Thursday, July 16, 2026
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Government Refutes Claims of MGNREGA Fund Delay Amid Opposition Protests

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The central government on Tuesday denied allegations of discrimination in MGNREGA fund distribution, as opposition MPs protested in Lok Sabha over delayed wage payments under the rural employment scheme.

During Question Hour, DMK and Trinamool Congress (TMC) MPs stormed the well of the House, prompting Speaker Om Birla to urge them to return to their seats. As the protests continued, the House was adjourned till 12 PM.

🗣️ “Do not politicize the questions raised during Question Hour,” Birla urged the Opposition.

📌 Kerala & Tamil Nadu Demand Pending MGNREGA Dues

🔹 Congress MP Adoor Prakash (Kerala) raised concerns over a decline in workforce participation due to payment delays and low wages.
🔹 Workers in Kerala have not been paid for three months; ₹811 crore remains unpaid.
🔹 Parliamentary Standing Committee recommends:
✔️ Linking wages to inflation
✔️ Increasing workdays to 150

🗣️ “Will the government release the pending dues without delay?” – Adoor Prakash asked.

🔹 DMK MP Kanimozhi (Tamil Nadu) highlighted a ₹4,034 crore payment delay for over five months.
🔹 Tamil Nadu CM wrote to PM Modi, but payments are still pending.
🔹 MGNREGA law mandates 0.05% interest penalty for payments delayed beyond 15 days.

🗣️ “The scheme is demand-driven. If payments are delayed, workers must be compensated with interest.” – Kanimozhi

💰 Govt’s Response: Funds Will Be Released Soon

Minister of State for Rural Development Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani refuted claims of fund withholding:

🔹 Kerala has already received ₹3,000 crore this year (₹3,500 crore last year).
🔹 Tamil Nadu received ₹7,300 crore; total allocation expected to exceed ₹10,000 crore.
🔹 Payments are ongoing, pending amounts will be cleared in a few weeks.

🗣️ “There is no question of bias. Delays are handled as per MGNREGA law, where states initially pay and get reimbursed by the Centre.”

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan also defended the government:

🔹 No state is discriminated against, whether Tamil Nadu or West Bengal.
🔹 Under UPA (2006-2014), only ₹111 crore was allocated for person-days in Bengal.
🔹 Under NDA, ₹54,515 crore has been allocated, creating 239 crore person-days.
🔹 All pending dues, including material costs, will be cleared soon.

🗣️ “The Modi government has always ensured fair allocation of MGNREGA funds.”

Omar Abdullah: Govt Reviewing Planning Department Shift to Finance

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced today that the shift of Planning Department’s functions to the Finance Department is under government review, ensuring necessary modifications if required.

🗣️ “The Government is reassessing the decision to transfer the Planning Department’s functions to the Finance Department and will make changes as needed.”

Omar, who holds charge of both departments, made this statement during Question Hour in the Legislative Assembly in response to NC MLA Javid Hassan Beig’s queries.

📌 GPF Payment Delays & Treasury Constraints

Addressing concerns over delays in General Provident Fund (GPF) payments, the Chief Minister admitted that treasury constraints sometimes slow disbursements but assured efforts to expedite payments.

🔹 ₹5,476 crore disbursed as GPF in FY 2024-25
🔹 Delays linked to treasury position constraints
🔹 Govt committed to ensuring timely payments

🗣️ We are making every effort to release GP funds to employees as quickly as possible.”

📊 Finance Department’s Role & Digital Transformation

Omar clarified that fund allocation—whether Revenue or Capital Expenditure—is strictly managed by the Finance Department, as per statutory norms.

🔹 BEAMS (Budget Estimation, Allocation & Monitoring System) ensures real-time fund allocation
🔹 IT-enabled platforms like PAYSYS, PROOF & Treasury Net improve transparency and efficiency
🔹 Janbhagidari portal allows citizens to track fund releases & monitor public projects in real-time

🗣️ “EMPOWERMENT through Janbhagidari gives people a direct role in overseeing development projects.”

