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Sakeena Itoo Addresses SGSD International School Annual Function: Focus on Health, Education, and Drug Prevention

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Sakeena Itoo Addresses SGSD International School Annual Function: Focus on Health, Education, and Drug Prevention

The Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, graced the annual function of SGSD International School at Baba Jitto Auditorium, SKUAST, today as the Chief Guest.

In her address, Sakeena Itoo reaffirmed the Government’s continued focus on improving health and education, emphasizing that the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah ensures adequate support for institutions that aim to bring vibrancy and innovation in these sectors.

Highlighting the critical role of educational institutions, the Minister underscored the importance of schools in the fight against drug abuse among youth. She urged both parents and teachers to collaborate with government agencies to combat this issue and safeguard the future of the younger generation.

Promoting Talent, Shaping Futures

Acknowledging the exceptional talent of children in Jammu and Kashmir, Itoo praised the cultural performances and diverse talents showcased by the students at the event. She stated, “Schools play a pivotal role in shaping the future of young minds. It is here that they begin to realize their dreams of becoming doctors, engineers, administrators, or social workers.”

The Minister also emphasized that the true value of a school lies not in its infrastructure, but in the contributions made towards its functioning and the quality of education it imparts. “Constructing a building is not the big thing, what truly matters is how much we contribute to its functioning,” Itoo added, reassuring SGSD International School’s commitment to educational excellence.

A Commitment to Holistic Development

Minister for Agricultural Production, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Cooperative, and Election Departments, Javed Ahmad Dar, also attended the program. Dar applauded SGSD International School for its unwavering dedication to providing quality education while ensuring the holistic development of students. He emphasized the importance of empowering students both academically and in extracurricular activities to nurture well-rounded individuals capable of excelling in various aspects of life.

Both ministers expressed their ongoing commitment to supporting schools like SGSD International in their mission to provide quality education and empower students to achieve their fullest potential.

Key Highlights:

  • Focus on Education & Health: Sakeena Itoo reaffirms government’s commitment to improving education and health sectors.
  • Drug Prevention: Urges schools, parents, and teachers to work together to tackle youth drug abuse.
  • Celebrating Student Talent: Outstanding cultural performances showcased at SGSD International School.
  • Holistic Development: Emphasis on nurturing students’ academic, cultural, and personal growth.

“Jammu & Kashmir Flourishing Post Article 370 Abrogation: President Murmu”

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“Jammu & Kashmir Flourishing Post Article 370 Abrogation: President Murmu”

Featured Story (Main Body of the Article): Subheading 1: ‘Jammu and Kashmir: A New Era of Development’ President Droupadi Murmu, in her address to Parliament, emphasized the positive impact of the abrogation of Article 370. She highlighted significant infrastructural and economic developments that have ushered in a new era of growth for Jammu and Kashmir.

Key Highlights:

  • Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link Project completed, connecting Kashmir to Kanyakumari.
  • The world’s highest railway bridge, Chenab Bridge, has been constructed as part of the project.
  • Successful completion of the Anji Bridge and progress on the Shinkun La tunnel to enhance connectivity between Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh.

Visuals & Graphics:

  • Infographic showcasing key infrastructure projects, such as the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link, the Chenab Bridge, and Anji Bridge.
  • A map of Jammu & Kashmir highlighting the newly completed rail link.
  • Photo of President Droupadi Murmu addressing Parliament.

Subheading 2: ‘Government Policies Transforming India’ The President outlined various policy measures and government initiatives to uplift the nation, particularly the marginalized sections of society. Her speech marked the start of a new chapter for India’s growth, with a focus on poor, youth, women, and farmers.

Key Measures:

  • 12 crore toilets under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.
  • 10 crore free LPG connections via the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana.
  • Ration distribution for 80 crore citizens, ensuring food security.
  • Implementation of the GST system for simplified tax structures and ‘One Nation, One Tax.’

Subheading 3: ‘India’s Role on the Global Stage’ India continues to gain recognition worldwide. President Murmu emphasized that India is emerging as a beacon of economic stability and political strength amidst global uncertainties.

Global Influence:

  • India’s strong role in international groupings like BRICS, Quad, G20, and Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.
  • Growing trust in India’s policies on defense and internal security.

