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Kharge Accuses BJP Governments of Bias Against Deprived Sections

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New Delhi, December 31: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday criticized the BJP-led governments at the Centre and in states, accusing them of fostering a mindset that oppresses marginalized communities and perpetuates the ideology of ‘Manuvaad.’

In a post on X (formerly Twitter) written in Hindi, Kharge alleged that Union Home Minister Amit Shah insulted Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in Parliament, a behavior he claimed mirrors the BJP’s disregard for the underprivileged across the country.

Kharge highlighted recent incidents of atrocities against Dalits and tribals to substantiate his allegations.

Key Incidents Highlighted by Kharge:

  • Madhya Pradesh: A Dalit youth, Mukesh Longre, was allegedly murdered in police custody in Dewas after being called for questioning.
  • Odisha: In Balasore, tribal women were tied to trees and beaten over alleged attempts to convert families to another religion.
  • Haryana: In Bhiwani, a Dalit girl committed suicide after being unable to pay her BA examination fees.
  • Maharashtra: A tribal pregnant woman died after traveling 100 kilometers in search of an ICU.
  • Uttar Pradesh: In Muzaffarnagar, three Dalit families were forced to migrate due to caste-based attacks, with no action taken by the police.

Kharge accused the Modi government of allowing atrocities against Dalits, tribals, backward communities, and minorities to flourish under what he termed an “anti-constitutional rule.”

Grim Statistics on Crimes Against Marginalized Communities

Kharge pointed out that a crime is committed every hour against Dalit and tribal women and children. He cited National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data showing that such crimes have doubled since 2014.

Commitment to Constitutional Rights

“The Congress Party will not allow the constitutional rights of 140 crore Indians to be violated,” Kharge said, vowing to fight against what he described as the BJP-RSS’s “anti-constitutional thinking.”

Related Incidents:

  • Maharashtra: Union Minister Ramdas Athawale raised concerns over the death of Dalit man Somnath Suryavanshi, who was allegedly assaulted in police custody in Parbhani.
  • Odisha: Three individuals were arrested for assaulting two women accused of attempting religious conversions in Balasore.

Kharge’s remarks come amidst growing concerns about the treatment of marginalized communities under BJP-led administrations, sparking debates on governance and social justice across the political spectrum.

Dr. Ritu Ahal Becomes First Woman from Jammu and Kashmir to Earn Super Randonneur Title

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Dr. Ritu Ahal, a prominent dental surgeon from Jammu, has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first woman from Jammu and Kashmir to earn the prestigious Super Randonneur (SR) title. She accomplished this remarkable feat by successfully completing four long-distance cycling events—200 km, 300 km, 400 km, and 600 km—within the stipulated time limits in a single calendar year.

These cycling events were conducted under the guidelines of the Audax Club Parisien (ACP), a French organization that oversees the globally recognized Brevet de Randonneurs Mondiaux (BRM) events.

The Road to Super Randonneur

To qualify for the SR title, cyclists must complete all four distances within a specified time frame in a single season. Dr. Ahal successfully completed the challenges as follows:

  • 200 km: December 8, 2024, in 12 hours (Time Limit: 13.5 hours; Elevation: 468 m).
  • 300 km: December 22, 2024, in 19 hours (Time Limit: 20 hours; Elevation: 904 m).
  • 400 km: October 13, 2024, in 26.5 hours (Time Limit: 27 hours; Elevation: 12 m).
  • 600 km: November 9, 2024, in 39.5 hours (Time Limit: 40 hours; Elevation: 1,900 m).

Endurance and Excellence

The Brevet rides are self-supported, requiring participants to rely solely on their resources while navigating predefined routes with checkpoints. Achieving the Super Randonneur title demonstrates exceptional endurance, mental resilience, and meticulous planning, all of which Dr. Ahal displayed throughout her journey.

Community Support and Family Participation

Dr. Ahal serves as the President of Women Do Ride and is an active member of the Jammu Hill Sports Cycling Club, both of which provided her unwavering support. Adding a personal touch to her journey, her younger son, Anshul Ahal, joined her in the 200 km and 300 km Brevet rides and successfully completed both.

A Trailblazer for Women in Cycling

Dr. Ritu Ahal’s accomplishment not only highlights her personal dedication but also serves as an inspiration for women across the region to engage in endurance sports. Her achievement is a testament to the power of perseverance, breaking barriers, and setting new benchmarks for others to follow.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh Announces ₹270 Crore for Enhancements to CPGRAMS Portal

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Union Minister Jitendra Singh announced a government sanction of ₹270 crore for next-generation improvements to the Centralised Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS), further solidifying its status as the world’s largest citizen interface platform.

