "11 years of opposing it" but asserted that the Centre should fix a timeline for its implementation.
Crediting a sustained campaign run by the Congress for the government announcing the caste census, he said his immediate suspicion is this could go the women's bill way in terms of implementation and demanded a specific date for it.
The leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha said it is clear that the pressure the Congress put on the government for the caste census has worked.

India closes Attari-Wagah border after Pahalgam attack, increasing diplomatic tensions. Enhanced cross-border movement follows, impacting citizens and officials.

India Closes Attari Wagah Border amid Tensions

India reacts to Pahalgam attack by sealing Attari-Wagah border, escalating diplomatic tensions with Pakistan. Rise in cross-border movement, strong visa enforcement involved.

India shuts the Attari-Wagah border following the Pahalgam attack. Increased exits of Pakistani citizens from India; Indian nationals returning home. Diplomatic tensions rise as officials are expelled and strict visa compliance is enforced.

The Attari-Wagah border crossing point between India and Pakistan was shut completely on Thursday following a week-long heavy rush of people from either side to cross over after the Union government ordered all Pakistani citizens with short-term visas to leave India in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, sources said.
The Attari-Wagah border crossing point is completely closed now, and no one from either country crossed over to the other side on Thursday, two sources confirmed.
A total of 125 Pakistani nationals left India on Wednesday through the Attari-Wagah border, taking the total number of Pakistanis leaving the country to 911 in the last seven days.
Fifteen Indian citizens with Pakistani visa also crossed over to Pakistan on Wednesday, taking the total number of such people exiting India to 23.
Similarly, 152 Indian nationals and 73 Pakistani nationals with long-term Indian visas have entered India through the international border crossing point in Punjab's Amritsar district, taking the total number of such people to 1,617 and 224, respectively.
The Centre issued the 'Leave India' notice to Pakistani nationals after 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed by terrorists with Pakistan links in Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22.
The deadline for exiting India for those holding SAARC visas was April 26. For those carrying medical visas, the deadline was April 29.
The deadline for 12 other categories of visas was April 27. These were visas on arrival and visas for business, film, journalists, transit, conferences, mountaineering, students, visitors, group tourists, pilgrims, and group pilgrims.
Three defense/military, naval, and air advisors in the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi were declared persona non grata on April 23 and were given one week to leave India. Five support staff of these defense attach&eacute;s were also asked to leave India.
India also withdrew its defense attach&eacute; from the Indian High Commission in Islamabad.
However, those having long-term, diplomatic, or official visas were exempted from the 'Leave-India' order. Sources told PTI that altogether 125 Pakistani nationals left India through the Attari-Wagah border crossing point on April 30; a total of 94 Pakistani nationals, including 10 diplomats, left India on April 29; 145 Pakistanis, including 36 diplomats, their dependents, and support staff, left on April 28; 237 Pakistanis, including nine diplomats and officials, left India on April 27; 81 left on April 26; 191 on April 25; and 28 on April 24.
Fifteen Indian nationals with Pakistani visas also left India through the international border crossing point on April 30, while eight Indians left India on April 29, the sources said.
Similarly, 152 Indian nationals crossed over to India from Pakistan through the Attari-Wagah border crossing on April 30; 469 Indians, including 11 diplomats and officials, returned from Pakistan through the same route on April 29; 146 Indians returned on April 28; 116 Indians, including one diplomat, returned on April 27; 342 Indians, including 13 diplomats and officials, came back on April 26; 287 Indians crossed over from Pakistan on April 25, and 105 Indians returned on April 24, the sources said.
A total of 73 Pakistani nationals with long-term Indian visas came to the country through the border point on April 30; 22 Pakistani nationals came on April 29, while 129 Pakistanis with the same category of visas entered India on April 28.
Sources said some of the Pakistanis might have left India through airports too, pointing out that since India does not have direct air connectivity with Pakistan, they might have left for a third country.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on April 25 called up the chief ministers of all states and asked them to ensure that no Pakistani stays in India beyond the deadline set for leaving the country.
After Shah's telephonic conversations with the chief ministers, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan also held a videoconference with the chief secretaries of states and asked them to ensure that all Pakistani nationals whose visas were revoked leave India before the deadline.
The already-strained relations between India and Pakistan nosedived further after the horrific Pahalgam terror attack, with New Delhi announcing a raft of measures, including the cancellation of visas, against Islamabad, which hit back with a string of tit-for-tat measures.

The Supreme Court reinforces tree felling prohibition near the Taj Mahal, maintaining environmental sanctity and ecological balance within the Taj Trapezium Zone.

