Thursday, July 23, 2026
Home Blog Page 270

Congress Accuses Government of Backtracking on Nagarnar Steel Plant Privatisation Promise

Himalayan Express
-
0
Congress Accuses Government of Backtracking on Nagarnar Steel Plant Privatisation Promise

NEW DELHI, August 17, 2024 — The Congress party has alleged that the government is reneging on its commitment regarding the Nagarnar Steel Plant in Bastar, Chhattisgarh, and is moving forward with plans to privatize it. This accusation comes after the government reportedly ignored pleas from the state’s political leadership.

Jairam Ramesh, the Congress General Secretary in charge of communications, took to X (formerly Twitter) to criticize the government. He referenced a media report suggesting that the Union Ministry of Finance is expected to invite financial bids for NMDC Steel (NSL) within the next two months.

“Kya hua tera waada, Woh kasam woh irada! It appears that NMDC Steel in Bastar will now definitely be privatised before the end of FY25,” Ramesh posted. He recalled a statement made by the Prime Minister on October 3, 2023, during the inauguration of the Steel Plant, where it was promised that the Nagarnar Steel Plant would remain under public ownership.

Ramesh further noted that on October 19, 2023, Swayambhu Chanakya reaffirmed the Prime Minister’s promise that the NMDC Steel Plant would not be privatized. He also highlighted the consensus in Chhattisgarh against the sale of the steel plant.

“Former BJP Chief Minister Raman Singh had written to the Prime Minister in April 2017 objecting to the privatisation of the plant,” Ramesh said. He also mentioned that former Congress Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel had repeatedly opposed the privatization and even proposed that the state government could manage its operations during a NITI Aayog meeting with the Prime Minister on February 21, 2021.

Ramesh accused the government of disregarding both the state’s political leaders and its own promises. “The non-biological PM and his government are now finalizing plans to sell the Nagarnar Steel Plant,” he said. He also shared a media report from October 2023 quoting Home Minister Amit Shah, who had assured that the NMDC-owned Nagarnar Steel Plant would not be privatized.

The Congress’s allegations reflect ongoing tensions over the future of the Nagarnar Steel Plant and the broader issues of privatization and state control.

Grand Religious Sermon Highlights Chari Pujan Ceremony

Himalayan Express
-
0
Grand Religious Sermon Highlights Chari Pujan Ceremony

Today, a grand religious sermon was held in conjunction with the auspicious Chari Pujan ceremony, drawing thousands of pilgrims, political leaders, religious heads, and prominent personalities from diverse backgrounds. The event was characterized by profound devotion and spiritual significance.

The Chari Pujan ceremony, a deeply revered tradition, saw a large gathering of devotees who came to honor the Chari Mubarak. This significant religious symbol represents divine presence and spiritual guidance, embodying the unity and strength of faith within the community.

During the sermon, religious leaders underscored the crucial role of the Chari Mubarak in preserving the cultural and spiritual heritage of the community. Khetar Pal Sharma, President of the Sanatan Dharma Sabha in Poonch, spoke on the historical and spiritual importance of the Chari Pujan, noting how it has served as a source of inspiration and resilience for generations.

Political figures in attendance also shared their reflections on the occasion, acknowledging the importance of such religious traditions in fostering communal harmony and upholding values of peace and brotherhood. They reiterated their commitment to preserving cultural heritage and supporting religious events that unite people.

The event concluded with prayers for peace, prosperity, and the well-being of all. The substantial turnout of both the public and dignitaries highlighted the deep-rooted faith and reverence for the Chari Mubarak, marking the ceremony as a pivotal moment in the religious calendar.

Dr. Jitendra Singh Honored with Prestigious “Distinguished Mentor of the Year” Award at ACP Conference

Himalayan Express
-
0
Dr. Jitendra Singh Honored with Prestigious “Distinguished Mentor of the Year” Award at ACP Conference

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, a distinguished Professor of Medicine and Diabetes, received the prestigious “Distinguished Mentor of the Year” award from the American College of Physicians (ACP) at the 9th Annual International Conference of the ACP – India Chapter held in Lucknow today. The accolade was presented by internationally renowned Dr. Elisa I. Choi.

During his inaugural address, Dr. Singh lauded India’s growing leadership in global health research and its significant contributions to medical health, research, and education. He emphasized the critical need for enhanced collaboration between private and public sectors and international organizations to further advance medical sciences.