Upgraded Features and Technological Integration

The enhanced CPGRAMS has been equipped with:

  • Multilingual support, enabling greater accessibility for citizens.
  • Robust tracking systems and efficient feedback mechanisms to ensure transparency.
  • Advanced capabilities of Intelligent Grievance Monitoring System (IGMS) 2.0, developed with IIT Kanpur as the knowledge partner, integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) for predictive analyses and systemic insights.

These upgrades have drastically reduced grievance redressal time to an average of 12 days, with citizen satisfaction levels reaching 44% in 2024.

Citizen-Centric Initiatives

  • Over 28 lakh citizens are now registered on the platform as of November 2024.
  • CPGRAMS empowers citizens to raise grievances online, making the system more accessible and efficient.

Year-End Review and Vision for the Future

In a year-end review at the Indian Institute of Public Administration, Singh emphasized the government’s dedication to:

  1. Integrating a “whole of government” and “whole of nation” approach as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aiming for improved governance and higher citizen satisfaction.
  2. Achieving seamless public service delivery through advanced technology and stakeholder collaboration.

Policy Insights and Reform Goals

  • IGMS 2.0 provides predictive insights, enabling informed policy interventions and better governance outcomes.
  • Singh underscored the importance of setting higher benchmarks for 2025, focusing on robust, efficient, and citizen-friendly grievance redressal systems.

Conclusion

The government’s commitment to technology-driven reforms continues to redefine public service delivery, ensuring that grievance management systems like CPGRAMS remain central to its citizen-first governance model.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Highlights Unconventional Warfare and Defence Achievements Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addressed officers at the Army War College (AWC), emphasizing the growing challenges posed by unconventional warfare and the importance of mastering advanced technologies. Emerging Challenges in Warfare Singh identified Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based warfare, cyber-attacks, proxy warfare, information warfare, electromagnetic warfare, and space warfare as key challenges for modern militaries. He stressed the need for a well-trained and technologically equipped military to counter these threats effectively. Defence Exports and Aatmanirbhar Bharat India’s defence exports have surged from Rs 2,000 crore a decade ago to over Rs 21,000 crore, setting a target of Rs 50,000 crore by 2029. Singh highlighted the export of Made-in-India defence equipment, showcasing the nation’s strides towards self-reliance under the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. Enhancing Military Training and Jointness Singh lauded training centers in Mhow Cantonment, including the Infantry School, Military College of Telecommunication Engineering (MCTE), and AWC, for adapting curricula to meet modern challenges. He called for integration in training, urging focus on weapons systems, AI and communication technology, and leadership development at all levels. Training for defence attaches was emphasized to secure India’s global interests and enhance military diplomacy. Commitment to Security and Economic Growth Singh reiterated the government’s commitment to making India a global economic and military power, highlighting the interdependence of security and economic prosperity. He praised the armed forces for safeguarding borders and responding to natural disasters, commending their dedication and adaptability in a dynamic world. Role of Army War College Singh was briefed by Lt Gen HS Sahi, Commandant of AWC, on the institute’s role in preparing military leaders for multi-domain operations. AWC’s contributions to joint operations training, technology integration, and international military diplomacy were highlighted, along with its collaborations with academia, industry, and the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). Honoring Bravehearts During his visit, Singh laid a wreath at the Infantry Memorial, paying homage to the sacrifices of India’s soldiers. Strengthening Integration Among Armed Forces The Defence Minister underscored the importance of jointness among the three services for enhanced operational efficiency in the future. The Modi government is committed to fostering integration, ensuring the armed forces remain ready for any challenge. Conclusion Singh’s address underscored India’s focus on self-reliance, innovation, and global military partnerships while adapting to emerging threats and securing its place as a strong global power.

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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addressed officers at the Army War College (AWC), emphasizing the growing challenges posed by unconventional warfare and the importance of mastering advanced technologies.

Emerging Challenges in Warfare

Singh identified Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based warfare, cyber-attacks, proxy warfare, information warfare, electromagnetic warfare, and space warfare as key challenges for modern militaries. He stressed the need for a well-trained and technologically equipped military to counter these threats effectively.