Court Prohibits Tree Felling Near Taj Mahal

The Supreme Court reaffirms its ban on tree felling near the Taj Mahal, protecting environmental sanctity and biodiversity within a five-kilometre radius of the renowned monument.

The Supreme Court upholds its tree-felling ban near the Taj Mahal, ensuring environmental protection within a five-kilometer radius.

The Supreme Court on Thursday reiterated its 2015 directive restricting tree felling within a 5-kilometer aerial distance of the Taj Mahal in Agra, UP, without its nod.
The Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ), which is the subject matter before the top court, is an area of approximately 10,400 square kilometers that spreads across Agra, Firozabad, Mathura, Hathras, and Etah districts in UP and Bharatpur district in Rajasthan.
A bench of Justices Abhay S. Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan said tree felling in areas within TTZ beyond the 5-kilometer distance of the historical monument will require the prior permission of the divisional forest officer (DFO) of the central empowered committee (CEC), and the officer will be bound by the provisions of the UP Tree Preservation Act.
"Areas located within 5 kilometers of the Taj Mahal are concerned; the original order dated May 8, 2015, will continue to operate. In such cases, applications will have to be made seeking permission to fell trees, even if trees are less than 50. This court will seek a recommendation from the Central Empowered Committee and will thereafter consider felling of trees," the bench said.
It added, "Unless there is grave urgency for the felling of trees, the Divisional Forest Officer has to impose a condition that actual tree felling can be done only once all other conditions, including compensatory afforestation, are complied with." The DFO or CEC were first directed to ensure compliance with the prescribed conditions before allowing felling of trees.
"We make it clear that the exception will apply only when there is grave urgency to fell trees in the sense that if action of felling of trees is not immediately undertaken, there may be the possibility of loss of human life," the bench said.
The court further sought a report from the CEC indicating whether any additional restrictions should be imposed for protecting two other world heritage structures, namely Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri.
The court, in the meantime, dismissed another plea of an Agra-based trust seeking the condition to obtain prior permission to fell trees on private lands to be relaxed.
The TTZ, an area of approximately 10,400 square kilometers, spreads across Agra, Firozabad, Mathura, Hathras, and Etah districts in UP and Bharatpur district in Rajasthan.
The top court, in its May 8 order, mandated that no tree felling could occur in the TTZ without prior court approval, a measure aimed at curbing deforestation and protecting the region&rsquo;s biodiversity.
On December 11, 2019, the apex court modified this order, removing the requirement for prior permission for tree felling on non-forest and private lands within the TTZ.

YS Jagan Mohan Reddy supports India's caste-based census, highlighting its need for addressing backward communities. Andhra Pradesh initiated its own survey in 2021, setting a precedent for inclusive development.

YS Jagan Reddy Endorses Caste Census in India

YS Jagan Mohan Reddy endorses India's move towards a caste-based census, aimed at fostering social justice and development for marginalized groups. Andhra Pradesh leads with prior caste-wise enumeration, showcasing proactive leadership.

YS Jagan Mohan Reddy backs India's caste census, stressing its importance for marginalized communities and economic growth.

YSRCP chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Thursday welcomed the Centre&rsquo;s decision to include caste enumeration in the forthcoming census.
He said a caste-based census would enable focused welfare initiatives and ensure economic and social development for backward and marginalized communities.
&ldquo;Andhra Pradesh, under my leadership, took the lead by passing a resolution in November 2021 and conducting the country&rsquo;s first BC caste-wise enumeration in January 2024 through village and ward secretariats,&rdquo; Reddy said in a post on 'X'.
However, the survey&mdash;later expanded to include all communities&mdash;was not made public.
Reddy added that this was a crucial step towards achieving real social justice and inclusive growth for all sections of society.
The central government had on Wednesday announced that caste enumeration will be part of the upcoming census and will be carried out in a &ldquo;transparent&rdquo; manner.

Punjab's Kandi region receives canal water after 40 years, revitalizing agriculture through major infrastructure investments, enhancing water management.

Historic Canal Water Restoration in Kandi Region

After a 40-year drought, canal water reaches Punjab's Kandi region, revitalizing agriculture. Major investments in irrigation and innovative water management efforts are transforming the landscape, ensuring sustainable growth and improved water resource management.

Canal water restores Punjab's Kandi region's agriculture, ending a 40-year drought. Investments modernize irrigation, aiding sustainable growth.

