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Rahul Gandhi Accuses BJP, RSS of Insulting Ambedkar, Constitution

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In a passionate address to thousands of supporters at the “Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, Jai Samvidhan” rally on Monday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accused the BJP and RSS of undermining the legacy of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and the Constitution framed by him. He called on Congress workers to protect the Constitution from those he believes are intent on dismantling its core principles.

“The BJP and RSS are insulting Dr. Ambedkar’s vision, and their goal is to rewrite the Constitution that guarantees equal rights to all,” said Gandhi, standing in front of a sea of supporters waving flags.

[Quote Section – Gandhi’s Statement]

“The day our Constitution is changed, there will be nothing left in this country for Dalits, backward classes, tribals, and the poor,” Gandhi warned.

[Key Points of Gandhi’s Address]

  • Caste Census: Gandhi announced that the Congress would conduct a nationwide caste census as soon as they come to power at the Centre, accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of avoiding the issue due to political concerns.
  • Reservation Law: Gandhi vowed that the Congress would push for a law in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha to ensure that the 50% reservation limit is respected and extended if necessary.
  • BJP’s Alleged Crony Capitalism: He alleged that the current BJP government was working for the benefit of billionaires, leaving the poor, Dalits, and tribals in economic despair.

[Sidebar – Key Quotes from Rally]

  • “The poor will soon have no rights if the BJP and RSS have their way.”
  • “A change in our Constitution would mean the end of any protections for marginalized groups.”

[Political Analysis Section]

What does this mean for 2024 elections?
Gandhi’s remarks resonate with the Congress’s ongoing effort to portray the BJP as a party that caters to the interests of the rich, while disregarding the needs of India’s marginalized communities. The call for a caste census and the breaking of the reservation ceiling come as part of an ongoing battle for social justice in India’s complex caste-based society.

Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Condemns Attempt to Damage Ambedkar Statue, Promises Strict Action

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Amritsar, January 27, 2025 – Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has condemned the recent attempt to damage a statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in Amritsar, pledging that those responsible for the act will face severe punishment. The incident, which occurred at the Town Hall on Heritage Street leading to the Golden Temple, has sparked outrage across the state.

Arrest Made in Connection with the Incident

On Sunday, the police arrested a man from Moga district who allegedly tried to deface the Ambedkar statue using a hammer. The arrest was made after the Amritsar Police Commissionerate registered a First Information Report (FIR) in the case. In a post on X, CM Bhagwant Mann expressed his outrage, calling the incident “highly condemnable.” He emphasized that no one will be allowed to disrupt the unity and brotherhood of Punjab, stating, “Whoever is responsible for the incident, he/she will be severely punished.” The chief minister also directed the local administration to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure strict action against the culprits.

Video of the Incident Goes Viral

A video of the incident quickly went viral on social media, showing the suspect climbing up the statue with the help of a steel ladder and carrying a hammer. The disturbing footage has further fueled calls for justice and a deeper investigation into the motives behind the attack.

Opposition Leaders Demand High-Level Probe

The attack has sparked strong reactions from opposition leaders, with many calling for a comprehensive investigation into the matter. Punjab Congress chief and MP Amrinder Singh Raja Warring voiced concerns about a potential “deep-rooted conspiracy” behind the attack. He called for a high-level probe into the incident, adding that the truth must be unearthed. BJP senior leader Tarun Chugh also condemned the act, insisting that the accused must be given strict punishment. He echoed Warring’s concerns, stating that the conspiracy behind the attack should be fully investigated. Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Sukhbir Singh Badal condemned the incident as well, describing it as an “heinous act” that hurt the sentiments of millions of people. Badal demanded a thorough inquiry and stern action against the perpetrator, adding, “Let’s stand united against such vile attempts to create divisions in our society.”

Punjab Government’s Response

In light of the incident, the Punjab government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring peace and harmony in the state. The CM has assured the public that this incident will not be tolerated and that efforts will be made to prevent any similar acts in the future. As the investigation unfolds, authorities are under pressure to determine if this act was part of a broader conspiracy and to bring the full truth to light.