Defence Exports and Aatmanirbhar Bharat

  • India’s defence exports have surged from Rs 2,000 crore a decade ago to over Rs 21,000 crore, setting a target of Rs 50,000 crore by 2029.
  • Singh highlighted the export of Made-in-India defence equipment, showcasing the nation’s strides towards self-reliance under the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Enhancing Military Training and Jointness

  • Singh lauded training centers in Mhow Cantonment, including the Infantry School, Military College of Telecommunication Engineering (MCTE), and AWC, for adapting curricula to meet modern challenges.
  • He called for integration in training, urging focus on weapons systems, AI and communication technology, and leadership development at all levels.
  • Training for defence attaches was emphasized to secure India’s global interests and enhance military diplomacy.

Commitment to Security and Economic Growth

  • Singh reiterated the government’s commitment to making India a global economic and military power, highlighting the interdependence of security and economic prosperity.
  • He praised the armed forces for safeguarding borders and responding to natural disasters, commending their dedication and adaptability in a dynamic world.

Role of Army War College

  • Singh was briefed by Lt Gen HS Sahi, Commandant of AWC, on the institute’s role in preparing military leaders for multi-domain operations.
  • AWC’s contributions to joint operations training, technology integration, and international military diplomacy were highlighted, along with its collaborations with academia, industry, and the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF).

Honoring Bravehearts

During his visit, Singh laid a wreath at the Infantry Memorial, paying homage to the sacrifices of India’s soldiers.

Strengthening Integration Among Armed Forces

  • The Defence Minister underscored the importance of jointness among the three services for enhanced operational efficiency in the future.
  • The Modi government is committed to fostering integration, ensuring the armed forces remain ready for any challenge.

Conclusion

Singh’s address underscored India’s focus on self-reliance, innovation, and global military partnerships while adapting to emerging threats and securing its place as a strong global power.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Discusses Katra Ropeway Project and Other Key Initiatives

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Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha emphasized the openness of the administration to dialogue with all stakeholders regarding the Katra Ropeway Project. Speaking in an exclusive interview, Sinha assured that the project would boost pilgrimage numbers while addressing concerns of local traders and service providers.

Ropeway Project: Stakeholder Engagement and Benefits

  • A High-Level Committee, chaired by the Lieutenant Governor, is actively engaging with stakeholders to address grievances and ensure consensus on the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ropeway Project.
  • The committee includes Dr. Ashok Bhan, Suresh Kumar Sharma, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar, and CEO SMVDSB Anshul Garg.
  • The committee is open for dialogue and has already held consultations with stakeholders, including those agitating against the project.

Background of the Ropeway Project

  • Initiated following the National Green Tribunal’s (NGT) 2017 directive to phase out mules on the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi track due to environmental concerns.
  • A Rehabilitation Scheme was introduced for service providers, including 3,844 ponywallahs, 4,233 pithus, and 3,300 palkiwallahs.
  • The Supreme Court recommended a ropeway facility in 2018, and global tenders were invited to complete the project in four years.
  • The finalized alignment is from Tarakote to Sanjichhat, as alternative routes faced technical and logistical challenges.

Proposed Benefits

  • Enhanced Pilgrimage: The project is expected to increase pilgrimage numbers and provide emergency evacuation capabilities.
  • Support for Service Providers: The Lieutenant Governor guaranteed compensation, including financial aid of Rs. 50,000 and alternative livelihood opportunities for affected stakeholders.
  • Boost for Katra Town: A ticketing counter at Niharika Bhawan and other infrastructural developments, including two helipads, will further enhance Katra’s economy.

Industrial Package: Seeking Expansion

  • The Lieutenant Governor has proposed an increase in the Rs. 28,400 crore Industrial Package, which has been exhausted due to high demand.
  • Industrial investment proposals worth Rs. 1.60 lakh crore have been received, with projects worth Rs. 19,000 crore already underway and Rs. 8,000 crore in production.
  • New Industrial Estates are being developed to overcome land constraints.

Anti-Terror Achievements and Future Plans

  • Sinha highlighted significant progress in counter-terror operations, with 75 terrorists eliminated in 2024, including 55 foreign operatives.
  • The administration is targeting a terror-free Jammu and Kashmir by 2025, leveraging a comprehensive approach to dismantle terrorist ecosystems.
  • Peaceful conduct of elections and revival of normalcy, including cinema halls and nightlife, reflect the changing landscape of the Union Territory.

Governance and Business Rules

  • On relations with the newly elected government, Sinha stated that all institutions are functioning as per the Constitution.
  • A Cabinet Sub-Committee is drafting Business Rules for the Union Territory, which will be finalized soon.

Focus on Development and Infrastructure

  • The administration is committed to infrastructure development, promoting tourism, and addressing concerns of all stakeholders through dialogue and constructive action.
  • Efforts to align with modern needs while preserving local interests remain a cornerstone of the government’s approach.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Chairs 88th University Council Meeting of Jammu University

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Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha presided over the 88th meeting of the University Council of the University of Jammu at Raj Bhawan, focusing on academic and administrative advancements.