Additional Section: ‘Historic Achievements in Defense and Space’ India’s progress in defense self-reliance and space exploration has been remarkable, President Murmu stated. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched 100 successful missions, and the Gaganyaan spacecraft aims to take Indian citizens to space soon.

Wushu Players from Jammu and Kashmir Shine at 38th National Games, Uttarakhand

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Wushu Players from Jammu and Kashmir Shine at 38th National Games, Uttarakhand

In the ongoing 38th National Games in Uttarakhand, Wushu players from Jammu and Kashmir have achieved a remarkable feat, securing 7 medals in the competition. The quarter-final bouts took place today, with the players gearing up for the semi-final matchups tomorrow. The athletes who have made it to the semi-finals include Arjun Saleem, Kumar Surya Bhanu, Partap Singh, Ishant Singh, Rohan Kamraan, and Ayeera Chisti—all of whom will compete tomorrow for a silver medal in their respective categories.

This achievement marks another milestone for Wushu in the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory, further cementing it as the highest medal-winning sport for the region in the past three editions of the National Games. The exceptional performances of the players have not only brought pride to the region but have also underscored the growing strength of Wushu in Jammu and Kashmir.

Congratulations and Support
Vijay Saraf, President of the Jammu and Kashmir Wushu Association, along with Bhavneet, General Secretary, and all the office bearers, extended their heartfelt congratulations to the medallists for their outstanding achievements.

Nuzhat Gul, Secretary of the J&K Sports Council, and Chef de Mission Kiran Wattal also lauded the players and coaches for their hard work and dedication, recognizing their commitment to excellence.

Kuldeep Handoo, Dronacharya awardee and a key mentor to the players, praised the athletes’ performance, attributing their success to their tireless efforts. He also thanked the J&K Sports Council for its continued support, which has played a pivotal role in enabling athletes to excel at both national and international levels.

RBI Tightens Norms for Monetary Penalties and Compounding Offences Under PSS Act

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RBI Tightens Norms for Monetary Penalties and Compounding Offences Under PSS Act

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced tighter regulations for imposing monetary penalties and compounding offences under the Payment and Settlement Systems Act (PSS Act) in a bid to streamline and strengthen its enforcement actions against payment system operators and banks. The revised framework, unveiled on Thursday, aims to rationalise the enforcement process and ensure compliance with regulatory norms.

Under the updated framework, violations such as operating a payment system without proper authorisation, disclosing prohibited information, and failing to pay penalties imposed by the RBI within the prescribed period will be treated as contraventions under the PSS Act.

Increased Penalties for Non-Compliance
As per the new rules, the RBI is now authorised to impose penalties of up to Rs 10 lakh, or twice the amount involved in the contravention (if the amount can be quantified), whichever is higher. This represents a significant increase from the previous penalty cap of Rs 5 lakh, which was revised following the enactment of the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023, which came into force on January 22, 2024.

Additionally, for continuing contraventions or defaults, the RBI can impose a daily penalty of up to Rs 25,000 for each day the violation persists after the initial contravention.

Compounding of Offences
The revised framework also specifies that an authorised RBI officer can compound contraventions that do not involve imprisonment, in line with the provisions of the PSS Act. The RBI clarified that only material contraventions will be subjected to enforcement actions, including the imposition of monetary penalties or the compounding of offences.

Streamlining Enforcement Actions
The updated framework introduces clearer procedures for imposing penalties and determining their amounts. It seeks to ensure that enforcement actions are efficient, transparent, and consistent, with an emphasis on tackling significant violations that could impact the integrity of the payment systems.

By consolidating these enforcement measures, the RBI aims to strengthen compliance and regulatory oversight within the payment systems sector, reinforcing its commitment to maintaining a secure and reliable financial infrastructure.

India Poised to Lead in Ethical and Affordable AI Technology with Launch of Indigenous AI Model

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India Poised to Lead in Ethical and Affordable AI Technology with Launch of Indigenous AI Model

In a groundbreaking move to position India as a global leader in ethical and affordable artificial intelligence (AI), Union Minister for Electronics & Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw today announced the upcoming launch of the country’s very own indigenous AI model. The announcement, made at Electronics Niketan in New Delhi, signals a major step towards providing tailored, reliable AI solutions for India at highly competitive rates, ensuring the nation’s role in shaping the future of AI technology.

