Name: Electoral bonds: TMC's encashment doubled after 2021 Bengal elections win
Uploaded: 2024-03-15T18:12:30.000+05:30
Duration: T01M10S
Channel: Editorji News Desk
Description: The BJP, TMC and the Congress were the three biggest recepients of funds via electoral bonds from 2019 to 2024.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday presented the first budget of Jammu and Kashmir in six years and said it is a roadmap for economic growth and a true reflection of people's aspirations.

Omar Abdullah Presents J&K's First Budget in 6 Years

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday presented the first budget of Jammu and Kashmir in six years and said it is a roadmap for economic growth and a true reflection of people's aspirations.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday presented the first budget of Jammu and Kashmir in six years and said it is a roadmap for economic growth and a true reflection of people's aspirations.
Presenting the budget in the legislative assembly here, Abdullah, who holds the finance portfolio, praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman for their support in various sectors.
"I am happy to present the budget for the first time as the finance minister of J&amp;K. This is a roadmap for economic growth and a true reflection of people's aspirations," said the chief minister, who started his budget speech with a Persian couplet.
This is the first budget of the National Conference government after it came to power in October last year, ending six years of central rule.
The last budget session took place in 2018 under the then PDP-BJP government in the erstwhile state of J&amp;K, which was split into two union territories after the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019.
"Our challenges are vast and our limitations are many but we must collectively pledge to confront these challenges head on with unwavering resolve," Abdullah told the House.
He said he has endeavoured to prepare this maiden budget as a "true reflection of the dreams of our people, the needs of our future generations and the aspirations of every citizen of Jammu and Kashmir".
The restoration of statehood to J&amp;K is a deeply cherished aspiration of the people and "our government remains resolute in working towards its fulfilment", he said.
Before presenting the budget, Abdullah said in a post on X that he could have never imagined that he would be presenting the budget one day.
"A little more than 7 years ago, tongue firmly in cheek, I was imitating the ritual of Finance Ministers holding up their briefcases as they enter Assemblies &amp; Parliament to deliver the budget. Never in a million years did I ever imagine I'd be doing this for real," he said.
He also shared a picture of himself carrying a briefcase as he walked with the late BJP leader Devender Singh Rana.

Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh Mann calls for public support in the anti-drug campaign, emphasizing the government’s efforts to dismantle drug networks, confiscate illegal properties, and rehabilitate drug addicts.

Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann urges people to join fight against drugs

Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh Mann calls for public support in the anti-drug campaign, emphasizing the government&rsquo;s efforts to dismantle drug networks, confiscate illegal properties, and rehabilitate drug addicts.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has called on the people to actively participate in the fight against drugs to eradicate the menace from the state.
Speaking at the launch of the City Surveillance and Management System, he emphasized that the government has initiated a large-scale crackdown on drug trafficking. The campaign focuses on breaking the supply chain, imprisoning drug peddlers, and rehabilitating addicts.&nbsp;
While acknowledging the overwhelming public response to the anti-drug efforts, he stressed that success in this mission requires collective action.
Mann urged citizens to report drug smugglers, assuring strict action against them. He highlighted that the government is confiscating and demolishing properties acquired through drug money as part of its aggressive stance. "The drive against drugs will continue till a single ounce of this scourge is present in the state," he affirmed.
Highlighting key achievements, the Chief Minister noted that over 51,000 youths have secured government jobs, 90% of households receive zero electricity bills, and more than 2.5 crore people have benefited from free treatment at Aam Aadmi Clinics. He asserted that his government is fulfilling its promises while also implementing initiatives beyond their commitments. Unlike traditional politicians, Mann said his administration is focused solely on serving the people.
In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the Punjab government has launched the Sadak Surakhya Force to enhance road safety and reduce highway accidents. The force consists of 1,597 specially trained personnel, including women, equipped with 144 state-of-the-art vehicles. Since its launch in February last year, Punjab has recorded a 48.10% reduction in road accident casualties. The initiative has received praise from other states and the central government.
Mann reiterated his government&rsquo;s priority areas: health, education, power, water, infrastructure, and law and order. He assured that no effort is being spared to ensure Punjab's holistic development and elevate it to a leading position in the country.
Expressing pride in launching the new city surveillance initiative, Mann stated that the model would soon be expanded to other cities for broader public benefit. He reaffirmed the government&rsquo;s commitment to public safety and security.
Additionally, he urged citizens to follow road safety rules for their well-being and encouraged them to pledge adherence to traffic regulations. "Every effort is being made to facilitate the people, and no stone will be left unturned for this noble cause," he concluded.