Key Attendees

The meeting saw the participation of prominent figures, including:

  • Sakina Itoo, Minister for Higher Education
  • Shantmanu, Additional Chief Secretary, Higher Education Department
  • Dr. Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lt Governor
  • Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu
  • Prof. Alok Kumar Rai, Vice Chancellor, Lucknow University
  • Prof. K.S. Chandrasekhar, Vice Chancellor, Cluster University Jammu
  • Prof. AK Kaul, Former Professor, BHU Varanasi
  • Dr. Neeraj Sharma, Registrar, Jammu University

Additionally, Dr. Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, Secretary, Planning, Monitoring and Development Department; Prof. Nilofer Khan, Vice Chancellor, Kashmir University; and Prof. Mohd Mohin, Vice Chancellor, Cluster University Srinagar, joined virtually.

Deliberations and Approvals

The council discussed and approved several proposals, focusing on:

  • Adoption of UGC guidelines and National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 provisions.
  • Regular revision of curriculum and the introduction of new courses aligned with emerging global trends.
  • Promoting local languages and cultural heritage of the region.
  • Accelerating recruitment processes for teaching and non-teaching staff and addressing promotion-related matters under the Career Advancement Scheme.

The Lieutenant Governor emphasized the need for:

  • Streamlining the e-office system.
  • Ensuring the timely completion of ongoing projects.

A Milestone Achievement

Council members congratulated the Vice Chancellor, faculty, and staff for earning the coveted A++ Grade from NAAC with a CGPA score of 3.72, making the University of Jammu the only A++ university in Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory.

Discussions on Key Initiatives

The council reviewed and discussed:

  • The success of the “Design Your Own Degree” undergraduate program.
  • Recruitment processes and onboarding of sports experts for effective implementation of the university’s Sports Policy.
  • A detailed credit framework for the “Design Your Degree” program.

Vice Chancellor’s Report

Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor, presented a comprehensive report highlighting:

  • The university’s focus on research, skill development, internships, and start-ups.
  • Initiatives in experiential learning through major projects.
  • Digital and environmentally friendly measures.
  • Efforts toward promoting trans-disciplinary and holistic education.

Actionable Insights

The council was briefed on actions taken on directives issued during the previous meeting, ensuring accountability and progress in institutional goals.

The meeting reiterated its commitment to enhancing educational excellence, fostering innovation, and aligning with modern-day requirements to solidify Jammu University’s position as a leading academic institution.

Jasprit Bumrah Among Nominees for ICC Test Cricketer of the Year 2024

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India’s premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has been nominated for the prestigious ICC Test Cricketer of the Year award, alongside England’s Joe Root, Harry Brook, and Sri Lanka’s Kamindu Mendis.

Bumrah’s Dominance in 2024

Bumrah has been a standout performer in Test cricket, finishing the year with:

  • 71 wickets in 13 matches
  • Best bowling average: 14.92
  • Strike rate: 30.16

The ICC hailed Bumrah as the year’s best bowler, citing his stellar performances in various conditions, including South Africa, Australia, and India.

“Having returned to the Test arena following his recovery from a recurring back injury in 2023, Bumrah delivered his best-ever annual tally — 71 wickets — finishing the year with more Test wickets than any of his counterparts,” the ICC noted.

Bumrah’s performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy was exceptional, where he claimed 30 wickets in just four Tests Down Under, including match-winning spells at Perth that led India to a 295-run victory.

England’s Joe Root: The Batting Mainstay

Joe Root emerged as the most dominant batter in 2024, accumulating:

  • 1,556 runs from 17 Tests
  • Batting average: 55.57
  • Centuries: 6
  • Half-centuries: 5

Root’s performance included a career-best 262 against Pakistan at Multan and marked the fifth time he crossed the 1,000-run milestone in a calendar year.

“Root’s second-best annual run-tally in Tests was a testament to his consistency, both home and away,” the ICC said.

England’s Harry Brook: Breakthrough Performer

Harry Brook made a significant impact with:

  • 1,100 runs from 12 Tests
  • Batting average: 55.00
  • Centuries: 4

Brook’s aggressive batting style made him a flagbearer of England’s quick-scoring approach, with his 317 off 322 balls being a standout innings.

