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Assam Celebrates Vajpayee’s 100th Birth Anniversary

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Assam Celebrates Vajpayee’s 100th Birth Anniversary

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma marked the 100th birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee by unveiling a statue of the former Prime Minister in the state capital. The ceremony, held at the Atal Udyan complex in Adabari, was a heartfelt tribute to one of India’s most cherished leaders. Alongside the statue unveiling, Sarma also inaugurated an exhibition dedicated to Vajpayee’s life, achievements, and vision for India.

In his address, Sarma extolled Vajpayee’s unparalleled contributions to the nation as a three-time Prime Minister, a skilled statesman, and an ambassador of peace. “A poet, an orator par excellence, a guiding light for the nation, Atal ji laid the foundation of a strong India and had a special love for Assam and its people,” Sarma remarked.

The Chief Minister reflected on Vajpayee’s transformative leadership, which he said played a pivotal role in shaping modern India. Sarma underscored Vajpayee’s commitment to national unity, his efforts to foster harmony, and his unwavering dedication to India’s integrity. “His enduring legacy will serve as a guiding force for Assam’s growth and development,” he added.

The Atal Udyan complex, now featuring the grand statue and the accompanying exhibition, is envisioned as a place of learning and inspiration for generations to come. Visitors to the exhibition can explore Vajpayee’s life journey, from his early days in politics to his tenure as Prime Minister, during which he spearheaded several landmark initiatives, including the Golden Quadrilateral highway project and advancements in nuclear science.

Earlier in the day, Sarma participated in the ‘Good Governance Day’ celebrations at the BJP headquarters in Guwahati. Speaking at the event, he highlighted Vajpayee’s visionary leadership and the values of transparency, efficiency, and accountability that he championed throughout his political career.

The day-long celebrations also included cultural programs, seminars on effective governance practices, and discussions on Vajpayee’s contributions to India’s socio-economic development. BJP leaders and supporters reiterated their commitment to carrying forward Vajpayee’s vision of a prosperous and inclusive India.

As Assam paid homage to Vajpayee, Chief Minister Sarma’s tribute served as a poignant reminder of the former Prime Minister’s deep connection with the state and its people. “Atal ji’s contributions are not just a chapter in history; they are a living legacy that continues to guide us towards building a stronger, more united India,” Sarma concluded.

J&K BJP Commemorates Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s 100th Birth Anniversary as Good Governance Day

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J&K BJP Commemorates Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s 100th Birth Anniversary as Good Governance Day

The Jammu and Kashmir Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) celebrated the 100th birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna and former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee as Good Governance Day (Sushasan Diwas). Floral tributes were paid to the veteran leader at numerous events held at the ward and booth levels across J&K.

Tributes in Jammu

J&K BJP President Sat Sharma, accompanied by MP Jugal Kishore Sharma, former Deputy Chief Ministers Dr. Nirmal Singh and Kavinder Gupta, Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma, MLAs Yudhvir Sethi and Vikram Randhawa, former Minister Priya Sethi, senior leader Rajeev Charak, spokesperson Purnima Sharma, and other leaders paid homage to Vajpayee at Atal Chowk, Panjtirthi, Jammu.

Sat Sharma lauded Vajpayee’s lifelong dedication to the nation, referring to his exemplary governance and achievements, including the Pokhran nuclear tests. “His commitment to strengthening the nation makes this day a celebration of good governance. We must all draw inspiration from his life and works,” said Sharma.

MP Jugal Kishore Sharma emphasized that Vajpayee’s legacy will be cherished for centuries. “He was a friend to all and even sought to foster friendly relations with neighboring Pakistan,” he noted.

At the BJP headquarters in Jammu, Sat Sharma, along with general secretary (organization) Ashok Koul, inaugurated an exhibition showcasing Vajpayee’s life and achievements. The event was organized by the Department of Publication, with Rajnish Jain, Varinderjeet Singh, and Pawan Sharma overseeing its execution.

At Talab Tillo, Jammu, local BJP leaders, including Ayodhya Gupta and Sanjay Baru, joined Sat Sharma in paying floral tributes to Vajpayee.

Tributes in Kashmir Valley

In the Kashmir Valley, BJP leaders gathered at the party headquarters in Jawahar Nagar to honor Vajpayee’s memory. Speaking to the media, BJP spokesperson Altaf Thakur highlighted Vajpayee’s pivotal role in the party’s growth into India’s largest political organization. “He worked tirelessly for the BJP, and his vision is being carried forward by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure service to the people,” Thakur said.

