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Sat Sharma Slams NC Government for Ignoring Divyang Talent in J&K

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Jammu, March 2025: Sat Sharma, President of J&K BJP, launched a sharp attack on the National Conference (NC) Government for its negligence in promoting Divyang talent in Jammu & Kashmir. He accused the NC-led administration of engaging in blame politics instead of honoring athletes who bring pride to the region and nation.

Jahangir’s Achievements Ignored by J&K Government

Sharma highlighted the achievements of Jahangir, a young Divyang athlete from Kashmir, who won two medals (silver and bronze) at the Special Olympics World Winter Games 2025 held in Italy. He pointed out that while the Union Government supported the athlete, the NC-led J&K Government failed to acknowledge his success.

India’s Success at Special Olympics World Winter Games 2025

Sharma further noted that a team of 30 talented competitors representing India at the event won a total of 33 medals under the leadership of Dr. Mallika Nadda, President of Special Olympics Bharat. However, he criticized the J&K Government for its lack of support, stating that no official representative was present at IGI Airport in Delhi to welcome the winners upon their return.

Call for Recognition and Support

Urging the J&K Government to take immediate action, Sharma demanded:

  • Recognition of Jahangir’s achievements at the state level.
  • Better facilities, training, and infrastructure for Divyang athletes.
  • Promotion of Divyang sports to encourage more talent.
  • Implementation of initiatives similar to ‘Khelo India’ to foster a strong sports culture in J&K.

Sharma reiterated that under the Modi Government, India has made significant strides in promoting sports and inclusivity. He called upon the NC Government to step up and support its athletes rather than engage in political blame games.

 

Sanju Samson Joins Rajasthan Royals After Finger Surgery Recovery

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Jaipur, March 2025: Rajasthan Royals skipper Sanju Samson has rejoined his Indian Premier League (IPL) team after successfully recovering from a finger surgery he underwent last month.

The 30-year-old wicketkeeper-batter completed his rehabilitation at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru and participated in the Royals’ first practice session on Monday ahead of the upcoming IPL 2025 season.

Injury and Recovery

Samson suffered the finger injury after being struck by a bouncer from Jofra Archer during India’s five-match T20I series against England. Following the injury, he underwent surgery to repair the damage.

Having regained full fitness, Samson’s availability as a wicketkeeper remains uncertain. If he is not ready to take up the gloves immediately, Dhruv Jurel is expected to step in as the stand-in wicketkeeper.

Royals’ Practice Session and Team Interactions

The Rajasthan Royals captain was seen engaging with his teammates, including India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal and head coach Rahul Dravid. The session marked the beginning of the Royals’ preparation for the tournament.

Rajasthan Royals’ Season Opener

The inaugural IPL champions will kick off their IPL 2025 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Hyderabad on March 23.

Riyan Parag Returns from Shoulder Injury

In another positive update for the Rajasthan Royals, all-rounder Riyan Parag has also made a full recovery from a shoulder injury. The injury had previously kept him out of the T20I series against South Africa and England.

Parag returned to action during the second phase of the Ranji Trophy, where he impressed by scoring a half-century and bowling 26 overs against Saurashtra.

With key players regaining fitness, Rajasthan Royals will look to make a strong start to their IPL 2025 campaign.

PM Modi Writes to NASA Astronaut Sunita Williams, Invites Her to India

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi has written a heartfelt letter to NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, who is scheduled to return to Earth early Wednesday after spending nine months aboard the International Space Station (ISS). In his letter, Modi extended an invitation for Williams to visit India after her return.

The letter, dated March 1, was sent through former NASA astronaut Mike Massimino and later shared on social media platform X by Union Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh.

India Prays for Sunita Williams’ Safe Return

Modi expressed deep admiration for Williams’ contributions to space exploration and conveyed India’s prayers for her good health and success.

“Even though you are thousands of miles away, you continue to remain close to our hearts. The people of India are praying for your good health and success in your mission,” wrote Modi.