Sri Lanka’s Kamindu Mendis: Rising Star

Kamindu Mendis impressed with:

  • 1,049 runs from 9 Tests
  • Batting average: 74.92

Mendis became the joint-third fastest to score 1,000 Test runs, equalling Sir Don Bradman’s 13-innings record. His twin centuries against New Zealand played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s push for a spot in the ICC World Test Championship Final.

The ICC praised Mendis as the batter with the highest average among those who played more than two Tests in 2024.

The Verdict

The ICC Test Cricketer of the Year award recognizes excellence in the longest format, and all four nominees have had remarkable performances in 2024. While Bumrah’s unmatched bowling statistics make him a strong contender, Root, Brook, and Mendis have left an indelible mark with their batting prowess.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Offers Prayers at Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain

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UJJAIN, Dec 30: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi visited the revered Mahakaleshwar Temple in Madhya Pradesh’s Ujjain city on Monday to offer prayers.

Expressing his spiritual experience, Singh stated, “I feel blessed after having darshan of Lord Mahakal.”

  • Sanctum Sanctorum Prayers: Wearing a saffron-coloured dhoti, the minister offered prayers for about 20 minutes in the temple’s sanctum sanctorum.
  • Meditation: Following the prayers, Singh meditated in the Nandi Hall of the temple.

The Mahakaleshwar Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlings in the country, holding immense spiritual significance.

Two-Day Visit to Madhya Pradesh

Rajnath Singh is on a two-day visit to Madhya Pradesh, which began on Sunday.

  • Tributes to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar: Singh paid homage at the memorial of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in Mhow, Indore district.
  • Address to Army Personnel: The Defence Minister also addressed Army personnel at the historic Mhow Cantonment, which has a legacy spanning over two centuries.

The visit highlights both Singh’s spiritual devotion and his commitment to honoring India’s military and socio-political history.

BJP Demands CBI Probe Into Contractor’s Suicide, Threatens Protest

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Mounting pressure on the ruling Congress in Karnataka, the BJP on Monday reiterated its demand for a CBI inquiry into the contractor’s suicide and the resignation of Minister Priyank Kharge. The party warned of a protest to lay siege to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge’s residence in Kalaburagi in January if their demands are not met.

The Kharge family is very powerful, and the state police cannot investigate them impartially. Hence, the matter should be handed over to the CBI,” BJP state president B Y Vijayendra told reporters.

Civil Contractor’s Allegations
Sachin Panchal, a civil contractor, allegedly died by suicide on December 26 by lying before a moving train in Bidar district. In his suicide note, Panchal accused Priyank Kharge’s close aide Raju Kapanur of pressuring him to pay ₹1 crore. He also alleged that he received death threats, compelling him to take the drastic step. Kapanur has denied the allegations.

Priyank Kharge, while denying any involvement, said his name was not mentioned in the suicide note. He also called for an inquiry to uncover the truth.

BJP Intensifies Pressure
The BJP has intensified its demands, alleging that the police in Kalaburagi district are influenced by the Kharge family. Vijayendra called on Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to demand Priyank Kharge’s resignation and to hand over the investigation to the CBI.

Compensation Demands
The BJP has also demanded:

  • Protection for Panchal’s family.
  • Compensation of ₹1 crore for the family.
  • A government job for one family member.

Ultimatum and Planned Protest
Vijayendra announced that the party would wait until January 3 for the Chief Minister to order a CBI inquiry. “If our demands are not met, the BJP will stage a massive protest in Kalaburagi on January 4 and lay siege to Kharge’s house,” he added.

Conspiracy Claims
Vijayendra highlighted another serious aspect of Panchal’s suicide note, alleging a conspiracy to eliminate BJP MLA Basavaraj Mattimud, leaders Chandru Patil, Manikanth Rathod, and pontiff Siddalinga Swami. He claimed contract killers from Maharashtra were involved, which demands urgent investigation.

The BJP’s demands have set the stage for a political showdown, with the party accusing the Congress government of shielding its leaders and ignoring the gravity of the allegations.

Vitul Kumar to Assume Charge as Director General of CRPF

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Senior IPS officer Vitul Kumar will take charge as Director General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) after incumbent Anish Dayal Singh retires on Tuesday.

Kumar, a 1993 batch IPS officer of the Uttar Pradesh cadre, is currently serving as Special Director General of the CRPF.

The competent authority has approved to assign the officiating charge for the post of DG, CRPF, to Vitul Kumar upon superannuation of Anish Dayal Singh, a 1988 batch Manipur cadre IPS officer, on December 31, 2024, till the appointment of a regular incumbent or until further order, whichever is earlier, said an order issued by the Union Home Ministry.