Dr. Singh highlighted the success of India’s space sector, which, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative to open it up to private investments, has seen a substantial influx of several thousand crores and a notable increase in Space Startups. He noted that while India is grappling with a rise in non-communicable diseases, communicable diseases continue to persist. In contrast, Western nations that previously dealt primarily with non-communicable diseases are now also facing challenges with infectious diseases, particularly following the AIDS and COVID-19 pandemics.

Dr. Singh underscored the potential for India and the USA to collaborate more closely, leveraging India’s cost-effective research facilities, diverse medical conditions, and traditional medical knowledge. He also stressed the importance of prioritizing preventive healthcare for the younger generation, ensuring they are healthy and capable of contributing effectively to nation-building efforts as part of Prime Minister Modi’s vision for a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047.

In addition, Dr. Singh highlighted the expanding collaborations in various sectors, including space exploration. He referred to the recent participation of Indian astronaut Group Captain Shukla in an expedition to the International Space Station with American and international counterparts, reflecting the growing global engagement under PM Modi’s leadership.

 

 

Imran Khan Supports Military’s Internal Accountability Process Against Ex-Spy Chief Faiz Hameed

Himalayan Express
-
0
Imran Khan Supports Military’s Internal Accountability Process Against Ex-Spy Chief Faiz Hameed

Islamabad, August 16, 2024 – Jailed former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has expressed his support for the military’s internal accountability process concerning Lt Gen (Retd) Faiz Hameed, the former director general of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Hameed, who led the ISI from 2019 to 2021, was arrested on August 12 over allegations related to the misuse of his official authority in the Top City case.

Speaking informally to journalists from Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi after a court hearing, Khan emphasized the importance of investigating any involvement of Hameed in the May 9 protests, as suggested by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif. Khan’s remarks mark a notable shift in his stance toward Hameed, with whom he had previously had a strained relationship following the latter’s controversial court martial.

Khan welcomed the ongoing internal accountability measures initiated by the military, advocating for comprehensive and fair action. Hameed’s tenure as ISI chief was marked by significant influence and power, particularly as he replaced Lt Gen Asim Munir, who was removed under Khan’s government.

The controversy surrounding Hameed intensified when Moeez Ahmed Khan, the owner of Top City, lodged a petition with the Supreme Court in November 2023. The petition alleged that Hameed’s involvement led to the illegal seizure of valuables and extortion of cash amounting to Rs 4 crore by ISI officials.

The Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice Qazi Faiz Isa, along with Justices Attar Minullah and Aminuddin, decided to refer the case to the Ministry of Defence for a thorough investigation. In response, the army established a high-level inquiry committee in April 2024, headed by a major general.

Hameed, who retired prematurely in November 2022, was previously seen as a close ally of former Army Chief Gen Qamar Bajwa. His role as ISI chief has been pivotal in Pakistan’s security and foreign policy landscape, highlighting the significance of the ongoing inquiry and its implications for the military and political spheres in Pakistan.

Sharad Pawar Criticizes Centre for Ignoring Leader of Opposition’s Prestige at Independence Day Event

Himalayan Express
-
0
Sharad Pawar Criticizes Centre for Ignoring Leader of Opposition’s Prestige at Independence Day Event

Mumbai, August 16, 2024 – Sharad Pawar, President of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), condemned the Centre for allegedly diminishing the status of the Leader of Opposition by assigning Rahul Gandhi a seat in the last rows during the Independence Day celebrations.

Speaking to party workers from the opposition bloc Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), Pawar accused the Centre of disrespecting the constitutional role of the Leader of Opposition. He noted that despite the BJP’s loss of a majority in the Lok Sabha elections, the threat to democratic values persists.

Pawar criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for allegedly neglecting parliamentary norms, including his absence from the Budget session. He emphasized that the prestige of both the Prime Minister and the Leader of Opposition should be upheld equally, asserting that the current government does not respect democratic institutions.

“The Centre did not honour the post of Leader of Opposition, as evidenced by Rahul Gandhi being seated in the last rows,” Pawar stated. He recalled that during his tenure as Leader of Opposition, his seating arrangement at Independence Day events was on par with cabinet ministers, contrasting this with Gandhi’s current seating placement.