Former RAW Chief AS Dulat Warns of “Temporary Happiness” in Kashmir Post-Elections, Urges Restoration of Statehood

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In a candid conversation at the Kerala Literature Festival (KLF), former RAW chief AS Dulat cautioned that the apparent “happiness” among Kashmiris following the 2024 elections is only temporary. He emphasized the urgency of fulfilling the promise of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, warning that the credibility of both Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the central government is at stake.

Statehood Promise Must Be Fulfilled for Credibility

Dulat, who headed India’s external intelligence agency from 1999 to 2000, expressed concerns over the prolonged delay in restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood. “What’s Omar asking for? What does a Kashmiri expect? Article 370 is gone, and though Kashmiris still think about it, they know it won’t return. What they want now is statehood,” Dulat said.

According to Dulat, the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir is in the best interest of both Delhi and Srinagar. He stressed, “It has to be done for the credibility of both sides. If not, Omar will lose his credibility, and so will Delhi.”

Temporary Joy Among Kashmiris

The former RAW chief cautioned that the “temporary happiness” on the faces of Kashmiris could fade quickly if there is no progress in restoring statehood. Dulat explained, “Right now, people are temporarily happy because they see it as a victory for Kashmiris. They have the government of their choosing, the National Conference, which is a regional party. It’s a victory for the Abdullah family. But this victory won’t last if they can’t get what they deserve.”

He added that if the central government fails to deliver on the promise of statehood within the next six months, Kashmiris will once again accuse Delhi of “playing tricks” and criticize their government for failing to deliver on its promises.

The Diarchy of J-K: Two Governments in Operation

Dulat highlighted the current political scenario in Jammu and Kashmir as a “diarchy” – with two parallel governments functioning in the region. One is led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and the other by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. This dual governance structure, according to Dulat, complicates the region’s political landscape further.

A Complex and Nuanced Kashmir

Reflecting on his extensive experience with Kashmir, Dulat acknowledged the region’s complexities. “Kashmir taught me everything I know about intelligence,” he remarked, stressing that the region cannot be understood in black-and-white terms. “It’s filled with greys, nuances, and complexities. In Kashmir, it’s not about what we want or what they want; it’s about finding a middle path. That is the path that we need to tread,” he concluded.

KLF 2025: A Gathering of Global Minds

Dulat was speaking at the ongoing Kerala Literature Festival, which began on January 23, 2025, and is expected to draw over six lakh visitors before it concludes on Sunday. The event is hosting more than 500 speakers from 15 countries, including Nobel laureates Venki Ramakrishnan and Esther Duflo, Booker Prize-winning novelist Paul Lynch, and renowned actors Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah, among others.

The festival, held at Kozhikode Beach, has become Asia’s largest literary gathering, attracting book lovers, authors, artists, historians, and activists to engage in a wide array of discussions and panels.

Government Takes Swift Action to Address Mysterious Deaths in Rajouri: High-Level Meeting Convenes

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In a bid to tackle the growing crisis in the Badhaal area of Kotranka Sub-Division, Rajouri, a high-level virtual meeting was chaired by Dr. V K Paul, Member of NITI Aayog, today. The meeting, which brought together experts from various national and local institutions, focused on reviewing the ongoing management strategy and identifying the root cause of the mysterious deaths that have alarmed the region.

Key Decisions to Address the Crisis

During the meeting, several crucial decisions were made to curb the situation and prevent further fatalities:

  • Control Room Establishment: A centralized control room will be set up to streamline decision-making and ensure swift response to any developments.
  • Formation of Technical Taskforces: National-level and local experts will form taskforces, including specialists from fields like Toxicology, Virology, Microbiology, Medicine, and Forensic Science. These experts will analyze the situation, evaluate reports, and provide regular updates and recommendations.
  • Community Awareness Campaign: The government will launch an awareness drive in the affected areas to educate the local population on health safety measures and how to mitigate health risks.
  • Death Audit: A detailed audit will be conducted to investigate the sequence of events leading to the deaths and identify the underlying causes.
  • Clinical Care Teams: Medical teams from leading institutions like AIIMS and PGIMER will be stationed in Rajouri to provide immediate support and intervention.