Other leaders praised Vajpayee’s transformative contributions to India’s development, including initiatives like the Golden Quadrilateral project, advancements in information technology, and efforts to bolster India’s global standing.

The BJP’s Kashmir unit announced a series of initiatives to commemorate the occasion, including citizen outreach programs, workshops on effective governance, and awareness campaigns about Government schemes.

Dogra Brahmin Pratinidhi Sabha Tribute

The Dogra Brahmin Pratinidhi Sabha also organized a tribute in Jammu. Leaders reflected on Vajpayee’s enduring contributions to India and praised his visionary leadership.

Legacy of Good Governance

Vajpayee’s legacy continues to inspire, with his leadership symbolizing the principles of service, integrity, and visionary governance. The BJP’s celebrations across Jammu and Kashmir affirmed his lasting impact on the nation and its political landscape.

 

Amit Shah Commends CRPF for Ensuring Peace and Security

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Amit Shah Commends CRPF for Ensuring Peace and Security

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has lauded the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) for its exceptional role in combating Naxalism and restoring peace in the Northeastern states and Jammu and Kashmir. Shah highlighted the CRPF’s vital contribution to internal security and nation-building during his visit to the CRPF headquarters on Wednesday.

During the visit, the Home Minister held discussions with senior officials, including CRPF Director General Anish Dayal Singh. He also reviewed the operational and administrative efficiency of the world’s largest paramilitary force.

“The CRPF has done a commendable job in tackling Naxalism and restoring peace and stability in the Northeastern States and Jammu and Kashmir,” Shah said, according to an official statement. The CRPF’s welfare initiatives for the families of martyred personnel, such as compassionate appointments, were also reviewed.

Health and Unity Initiatives

Shah emphasized the importance of promoting Hindi in the CRPF’s daily operations to strengthen linguistic unity. Additionally, he encouraged the use of ‘Shri Ann’ (millets) for improved health among soldiers, and advocated for integrating Ayurveda and participating in the ‘Prakriti Parikshan Abhiyan’ for personalized health insights.

The visit underscores the Government’s acknowledgment of the CRPF’s dedication to national security and its multifaceted role in strengthening the nation.

Government Launches 10,000 New PACS

In a separate event, Amit Shah launched 10,000 multi-purpose Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACS) as part of the Government’s ambitious plan to establish 2 lakh PACS within five years. Shah expressed confidence that the target would be achieved ahead of schedule.

Phased Implementation Plan

The initiative will be rolled out in two phases. In the first phase:

  • NABARD will establish 32,750 new multi-purpose PACS.
  • NDDB will set up 56,500 dairy cooperatives.
  • NFDB will form 6,000 fishery cooperatives.

In the second phase:

  • NABARD will create 45,000 PACS.
  • NDDB will establish 46,000 dairy cooperatives.
  • NFDB will set up 5,500 fishery cooperatives.
  • State Governments will form approximately 25,000 cooperatives.

Digital Transformation and Training

Highlighting the significance of digitalisation, Shah noted that existing PACS have been computerised and integrated with 32 different initiatives. However, he stressed the need for skilled manpower, urging cooperatives to adopt new training modules for effective functioning.

“We have computerised, given software, and launched various schemes. However, cooperatives cannot operate effectively without trained manpower,” Shah said.

SOPs for Defunct PACS

Shah released Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for liquidating defunct PACS, facilitating the establishment of new societies in 15,000 villages. Under current norms, a second PACS cannot be created in villages where one already exists unless the existing one is declared defunct.

Remembering Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s Legacy

The Minister paid tribute to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his 100th birth anniversary, recalling his contribution to the cooperative sector. He noted that the 97th Constitutional Amendment, introduced during Vajpayee’s regime, gave a significant boost to cooperatives.

Prominent Attendees

The event was attended by Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Panchayati Raj Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Minister of State for Cooperation Krishan Pal Gurjar, and senior Government officials. Shah distributed registration certificates, micro ATMs, and RuPay Kisan Credit Cards to the newly established cooperative societies.

The launch of these initiatives highlights the Government’s commitment to fostering prosperity through grassroots-level cooperatives.

Indian IT Hiring in 2025 Set to Rebound, with AI and Data Science Roles Leading the Job Market

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Indian IT Hiring in 2025 Set to Rebound, with AI and Data Science Roles Leading the Job Market

New Delhi, Dec 24  – The Indian IT hiring landscape is at a critical juncture, shifting from a challenging year to a promising outlook for 2025. The focus on specialised skills, particularly in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data science, along with a rise in hiring in Tier 2 cities, signals a transformation in the sector.