In a landmark achievement for Punjab's agricultural sector, thousands of farmers in the state's Kandi region are now receiving canal water for irrigation after a drought-like wait of nearly four decades.
Addressing longstanding irrigation challenges and revitalizing Punjab's agricultural infrastructure, Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann-led government has invested approximately 2.5 times more funds (over Rs.4557 crore from 2022 to 2025) than the previous Congress government (Rs.2046 crore from 2019 to 2022) in developing irrigation infrastructure for canal water distribution, yielding remarkable outcomes.
Punjab Water Resources and Soil and Water Conservation Minister Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal said that in numerous areas, farmers who had abandoned hope are now receiving canal water after nearly 40 years.
The Cabinet Minister listed the comprehensive rehabilitation of the Kandi Canal network, which has a capacity of 463 cusecs and extends 129.035 kilometers from Talwara to Balachaur. Although construction from Talwara to Hoshiarpur was completed in 1998 and Stage 2 from Hoshiarpur to Balachaur in 2016, the infrastructure had deteriorated substantially, causing persistent leakage and seepage issues that prevented water from reaching its full capacity.
He said that the government prioritized this project and invested approximately Rs.238.90 crore in the Kandi canal network to ensure water reaches tail-end areas. Today, water flows from Talwara to Balachaur-reaching the furthest points after nearly 40 years-benefiting 433 villages across Hoshiarpur and Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar districts and irrigating 125,000 acres across Dasuya, Mukerian, Tanda-Urmar, Sham Churasi, Hoshiarpur, Chabbewal, Garhshankar, and Balachaur.
He said that the concrete lining of Kandi Canal Stage-1 (Talwara to Hoshiarpur) was completed at a cost of Rs.120 crore. To optimize canal performance, the Mann government restored earthen watercourses and rejuvenated 11 distributaries spanning 61 kilometers under Kandi Canal Stage-1, benefiting 203 villages in Hoshiarpur covering 28,500 acres. Besides this, a Rs. 58.78 crore project for a 417.52-kilometer underground pipeline distribution system is scheduled for completion this month, he added.
He informed that for Kandi Canal Stage-2 between Hoshiarpur and Balachaur, the state government has restored six flow distributaries extending approximately 42 kilometers, providing irrigation facilities to 72 villages across Hoshiarpur and Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar districts, covering 18,800 acres of agricultural land.&nbsp;
Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal further revealed that five previously deteriorated lift schemes on this canal, which were designed to provide water to elevated areas, have been completely overhauled at a cost of Rs.34 crore, including their distribution systems. These revitalized lift schemes are now serving 38 villages with approximately 11,576 acres of previously rain-dependent land.
Beyond rehabilitating existing infrastructure, the Mann government has implemented several innovative initiatives. Five new lift schemes have been installed at a cost of Rs.11.62 crore, irrigating around 1,500 additional acres, stated the Cabinet Minister.
He said that to elevate groundwater levels, recharging structures have been constructed over five defunct government tubewells at a cost of Rs. 20 lakh, while 24 ponds have been developed with Rs. 5.16 crore, designed to be periodically replenished with canal water.
In a significant environmental intervention, 18 seasonal streams (choes) have been connected to the canal network at a cost of Rs.4.18 crore, allowing controlled release of canal water to enhance groundwater recharge.
"We are also supplying canal water to industry, reducing groundwater extraction while generating supplementary revenue for the state," said Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal, underlining the restoration of 13 low-earthen dams on various streams in Hoshiarpur and S.A.S. Nagar districts, where underground pipe distribution systems had deteriorated. The government invested Rs. 11.50 crore to revitalize these systems, he added.

Punjab launches a groundbreaking B.Tech program integrating mechanical engineering education with industry training, emphasizing automation and advanced manufacturing, offering significant financial aid for students.

Innovative B.Tech Program Launch in Punjab

Announcing Punjab's first industry-integrated B.Tech program. The collaboration between MRSPTU and Victura ensures hands-on training and financial aid, focusing on automation and robotics for future industry readiness.

Punjab introduces an industry-integrated B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering, emphasizing skill-based learning with industry collaboration, financial aid, and innovative training, keeping pace with future industry needs.