💰 NHPC Allocates ₹28.67 Cr for J&K Under CSR

Responding to PDP MLA Waheed ur Rehman Para’s query, Omar revealed that NHPC has earmarked ₹28.674 crore for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects in J&K for FY 2024-25, as part of its ₹167.93 crore pan-India CSR budget.

🔹 Key Focus Areas:
✔️ Health & Sanitation
✔️ Education & Skill Development
✔️ Rural Development
✔️ Sports & Disaster Management

🔹 CM’s Assurance: MLAs will be consulted in CSR project planning
🔹 Community Participation: CSR funds should align with local priorities

🗣️ We will ask NHPC to involve MLAs and communities in planning CSR projects to maximize impact.”


With major financial and governance decisions under review, the coming months will determine how these policies impact J&K’s economy, infrastructure, and public welfare.

Omar Abdullah: Public Support Crucial to Ending Militancy in J&K

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has emphasized that militancy in Jammu and Kashmir cannot be eliminated without the active support of the people. Speaking to reporters outside the Assembly, he reiterated that while security is primarily a Union Government responsibility, his administration is committed to assisting in maintaining peace across the Union Territory.

🗣️ Militancy cannot be defeated without the people’s support. Our Government is making every effort to help the Lieutenant Governor keep the situation under control.”

🔴 Terror Alert in Kathua

Omar’s remarks come in the wake of an ongoing anti-terror operation in Sanyal, near the International Border in Hiranagar sector of Kathua district.

🔹 Villagers reported suspicious movement of five terrorists
🔹 Security forces launched an intensive cordon and search operation
🔹 A minor girl sustained injuries in the ensuing exchange of fire

The Chief Minister stated that these incidents are not new to the region and cautioned against premature conclusions, adding that the terrorists may have infiltrated from across the border.

🗣️ “We have seen terror activities across Jammu, including Rajouri and Poonch. Their intent is clear – they want to disturb peace.

⚖️ Waqf (Amendment) Bill Sparks Nationwide Protests

Omar Abdullah also addressed the growing opposition to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, stating that it disproportionately targets one community.

🔹 AIMPLB announces nationwide agitation
🔹 Massive protests planned in Patna (March 26) & Vijayawada (March 29)
🔹 Bill introduced by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, currently under review

🗣️ “Charitable activities are conducted across all religions. If a particular community is singled out, unrest is bound to follow.”

With tensions rising over both security concerns and legislative changes, Jammu & Kashmir remains on high alert, and all eyes are on the next developments.

Rachin Ravindra Hails CSK’s Spin Depth and Leadership After Victory Over MI

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Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opener Rachin Ravindra credited the team’s world-class spin attack, led by Ravichandran Ashwin, for their dominant four-wicket win over Mumbai Indians (MI) in IPL 2024. He emphasized how the depth in spin bowling gives CSK a perfect balance, ensuring reliable backups on days when individual bowlers struggle.

While Ashwin delivered a solid 1/31, it was Afghanistan’s Noor Ahmad who stole the show with an exceptional 4/18, restricting MI to 155/9.

“Ash (Ashwin) is a world-class performer. I’ve played against him a bit, and he brings so much experience and cricketing intelligence. The way he talks about spin bowling and the tips he shares are invaluable,” Ravindra said at the post-match press conference.

“He reads the game so well, he’s a great thinker of the game. It’s an honour to share the field with legends of Indian cricket—players I grew up watching.”

CSK’s Balanced Squad and Strong Batting Performance

Ravindra praised CSK’s all-round balance, highlighting that if one bowler has an off-day, the team has plenty of backup options.

“We have great spin depth, and the balance in the team is strong. If someone has a tough day, we have a sixth bowler to step up.”

Chasing 156, Ravindra played a match-winning knock of 65 (45)* and built a 67-run partnership with skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad (53 off 26), laying the foundation for victory.

“Opening for CSK is an honour, especially considering the history of the role. The legends like Hussey, Watson, and McCullum have set high standards. I take it game by game—it’s a long tournament.”