In 2024, the Indian IT industry saw a 7% decline in hiring compared to the previous year, primarily due to macroeconomic challenges and global uncertainties. However, experts are optimistic that the sector will recover in 2025, driven by improvements in economic conditions and technological advancements.

Sunil Chemmankotil, Country Manager at Adecco India, noted that while Global Capability Centres (GCCs) contributed significantly to the hiring activity, accounting for 52.6% of job openings for tech professionals, they couldn’t fully offset the downturn in the IT services sector. Despite this, there were areas of growth and resilience.

The demand for AI and Machine Learning (ML) roles surged by 39%, reflecting an increasing focus on specialised skill sets. Additionally, hiring in Tier 2 cities grew by 48% in the third quarter of 2024, suggesting a geographic shift towards more diversified job opportunities beyond traditional tech hubs.

Hiring for mid- to senior-level professionals rose by 35%, as companies sought experienced candidates amid market fluctuations. Meanwhile, hiring for fresh graduates remained subdued, with growth rates ranging from 2-15% across various tech sectors, according to TeamLease Edtech data. Many companies delayed onboarding campus hires due to uncertain deal flows, influenced in part by the global political climate surrounding major elections.

Looking ahead to 2025, the outlook for the IT hiring market is promising. According to the ManpowerGroup Employment Outlook Survey (MEOS) for Q1 2025, 53% of the 3,150 employers surveyed in India expect increased hiring, the highest among the 42 countries studied.

Jaideep Kewalramani, COO and Head of Employability Business at TeamLease Edtech, said the delayed hiring of freshers in 2024 is expected to change as large projects are anticipated to return in early 2025. This is expected to benefit large players first, with Tier 2 and 3 companies likely to see an increase in orders as buyer sentiment improves.

As macroeconomic headwinds ease and the results of global elections are finalised, companies are expected to gain confidence in the economic outlook and begin capital investments, stimulating deal flow in early 2025. While initial hiring for fresh graduates may remain subdued, the launch of large projects in early 2025 will likely increase job opportunities for new graduates, Kewalramani added.

Wipro CTO Sandhya Arun emphasized that enterprises will accelerate the integration of AI and other advanced technologies to drive significant business value. “2025 promises to be a year of high-velocity technology disruptions, offering new opportunities and presenting unprecedented challenges,” she said.

The demand for specialised tech roles is expected to surge by 30-35%, driven by increased reliance on emerging technologies. Sanju Ballurkar, President (Experis India), ManpowerGroup India, noted that the shift towards AI and automation in India’s IT sector will continue to impact recruitment, with AI-driven tools and machine learning redefining job roles and creating demand for highly specialised positions.

Overall, the IT sector is expected to rebound with a projected 15-20% growth in job opportunities across various industries, according to Chemmankotil. “Looking ahead, the combined hiring intent from GCCs and IT services will bring much-needed relief to job seekers. Employers are optimistic about recovery and growth as companies adapt to new technological landscapes and market needs,” he said.

“We Should Make Another Attempt”: Punjab Assembly Speaker on Vajpayee’s Unsuccessful India-Pakistan Peace Initiative

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“We Should Make Another Attempt”: Punjab Assembly Speaker on Vajpayee’s Unsuccessful India-Pakistan Peace Initiative

Lahore, Dec 24: “Although the opportunity was missed, we should try again,” said Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Ahmad Khan, reflecting on Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s 1999 ‘bus yatra,’ a bold initiative by the then Indian Prime Minister aimed at improving India-Pakistan relations.

Vajpayee made a historic bus ride to Lahore on February 19, 1999, and met with Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, where the two leaders signed the Lahore Declaration. This agreement was seen as a breakthrough for peace between the two nations. However, just months later, Pakistani forces’ intrusion led to the Kargil War, halting the peace process.

As Vajpayee’s 100th birth anniversary approaches on Wednesday, Khan, a senior member of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), believes that peace between India and Pakistan is still possible. “With Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who follows Vajpayee’s vision, leading India, and Shehbaz Sharif, Nawaz’s brother, in charge of Pakistan, there is a real possibility of restarting the peace process,” Khan remarked. He emphasized that the region’s future depends on fostering free trade and unrestricted movement between the countries, asserting that peace is not only a desirable idea but a necessity for growth and prosperity.