The Congress party had previously criticized the seating arrangement for Gandhi, calling it a reflection of Modi’s “pettiness” and a lack of respect for democratic traditions. Pawar’s remarks underscore ongoing tensions between the opposition and the current administration over issues of protocol and democratic respect.

Omar Abdullah Criticizes Pre-Poll Alliances and Plans to Report Transfers to Election Commission

Himalayan Express
-
0
Omar Abdullah Criticizes Pre-Poll Alliances and Plans to Report Transfers to Election Commission

Srinagar, August 16, 2024 – Omar Abdullah, Vice President of the National Conference, has ruled out the possibility of a pre-poll alliance with other parties for the upcoming assembly elections. Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Abdullah emphasized that the party was prepared to contest the elections independently.

Addressing the media, Abdullah remarked that recent transfers within the Jammu and Kashmir administration, including the shifting of the Director General of Police (DGP), were unprecedented. He expressed concerns about the timing and scale of these transfers, suggesting they might be politically motivated.

“We have seen intense transfers before, but the current pace and scope are remarkable,” Abdullah said. “Given the upcoming assembly elections, we will be raising our concerns with the Election Commission regarding these massive transfers.”

Abdullah also indicated that while the party was open to alliances, the likelihood of finalizing any pre-poll agreements before the elections was slim. He assured that the National Conference would announce its candidates in due course, contingent upon any potential developments regarding alliances.

The statement comes amid heightened scrutiny of administrative changes in Jammu and Kashmir ahead of the elections. The National Conference’s stance and planned actions reflect ongoing political dynamics and preparations as the election period approaches.

Vice President Dhankhar Urges Youth to Explore Opportunities Beyond Civil Services

Himalayan Express
-
0
Vice President Dhankhar Urges Youth to Explore Opportunities Beyond Civil Services

New Delhi, Aug 16 — Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar expressed his concerns on Friday about the overwhelming presence of coaching centre advertisements in newspapers, which he described as a “seductive” draw for the civil services. Addressing the induction programme for the first batch of the joint Masters/LLM degree in Intellectual Property (IP) Law and Management at the National Law University, Delhi, Dhankhar urged students to consider diverse and lucrative opportunities beyond the civil service.

“Now, I find the extravaganza of coaching centre advertisements overall in the newspapers,” Dhankhar remarked. “Page one, page two, page three are filled up with faces of boys and girls who have made it. The same faces are being used by multiple organisations.”

He pointed out that the significant cost of these advertisements is funded by the aspirations of young candidates seeking to secure a future for themselves. “Look at the extravaganza of these advertisements, the cost, every penny of that advertisement has come from those young boys and girls who are in pursuit of securing a future for themselves,” he added.

Dhankhar encouraged the youth to explore a broader range of opportunities. “The time has come, let us come out of the silos of seductive civil service jobs. We know the opportunities are limited but we have to look away and find there are enormous vistas of opportunities far more lucrative that enable you to contribute (to the nation) massively,” he said.

He also urged young people to reject and counteract “forces that keep self-interest above the interest of the country.”

CRPF DG Anish Dayal Singh Appointed Additional DG of NSG

Himalayan Express
-
0
CRPF DG Anish Dayal Singh Appointed Additional DG of NSG

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has appointed Anish Dayal Singh, Director General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), to hold the additional charge of Director General (DG) of the National Security Guard (NSG) effective Thursday. This appointment comes in the wake of Nalin Prabhat being designated as the new Director General of Jammu and Kashmir Police.

Nalin Prabhat, a 1992-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, will take over the role of Jammu and Kashmir Police Chief following the retirement of the incumbent R R Swain on September 30. Prabhat was transferred from the Andhra Pradesh cadre to the AGMUT cadre on Wednesday for this new assignment.

According to the MHA’s order, Singh, a 1988-batch IPS officer of the Manipur cadre, will oversee the NSG in an additional capacity “until the joining of the regular incumbent or until further orders, whichever is earlier.” Singh has also been handling the additional charge of DG of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) since August, following the retirement of DG Nina Singh.

In addition to his new role with the NSG, Singh will be leading three key forces. The government is expected to announce several new IPS appointments soon, as there are upcoming vacancies in key positions. The Border Security Force is currently led by Sashastra Seema Bal DG Daljit Singh Chawdhary in an additional capacity, and the Narcotics Control Bureau will soon need a new DG as S N Pradhan is set to retire at the end of the month. The position of Director at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy in Hyderabad has also been managed in an additional capacity since February 28.