In a groundbreaking move aimed at aligning technical education with industry demands by focusing on skill-based experiential learning, Punjab's Technical Education and Industrial Training Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains announced the launch of a first-of-its-kind B.Tech. in Mechanical Engineering (Industry Integrated) program.
Addressing a press conference here at Punjab Bhawan today, S. Harjot Singh Bains informed that a transformative Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between Maharaja Ranjit Singh Punjab Technical University (MRSPTU), Bathinda, and Victura Technologies Private Limited (VTPL) of Faridabad. It is a first-of-its-kind program across the country, under which, from the very first semester, the student will be part of the industry, and the industry campus would be considered as a deemed campus of the university.
The MoU was signed today by Registrar of MRSPTU Dr. Gurinder Pal Singh Brar and Victura Managing Director Mr. Hardeep Singh Banga.
&ldquo;This is not just an MoU&mdash;it&rsquo;s a promise to the youth of Punjab that their education will move beyond theory, integrating real-world applications, cutting-edge technologies, and hands-on experience,&rdquo; said S. Harjot Singh Bains, while adding that this pioneering partnership is set to revolutionize technical education in Punjab by embedding industry exposure into the core of academic training, which will pave a way to address the unemployment issue.
Highlighting the key aspects of the landmark MoU, S. Harjot Singh Bains stated that the specialized B.Tech. in Mechanical Engineering (Industry Integrated) program will span four years. The curriculum includes five semesters of academic study at the MRSPTU and the last three semesters of practical industrial training at Victura Technologies. The program would be initiated with a batch of 30 students to ensure focused mentorship and high-quality training.
The Technical Education Minister said that Victura Technologies will establish a VTPL Advanced Automation Lab on the MRSPTU campus to foster experiential learning and innovation. The program also offers financial support, up to 50%, for meritorious students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, along with free accommodation, meals, local transportation, and a stipend during the industrial training phase.
Reaffirming the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab Government's commitment to educational transformation, the Technical Education Minister emphasized the government&rsquo;s forward-looking strategy to align educational infrastructure with future industry needs. The state is creating academic models that address the demands of automation, advanced manufacturing, and robotics.
While commending Victura Technologies for its active involvement in education, curriculum development, and faculty training, S. Harjot Singh Bains urged other industry leaders to collaborate with the state government's educational institutions and contribute towards preparing our youth for global opportunities.
The Director of Technical Education, Mr. Moneesh Kumar; the Director of Victura Technologies, Mr. Amitbir Singh Banga; the CSR Head, Mr. Ajay Kumar Somvanshi; the Programme Mentor of MRSPTU, Dr. Sandeep Kansal; the Coordinator, Dr. Amit Bhatia; and senior officials of MRSPTU were also present on the occasion.

PSPCL expands its helpline capacity by doubling call channels and establishing a new 250-seat center in Mohali, enhancing consumer support and creating local jobs.

Punjab Boosts PSPCL Consumer Helpline Service

PSPCL enhances its call center operations, doubling channels and opening a 250-seat facility in Mohali. This expansion improves consumer support and offers employment opportunities.

PSPCL revamps call centers to enhance service by doubling channels and opening a 250-seat center in Mohali.

In a major leap toward strengthening consumer grievance redressal and service delivery, Punjab&rsquo;s Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO announced a significant expansion of the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited&rsquo;s (PSPCL) call center infrastructure. This move is aimed at improving the efficiency and responsiveness of the electricity complaint registration system across the state.
Currently, PSPCL operates its consumer complaint helpline (1912) through two call centers with a total of 120 seats per shift at each center, operating round the clock. This amounts to 360 call center executives working daily to handle electricity-related issues reported by consumers. The Helpline is supported by 150 call channels, but despite these resources, an average of 30 calls remain in waiting at any given time due to high volume, though they are attended promptly.
To address this growing demand and ensure better service, PSPCL is undertaking a significant capacity upgrade. The corporation&rsquo;s whole-time directors (WTDs) have approved an ambitious plan to expand the number of operational call channels to 600. Of these, 210 channels will be allocated to the existing call centers, while the remainder will support a brand-new call center to be established in Mohali.
The upcoming Mohali call center will house 250 seats per shift, operating round the clock, which means a total of 750 call center executives will be deployed to handle consumer grievances at all times. Thus, this initiative is not only expected to significantly improve service delivery but also to provide valuable employment opportunities to the youth. A tender for the project has already been floated, and the bidding process is set to conclude soon. The new facility is expected to be fully operational by June 2025.
&ldquo;This strategic initiative underscores PSPCL&rsquo;s unwavering commitment to improving customer experience by ensuring timely, efficient, and reliable resolution of consumer issues,&rdquo; said Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO, adding, &ldquo;The Mohali call center will not only help manage the increasing volume of calls but also enhance our support mechanisms using modern communication technologies and trained service executives.&rdquo;
Equipped with advanced telecommunication infrastructure and staffed with professionally trained personnel, the Mohali center is expected to significantly reduce wait times, improve real-time assistance, and elevate consumer satisfaction levels. The center will handle a wide range of consumer interactions such as billing issues, new connection requests, power outage complaints, and general service inquiries.
Besides improving service quality, the new call center will also generate substantial local employment opportunities, further contributing to the region&rsquo;s socio-economic development. Consumers can continue to access support by calling the PSPCL helpline number 1912, which remains active 24x7.
The Cabinet Minister, Harbhajan Singh ETO, said that PSPCL remains fully committed to providing an uninterrupted power supply while continuously enhancing its consumer support systems to match the evolving expectations of the public.
"This expansion of our customer support system is a direct outcome of the state government's citizen-centric approach, guided by the visionary leadership of Hon&rsquo;ble Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann. We are committed to translating his governance philosophy into real-time service improvements that directly benefit the people of Punjab," said Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO.