The Punjab government is taking strict action against drug traffickers while providing rehabilitation and job opportunities for recovered addicts. 

Drug traffickers will be behind the bars or have to leave Punjab, says Health Minister Balbir Singh

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Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Balbir Singh reaffirmed the government's commitment to eradicating drugs from the state. He issued a strong warning, stating, "Drug traffickers will be behind bars or have to leave Punjab."
Speaking to the media after a meeting with officials and managers of government and private drug de-addiction centers at the Government Rehabilitation Centre in Janer, he emphasized that the Punjab government is actively fulfilling the promises made before coming to power. A comprehensive action plan has been devised to make Punjab drug-free, focusing on treating drug users with empathy and helping them reintegrate into society.
He highlighted the "War Against Drugs" campaign, initiated under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, as a key step in eliminating drug abuse. He stressed that eradicating drugs is a collective responsibility, urging people from all sections of society to support the cause. "We have to save our youth, and those leading them astray will not be spared," he added.
The government has adopted a compassionate approach toward drug users, treating them as patients rather than criminals. The first step is to transition users from injections to pills to prevent overdose-related deaths. Eventually, they will be weaned off pills through sports and employment opportunities.
A multi-pronged strategy is being implemented, including job creation, skill development, and rehabilitation programs. "Yesterday, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann handed over job letters to 763 candidates," he shared, adding that vocational training will be provided to those recovering from addiction to help them become self-reliant. A Narcotic Support Group will also be formed, working alongside de-addiction centers, with support from NRIs, NGOs, and religious institutions. Financial assistance will be extended to organizations actively involved in anti-drug efforts.
Eliminating "Chitta" (synthetic drugs) is a top priority. The campaign has received overwhelming support, with citizens expressing gratitude for the government&rsquo;s relentless efforts in rescuing their loved ones from addiction. Singh urged the people of Punjab to come together to combat this menace.
Appealing to women in particular, he encouraged them to seek help for family members struggling with addiction. "If any family member is trapped in drug abuse, take them to a government de-addiction center to save their life," he said.
He also dismissed any political protection for drug trade, stating that law enforcement is operating without political interference. "Unlike previous governments, no politician has a hand in drug smuggling," he asserted. Assets acquired through drug money will be confiscated and demolished as per legal provisions.
On the healthcare front, he announced that mobile Mohalla Clinic vans will soon be launched across Punjab, offering more than 40 health tests and 125 types of medicines. "In the next two to four months, 71 vans will be operational," he said, adding that 200 new health centers are also being set up. These mobile clinics will visit villages, covering two locations daily, and distribute free medicines.
The minister assured that hospitals are now well-stocked with medicines. "If any government health institution lacks medicines, the Civil Surgeon or SMO will be held accountable," he warned. Patients will no longer be asked to buy medicines from outside.
To enhance specialized healthcare, six centers will be established across Punjab for knee replacement surgeries. Additionally, a Center of Excellence for Dialysis has been launched in Ludhiana with 25 dialysis machines, with another center being developed at Rajindra Hospital under a hub-and-spoke model.
Issuing a strict warning to private drug de-addiction centers, he reminded them that their role is to detoxify patients, not just sell medication. "I will personally monitor these centers, and they will be inspected regularly," he declared. Any private de-addiction center found selling narcotic pills outside its premises will face strict action.
During the visit, he also gathered information about psychiatrists employed at private de-addiction centers.
The event was attended by Moga MLA Amandeep Kaur Arora, Deputy Commissioner Sagar Setia, SSP Ajay Gandhi, Moga Municipal Corporation Mayor Baljit Singh Channi, Additional Deputy Commissioners Jagwinderjit Singh Grewal and Charumita, SDM Dharamkot Himanshu Gupta, District Psychiatrist Charanpreet Singh Brar, Moga Market Committee Chairman Harjinder Singh Rode, and other officials.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann launched Phase-I of the City Surveillance and Traffic Management System in Mohali, integrating AI-powered CCTV cameras and an automated e-challan system.

Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann inaugurates AI-based surveillance system in Mohali

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann launched Phase-I of the City Surveillance and Traffic Management System in Mohali, integrating AI-powered CCTV cameras and an automated e-challan system to enhance public safety and streamline traffic enforcement.

In a major step towards making Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar (Mohali) a safer and crime-free city, the Punjab government has launched Phase-I of the City Surveillance and Traffic Management system.&nbsp;
Developed at a cost of ₹21.60 crore, this initiative aims to enhance public safety, monitor traffic violations, and strengthen law enforcement through AI-based surveillance.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann stated that this state-of-the-art system, with its Integrated Command and Control Center (ICCC) at Sector-79, Mohali, integrates 351 high-resolution CCTV cameras installed at 17 key junctions across the city. "This is a significant step towards enhancing urban surveillance and traffic management," he said.
Highlighting the technical capabilities of the system, he noted that it includes 175 Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras, 50 Red Light Violation Detection (RLVD) cameras, 92 Bullet Cameras for general surveillance, 18 PTZ (Pan, Tilt, and Zoom) cameras for advanced monitoring, and Speed Violation Detection systems at two key locations with 16 cameras. "A key feature of this initiative is the automated e-challan system, seamlessly integrated with NIC's VAHAN and SARATHI databases," he added.
The Chief Minister explained that the system automatically generates e-challans for various violations, including red-light jumping, overspeeding, triple riding, wrong-side driving, helmet-less riding, and stop line/zebra crossing infractions. "On an average, the system generates between 5,000 to 6,000 challans per day, significantly improving traffic enforcement and compliance," he stated. Following the successful implementation of Phase-I, the Punjab government is now planning Phase-II, which will extend coverage to additional locations, further strengthening the city's surveillance network.
As part of the next phase, strategic locations will be equipped with advanced CCTV surveillance, and major traffic junctions will feature AI-driven Adaptive Traffic Control Systems (ATCS) and Vehicle Actuated Control (VAC). Smart Traffic Lights will be introduced to adjust in real-time to traffic flow, reducing congestion and optimizing vehicle movement. Additionally, unified traffic corridors will be created to ensure smoother transit across Mohali, Kharar, Zirakpur, and Derabassi.
Describing the initiative as a milestone in urban security and smart traffic management, the Chief Minister emphasized its importance in Mohali's expansion as a commercial, IT, and residential hub. "Given Mohali's rapid expansion, this initiative will play a crucial role in maintaining law and order, ensuring seamless traffic flow, and enhancing public safety," he said. He reiterated the Punjab government's commitment to utilizing cutting-edge technology to develop safer and smarter cities, setting new benchmarks in urban governance and security.

Punjab Transport Minister reaffirms the government’s commitment to a drug-free Punjab, highlighting major drug seizures, anti-smuggling measures, and transport developments.

War against drugs will continue till final eradication: Punjab Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar

Punjab Transport Minister reaffirms the government&rsquo;s commitment to a drug-free Punjab, highlighting major drug seizures, anti-smuggling measures, and transport developments.