 

 

President Murmu, PM Modi Lead Tributes to Atal Bihari Vajpayee on Death Anniversary

Himalayan Express
-
0
President Murmu, PM Modi Lead Tributes to Atal Bihari Vajpayee on Death Anniversary

President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi led a solemn tribute to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on the occasion of his death anniversary today. The ceremony was held at Vajpayee’s memorial, ‘Sadaiv Atal,’ in the capital city.

In addition to the President and the Prime Minister, the homage was attended by a number of prominent dignitaries, including Union ministers and leaders from various political parties. Their presence underscored the widespread respect and admiration for Vajpayee, who is remembered as a towering figure in Indian politics.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a revered orator and strategist, was instrumental in shaping the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) during the coalition era of the 1990s. His tenure as Prime Minister from 1998 to 2004 is noted for significant reforms and a marked boost in infrastructure development. Vajpayee’s leadership played a key role in consolidating the BJP’s position on the national stage.

Vajpayee passed away in 2018 at the age of 93, leaving behind a legacy of statesmanship and visionary governance. Today’s tributes reflected the enduring impact of his contributions to Indian politics and society.

Model Higher Secondary School Sawjian Unfurls Magnificent 78-Feet-Long Tricolor to Commemorate India’s 78th Independence Day

Himalayan Express
-
0
Model Higher Secondary School Sawjian Unfurls Magnificent 78-Feet-Long Tricolor to Commemorate India’s 78th Independence Day

In a remarkable display of patriotism and unity, Model Higher Secondary School Sawjian commemorated India’s 78th Independence Day by unfurling an extraordinary 78-feet-long Indian National Flag. This grand event, symbolizing the collective pride and dedication of the students, faculty, and the community, took place at the school premises at 11 AM, serving as a tribute to the nation’s enduring spirit.

The initiative for this exceptional celebration was envisioned by Anwar Khan, the principal of Model Higher Secondary School Sawjian. His relentless efforts, along with the unwavering support of the staff and students, brought this idea to fruition. The enormous tricolor stood as a testament to the school’s commitment to instilling a deep sense of patriotism and respect for national symbols among its students.

The day’s festivities included a vibrant Tiranga Yatra, a 3 km-long rally that saw participation from 336 students across various local schools, including the Girls Middle School Sawjian and Middle School Maidan. Principal Anwar Khan led the rally, setting an inspiring example for the students. This memorable sight saw the 78-feet-long tricolor being carried through the streets of Sawjian, resonating with patriotic slogans and songs sung by enthusiastic participants.

During the rally, students passionately chanted slogans celebrating the nation’s heritage and expressed their love for the country through songs that echoed themes of national intelligence and unity. This event was particularly noteworthy for the pride and patriotism it ignited among the young participants, many of whom were experiencing such a profound celebration of their national identity for the first time.

In his address to the students, Principal Anwar Khan emphasized the importance of honoring national symbols and encouraged the youth to remain steadfast in their commitment to the nation. He highlighted the role of education in fostering a sense of responsibility towards the country and urged the students to uphold the values of unity and integrity.

The rally, which began at Model Higher Secondary School Sawjian and culminated at the Police Post Sawjian, received widespread appreciation from the local community. The presence of Incharge Police Post Sawjian, Sushant Singh Sambyal, who accompanied the rally, added to the event’s significance. Addressing the gathering, Sambyal praised the school and its principal for organizing such a meaningful initiative in a region so close to the Line of Control (LOC).

The successful organization of this event underscores the dedication of Principal Anwar Khan and the faculty of Model Higher Secondary School Sawjian in nurturing a sense of patriotism and civic responsibility among the students. Their efforts have not only made this Independence Day celebration a historic occasion but also strengthened the bonds of community and nationhood in Sawjian.

The entire region applauds the Higher Secondary School Sawjian for this unique and inspiring initiative, which has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on all who participated and witnessed this momentous occasion.

 

 

1...269270271...1,135Page 270 of 1,135

Travel

Upsc

POPULAR CATEGORY

ABOUT US

Contact us: info@himalayanexpress.in

FOLLOW US

© Himalayan Express Designed And Developed By TR Technology Solutions.