Meeting between Punjab and National SC Commissions focused on improving coordination and enforcing protection laws through e-governance.

Punjab, National SC Commissions Discuss Enhancements

Discussion on improved coordination between SC commissions with focus on e-governance and strict enforcement of protection laws.

S. Jasvir Singh Garhi and Sh. Kishor Makwana discussed boosting coordination and implementing an e-governance system for SC commissions.

Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission Chairman S. Jasvir Singh Garhi called upon National Scheduled Castes Commission Chairman Sh. Kishor Makwana, here today.
During this meeting, S. Jasvir Singh Garhi briefed Sh. Kishor Makwana about the various initiatives being undertaken by the Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission.
S. Garhi urged that a system should be developed through e-governance to establish better coordination between the National Scheduled Castes Commission and various state Scheduled Castes Commissions across the country. This would enable quicker resolution of similar cases by learning from decisions made by the National Commission for the welfare of Scheduled Castes people, he added.
S. Garhi noted that often, people file appeals with both the Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission and the National Commission simultaneously in their pursuit of justice. Hence, the National Commission should take initiative to handle such cases jointly and bring uniformity in the functioning of the commissions.
S. Jasvir Singh Garhi also raised the issue of atrocities being committed against Scheduled Castes people in other states of the country and urged Sh. Kishor Makwana to direct the Union Government to enforce the Scheduled Castes Atrocities Prevention Act more stringently.

The Uttar Pradesh government has announced the inclusion of transgender individuals above 60 in old-age home facilities, offering healthcare, pension, and legal aid.

UP govt extends old-age home facilities to transgenders above 60

The Uttar Pradesh government has announced the inclusion of transgender individuals above 60 in old-age home facilities, offering healthcare, pension, and legal aid.

Uttar Pradesh government Wednesday said it has decided to extend old-age home facilities to transgender individuals above the age of 60, a statement said.
These elderly members of the transgender community will not only receive shelter but will also be ensured a dignified and secure life. They will be provided with pension, Ayushman Bharat health cards, routine health check-ups, nutritious food and mental health counselling, the government said in the statement.
"The initiative is a reflection of a sensitive and forward-looking vision, aimed at supporting a community that has faced neglect and discrimination for decades," the statement said.
"The Yogi Adityanath government has ensured that the transgender community is provided with equal rights, dignity and opportunities. Registration of transgender individuals is also being carried out to connect them with various government schemes," it said.
To ensure safety and quick resolution of issues faced by the transgender community, the state government has established Transgender Protection Cells in every district. These cells operate under the supervision of the respective District Magistrate, ensuring transparency and accountability, it added.
The government said a State-level Transgender Protection Cell has also been formed for policy formulation and overall monitoring.
"These cells offer police protection, legal aid, swift action in cases of harassment and support for social rehabilitation. As a result, transgender individuals are now experiencing a safer and more supportive environment," it said.
The statement noted that the old-age homes run by the government have made special arrangements for the care of elderly transgender citizens.
Community activities, libraries, yoga and meditation sessions will be organised to promote a positive and active lifestyle. Alongside, transgender residents also receive monthly pensions and benefits under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, it added.
The facility of old-age homes is part of a broader set of initiatives launched by the Yogi government for the welfare of the transgender community.
In 2021, a dedicated welfare policy for transgenders was implemented. The same year, the Uttar Pradesh Transgender Welfare Board was constituted, tasked with overseeing and implementing various schemes.
The first "Garima Grih" (Dignity Home) has been set up in Gorakhpur, serving as a safe shelter for transgenders, providing education, healthcare, and skill development facilities.
So far, identity cards have been issued to 1,067 transgender individuals, enabling them to avail of benefits under various government schemes with ease, according to the statement.
Additionally, scholarships have been awarded to 248 transgender students, helping them join mainstream education and become self-reliant, it said.
"The goal of the government is to build an inclusive society where every individual receives respect and opportunities. The government remains committed to the welfare of the transgender community," it added.
Principal Secretary of the Department of Social Welfare, L Venkateshwarlu, stated that more schemes will be launched for the transgender community in the coming times to ensure their social, economic, and psychological empowerment.
"Efforts are being made to register as many transgender individuals as possible so they can benefit from government schemes. Awareness programs will also be organised at the state level, with support from non-governmental organisations," he added.&nbsp;