Expert Participation

The meeting saw participation from an array of high-ranking officials, including:

  • Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir
  • Punya Salila Srivastava, Secretary of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India
  • Prof. (Dr.) M Srinivas, Director of AIIMS, New Delhi
  • Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), New Delhi
  • Dr. Atul Goel, Director General of Health Services (DGHS), New Delhi

Additionally, experts from key medical and scientific fields brought their multidisciplinary expertise to provide a comprehensive solution to the crisis.

No New Cases Reported

In a hopeful development, the government spokesperson confirmed that there have been no new cases of the mysterious illness in the Badhaal area over the past two days. The condition of patients already admitted to the Government Medical College (GMC) Rajouri is reported to be stable.

Looking Ahead

The concerted efforts of the government, in collaboration with national and local experts, aim to quickly resolve the crisis, prevent further deaths, and ensure the safety and health of the local population.

As investigations continue, the public is urged to remain cautious and follow the health guidelines issued by authorities.

For further updates on the situation, stay tuned to official announcements.

Raj Bhawan Celebrates Uttar Pradesh Foundation Day with Tribute to Revolutionary Heritage

The Raj Bhawan in Jammu and Kashmir today celebrated the Foundation Day of Uttar Pradesh with a vibrant event attended by senior government officials, students, and members of the Uttar Pradesh community currently residing in the Union Territory. The occasion was marked by heartfelt tributes to the state’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha extended his warm greetings and best wishes to the people of Uttar Pradesh, acknowledging their significant contributions to the nation. In his address, he paid tribute to the freedom fighters, revolutionaries, and cultural luminaries from Uttar Pradesh, whose dedication and sacrifices have played a pivotal role in India’s growth and modernization.

A Tribute to Revolutionaries and Cultural Icons

“The blessed land of great revolutionaries like Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, Mangal Pandey, Chandra Shekhar Azad, Rani Lakshmi Bai, and Begum Hazrat Mahal is not just a historical symbol but a beacon of patriotism, cultural heritage, and innovation. These individuals have shaped the path of our nation’s freedom and progress,” said the Lieutenant Governor.

He also celebrated Uttar Pradesh’s remarkable contributions to Indian culture, describing the state as one of the most ancient cradles of Indian civilization. “Uttar Pradesh is a land of pilgrimage, spiritualism, knowledge, and literature. It is an ultimate destination for intellectuals, historians, and travelers. With sacred rivers and ancient civilizational cities, the state continues to guide the society towards prosperity and progress,” he added.

Prayers for Progress and Well-being

In his message, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed his hopes for Uttar Pradesh’s continued success. “I pray that Uttar Pradesh scales new heights of progress and that its people are blessed with good health and well-being,” he concluded.

The event at Raj Bhawan served as a reminder of the deep-rooted connection between Uttar Pradesh’s rich history and its present-day contributions to the nation. The celebration was a fitting homage to the state’s revolutionary spirit, cultural heritage, and enduring influence on India’s growth.

For more information, stay tuned for updates and celebrations of Uttar Pradesh’s continued journey towards prosperity.

Meraj-un-Nabi (SAW) Preparations Reviewed by Deputy Chief Minister Hazratbal Shrine Visit Ensures Smooth Arrangements for Devotees

In a proactive move ahead of the auspicious occasion of Meraj-un-Nabi (SAW), Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary visited the Hazratbal Shrine today to assess the ongoing preparations and ensure a smooth experience for the devotees. This visit was carried out on the instructions of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, with Choudhary urging officials to take the initiative in addressing any gaps in the arrangements without waiting for formal orders.