Punjab Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar, a member of the sub-committee formed by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, reaffirmed the Punjab Government&rsquo;s commitment to eradicating drug abuse.
He stressed that making Punjab drug-free and vibrant is a collective responsibility that requires active social participation.
During a visit to Fazilka, he chaired a meeting with officials from various departments, directing them to play an active role in the anti-drug campaign. He highlighted that properties acquired through drug trafficking are being seized, and unauthorized constructions linked to the drug trade are being demolished.
He urged village panchayats and municipal councils to hold Gram Sabha meetings and pass resolutions to boycott drug traffickers. Additionally, he suggested that individuals acting as guarantors for drug traffickers&rsquo; bail should also be socially boycotted.
Comparing drugs to a wildfire that can cause widespread destruction, he acknowledged the contributions of different sections of society in combating the crisis. He assured that the identities of those providing information about drug traffickers would be kept confidential and that their security would be ensured.
Addressing the media, Bhullar emphasized strict measures against medical drug abuse and illegal liquor. Given Fazilka&rsquo;s proximity to Rajasthan (79 km) and Pakistan (108 km), the government is also considering installing anti-drone technology to curb cross-border drug smuggling.
He recognized villages that have made significant progress in the anti-drug campaign, announcing rewards for fully drug-free villages while intensifying measures in high-risk areas.
Responding to queries, he stated that the Transport Department would implement strict guidelines to prevent drug smuggling via buses, warning that any driver or conductor found involved would face strict action.
Upon arrival in the district, Deputy Commissioner Amarpreet Kaur Sandhu and SSP Varinder Singh Brar welcomed him and presented a district report.
Key Developments
57 cases registered under the NDPS Act in two months &ndash; In 2025, Fazilka district recorded 57 cases under the NDPS Act, leading to 83 arrests. Authorities seized 6.512 kg of heroin, 254,040 intoxicating pills and capsules, and over ₹5.4 lakh in drug money.
The campaign focuses on six key areas, including action against smugglers, awareness campaigns, and rehabilitation efforts.
Safeguarding youth through educational initiatives &ndash; Schools and colleges in Fazilka have launched preventive measures to shield students from drug abuse. A total of 35,501 buddy groups have been formed, and 3,509 co-curricular activities were conducted in the current academic year to promote awareness.
Free treatment for drug victims &ndash; The district operates nine outpatient opioid-assisted treatment (OOAT) clinics, two de-addiction centers, and one rehabilitation center. The Punjab Government considers drug addicts as patients and provides them with free and confidential treatment.
1,000 new buses for Punjab &ndash; The Transport Department plans to procure 1,000 new buses. The feasibility of starting bus services from Fazilka to Amritsar and introducing mini-buses for evening retreat ceremonies at Sadiqi Checkpost is also being explored.
Dignitaries Present
The event was attended by MLAs Amandeep Singh Goldy Musafir (Balluana) and Fauja Singh Sarari (Guru Har Sahai), former MLA Arun Narang, DIG (Ferozepur Range) Swapn Sharma, Deputy Commissioner Amarpreet Kaur Sandhu, SSP Varinder Singh Brar, Additional Deputy Commissioner General Mandeep Kaur, ADC (Development) Subhash Chander, SDM Kanwarjit Singh Mann, Civil Surgeon Eric, District Planning Board Chairman Sunil Sachdeva, and Market Committee Chairpersons Upkar Singh (Abohar) and Devraj Sharma (Jalalabad), along with officials from various departments.

Punjab's Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur launched 'Project Hifazat' to enhance the safety and support system for women and children.

Punjab launches 'Project Hifazat' to strengthen women's safety and support system

Punjab's Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur launched 'Project Hifazat' to enhance the safety and support system for women and children.

On the eve of International Women's Day, Punjab's Minister for Social Security, Women, and Child Development, Dr. Baljit Kaur, launched 'Project Hifazat,' a significant initiative aimed at strengthening the support system for women and children facing violence.&nbsp;
This project, part of the Punjab government's commitment to ensuring safety and dignity for all, seeks to enhance last-mile connectivity for victims and provide a comprehensive response mechanism.
Speaking at the launch event held at MGSIPAP, Sector 26, Dr. Baljit Kaur emphasized the project's role in eliminating the fear that prevents women from reporting domestic violence, workplace harassment, and other forms of abuse. She urged women across Punjab to save the emergency helpline number 181 in their contacts to seek immediate help in case of emergencies.
Dr. Baljit Kaur reiterated that Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann envisions Punjab as a progressive and safe state, where women can live without fear. She highlighted that 'Project Hifazat' will play a crucial role in realizing this vision by providing victims with swift and effective support.
Despite existing initiatives, challenges remain in providing timely assistance to those in distress. The Minister stressed that "'Project Hifazat' has been designed to streamline coordination among different departments and agencies, ensuring immediate support for victims."
Under the framework of Mission Shakti and Mission Vatsalya, the 24x7 Women and Child Helpline will serve as the backbone of 'Project Hifazat.' The helpline will categorize calls as emergency, non-emergency, or informational, with critical cases immediately transferred to the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS-112).
The initiative promotes collaboration between the Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development, Punjab Police, and the Department of Health and Family Welfare. This multi-agency coordination will facilitate rescue operations, legal assistance, medical aid, and psychological support for victims.
Supervised by Deputy Commissioners and implemented by District Program Officers, the project will deploy dedicated rescue vehicles in each district to ensure swift assistance. Non-emergency cases will be referred to One Stop Centers (OSCs), District Child Protection Units (DCPUs), and District Hubs for Women's Empowerment, where victims will receive counseling, legal aid, and rehabilitation services. Information about shelter homes and welfare schemes will also be provided.
A state-of-the-art control room in Chandigarh will manage helpline traffic, provide details on women-centric programs, and generate reports for monitoring and evaluation.
Reaffirming the government's commitment to safeguarding women's and children's rights, Dr. Baljit Kaur stated, "'Project Hifazat' ensures that no victim remains unheard or unsupported. This initiative will create a safer environment and empower victims to rebuild their lives with dignity."
The Minister urged citizens to report cases of violence against women and children by calling helpline numbers 181 and 1098. Strengthening legal and social support, 'Project Hifazat' aims to enhance the implementation of key laws, including the Domestic Violence Act and the POCSO Act, fostering a safer society.
The event was attended by senior officials, including Raji P. Shrivastava, Special Chief Secretary, Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development; Gurpreet Kaur Deo, Special DGP, Community Affairs Division (CAD), Women Affairs; Sheena Aggarwal, Director, Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development; S.P. Singh Colonel (Retd.), General Manager, PESCO; Deputy Directors of the department, District Program Officers from all districts, and other officials and staff members.