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PM Modi while campaigning in Bardhaman for the Bengal election that is half-way through attacked CM Mamata Banerjee and said she has been clean bowled in Nandigram where she contested from against BJP&rsquo;s Suvendu Adhikari. He once again used the "Didi o Didi" dig that and warned that Bengal won't tolerate arrogance, extortion and commission cut culture as people want 'Asol Poribartan&rsquo;. PM Modi also used the Trinamool's "Ma, Mati Manush slogan to attack the party, saying TMC has tormented ma, lotted mati, and caused bloodshed of 'Manush' in the state.
&nbsp;

PM Modi repeats 'Didi o Didi' dig, says Mamata clean bowled in Nandigram

PM Modi while campaigning in Bardhaman for the Bengal election that is half-way through attacked CM Mamata Banerjee and said she has been clean bowled in Nandigram where she contested from against BJP&rsquo;s Suvendu Adhikari. He once again used the "Didi o Didi" dig that and warned that Bengal won't tolerate arrogance, extortion and commission cut culture as people want 'Asol Poribartan&rsquo;. PM Modi also used the Trinamool's "Ma, Mati Manush slogan to attack the party, saying TMC has tormented ma, lotted mati, and caused bloodshed of 'Manush' in the state.
&nbsp;

//PM's&nbsp;latest dig, says&nbsp;Didi&nbsp;clean bowled in Nandigram //Bengal wants 'asol&nbsp;poribartan': PM Modi&nbsp;at&nbsp;Bardhaman //'TMC&nbsp;tormented ma, looted mati, caused bloodshed of manush'

West Bengal authorities arrest two for allegedly using a Pakistani flag to incite communal tensions. Linked to a fringe group, they sought to blame another community.

Police Arrests Over Communal Tension in West Bengal

In West Bengal, two individuals linked to Sanatani Ekta Manch were arrested for trying to incite communal tensions with a Pakistani flag. Police foiled their attempt to provoke unrest between communities.

Two arrested in West Bengal for inciting communal tensions using a Pakistani flag. Linked to a fringe outfit, they aimed to blame another community.

West Bengal Police has arrested two persons for allegedly pasting an image of the Pakistani flag on the wall of a railway station in the North 24 Parganas district and writing 'Hindustan Murdabad' to engineer communal disturbances, a senior officer said on Thursday.
Chandan Malakar (30) and Progyajit Mondal (45), both described as active members of a political party and associated with the fringe outfit Sanatani Ekta Manch, were apprehended on Wednesday night in the Bongaon area, police added.
The duo confessed to pasting the poster flag and writing "Hindustan Murdabad" on the wall of a toilet near Akaipur railway station under the jurisdiction of Gopalnagar police station, the officer added.
According to police, the accused intended to provoke communal unrest by making the image public and attributing it to another community or group.
However, the plan was thwarted through timely intervention, police added.
"Yesterday night, a Pakistani National flag was found to be pasted on the walls of a washroom beside Akaipur railway station under Gopalnagar PS. Investigation revealed that this was willfully done by one Chandan Malakar (30) and Progyajit Mondal (45), both local residents and active members of a political party as also of Sanatani Ekta Manch," Bongaon police said in a post on X.
"They have confessed to the act and revealed that they had planned to write 'Hindustan Murdabad and Pakistan Zindabad' on that wall to create communal disturbances in the area. Both have been arrested in a specific case. Further investigation is on," it added.
"We shall spare no efforts to bring to book those who are hatching such conspiracies to trigger communal unrest," the post said.
Twenty-six people, including 25 tourists, were killed in a terror attack at Pahalgam in Kashmir on April 22, triggering a global outrage.
Different political parties and the Union government have referred to the alleged role of Pakistan-based agencies in sponsoring terror in Kashmir, but the neighboring country denied its role.
The ruling TMC in Bengal has cautioned against any attempt by certain right-wing fringe groups to disrupt law and order and instigate violence by flagging the Kashmir attack and called for a united effort to fight terrorism.

Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan endorses MGNREGS as Andhra Pradesh's development backbone, emphasizing employment, wages, and rural infrastructure advancements.