CSK stumbled at 116/5, but Ravindra, alongside **Ravindra Jadeja (17)*, steadied the innings to take them to 152/6.

Praise for Gaikwad and Jadeja

Ravindra was full of praise for Gaikwad’s class and Jadeja’s experience, both of whom played crucial roles in the chase.

“Rutu is an amazing player. The way he played on a slightly tricky wicket showed his skill and class. Mumbai bowled well, and though dew wasn’t a factor, his stroke play made my job easier.”

“Jaddu’s experience speaks for itself. He is a world-class all-rounder who has finished games countless times. His calmness and clarity were great, and sharing the crease with him was amazing.”

Playing with Dhoni: A Special Moment

The Chepauk crowd was eager for MS Dhoni to finish the match, but it was Ravindra who sealed the win with a six off Mitchell Santner.

“In that moment, you’re focused on getting the team over the line. But when Dhoni walks in, the noise and whistles are impossible to ignore. It was surreal to share the crease with him for the first time.”

“He’s a legend, and the crowd wanted him to finish, but my job was to close the game. Dhoni has done it so many times for CSK—and I believe he will do it many more times.”

Respect for MI’s Young Spinner and Bumrah’s Recovery Update

Ravindra also acknowledged the impressive debut of MI’s young left-arm wrist spinner, Vignesh Puthur, who took 3/32, dismissing Gaikwad, Shivam Dube, and Deepak Hooda.

“He bowled brilliantly. He’s young but showed great skill to take wickets of three experienced batters. He definitely has a bright future ahead.”

Meanwhile, MI bowling coach Paras Mhambrey provided an update on Jasprit Bumrah’s rehabilitation, stating that the star pacer is recovering well and will return soon.

“We knew he wouldn’t be available for the first game, so we had to plan accordingly. The NCA has given us positive updates on his progress. While we won’t set a specific timeframe, Bumrah is a key part of MI, and we look forward to his return.”

With a strong spin attack, composed leadership, and deep batting strength, CSK looks well-prepared to continue their dominance in IPL 2024.

MS Dhoni Focused on Reinventing Himself, Denies Backroom Role in CSK Captaincy

Rejecting speculation that he is the behind-the-scenes decision-maker for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) despite stepping down as captain, Mahendra Singh Dhoni emphasized that his focus remains on adapting his game to stay relevant in the IPL.

Speaking to JioStar after CSK’s four-wicket victory over Mumbai Indians in their opening match of IPL 2024, Dhoni reflected on team dynamics under new skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, his personal approach to the evolving T20 format, and the rise of regional commentary in the tournament.

Staying Relevant in Modern T20 Cricket

With the batting approach in T20s evolving, Dhoni acknowledged the need to adjust his game:

“Batsmen are now taking more risks while playing proper cricketing shots. You see reverse scoops, sweeps, and reverse sweeps against fast bowlers. I am no different; I have to adapt as well. This is what is required of me, given my batting position. You have to stay relevant,” Dhoni said.

Comparing T20 cricket from 2008 to now, he highlighted how pitch conditions in India have improved, making them more batter-friendly than before.

Gaikwad in Full Control as CSK Captain

The five-time IPL-winning captain clarified that Ruturaj Gaikwad is fully in charge of CSK, contrary to speculation that Dhoni is making decisions in the background.

“Ruturaj has been with us for a long time. He is calm and composed—key qualities for a leader. Before the season, I told him, ‘If I give you advice, you don’t have to follow it. I will try to stay away as much as possible.’

“Throughout the season, people speculated that I was making the decisions, but the reality is that Ruturaj was responsible for 99% of the calls. Bowling changes, field placements—those were all his decisions. I was just helping him when needed, and he did a brilliant job managing the team,” Dhoni added.

Bond with Virat Kohli

Dhoni also spoke about his long-standing relationship with Virat Kohli, which evolved from a captain-young player dynamic to a deep friendship over the years.

“It was always an honest exchange of ideas—discussing if a certain approach was right or if any adjustments were needed. Over time, as we kept interacting, we became friends. Even today, we share that bond, but there is always a line of respect between a senior and a junior.”