Punjab Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond reaffirms the government's commitment to making the state drug-free, urging public cooperation, monitoring de-addiction centers, and warning drug smugglers of strict action.

Punjab government to make the state drug-free: Cabinet Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond

Punjab Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond reaffirms the government's commitment to making the state drug-free, urging public cooperation, monitoring de-addiction centers, and warning drug smugglers of strict action.

The Punjab government has intensified its efforts to combat drug abuse and rehabilitate affected individuals.&nbsp;
As part of this initiative, the government has vowed to hold drug smugglers accountable while ensuring proper treatment for those struggling with addiction.
Addressing the media after a meeting with officials at the Deputy Commissioner&rsquo;s office in Malerkotla, Punjab&rsquo;s Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Investment Promotion, Labour Welfare, Industry and Commerce, and Rural Development and Panchayats, Tarunpreet Singh Sond, reaffirmed the government&rsquo;s commitment to fulfilling its promises to the people of Punjab.&nbsp;
He stated that individuals who have fallen prey to drugs will receive treatment and be reintegrated into a healthy society.
He emphasized that the Punjab government&rsquo;s campaign to make the state drug-free will play a decisive role, urging every section of society to cooperate in eradicating drug abuse.&nbsp;
Additionally, he stressed that private de-addiction centers will be held accountable, and their administrators must provide reports on the number of drug addicts treated.
Sond also appealed to families to seek help for their loved ones battling addiction, assuring them that "if any family member is addicted to drugs, they should be taken to a government de-addiction center, and the government promises to save their lives and give them a chance to lead a healthy life again."
Sending a strong warning to drug traffickers, he declared, "Either give up the drug business or leave Punjab." He underlined the need to safeguard the youth and vowed that those leading them astray would not be spared. As part of awareness efforts, he directed officials to install awareness boards at all public places.
Deputy Commissioner Viraj S. Tidke presented an overview of the ongoing efforts in the district, assuring full support for the state government&rsquo;s campaign.
Senior Superintendent of Police Gagan Ajit Singh highlighted recent law enforcement actions, revealing that the district police had attached property worth Rs 13.3 crore in 18 drug-related cases over the past few days. On his arrival, he was honored with a Guard of Honour by the district police.
The meeting was attended by MLA Malerkotla Dr. Jamil Ur Rehman, MLA Amargarh Prof. Jaswant Singh Gajjanmajra, Chairman of the District Planning Board Saqib Ali Raja, Additional Deputy Commissioners Sukhpreet Singh Sidhu and Navdeep Kaur, along with other officials.

Tahawwur Rana petitions the US Supreme Court to stay his extradition to India, citing threats due to his identity, health concerns, and alleged discrimination against Muslims. 