Invitation to Visit India

The prime minister extended a warm invitation for Williams to visit India, calling her “one of its most illustrious daughters.”

“After your return, we are looking forward to seeing you in India. It will be a pleasure for India to host you,” he said.

Recalling Past Encounters

Modi recalled his 2016 meeting with Williams and her late father Deepak Pandya during his visit to the United States. He also mentioned a recent conversation with Mike Massimino in New Delhi, where they spoke about Williams’ remarkable achievements.

“During the course of our conversation, your name came up, and we discussed how proud we are of you and your work. Following this interaction, I could not stop myself from writing to you,” he shared.

Recognition on Global Platforms

Modi further revealed that he had inquired about Williams’ well-being while meeting former US Presidents Donald Trump and Joe Biden during his official visits to the United States.

1.4 billion Indians have always taken great pride in your achievements. Your perseverance and fortitude continue to inspire us all.

Personal Touch

The prime minister also mentioned Williams’ mother, Bonnie Pandya, expressing that she must be eagerly waiting for her daughter’s return.

“I am sure that Deepakbhai’s blessings are with you as well,” he added.

In closing, Modi extended warm regards to Williams’ husband, Michael Williams, and reiterated that the entire nation looked forward to welcoming her to India.

Delhi Vidhan Sabha to Be Developed as a ‘Model’ Assembly: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla

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New Delhi, March 2025: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday emphasized the need to transform the Delhi Vidhan Sabha into a model Assembly and encouraged newly-elected MLAs to enhance their skills with modern technology tools such as Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Inaugurating a two-day orientation programme for Delhi MLAs at the Vidhan Sabha, Birla highlighted the high expectations of the people from their legislators and the newly-formed government.

Delhi: A ‘Mini India’ with a Big Responsibility

Birla described Delhi as a “Mini India,” representing the country’s diversity in languages, cultures, and religions. He stated that legislators bear the responsibility of addressing public concerns through infrastructure development and social welfare initiatives.

“The orientation programme will equip MLAs with the skills necessary to meet these expectations and serve the people effectively,” he said.

Dignitaries in Attendance

The inaugural session was attended by Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, Leader of Opposition Atishi, Deputy Speaker Mohan Singh Bisht, and Delhi’s MPs.

Use of AI and Technology in Legislative Business

Birla urged MLAs to actively participate in legislative discussions, emphasizing that a good orator is also a good listener. He stressed the need to leverage AI for capacity building and efficiency, allowing for better communication and governance.

“The Delhi Assembly should be developed as a ‘model’ Assembly with maximum use of technology and skill enhancement of its members to improve legislative processes,” he said.

Training Programme for MLAs

The Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies (PRIDE) is conducting the orientation programme, offering insights into parliamentary rules and legislative practices.

Birla encouraged the new members to learn legislative drafting and utilize available legislative resources to enhance their effectiveness in governance. He urged them to adopt innovative approaches in addressing constituency issues while upholding transparency, honesty, and accountability.

Legislative Debates and Consensus Building

Highlighting the importance of constructive debate, Birla stated that the Assembly should function as a platform for discussion and consensus-building. While disagreements may arise, he emphasized the need to avoid legislative deadlocks and focus on solutions for Delhi’s development over the next five years.

Delhi Election Results

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) formed the government in Delhi after securing 48 of the 70 Assembly seats in the February elections. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) won 22 seats, forming the opposition in the House.

Birla concluded by encouraging MLAs to dedicate themselves to public service and use modern governance tools to enhance efficiency and accountability.

 

Strategic Road Development in Ladakh by BRO

Jammu, March 2025: Despite facing numerous challenges, the Border Roads Organization (BRO) is making relentless efforts to develop strategically important roads, as evidenced by the construction of over 1,250 kilometers of road along the Indo-China border in the Union Territory of Ladakh. Work is also progressing on several other crucial stretches.

This information was revealed in the report of the Standing Committee on Defence tabled in both Houses of Parliament today.