Now that neither of them is leading a team, Dhoni noted that they get more time to talk before matches.

Love for Regional Commentary in IPL

Dhoni praised IPL broadcasters for introducing regional commentary, saying it provides new perspectives on the game.

“Listening to commentary offers an outsider’s view, sparking new ideas that can be evaluated with intelligence and data. I haven’t heard much regional commentary, but I know that Bhojpuri commentary is highly energetic. It reminds me of old-school radio commentary, where the commentators were very involved. I find that very interesting,” he said.

At 43, Dhoni continues to evolve with the game, not just as a cricketer but also as a mentor and strategist, ensuring CSK remains a dominant force in the IPL.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Accuses Government of Disrupting Lok Sabha Proceedings

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With repeated adjournments in the Lok Sabha, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Monday alleged that the government is deliberately obstructing the functioning of the House by creating unnecessary ruckus.

The BJP MPs have been raising concerns over Muslim reservation in Karnataka’s government contracts, claiming that the state’s Deputy Chief Minister, D.K. Shivakumar, had suggested amending the Constitution to accommodate a 4% quota for Muslims. However, Shivakumar has refuted these claims, stating that he never proposed any amendments to the Constitution for religion-based reservations.

Speaking to reporters in the Parliament complex after the Lok Sabha was adjourned for the second time in the day, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said:

“It’s been many days now, and they seem to have made up their mind that they don’t want the House to function. They find some excuse or the other to create disruptions.”

The repeated disruptions in the Lok Sabha have led to increased tensions between the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress, further stalling key legislative discussions.

Rajeev Chandrasekhar Elected as Kerala BJP President

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Former Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar has been elected as the new Kerala state president of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The announcement was made on Monday by the party’s central observer Prahlad Joshi during the BJP’s state council meeting.

Chandrasekhar was the sole nominee for the top post and had submitted two sets of nomination papers at the BJP headquarters on Sunday. Prominent party leaders, including outgoing president K Surendran and state in-charge Prakash Javadekar, were present at the event. Surendran formally handed over the party flag to Chandrasekhar on stage.

In his address, Surendran highlighted the unprecedented growth of the BJP in Kerala over the past 10 years. He emphasized that Chandrasekhar’s experience and expertise across various sectors would further accelerate the party’s expansion in the state. Dismissing criticism that Chandrasekhar is not a conventional politician, Surendran expressed confidence in his ability to excel in the new role.

At 60 years old, Chandrasekhar brings two decades of political experience to the position. He has served as Union Minister of State for Electronics & IT, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, and Jal Shakti. Additionally, he has been a three-term Rajya Sabha MP from Karnataka and a BJP national spokesperson. Currently, he also serves as the vice-chairman of the NDA’s Kerala unit.

A familiar figure in Kerala politics, Chandrasekhar contested the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from Thiruvananthapuram as the NDA candidate but narrowly lost to Shashi Tharoor of the Congress by 16,077 votes.

Born in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, to Keralite parents, Chandrasekhar has deep family roots in Thrissur. His father-in-law is TPG Nambiar, the founder of BPL Group.

The election was conducted as K Surendran’s five-year term as Kerala BJP president came to an end.

J&K Government Seeks IIT Roorkee & NHPC’s Expertise to Revive Underperforming Hydropower Projects

Amid declining power generation from several hydroelectric projects and forced shutdowns, the Jammu and Kashmir government is consulting IIT Roorkee and NHPC to revive projects producing significantly lower power than their design capacity.

Decline in Power Generation

According to an official document accessed by Daily Excelsior, 13 hydroelectric projects in J&K have a combined capacity of 1,197.4 MW and a design energy output of 5,318.11 million units. However, in FY 2023-24, these projects generated only 4,913.28 million units, highlighting a shortfall in expected output.

Some of the worst-affected projects include:

  • Upper Sindh Hydropower Project (USHP-I): 36.79 million units generated against 106.62 million units (design energy).

  • USHP-II: 141.83 million units generated against 447.37 million units.