Mohammad Mehdi, another senior PML-N leader from Punjab, described Vajpayee’s visit as a historic moment. He suggested that lasting peace could have followed if not for the Kargil conflict. “The visit came shortly after both India and Pakistan became nuclear powers, and the Western media closely followed Vajpayee’s visit,” Mehdi recalled. “There was excitement within PML-N when Vajpayee arrived. His speech, declaring ‘Pakistan is a reality, and both countries now need to move forward and leave the past behind,’ offered hope to many.”

However, the subsequent Kargil conflict dashed the peace efforts. Mehdi also pointed out that Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) organized protests during Vajpayee’s visit, with some even attacking the Turkish ambassador’s car near Lahore Fort, mistakenly believing it was part of the Indian delegation. Many believe these protests were orchestrated by the military under General Pervez Musharraf’s leadership.

Mehdi remains optimistic about the possibility of back-channel talks between India and Pakistan, despite the current low point in bilateral relations. “Though both countries are currently without ambassadors in each other’s capitals, businesses on both sides are eager to restore ties to boost trade and open up shorter routes through Pakistan to Central Asia and Europe,” he said.

Brigadier (retd.) Farooq Hameed, a political expert, believes the failure of the peace initiative was due to Nawaz Sharif not involving the powerful Pakistani military in the process. “Had Nawaz consulted the military before Vajpayee’s visit, the chances of a successful peace process would have been higher,” Hameed said. He pointed out that Nawaz Sharif has repeatedly shown interest in improving relations with India, including his desire to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi after returning to Pakistan last year. However, he noted that Nawaz’s younger brother, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, has not expressed similar intentions recently.

Hameed also emphasized the challenges posed by terrorism, which continues to be a major obstacle to reconciliation. “India has frequently accused Pakistan of supporting terrorism, while Pakistan now blames India for terror attacks in Balochistan,” he said.

Despite these hurdles, Hameed remained hopeful, stating that most Pakistanis are not anti-India, and unlike in India, Pakistani politicians do not need to criticize India to win elections.

Cold Wave to Persist Until Dec 26, Says MeT

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Cold Wave to Persist Until Dec 26, Says MeT

Srinagar, Dec 24: The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has announced that cold wave conditions will continue in isolated areas of Jammu and Kashmir until December 26. The weather is expected to remain dry, with light rain predicted over the plains of Jammu and light snow over the higher reaches of the Chenab Valley and Pir Panchal range from late afternoon on December 27 to the forenoon of December 28.

An official from the Meteorological Centre stated that dry weather will prevail from December 24 to 26, with a slight shift in conditions starting December 27. The forecast includes cloudy skies, light rain over Jammu’s plains, and light snow in higher altitudes, especially in the Chenab Valley and Pir Panchal range.

From December 29 to 30, the weather is expected to remain dry. However, there is a chance of cloudy conditions and light snow in isolated higher reaches on December 31. The forecast also predicts cloudy weather with light snow at scattered places in Jammu and Kashmir from January 1 to 3.

The official issued an advisory, urging tourists, travelers, and transporters to exercise caution, as sub-freezing temperatures and icy conditions could impact roads, particularly in important passes and higher reaches. Travelers are advised to follow the guidance of the administration and traffic department.

“Government Mandates Strict School Admission Protocols to Curb Enrollment of Illegal Bangladeshi Migrants”

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“Government Mandates Strict School Admission Protocols to Curb Enrollment of Illegal Bangladeshi Migrants”

Srinagar, Dec 24: The Directorate of Education, Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi, has issued stringent directives to all government, government-aided, and unaided recognized private schools. The guidelines emphasize strict admission procedures and thorough verification of students’ documentation to prevent the enrollment of illegal Bangladeshi migrants.

The Directorate highlighted that each year, several lakh students apply for admission to government schools. In an effort to enhance convenience for students and their parents/guardians, as well as promote transparency, the Directorate has worked towards streamlining the admission process, making it more accessible and user-friendly.

However, the latest order stresses the need for schools to implement rigorous procedures and scrutinize documents to prevent unauthorized enrollment, particularly targeting illegal Bangladeshi migrants. The directive mandates that all heads of government, government-aided, and recognized private schools must ensure that a thorough and careful process is followed when admitting migrant children. This includes proper submission, verification, and handling of all necessary documentation.

Additionally, the Directorate has instructed the District and Zone Education Departments (DDE) to submit weekly reports on such cases to the School Branch at DoE Headquarters.

CEO SSCL Inaugurates Intelligent Traffic Management System

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CEO SSCL Inaugurates Intelligent Traffic Management System

In a major stride towards modernizing urban management, Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) has launched the Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) through its state-of-the-art Integrated Command & Control Centre (ICCC) at HMT Zainakote. The system was inaugurated by Dr. Owais Ahmed, Chief Executive Officer of SSCL, marking a significant milestone in leveraging technology for better city governance.