BRO’s Key Projects and Progress According to the report, BRO is primarily engaged in developing strategically significant roads along India’s borders. Notable projects include:

  • Indo-China Border Roads (Phase-I & II)
  • Shinkun La Tunnel (4.1 km)
  • Nyoma-Mudh airfield in Ladakh

Adequate budgetary support has been allocated in Budget Estimates (BE) 2025-26 for ongoing projects in Ladakh and other regions.

Indo-China Border Roads Status The Committee observed that, under the revised five-year Long-Term Roll-on Works Plan (LTRoWP), the Army has identified 476 roads totaling 22,156 km for construction and improvement. Specifically:

  • Uttarakhand: 36 roads, 1,895.01 km
  • Ladakh: 67 roads, 3,604.32 km

In Ladakh, under Phase-I, 12 roads covering 1,099.02 km were approved. Of these, 11 have been completed, with work continuing on the last one. Under Phase-II, four roads covering 173.38 km were sanctioned, with one completed and three under construction.

Challenges Faced by BRO The Ministry of Defence acknowledged several challenges encountered by BRO, including:

  • Hard rock stretches
  • Limited working season
  • Scarcity of construction materials
  • Resource diversions due to natural disasters
  • Time-consuming land acquisition and environmental clearances
  • Shortage of local labor and limited participation from reputed contractors due to remoteness

Boost to Tourism and Local Economy Beyond their strategic importance, these roads have significantly boosted tourism and local economies. The Director General of BRO highlighted the impact of the improved road to Pangong Lake, stating:

“The current condition of the road is good, and adequate funds have been allocated for rehabilitation. Previously, it took two days to visit Pangong Lake and return, but now the journey can be completed within a day due to improved road conditions.”

He emphasized that this road is not just a strategic asset but also vital for the local economy, affirming that its maintenance will remain a priority.

Shinkun-La Tunnel: A Game Changer for Ladakh The Shinkun-La Tunnel, aimed at providing all-weather connectivity to Leh, is progressing as per schedule. The BRO reported:

  • Project Design and Construction (PDC) to be completed by August 2028.
  • Four-year timeline fixed in the contract, with work progressing per set milestones.
  • South portal located in Himachal Pradesh, North portal in Zanskar’s Padam area.
  • Major construction to begin in May 2025, as heavy snow currently covers the site.

Strategic Significance of Shinkun-La Tunnel The tunnel, positioned at 15,800 feet, will be the highest in the world and serve critical defense and strategic needs. Benefits include:

  • Year-round connectivity to Ladakh, ensuring access even in heavy snowfall.
  • Shortening the Manali-Leh route by 60 km.
  • Facilitating transportation of heavy machinery to Kargil and Siachen.
  • Enhancing security and boosting commerce and tourism in the Zanskar Valley.

The Standing Committee affirmed the significance of these developments, underlining the BRO’s commitment to national security and regional economic growth.

Power Sector Developments in Jammu & Kashmir

Jammu, March 2025: The Legislative Assembly of Jammu & Kashmir witnessed an in-depth discussion on the power scenario as Omar, the minister in charge of the Power Department, responded to queries raised by BJP MLA Rajiv Jasrotia from Jasrota (Kathua) and National Conference legislator Mushtaq Ahmad Guroo.

No Power Projects Transferred to NHPC Omar confirmed that no power projects have been identified for transfer to the National Hydro-electric Power Corporation (NHPC). However, he noted that J&K has allotted multiple projects to NHPC for development in the Central sector over time.

Progress on Hydropower Projects Significant progress has been made on various hydropower projects in Jammu & Kashmir:

  • Pakaldul (1000 MW) – 65% completion
  • Kiru (624 MW) – 54.09% completion
  • Kwar (540 MW) – 18.65% completion
  • Ratle (850 MW) – 20.01% completion

These projects are being executed by Chenab Valley Power Projects Limited (CVPPL) and Ratle Hydroelectric Power Corporation Limited (RHPCL).