  • Ganderbal: 18.46 million units generated against 90.15 million units.

  • Chenani-I: 60.59 million units generated against 110.02 million units.

  • Chenani-II: 0.30 million units generated against 12 million units.

  • Chenani-III: 4.45 million units generated against 36.71 million units.

  • Bhaderwah & Sewa-III: Zero power generation, despite having a design energy of 8.32 million units and 33.6 million units, respectively.

Causes of Reduced Power Generation

The decline in power output is attributed to several factors:

  1. Climate Change: Decreased hydrology over time has affected water availability for power generation.

  2. Aging Infrastructure: Several projects, including 23.3 MW Chenani-I, 105 MW LJHEP, and 22.6 MW USHP-I, have exceeded their design life of 35 years, leading to frequent breakdowns and rising maintenance costs.

  3. Complete Shutdowns:

    • Sewa-III has been non-operational since August 2013 due to damage from torrential rains.

    • IIT Roorkee prepared a Detailed Project Report (DPR) in March 2022, estimating a ₹76.68 crore revival cost, including civil repairs and replacement of electro-mechanical equipment.

J&K’s Revival Strategy

To restore power generation capacity, the J&K Power Development Corporation (JKPDC) is developing a technical and financially viable plan for the revival of Sewa-III and other underperforming projects. IIT Roorkee and NHPC are actively advising JKPDC on implementing effective solutions to bring these plants back to full potential.

Expanding J&K’s Hydroelectric Potential

Despite underperformance in older plants, J&K is fast-tracking new hydropower projects to maximize its energy potential. A total of 15 projects are at various stages of development:

  • 6 projects (2,063.5 MW) are under construction.

  • 2 projects (141 MW) are at the award stage.

  • 7 projects (4,563.5 MW) are under DPR/clearance stage.

The government has partnered with NHPC, Joint Venture Companies (CVPPL & RHPCL), and private power producers to accelerate hydroelectric development.

Way Forward

With support from IIT Roorkee and NHPC, J&K aims to:

  • Modernize aging hydropower projects.

  • Implement advanced hydrology management.

  • Ensure optimal power generation to meet growing energy demands.

The revival of underperforming projects, along with new developments, will significantly enhance J&K’s power capacity, reducing dependence on external sources and boosting energy security.

Security Forces Engage Terrorists in Kathua’s Hiranagar Sector

An encounter broke out on Saturday evening between security forces and terrorists at Sanyal village, located just four kilometers from the International Border, in the Hiranagar sector of Kathua district. The gunfight erupted after three civilians, including a woman, reported suspicious movement of infiltrators near a dhok (temporary shelter) in a sprawling Nursery area.

Civilians Alert Authorities

A local resident, Anita Devi, along with her husband Ganesh Kumar and brother-in-law, first spotted the terrorists while collecting wood in the Nursery area. She described their number as five, though infiltrators typically move in groups of three. According to her, the terrorists attempted to capture her husband and brother-in-law, threatening them with death if they revealed their presence. However, the civilians managed to escape and informed the Village Defence Guards (VDGs) and police.

Security Forces Respond Swiftly

Following the alert, Jammu and Kashmir Police, Special Operations Group (SOG), Army, and paramilitary forces launched an operation, leading to an intense gunfight near the Nursery. The terrorists opened heavy fire, prompting retaliatory action from security personnel.

A seven-year-old girl, Anchal Kumari, was reportedly injured during the exchange of fire and was shifted to a local hospital, though the exact cause of her injury remains uncertain.

Top Officials Monitor the Situation

Senior police officials, including Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat, IGP Jammu Zone Bhim Sen Tuti, and DIG Jammu-Kathua range Shiv Kumar Sharma, are personally supervising the operation to eliminate the terrorists.

Possible Infiltration via Tunnel or Ravine Route

The terrorists are suspected to have infiltrated on Saturday night, possibly using a newly created tunnel or a ravine route. Security agencies are also investigating intelligence reports suggesting that two separate groups of 5-6 terrorists each may have entered Indian territory, though confirmation is awaited.