Dr. Owais emphasized that ITMS is designed to enhance city governance by enabling data-driven decision-making in daily operations as well as during crises. “This system underscores our commitment to transforming Srinagar into a more efficient and citizen-friendly Smart City,” he stated.

Integrated Command & Control Centre (ICCC): The ICCC serves as the nucleus of smart city operations, seamlessly integrating applications and services across various departments and agencies. It operates 24/7 to provide essential infrastructure, including:

  • Data Centre: Equipped with a secure server farm offering 2PB of storage.
  • Hybrid Cloud Capabilities: Ensuring flexibility and scalability for diverse projects.
  • Networking and Security: Robust systems to safeguard data and connectivity.
  • Dedicated Leased Lines: Enhancing connectivity for uninterrupted operations.

Key Features of ITMS:

  • Real-time traffic monitoring and management.
  • Automated traffic signal control to minimize congestion.
  • Integration with emergency response systems to enhance public safety.
  • Data analytics to inform long-term urban planning.

Benefits to the City: The implementation of ITMS is expected to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and enhance safety for both residents and commuters. Additionally, the data collected will play a critical role in strategic urban planning, making Srinagar a more sustainable and efficient city.

The inauguration of ITMS signifies a forward-thinking approach by SSCL to align urban governance with global smart city standards. Residents can look forward to improved quality of life and more streamlined city operations as the system becomes fully operational.

JMC Receives 4,570 Streetlights Through EESL

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JMC Receives 4,570 Streetlights Through EESL

Reaffirming the Jammu Municipal Corporation’s (JMC) dedication to enhancing civic amenities within municipal limits, Commissioner Dr. Devansh Yadav today announced a significant step forward in urban development. During an inspection at the Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) store, the Commissioner highlighted ongoing efforts to improve the city’s street-lighting infrastructure.

As part of this initiative, JMC has received 4,570 streetlights from EESL. Dr. Yadav emphasized that these additions are expected to significantly enhance safety and illumination throughout the city of temples. “The improved lighting infrastructure will not only address visibility concerns but also contribute to a safer urban environment,” he stated.

Key Highlights:

  • Infrastructure Upgrade: The new streetlights will bolster the existing lighting setup, ensuring better illumination of roads, public spaces, and other vital city areas.
  • Safety Measures: Enhanced street lighting is anticipated to reduce accidents and crime rates, thereby improving the quality of life for residents.
  • Timely Execution: The Commissioner assured that the installation and repair of the lights will be expedited to achieve the project’s goals efficiently.

Future Plans: Dr. Yadav reiterated JMC’s commitment to making Jammu a more livable and modern city. He added that this project is one among several initiatives aimed at improving civic amenities. Residents can expect further advancements in urban infrastructure in the near future.

The Commissioner also urged citizens to cooperate with the Corporation in maintaining the new facilities and to report any issues promptly to ensure timely resolution.

Minister Javed Rana Stresses Year-Round Green Fodder Supply

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Minister Javed Rana Stresses Year-Round Green Fodder Supply

Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment, and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmad Rana, today called for formulating comprehensive plans to ensure a year-round supply of green fodder. Chairing a meeting at the Civil Secretariat to review the functioning of the Agrostology department, the Minister emphasized the urgent need for enhanced fodder production and pasture improvement to meet the growing demand.

Key Discussions:

  • The Minister highlighted the adverse effects of unregulated grazing on natural regeneration and the decline of palatable grass species.
  • Stressing the importance of fodder productivity, Javed Rana urged a shift towards planting palatable grasses and tree species that offer high-quality fodder.
  • Priority areas identified include regions with high cattle density and the migratory routes of nomadic graziers.

Minister’s Remarks: Javed Rana underscored the significance of Agrostology in promoting sustainable fodder production. “We must focus on strategies that reduce dependency on forests while ensuring adequate fodder availability. This will help preserve natural ecosystems and support livestock,” he stated.

The Minister also called for:

  • Advanced Initiatives: Utilizing modern methods to increase fodder yield.
  • Research and Development: Investing in studies to develop species with better nutritional profiles and resilience.
  • Stakeholder Collaboration: Engaging local communities, graziers, and agricultural experts to implement sustainable fodder practices.

Conclusion: The meeting concluded with actionable directives aimed at enhancing fodder production, improving pastures, and reducing the pressure on forests. The Minister reiterated the need for robust, year-round planning to sustain livestock and support the livelihood of graziers and farmers.

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