Minister Vaishnaw emphasized the significance of the initiative, noting India’s trusted global standing as a crucial factor in the success of its AI mission. He expressed confidence that the launch of the indigenous AI model would enhance India’s stature as a technological powerhouse dedicated to creating ethical, sustainable, and inclusive AI solutions for global and local needs.

“We are on the brink of an era where AI is not just for the privileged few, but accessible to everyone,” said Vaishnaw. He highlighted the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is committed to empowering people at the grassroots level through technology-driven economic inclusivity.

High-Performance Infrastructure to Support AI Innovation
The AI model will be supported by a state-of-the-art computing facility, a pivotal element of the ongoing India AI Mission. The facility, housing 10,000 GPUs with an additional 8,693 GPUs planned for integration, will enable researchers, students, and developers to leverage cutting-edge infrastructure for AI applications. This high-performance system is designed to support a range of use cases, particularly in Indian languages and cultural contexts.

The Indian AI model offers a cost-effective alternative to global services, which typically charge between $2.5 and $3 per hour for AI computations. India’s model, however, will cost under ₹100 per hour, thanks to a generous 40% government subsidy. To ensure broad accessibility, affordable subscription plans, including half-yearly and annual options, will be introduced, making AI technology more accessible to a wide range of users.

Surpassing Global Benchmarks
With 18,693 GPUs already in place, the India AI Mission has surpassed international benchmarks, outpacing other global AI models such as Open Source Model DeepSeek and ChatGPT. This scalable infrastructure is set to provide robust support for AI-driven innovation across sectors. Furthermore, the government is offering cloud-based AI services to stakeholders such as academia, MSMEs, and startups through a new Request for Empanelment (RFE).

Prioritizing Safety and Ethical AI
As part of its commitment to ethical AI development, the government has also announced the establishment of the IndiaAI Safety Institute. The Institute will focus on addressing AI-related risks and challenges through a techno-legal approach, collaborating with academia, industry, and government stakeholders to ensure secure and trusted AI applications.

Key safety initiatives launched include AI Bias Mitigation, Explainable AI frameworks, and AI Privacy Strategies, all designed to safeguard the ethical use of AI technologies. Vaishnaw emphasized that the government is focused on the responsible deployment of AI solutions, ensuring that technology serves the greater good of society.

AI for Critical Sectors
The India AI Mission will focus on the application of AI in critical areas such as agriculture, healthcare, and disaster management. With 18 identified use cases, the initiative aims to address issues like climate change, agritech solutions, and improving healthcare delivery, benefitting millions of citizens across the country.

In addition, a call for proposals has been issued to develop foundational AI models using Indian datasets, inviting startups, researchers, and entrepreneurs to create AI solutions that address India’s unique challenges. This initiative is designed to promote inclusivity and fairness, ensuring that AI models reflect the diverse cultural, linguistic, and societal needs of the nation.

A Vision for India as a Global AI Hub
With a budgetary allocation of ₹10,372 crores, the India AI Mission is designed to make India a global hub for AI development and applications. In tandem with this mission, the government is strategically investing in India’s semiconductor sector, ensuring a sustainable and complementary foundation for the country’s AI ambitions.

India’s focus on affordability, inclusivity, and innovation positions the country as a leader in the AI space, shaping the future of technology for both societal and industrial advancements. With this initiative, India is set to redefine the landscape of AI technology, making it accessible, ethical, and impactful for generations to come.

Foundation Stone Laid for Major Infrastructure Projects in Nowshera

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Foundation Stone Laid for Major Infrastructure Projects in Nowshera

In a significant step toward boosting regional development, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary today laid the foundation stone for two major infrastructure projects in Nowshera. The projects, aimed at improving public service facilities, include the upgradation of the conference hall at PWD Dak Bungalow and the remodelling of Palaash Nowshera.

Modern Conference Facilities to Boost Governance
The upgradation of the PWD Dak Bungalow conference hall, with a sanctioned cost of Rs 249.39 lakh, is designed to enhance conference and meeting facilities in the region. This facility will be equipped with modern amenities, providing a state-of-the-art venue for official meetings, public engagements, and key deliberations.

Speaking at the event, Surinder Choudhary highlighted the Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen regional infrastructure, which in turn facilitates efficient governance and improves public service delivery. He stressed that the upgraded conference hall would serve as a modern hub for both governmental and public interactions.