Kathua: A Growing Infiltration Route

Kathua district has emerged as a key infiltration corridor for Pakistan-based terrorists attempting to reach Udhampur, Doda, and Kishtwar before moving towards Kashmir. The Jammu region has witnessed increased terror activities over the past year, spreading to six additional districts, resulting in 44 deaths in 2024 alone, including 18 security personnel and 13 terrorists.

Security Forces Intensify Counter-Terror Operations

In response to the growing threat, security forces have ramped up anti-terror operations. In a separate incident today, security personnel busted a major terrorist hideout in the forests of Poonch district, recovering a huge cache of arms, ammunition, and explosives.

Recovery from the Hideout

The operation, conducted by Rashtriya Rifles and SOG, led to the seizure of:

  • 3 AK-47 rifles

  • 23 magazines and 922 rounds of ammunition

  • 7 grenades

  • 4 Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs)

  • 1 watch-type timer mechanism

  • 19 detonators

  • Combat dress and 200 grams of heroin

The explosives and IEDs were later neutralized on-site by the Bomb Disposal Squad.

Security Alert in the Region

The encounter and subsequent crackdown have triggered panic among residents of Sanyal and surrounding areas, forcing them to remain indoors. Authorities have intensified patrolling and surveillance to prevent further infiltration attempts.

Past Terror Incidents in Kathua and Hiranagar

  • June 2023: Two terrorists killed and a CRPF jawan martyred in Hiranagar sector.

  • March 2023: Grenade attack on Border Police Post in Sanyal, injuring a police officer.

  • March 2024: Five mysterious deaths in Billawar tehsil, triggering protests.

Army Confirms Ongoing Operations

The Indian Army’s Rising Star Corps confirmed the operation on X (formerly Twitter), stating:
“Based on intelligence input regarding the presence of terrorists, a joint operation has been launched by police and troops in Sanyal, Hiranagar on March 23. Operations in progress.”

Security forces remain on high alert, with efforts ongoing to neutralize the infiltrators and prevent further terrorist activities in the region.

Punjab Kings Eye Maiden IPL Title as Ricky Ponting Sets Lofty Goals

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Punjab Kings’ immediate goal is to end their title drought in the Indian Premier League (IPL), but head coach Ricky Ponting has also set his sights on building the greatest-ever Punjab Kings team.

With Ponting at the helm and last season’s IPL-winning captain Shreyas Iyer leading the side, the franchise is optimistic about a strong turnaround in their fortunes. Punjab Kings will kick off their IPL 2024 campaign against Gujarat Titans on March 25 in Ahmedabad.

Ponting’s Vision: Creating a Legacy

Ponting, speaking in a franchise release, was clear about his ambitions.
“The overall vision for this team is to win the IPL. I told the guys on the very first day in Dharamshala that we are going to create and become the greatest Punjab Kings team ever,” Ponting said.

He stressed that this transformation won’t happen overnight and that it requires dedication, consistency, and a winning attitude.

Winning Attitude: Ponting’s Formula for Success

The Australian cricketing legend underlined the importance of mindset in achieving success.
“Winning is really an attitude thing. If we turn up to play, and the opposition turns up to play, I don’t want anyone taking anything away from my team,” Ponting asserted.

Young Indian Players to Watch Out For

Ponting tipped uncapped Indian players—Delhi’s Priyansh Arya, and Mumbai duo Suryansh Shedge and Musheer Khan—as potential breakout stars this season.

  • Priyansh Arya: A promising opening batsman, who could be key to Punjab’s plans depending on their overseas player combination.

  • Suryansh Shedge: Has impressed with his performances during training.

  • Musheer Khan: Brings energy and enthusiasm to the group, with an infectious attitude that has already made an impact.

Senior Players as Role Models

Ponting emphasized that senior players must lead by example to guide the younger domestic players.
“I put a lot of the bait on them to ensure they set the right example. Young Indian players look up to the overseas guys, so they must lead the way,” he said.

With a renewed vision, strong leadership, and a mix of young and experienced talent, Punjab Kings are set to chase their maiden IPL title in 2024.