Coal Block Allocation Issues A joint venture agreement was signed between JKSPDC and NTPC on June 15, 2015, for the exploration of a coal mining block in Odisha. However, NTPC surrendered its share in the project on November 22, 2018, citing environmental clearance delays and local resistance.

In June 2019, the J&K Government requested an alternative coal block, but the Ministry of Coal declined the request, citing the MMDR Act, 1957, which does not allow alternate allocations.

Power Supply & Infrastructure Development The J&K Government has initiated a comprehensive plan to upgrade the power sector, ensuring 24×7 reliable and affordable electricity. The plan includes:

  • System modernization under Tariff-Based Competitive Bidding (TBCB).
  • Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), targeted for completion by 2027-28.
  • Resource Adequacy Plan, formulated with Central Government support, to forecast power demands for the next decade.

Under this plan, the transmission system is being enhanced, adding around 2,406 MVA (at 220 & 132 kV levels) through new and upgraded grid substations in the Jammu region.

Upcoming Hydropower Projects J&K aims to add over 3,000 MW of installed capacity by 2027 through projects like Pakal Dul, Kiru, Kwar, and Ratle. Other planned projects include:

  • Kirthai-I (390 MW)
  • Dulhasti-II (258 MW)
  • Bursar (800 MW)
  • Sawalkote (1,856 MW)
  • Uri-I Stage-II (240 MW)
  • Ujh (89 MW)
  • Kirthai-II (930 MW)

Renewable Energy Initiatives Recognizing the potential for solar energy in Jammu & Kashmir, the government is promoting solar rooftop installations under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. Smart metering initiatives have already shown significant improvements, with 100% completion in 45 feeders in Kashmir and 50 in Jammu, leading to fewer power cuts in low-loss areas.

MoU Between JKSPDC and NHPC A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on January 3, 2021, between JKSPDC and NHPC for the execution of the following projects under the Built, Own, Operate, and Transfer (BOOT) model for 40 years:

  • Sawalkote HEP (1,856 MW)
  • Dulhasti Stage-II (258 MW)
  • Uri-I Stage-II (240 MW)

As per the MoU, the J&K Government will receive 12% free power, 1% Local Area Development Fund (LADF), and the first right of refusal to purchase 50% of the power generated at a regulator-determined price

Vice President Dhankhar Expresses Gratitude as Leaders Across Party Lines Inquire About His Health

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Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Monday expressed his deep gratitude towards leaders across party lines who reached out to his family to inquire about his health during his recent hospitalization for cardiac-related ailments.

Resuming his duties as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Dhankhar shared that he was “greatly touched” by the concern shown by various political figures, which he believes contributed to his speedy recovery.

“The Leader of the House (Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda) and the Leader of the Opposition (Mallikarjun Kharge) were among the first ones to contact my family. Sonia Gandhi reached out to my wife, and several Chief Ministers, including West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee, also inquired about my health,” Dhankhar revealed in the Upper House.

Warm Wishes from Political Leaders

While narrating his experience, Dhankhar highlighted the unity across party lines during times of personal difficulty. “This has been an enlightenment for me—when such situations arise, our hearts are connected. This will serve as a source of inspiration to me,” he said.

He further mentioned that Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited him at AIIMS Delhi, where he was admitted on March 9 and later discharged on March 12 with medical advice to take adequate rest. Several other leaders wished to visit but were unable to due to hospital restrictions.

Lively Exchange with Opposition Leader

Recalling a lighthearted moment, Dhankhar shared an interaction with Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Derek O’Brien. “When I called Derek O’Brien to wish him on his birthday during my recovery period, he told me, ‘Shut up and take rest,’ irrepressible as usual,” Dhankhar said with a smile.

Back in Action

Monday marked Dhankhar’s return to the Rajya Sabha following his discharge. Welcoming him back, Union Minister JP Nadda wished him a speedy recovery, good health, and a long life.

Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge also expressed his appreciation for Dhankhar’s dedication to his duties. “I thought the Rajya Sabha Chairman would take another four to six days to return. His enthusiasm and commitment to work are commendable,” Kharge remarked.

With Dhankhar back in action, the Upper House resumed its proceedings, demonstrating that political differences take a backseat in times of personal adversity.

Jammu Marathon 2025: A Grand Success with Over 3,000 Participants

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Jammu: The Jammu and Kashmir Police successfully organized the “Jammu Marathon 2025” under its Civic Action Programme (CAP) at Gulshan Ground, Jammu, today. The event, titled “Run for Fun,” witnessed an overwhelming response, bringing together over 3,000 athletes from across the country, including schoolchildren, veterans, and fitness enthusiasts.

A Marathon for Everyone

The marathon featured nine categories, catering to different levels of competition and age groups.

21-km Half Marathon (Men’s Category)

🏆 Winner: Manjit Singh (Ferozpur, Punjab)

10 km Road Race (Women, 18+)

🏆 Winner: Savita Paul (Uttar Pradesh)

10 km Road Race (Boys, Under 18)

🏆 Winner: Parveen Kumar (Chenani, Udhampur)
🥈 2nd Place: Vibhum Panday (Sainik School, Nagrota)
🥉 3rd Place: Ankit Kumar (Ludhiana, Punjab)

10 km Junior Road Race (Girls, Under 18)

🏆 Winner: Sulekha
🥈 2nd Place: Mehak Nishad
🥉 3rd Place: Sania Choudhary

10 km Veterans Race (Women, 45+)

🏆 Winner: Manminder Kour (Trikuta Nagar, Jammu)
🥈 2nd Place: Tina Sahi (Jammu)
🥉 3rd Place: Seema Kharyal (Gangyal, Jammu)

10 km Veterans Race (Men, 45+)

🏆 Winner: Joga Singh (Ludhiana, Punjab)
🥈 2nd Place: Ram Raj (Pathyal, Jammu)
🥉 3rd Place: Parshotam Lal (Lakshmi Nagar, Muthi, Jammu)

5 km Sub Junior Race (Boys, Under 14)

🏆 Winner: Mohd Fareed (Rajouri)
🥈 2nd Place: Ummar Shoukat (Nagrota, Jammu)
🥉 3rd Place: Rahik Manhas (Katra, Reasi)

4 km Sub Junior Race (Girls, Under 14)

🏆 Winner: Komal (Gujjar Nagar, Jammu)
🥈 2nd Place: Eleena Singh (Old Janipur, Jammu)
🥉 3rd Place: Shabu Devi (Katra, Reasi)

Special Recognition in “Run for Fun” (2 km Category)

  • Youngest Female Participant: Nanshika Rajput (5 years old)
  • Youngest Male Participant: Priyansh Singh Saini (4 years old)
  • Oldest Female Participant: Amrit Kour (63 years old)
  • Oldest Male Participant: Angrez Singh (72 years old)

Grand Prize Distribution Ceremony

The event concluded with a grand prize distribution ceremony, presided over by M.K. Sinha, Additional Director General of Police, PHQ, J&K. He commended the participants and emphasized the importance of such events in promoting fitness, community engagement, and drug abuse awareness.

🏅 Total Cash Prizes Awarded: ₹1,84,000
🏆 Participants also received medals and certificates for their achievements.

The Jammu Marathon 2025 was not just a race but a celebration of sportsmanship, unity, and fitness, leaving a lasting impact on the community.

Jammu Taekwondo Examination Championship Concludes Successfully

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The Jammu Taekwondo Examination Championship, organized by the J&K Sports Taekwondo Association in collaboration with International Delhi Public School Jammu, concluded today. The event witnessed participation from over 150 players representing nine schools, under the supervision of Ronika Rathore.

Honoring Excellence in Taekwondo

The closing ceremony was graced by Vikram Randhawa, MLA Bahu Constituency, J&K BJP, as the chief guest, while Ajay Sharma, SP South Jammu, served as the guest of honour. Other dignitaries, including Dr. Suminder Singh Chug and Madhu Abrol, distributed prizes and certificates to the winners.