Tahawwur Rana Fights Extradition to India

Tahawwur Rana petitions the US Supreme Court to stay his extradition to India, citing threats due to his identity, health concerns, and alleged discrimination against Muslims.&nbsp;

Tahawwur Rana, accused in connection with the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, has approached the US Supreme Court seeking an emergency stay on his extradition to India.
This request follows the approval of his extradition by the US, announced recently by former President Donald Trump during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the US.&nbsp;
In his petition, Rana expressed concerns about being tortured or killed if extradited, citing his identity as a Muslim of Pakistani origin and a former member of the Pakistani Army as factors that could make him vulnerable in India.
He also highlighted health concerns, including an abdominal aortic aneurysm, Parkinson's disease, and potential bladder cancer, suggesting that his life could be at risk in Indian custody.
Rana's petition references the Human Rights Watch 2023 World Report, alleging increasing autocracy in India and systematic discrimination against religious minorities, particularly Muslims, as part of his plea against extradition.
Rana, a known associate of David Coleman Headley&mdash;an American terrorist of Pakistani origin and a key figure in the November 26, 2008, attacks in Mumbai&mdash;is implicated in planning the attacks that killed 166 people.
Headley testified against Rana, stating that he conducted reconnaissance missions in Mumbai several times between 2007 and 2008.
A businessman with ties to Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence and terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba, Rana's role in facilitating the 26/11 attacks has been a thorny issue in India-US relations.
During a joint press conference with PM Modi, Trump emphasized the significance of Rana's extradition, calling him 'one of the very evil people of the world' involved in the attacks.
In 2011, a US court acquitted Rana of charges related to the Mumbai attacks but convicted him of providing material support to Lashkar-e-Taiba and aiding a terror plot in Denmark.
His recent review petition was rejected by the US Supreme Court.
The attacks on November 26, 2008, targeted multiple locations in Mumbai, including the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the Taj Mahal Hotel, resulting in the deaths of 166 individuals, among them security personnel and foreign nationals.

The Supreme Court mandates a comprehensive tree census in the Taj Trapezium Zone to enforce environmental laws effectively.

Tree Census Ordered in Taj Trapezium Zone

The Supreme Court mandates a comprehensive tree census in the Taj Trapezium Zone to enforce environmental laws effectively.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday directed the Taj Trapezium Zone authority to appoint Forest Research Institute to carry out a tree census in the area.
A bench of Justices Abhay Oka and N Kotiswar Singh said penal provisions against violators couldn&rsquo;t be implemented sans data of existing trees.
The TTZ, an area of 10,400 square-kilometre approximately, spreads across Agra, Firozabad, Mathura, Hathras, and Etah districts in UP and Bharatpur district in Rajasthan.
&ldquo;This data can be made available through tree census. We direct TTZ authority to appoint Forest Research Institute at Dehradun as an authority to carry out tree census of all existing trees in the area of TTZ. The formal order shall be passed within a week,&rdquo; the bench said.
The apex court said the object of the UP Protection of Trees Act, 1976 was to protect the trees and not to fell or cut the trees.
Without a tree census there cannot be any effective implementation of the provisions of 1976 Act, it added.
The top court had previously outlined the need for a census of existing trees and a mechanism to keep a vigil to ensure trees in the Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ) were not illegally felled.
The bench was hearing a plea over the unauthorised felling of trees in the TTZ when it said the census of existing trees in the area was required to check any illegal felling.
&ldquo;Prima facie, we are of the view that there needs to be a census of existing trees in the Taj Trapezium Zone and there needs to be a mechanism for keeping a vigil for ensuring that there is no unauthorised felling of trees,&rdquo; it had said.
The plea raises environmental concerns and underlines the need of preservation of historical monuments, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site The Taj Mahal, and its surrounding areas.
While hearing a separate plea in the matter on October 14, the top court said it would order demolition and restore the land or the highways to its original status, if its direction over compulsory afforestation in the TTZ was not complied with by the authorities.

Kiren Rijiju supports the three-language formula in NEP, countering Tamil Nadu’s opposition and advocating national unity.