MGNREGS Boosts Andhra Pradesh Development

Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan underscores MGNREGS as vital for Andhra Pradesh, boosting employment, wages, and rural infrastructure. Partnership with SBI enhances worker benefits.

Andhra Pradesh's Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan endorses MGNREGS. The scheme boosts livelihoods, infrastructure, and rural development.

Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan on Thursday called the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) the "backbone of state development." Addressing a gathering during May Day celebrations, Kalyan alleged that the previous government had ruined rural development during its tenure.
"The MGNREGS is not just a welfare scheme&mdash;it is the backbone of rural Andhra Pradesh, sustaining livelihoods and driving grassroots development," said Kalyan.
He said that it is not only engineers and doctors who contribute to nation-building but also laborers who work under the scorching sun and shed sweat for the country&rsquo;s progress.
The Janasena Party (JSP) supremo said that Rs 10,669 crore was spent under MGNREGS last year, generating 24.23 crore person-days of work and directly benefiting 75.23 lakh rural workers across the state.
Wages were increased from Rs 150 to Rs 307, with Rs 6,194 crore paid as wages and Rs 4,023 crore allocated for material components.
Under the Palle Panduga (Village Festival) initiative, 21,564 cattle sheds were built at Rs 377.37 crore, improving farmers&rsquo; earnings through livestock-based livelihood support across rural areas.
Kalyan said that 13,500 animal water troughs were constructed and 63,582 acres of fruit orchards were developed, boosting sustainable livelihoods among SC, ST, and BC communities in rural regions.
As many as 4,000 km of cement roads were built in backward colonies, and the government now plans to construct an additional equal length during this financial year, said the Deputy CM.
The state government partnered with SBI to offer insurance coverage of Rs 3 lakh to Rs 30 lakh for MGNREGS functionaries through a special MoU, Kalyan said.
He added that proposals worth Rs 87,000 crore were sent under the Jal Jeevan Mission, of which Rs 29,000 crore has already been approved by the Centre.
It is a central plan aimed at providing drinking water through taps to households in rural India.

To boost the population and foster genetic diversity, a male tiger has been successfully relocated from Corbett to Rajaji Tiger Reserve, exemplifying wildlife conservation efforts in India.

Corbett Tiger Moves to Rajaji Reserve

A five-year-old male tiger was relocated from Corbett Tiger Reserve to Rajaji to boost population and diversity, marking the fifth successful translocation effort.

A male tiger was relocated from Corbett to Rajaji Tiger Reserve to enhance population and genetic diversity. Successful translocation efforts underscore India's commitment to wildlife conservation.

A five-year-old male tiger captured from the Corbett Tiger Reserve after being sedated was translocated to the Rajaji Tiger Reserve on Thursday, officials said.
"The tiger has been kept in an enclosure in the Motichur range of Rajaji Tiger Reserve (RTR) for acclimatization. Once he adapts to his new habitat, the tiger will be released into the wild," Chief Wildlife Warden Ranjan Kumar Mishra told PTI.
The health parameters of the tiger are alright, and the radio collar worn by it is functioning properly, Mishra said.
The tiger was tranquilized and captured on Wednesday from the Bijrani range of Corbett Tiger Reserve (CTR) for translocation to RTR to boost the tiger population there, officials said.
Earlier, four tigers were successfully translocated from the Corbett to the Rajaji Tiger Reserve.
With the addition of the new tiger, there will be five tigers in the forests between the Motichur and Chilla ranges now, two males and three females, RTR Director Saket Badola said.

CITU's Tapan Sen slams new labour codes, urging nationwide strike to defend workers' rights. The codes threaten hard-won protections.

Nationwide Strike Looms Over Labour Code Protests

CITU leader Tapan Sen rebukes new labour codes as harmful to workers' rights. Announcing a nationwide strike on May 20, Sen highlights threats to established work laws, calling for robust resistance.

Tapan Sen condemns new labor codes, calling them an assault on workers' rights, with CITU planning a nationwide strike on May 20.