Anil Nanda, President of the J&K Sports Taekwondo Association, announced that the students who earned the next rank would be selected for the National Championship in Chandigarh, 2025.

Distinguished Guests in Attendance

The event also witnessed the presence of notable dignitaries, including Amit Sharma, Fateh Ali, Peetember Tandon, Balbir Mehta, Jaspreet Kour, Sunita Badyal, and Gursimran Kour.

Winners Across Different Categories

Category A

Divya Chitrangda, Maahin Gupta, Shanaya Sharma, Parth Sarthi Tandon, Vihaan Sharma, Samarth Gupta, Mehar Choudhary, Gurpreet Singh, Viraj Singh, Amaan Choudhary, Vardaan Singh, Jaskamal Singh, Anaisha Gupta, Avyaan Gupta.

Category B

Tia Singla, Vedika Mahajan, Vedang Shrikul, Kaiwaat Puri, Maullik Suri, Mohd. Adyan, Ruhaan Nagpal, Dhairya Mahajan, Areeb Bhat, Jayani Suri, Rajnandni Gupta, Aaryahi Sharma, Bhumiksha Sharma, Samriti Sharma, Avyan Khajuria, Salman Nawaz, Aaryav Katoch, Shiven Gupta, Viraaj Magotra, Mahira Choudhary, Sharanya Mahajan, Mudit Handoo, Shaurya Duggal, Aashman Vaid, Advay Mahajan, Ekamjot Singh Bali, Japnoor Kour, Gurpreet Singh, Keeyan Thakur, Mahik Rafiq, Nihal Singh, Rishit Gupta, Ayaan Bhandari.

Category C

Ridhaan Sharma, Zakariya Nain, Yashina Hans, Chinmay Aggarwal, Tara Sharma, Alaya Gautam, Eirene Mahajan, Kanishka Gupta, Lakshita Khajuria, Aarya Sharma, Bandagi Kaur, Aerin Naik, Enaira Tukra, Ali Hassan, Rithwin Singh Charak, Ali Hasnain, Shivay Vaid, Rajveer Gupta, Evraj Gupta, Taarush Bamba, Naira, Gurkirat Kour, Bhavya Tikku, Reyansh Soi, Aayan Dev Singh Charak, Ahrar Ahmed Batt, Eshpreet Singh, Advik Yadav, Tavneet Kour, Aashvi Singh, Anaya Choudhary, Vaidik Mahajan, Shivyansh Gupta, Hayyan Choudhary.

Category D

Veeha Bamba, Shrija Vaid, Ahrisha Mahajan, Anshaniket Baldotra, Amos, Kavya Chambyal, Jasmeet Kour, Aarghya Rajput, Atishay Singh Saini, Suhani Guleria.

The championship not only provided a platform for young Taekwondo enthusiasts but also served as a stepping stone for future national-level competitions.

Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust Pays ₹400 Crore in Taxes Over Five Years

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Ayodhya: The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has contributed approximately ₹400 crore in taxes to the government over the past five years, reflecting a surge in religious tourism, Trust Secretary Champat Rai stated on Sunday.

He detailed that the amount was paid between February 5, 2020, and February 5, 2025, with ₹270 crore paid as Goods and Services Tax (GST) and the remaining ₹130 crore under various other tax categories.

Ayodhya’s Boom in Religious Tourism

Ayodhya has witnessed an unprecedented tenfold increase in the number of devotees and tourists, transforming it into a major religious tourism hub. This growth has significantly boosted local employment and economic activity, Rai noted.

  • During the Maha Kumbh, 1.26 crore devotees visited Ayodhya.
  • In the last year alone, the city recorded 16 crore visitors, with 5 crore devotees visiting the Ram Temple.

Financial Transparency & Auditing

Rai assured that the Trust’s financial records undergo regular audits conducted by officials from the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), ensuring complete transparency in its operations.