“We are committed to creating spaces that support governance and foster meaningful exchanges, and this upgraded conference hall will play a key role in that,” Choudhary remarked.

Palaash Nowshera to Get a New Look
The second major initiative launched by the Deputy Chief Minister is the remodelling of Palaash Nowshera. This project, estimated at Rs 107.48 lakh, aims to transform the area into a more vibrant and livable space for residents. The project will enhance the overall environment, promoting a better quality of life.

Commitment to Timely Completion
The ceremony was attended by officials from the Public Works Department (PWD), local administration, and various public representatives. All present reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the timely and high-quality completion of both projects.

“These initiatives are a part of the government’s broader agenda to improve urban amenities and public service facilities in Nowshera,” said Choudhary. “We are focused on regional development that enhances both governance and the daily lives of our people.”

A Vision for Holistic Development
The foundation laying of these projects reflects the government’s commitment to holistic regional development. By focusing on infrastructure, the administration aims to strengthen both governance structures and the living conditions of local residents. These efforts signal a continued push towards modernizing Nowshera and making it a model for progress in the region.

The developments were widely welcomed by the community, who expressed optimism about the positive impact these projects will have on local governance, public services, and urban amenities in the region.

Jammu & Kashmir’s LoC Residents to Get Major Relief Following Talks Between Minister for Jal Shakti and COAS

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Jammu & Kashmir’s LoC Residents to Get Major Relief Following Talks Between Minister for Jal Shakti and COAS

In a landmark meeting held today, Javed Rana, the Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment, and Tribal Affairs, engaged in detailed discussions with the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Upendra Dwivedi, regarding the critical issues faced by residents along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir.

The discussions focused on addressing the challenges faced by tribal communities, particularly the Gujjar-Bakerwal community, who rely on traditional migration routes and grazing lands, significantly impacted by the LoC fencing. The meeting aimed to develop solutions to ease restrictions on these vital routes to ensure the free movement of people and their livestock.

Key Takeaways:

  • Easing Restrictions: Efforts to relax restrictions on traditional migration routes to ensure smooth movement for the Gujjar-Bakerwal community.
  • Livelihoods and Grazing Lands: Emphasis on minimizing the adverse effects of the LoC fencing on daily livelihoods, especially for nomadic tribes.
  • Connectivity Improvements: Plans to upgrade and maintain Border Road Organization (BRO) roads, ensuring better connectivity, especially in the LoC and Pir Panjal regions.
  • De-mining Efforts: A comprehensive approach to de-mine areas frequently visited by locals to ensure their safety.
  • Recruitment Drive: A proposal to launch recruitment drives in far-flung areas, along with the creation of a Gujjar Regiment to facilitate recruitment into the Territorial Army.
  • Development Projects: Collaboration in the construction of a sports stadium in Sagra village and a helipad at Dhana Shastar, Mendhar, to promote development and connectivity.
  • Educational and Livelihood Support: Discussions on enhancing educational opportunities and providing better livelihood support for communities near the LoC.

Minister’s Statement:
Minister Javed Rana expressed his commitment to addressing the concerns of LoC residents, underscoring the importance of facilitating both the safe movement of individuals and the sustainable development of the region. “Our primary focus remains the welfare and development of our people, and these measures will ensure a better future for the tribal communities and residents along the LoC,” he said.

Strengthening Peace and Stability:
Rana further emphasized the critical role of the Gujjar-Bakerwal community and other tribes in maintaining peace and stability in Jammu and Kashmir. These discussions are seen as a significant step in mainstreaming their role and ensuring their integration into broader societal development efforts.

Looking Forward:
The proposed infrastructure projects, including road upgrades and helipad construction, alongside the targeted recruitment efforts, signal a future of enhanced mobility and opportunity for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. By addressing these long-standing issues, the government aims to bring positive change to the lives of residents along the LoC.

CHANDIGARH MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS: BJP’S HARPREET KAUR BABLA EMERGES VICTORIOUS AS NEW MAYOR

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CHANDIGARH MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS: BJP’S HARPREET KAUR BABLA EMERGES VICTORIOUS AS NEW MAYOR

In a tightly contested mayoral election, Harpreet Kaur Babla of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) triumphed over AAP’s Prem Lata, securing her position as the new mayor of Chandigarh Municipal Corporation.