The new labor codes are an assault on the rights of the workers, and the Joint Platform for Trade Unions will continue to protest against them, CITU general secretary Tapan Sen said on Thursday.
As Labour Day was observed on Thursday, the leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI-M) expressed concern that several states were incorporating the new codes into their laws.
He said the Centre of Indian Trade Union (CITU), a central trade union affiliated with the CPI(M), has called for a strike on May 20 to protest the labor codes and other issues. He asserted that this would be the beginning of a new resistance to the new codes.
&ldquo;We could stall the implementation of the new labor codes for the last five years; there were numerous strikes, general strikes, and sectoral actions, and they could not notify the code. Now, they are processing it with different state governments, and they had planned to notify them on the 1st of April. Somehow, they could not notify them,&rdquo; Sen told PTI.
The four labor codes passed by Parliament replace 29 existing labor laws. These codes regulate wages, industrial relations, social security, occupational safety, health, and working conditions.
Sen said numerous mechanisms have been designed by the government to surpass labor laws.
"They are making numerous administrative mechanisms by which they are curbing even the rights which are available to the worker. They are incentivizing the employers to violate the laws by way of decriminalizing those offenses. They will pay some fine and get out of this,&rdquo; he said.
He said representatives of the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) met with trade unions on April 29 to discuss a proposal to reduce the penalty charges applicable to defaulters of employee provident fund contributions.
&ldquo;The defaulters are being promoted this way... All the trade unions have opposed it, saying it is legalizing the violation of the law. They are decriminalizing the offenses and reducing the penalty, thereby legalizing or legitimizing the violations. So, in that kind of situation, the workers have no other right,&rdquo; he said.
"The struggle was unleashed throughout the globe, and for defined working hours, sacrifices were made. Ultimately, the eight-hour workday was internationally recognized. So, when those rights are being thought to be taken away, the workers' strategy is to defy that, resist that process, and assert those rights,&rdquo; he said.
He also alleged that laws are being misused to target those involved in protests and agitations against the union government.
&ldquo;The collective rights of workers are being sought to be curtailed. Now, collective agitation is being charged as organized crime under the Bharatiya Naya Samhita section 111, and leaders have been put in jail,&rdquo; he said.
According to CPI(M) leaders, two trade union leaders in Uttar Pradesh and one in Jammu and Kashmir were arrested under this section.

Karnal mourns Naval officer Lt. Vinay Narwal at a blood donation camp post-Pahalgam terror attack. Widow urges peace without blaming Muslims, community honors his dedication.

Tribute to Fallen Hero Lt Narwal in Karnal

Karnal gathers to honor the memory of Lt. Vinay Narwal, killed in the Pahalgam attack. A blood donation camp symbolizes his sacrifice while calls for peace and justice resonate. The community stands united in grief and tribute.

Lt. Vinay Narwal's sacrifice unites Karnal in grief and solidarity at a blood donation camp. His widow calls for peace without blaming Muslims. The community remembers his dedication after the Pahalgam terror attack.

"We don&rsquo;t want people going after Muslims and Kashmiris,&rdquo; Himanshi Narwal said on Thursday, stoic but firm as she mourned her husband, Naval officer Lt Vinay Narwal, who was gunned down in Pahalgam just 10 days ago. He would have been 27 today.
Narwal's mother and wife, Himanshi, broke into tears as tributes were being paid to the naval officer at a blood donation camp organized in Karnal, the town where he grew up.
&ldquo;We want peace and justice. People who have done wrong to him should be punished,&rdquo; said Himanshi, who got married to Lt. Narwal just a week before the April 22 terror attack.
The couple was on their honeymoon in Pahalgam when terrorists shot the naval officer at point-blank.
Wiping tears off her face, Himanshi offered floral tributes to her late husband and blew a kiss to his photograph. The naval officer&rsquo;s mother also kissed her son&rsquo;s photo and paid him respect with folded hands.
Narwal's sister, Shristi, expressed her gratitude to people who participated in the blood donation camp.
"I want to thank everyone who travelled from far to come here to donate blood. We have been receiving messages too. People have responded enthusiastically (to the blood donation camp). The government has also done a lot," Shristi said.
The camp was organized by the Karnal-based NGO National Integrated Forum of Artists and Activists (NIFAA). Various speakers, while addressing the gathering, said the late officer dedicatedly served his nation while in service and will continue to live in everyone's hearts forever.
"A youth who was supposed to serve the country for many years was snatched away by terrorism. A soldier on the battlefield ground saves people's lives by shedding blood. We are today donating blood in his honor to save people's lives," Chairperson of NIFAA Pritpal Singh Pannu said.
One of the attendees who donated blood at the camp said, &ldquo;The nation will always be grateful to Narwal for his sacrifice. We can only pay our tributes by donating our blood, but nobody can fill the void created by his death.&rdquo; BJP MLA from Karnal, Jagmohan Anand, was also present.
Narwal was among the 26 people, mostly tourists, gunned down by terrorists at the Baisaran meadows in Pahalgam on April 22, in one of the worst terror attacks on civilians in Kashmir in the past many years.

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