While addressing the media, Choudhary emphasized the need for dedication and initiative from the officers. “We have identified areas that required improvement and have worked to address them. I have urged the officers to make efforts from the heart and ensure everything runs seamlessly,” he stated.

Key Areas of Focus:

  • Sanitation: Ensuring cleanliness across the shrine and surrounding areas.
  • Water Supply: Uninterrupted and sufficient supply of clean water for the devotees.
  • Electricity: Reliable electricity service during the event.
  • Transportation: Smooth and efficient transportation facilities for ease of access to the shrine.
  • Crowd Management: Strict measures for the safety of devotees due to the large turnout expected.

Choudhary directed the officials to remain proactive, stressing that they should take action before being instructed to do so. He also underscored the importance of seamless coordination between departments, including sanitation, water, electricity, and crowd management, to avoid any inconveniences.

Collaboration with Local Representatives

During the visit, Choudhary met with local shrine management and representatives to discuss the preparations and gather feedback. This collaboration aimed to align the arrangements with the expectations of the devotees, ensuring that all their needs are met and the religious sanctity of the occasion is maintained.

“We must focus on maintaining cleanliness, uninterrupted services, and a serene environment for the visitors. All departments must work together efficiently to ensure the success of this event,” Choudhary remarked.

A Dedicated Effort for Public Safety

Alongside Choudhary, the visit was attended by Nasir Aslam Wani, Advisor to the Chief Minister; Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir; Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar; Commissioner, SMC Srinagar; VC LCMA; Chief Engineers from PDD and PHE Kashmir; and other senior officers from various departments. All officials were directed to remain vigilant and responsive throughout the event to ensure uninterrupted services for the devotees.

The Deputy Chief Minister and Advisor to the Chief Minister later paid their obeisance at the Hazratbal Shrine, praying for peace, prosperity, and the well-being of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Ensuring a Spiritual and Safe Experience for All Devotees

The efforts being undertaken to improve the experience for the devotees highlight the government’s commitment to ensuring a hassle-free and spiritually uplifting Meraj-un-Nabi (SAW). With careful planning and collaboration, the authorities aim to deliver a smooth and meaningful occasion for everyone involved.

AAP Accuses BJP, Delhi Police of Conspiring to Harm Kejriwal Ahead of Delhi Assembly Polls

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In a dramatic escalation of political tensions, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Friday accused the BJP-led central government and the Delhi Police of conspiring to “kill” its leader, Arvind Kejriwal. The serious allegations were made just days before the crucial Delhi Assembly elections set for February 5.

Addressing the press, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi and her Punjab counterpart, Bhagwant Mann, demanded the restoration of Kejriwal’s security cover, which was previously provided by the Punjab Police. The AAP leaders have written to the Election Commission, seeking a “fair” environment for their party in the upcoming elections. They also called for an audit of the alleged attacks on Kejriwal, which they say pose a “life-threatening” risk to his safety.

“A Conspiracy to End Kejriwal’s Life”
Atishi and Mann wasted no time in laying the blame squarely on the BJP and Delhi Police, accusing both of orchestrating a conspiracy to end the life of the Delhi CM. According to Atishi, the series of attacks on Kejriwal, including an October incident where the assailants were reportedly BJP workers, have been ignored by the police.

“At the time of the attack in October, our investigation revealed that the attackers were BJP workers, yet no action was taken by the Delhi Police. It’s clear that there is a deliberate attempt to harm Kejriwalji, orchestrated by the BJP and the Delhi Police,” Atishi alleged, emphasizing the apparent lack of accountability.

Demand for Immediate Action
The AAP has written to the Election Commission demanding the immediate restoration of Kejriwal’s security cover, citing concerns over his safety. Atishi further stated that due to the Delhi Police being under the Union Home Ministry, which is controlled by Amit Shah, they cannot trust the local law enforcement to ensure Kejriwal’s protection.