A Close Contest

The election for the mayoral post saw Babla win with a narrow margin of 19 votes, while her opponent, Prem Lata, received 17 votes. The result was officially declared by the presiding officer, Ramneek Singh Bedi, shortly after polling concluded.

Polling Details

Voting for the mayoral post commenced at 11:20 AM at the assembly hall of the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation. The polling session ran for nearly an hour, concluding at 12:19 PM, with the entire process reflecting the intense competition between the BJP and the AAP-Congress combine.

A Bitter Rivalry

The mayoral election became a political battleground, with the BJP facing off against a formidable AAP-Congress alliance. The results mark a significant victory for the BJP, despite the strong support enjoyed by the AAP-Congress combine in the region.

Political Implications

The win for Harpreet Kaur Babla signifies a continued BJP presence in the city’s political landscape, though it is expected that this result will further fuel the ongoing rivalry between the AAP-Congress combine and the BJP in upcoming elections.

As the new mayor, Babla’s leadership is anticipated to bring forth fresh perspectives for the city’s governance, as she takes charge amidst Chandigarh’s growing urban challenges.

6-Year-Old Mriganka Sharma Recognized as Youngest Author at National Young Authors’ Fair 2024

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6-Year-Old Mriganka Sharma Recognized as Youngest Author at National Young Authors’ Fair 2024

In an inspiring achievement, 6-year-old Mriganka Sharma, a student of Class I-H at Delhi Public School Jammu, has been honored as the youngest author at the National Young Authors’ Fair (NYAF) 2024. The event, organized by Bri Books in collaboration with Education World, saw over 200 student authors from across the country, with Mriganka standing out for her debut book, “Listen My Words.”

Her book, a delightful collection of short stories, creatively blends imagination with valuable moral lessons. Through her enchanting tales, Mriganka teaches young readers important virtues like forgiveness, kindness, saving trees, and respecting nature. In her stories, animals, birds, and trees take on significant roles, imparting life lessons and encouraging children to adopt compassion, responsibility, and environmental consciousness.

Mriganka’s achievement highlights the growing literary talent among young girls and underscores the importance of nurturing creativity and storytelling from an early age. Her success at such a young age serves as an inspiration to children across the country, proving that age is no barrier to creativity and accomplishment.

This recognition at the NYAF 2024 is a testament to the power of imagination and the bright future of young writers in India.

District Srinagar Carrom Championship Begins at SKISC, Showcases Emerging Talent

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District Srinagar Carrom Championship Begins at SKISC, Showcases Emerging Talent

The District Srinagar Carrom Championship began today at the Sher-i-Kashmir Indoor Sports Complex (SKISC), marking the start of a two-day event hosted by the Jammu and Kashmir Carrom Association, in collaboration with the J&K Sports Council. The championship, which will conclude on January 30, features competitive events across Sub-Junior, Junior, and Senior categories for both boys and girls, adhering to international standards.

The event was inaugurated by Adil Rashid Shah, President of the J&K Carrom Association, who was joined by Maqsood Khan, Incharge of SKISC, Arif Sultan Khan, Treasurer of the Association, and other key officials. The championship is part of the “My Youth My Pride” initiative by the J&K Sports Council, designed to promote sports and provide a platform for young talent in the region.

Day 1 Highlights:

The opening day saw fierce competition across various age groups and categories. In the Cadet category, Halla Midha and Hassan Adil emerged victorious in their respective matches, showcasing their skills. In the Sub-Junior category, M Usman and M Nubaid advanced to the next round after impressive performances. The Junior category also saw great matches, with M Aiyaan and Ahsan ul Haq securing wins. In the Senior category, Mehak and Arkan Manzoor dominated their matches, proving their expertise in the game.

With participants displaying outstanding talent, the championship has set the stage for more exciting matches in the coming days.

Promoting Sports and Talent Development:

The event is part of the larger effort by the J&K Sports Council to engage youth in sports and create opportunities for them to showcase their skills. It reflects the growing focus on nurturing local talent and providing them with the platform to excel at both regional and national levels.

As the competition continues, the championship offers an excellent opportunity for players to gain experience and compete at a high level, contributing to the overall development of carrom in Jammu and Kashmir.

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