“We believe that the Delhi Police is working under the direct influence of the BJP and Home Minister Amit Shah. This is why we do not trust them with Kejriwalji’s security,” Atishi added.

Political Play Before the Polls
The AAP leaders also accused the BJP of resorting to “dirty politics” ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections by removing Kejriwal’s security. They argued that the BJP’s move was a deliberate attempt to weaken Kejriwal and create an atmosphere of fear among voters.

“The BJP is willing to go to any lengths to ensure Kejriwal is undermined politically. This move to strip him of his security cover is an indication of their desperation,” Mann remarked.

While the AAP’s claims have intensified political rhetoric in the capital, no immediate reaction has been received from the BJP or the Delhi Police regarding the allegations.

Election Season Intensifies
As Delhi gears up for a high-stakes election, with the BJP, AAP, and other parties preparing their strategies, the dispute over security and alleged attacks on Kejriwal threatens to dominate the political discourse in the coming days. The Election Commission is yet to respond to AAP’s request for intervention, and all eyes will be on how this situation develops ahead of the polls.

Indian Grandmaster Iniyan Panneerselvam Triumphs at the 9th Johor International Open Chess Tournament

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Indian Grandmaster Iniyan Panneerselvam has taken the chess world by storm, clinching the prestigious 9th Johor International Open Chess Tournament title in Malaysia. With a brilliant performance over nine rounds, the 22-year-old from Erode, Tamil Nadu amassed an impressive 8.5 points out of a possible 9, finishing 1.5 points ahead of his nearest rival.

An Impressive Journey to Victory

The tournament, which featured 84 participants from eight countries, saw fierce competition from some of the world’s best. Among the 24 titled players, Iniyan’s determination and skill stood out as he defeated four International Masters (IMs) and one Grandmaster (GM) on his way to the top.

By the end of the penultimate round, where he triumphed over Indonesian IM Nayaka Budhidharma, Iniyan had already secured the title, with an unbeatable lead of 1.5 points. He sealed his victory in style by beating Vietnamese GM Nguyen Van Huy in the final round, marking an incredible end to his journey.

The Final Standings

  • 1st Place: Iniyan Panneerselvam (India) – 8.5 points
  • 2nd Place: IM VS Raahul (India)
  • 3rd Place: IM Li Bo (China)

This win marks another significant milestone in Iniyan’s career, following his triumph at the Chennai Open earlier this January. The young Grandmaster has also earned 15 Elo rating points from his victory, further enhancing his global chess ranking.

Rising Star of Indian Chess

Iniyan’s victory at the Johor International Open has captured the attention of chess enthusiasts worldwide. The title has not only added a prestigious feather to his cap but also reaffirms India’s growing dominance in the global chess arena. His consistent form and determination will surely inspire future generations of chess players to aim for the top.

What’s Next for Iniyan?

As Iniyan takes a moment to bask in the glory of this well-deserved victory, all eyes are now on his upcoming tournaments. Will he continue his winning streak in 2025? Only time will tell, but for now, Iniyan Panneerselvam has earned his place among the chess elite.

India Eyes Series Victory Against England at Chepauk

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India’s T20 squad, which put on an impressive performance in the opening match, will look to carry that momentum into the second game of the five-match series against England, set for Saturday in Chepauk. India lead the series 1-0 after a dominant seven-wicket victory at Eden Gardens.

While the win in Kolkata was commanding, all eyes will be on Mohammed Shami’s fitness ahead of the next match. The 34-year-old pacer, who was expected to feature in the first game, was sidelined as the management opted for a more cautious approach in evaluating his readiness. Shami’s inclusion in the squad for the second game will depend on further assessments, though his presence could boost the bowling attack.

Arshdeep and Chakravarthy Shine in Kolkata
In Shami’s absence, pacer Arshdeep Singh and spinner Varun Chakravarthy delivered superb performances in Kolkata, making vital contributions to India’s win. Arshdeep’s new-ball spells and Varun’s tight middle-overs bowling rattled the English lineup, and their form will be crucial as India moves to a spin-friendly Chepauk pitch.

Chepauk: A Spin-Friendly Challenge
While Eden Gardens offered help to both pacers and spinners, Chepauk’s pitch is traditionally more supportive of spinners. India boasts a formidable spin attack with Varun, vice-captain Axar Patel, and Ravi Bishnoi, providing the hosts with excellent variety in their bowling attack.

For England, much will depend on the performance of experienced spinners Adil Rashid and Liam Livingstone. England will need better contributions from them to challenge India’s top-order, especially after their struggle in the opening game.

Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma’s Solid Opening Partnership
The opening pair of Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma has been in excellent form, with both players providing India with solid starts. In the first match, Abhishek was the star with a brilliant knock, while Samson continues to impress with his recent run of form. Their right-hand, left-hand combination adds a strategic edge, and the duo will aim to give India a flying start again on the tricky Chepauk pitch.

Suryakumar Yadav Eyeing a Return to Form
Despite India’s dominant performances in recent series, Suryakumar Yadav, the team’s captain, will be looking to rediscover his best form. After a lean patch post the T20 World Cup final last year, Suryakumar has only managed two fifties in his last 11 innings. His latest outing in Kolkata ended with a duck, and he’ll be eager to make a strong statement in the upcoming game.

Team Combinations for Both Sides
India is unlikely to make significant changes to their lineup, with Shami’s inclusion dependent on his fitness. If Shami is fit to play, Nitish Kumar Reddy could make way for the seasoned pacer.

For England, the focus will be on strengthening their spin attack, with young leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed potentially making his way into the XI, especially with Chepauk’s favorable conditions for spinners.

Squads (from):
India: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel (vc), Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Washington Sundar, Dhruv Jurel (wk).
England: Jos Buttler (C), Harry Brook, Ben Duckett, Phil Salt (wk), Jamie Smith (wk), Jacob Bethell, Brydon Carse, Liam Livingstone, Jamie Overton, Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Saqib Mahmood, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood.

Match Details:
The match is scheduled to start at 7:00 PM at Chepauk Stadium.

Uttar Pradesh to Host Dazzling Drone Show at Maha Kumbh

The Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department is preparing to host a spectacular drone show at the Maha Kumbh, offering a mesmerizing blend of modern technology and India’s rich cultural heritage. The event, scheduled for January 24, 25, and 26, will take place in Sector-7 of the Maha Kumbh Nagar.

The show promises to be a visual feast, with drones soaring into the sky in perfect synchronization, forming intricate patterns and captivating visuals. The light displays will highlight various aspects of Indian culture, spirituality, and the profound significance of the Maha Kumbh, offering an unforgettable experience for both devotees and tourists.

The drone show will also mark a special celebration on Republic Day, with unique arrangements made for the occasion. During a rehearsal held on Thursday evening in Sector 7, the drones demonstrated their remarkable coordination, building excitement for the upcoming performances.


Event Highlights:

  • Dates: January 24, 25, and 26
  • Location: Sector-7, Maha Kumbh Nagar, Prayagraj
  • Theme: A fusion of technology, light, and music showcasing Indian culture and spirituality
  • Special Feature: Republic Day celebration with a synchronized drone light show

Security and Coordination:

To ensure the smooth execution of the event, stringent security arrangements have been put in place. During the rehearsal, local administration, police, and Tourism Department officials conducted a review of the security and technical arrangements at the venue. Their collaborative efforts aim to ensure that the show runs seamlessly and safely, providing an enjoyable experience for all attendees.


Quote Section:

  • Tourism Department Official: “The drone show is a perfect fusion of technology and tradition. It will provide a unique and immersive experience that reflects the spiritual and cultural essence of the Maha Kumbh.”
  • Local Police Official: “We are working closely with all departments to ensure the security and safety of both the participants and spectators. The event will be a memorable highlight of the Kumbh Mela.”