Rijiju Defends Three-Language Formula

Kiren Rijiju supports the three-language formula in NEP, countering Tamil Nadu&rsquo;s opposition and advocating national unity.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Thursday said the three-language formula in the New Education Policy (NEP) is good for the whole country.
Responding to a query regarding the ongoing serious debate on the three-language policy in the NEP, especially from the southern states, he said that there are some miscommunications or some people deliberately "trying to play politics".
"The three-language policy in the national education policy is good for the whole country," the Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs told reporters here.
Rijiju was in Thiruvananthapuram to attend the regional review meeting and training workshop on the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK) for the states and union territories of the Southern Region.
"Today, honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji is the Prime Minister of India, but Hindi is not his mother tongue; his mother tongue is Gujarati. Our Home Minister Amit Shah ji his mother tongue is Gujarati. The Education Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, has Odia as his mother tongue and my mother tongue is Arunachali, but we are working as a team with the interest of our country foremost," Rijiju said.
So, let us not divide the country on the basis of religion or language, he added.
"We are all Indians; let us work together and Prime Minister Modi ji has continuously said that every region, every community, and everybody in India is equal, and everybody will be given equal treatment for protection and equal preference, so let us not divide the country on the basis of caste, creed, religion or community or state or region."
His statement came amidst strong opposition from the Tamil Nadu government against NEP 2020, which raised concerns over the "three-language formula" and accused the Centre of "attempting to impose Hindi".
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin reiterated his firm stance, stating that he would not agree to implement the NEP even if the Centre offered Rs 10,000 crore in funding.
In contrast, as per media reports, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu voiced strong support for the Centre, advocating for the learning of not just three but multiple languages.

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The BJP, TMC and the Congress were the three biggest recepients of funds via electoral bonds from 2019 to 2024. 

Electoral bonds: TMC's encashment doubled after 2021 Bengal elections win

The BJP, TMC and the Congress were the three biggest recepients of funds via electoral bonds from 2019 to 2024.&nbsp;

The Trinamool Congress was the second biggest reciever of funds through electoral bonds between 2019 and 2024. It encashed bonds worth Rs 1,609 crore during the period in total.&nbsp;
According to the Indian Express, the redemption of bonds by the Mamamta-Banerjee led party increased after it won the assembly elections in West Bengal in 2021.&nbsp;
The newspaper reported that the TMC encashed bonds amounting to Rs 43.4 crore between October-November 2020 and January 2021. In April 2021, it used bonds worth Rs 55.44 crore.&nbsp;
The TMC won the elections in May and in July 2021 it redeemed bonds totalling Rs 107.56 crore. The figure rose to Rs 141.92 crore in October 2021 and Rs 224 crore in January 2022.&nbsp;

She is a significant figure in the ongoing Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) land scam, where her husband has also been implicated.

Karnataka HC Voids ED Summons for CM's Wife

She is a significant figure in the ongoing Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) land scam, where her husband has also been implicated.

The Karnataka High Court has nullified the Enforcement Directorate's summons to BM Parvathi, wife of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
She is a significant figure in the ongoing Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) land scam, where her husband has also been implicated.
This decision was delivered by Justice M. Nagaprasanna, who also dismissed the summons issued to Urban Development Minister Byrathi Suresh, another individual the probe agency intended to question.
Earlier this year, in January, the court had put a hold on the ED&rsquo;s summons. Ms. Parvathi contended that the ED was revisiting a matter - pertaining to alleged land allotment irregularities - that was already under investigation.
The Karnataka branch of the anti-corruption watchdog, Lokayukta, had led these inquiries and concluded last month that there was insufficient evidence to justify an investigation against the Chief Minister and his wife. The body also noted that the complaint did not appear to warrant criminal charges.
The MUDA land scam came to light last year following accusations by anti-corruption activists. They alleged that between 2016 and 2024, MUDA had allotted compensatory plots of land, particularly in a high-end area of Mysuru, to Ms. Parvathi. This allocation reportedly exceeded the value of land acquired by the agency and was projected to have cost the state exchequer Rs 45 crore.
The ED is currently exploring money laundering aspects connected to the MUDA land scam.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has consistently refuted any misconduct in this matter or related transactions, stating that the 14 plots allocated to his wife were gifts from her brother.
"I will fight. I am not afraid of anything," he stated emphatically, maintaining that he would not resign as there has been no conviction in any case. He expressed his readiness to face the investigation and vowed to pursue a legal battle, especially following the Karnataka High Court&rsquo;s dismissal of his challenge to the Governor's sanction.

The memorial for Dr. Manmohan Singh will be built at Rashtriya Smriti Sthal alongside other leaders, following his family's formal consent.

Dr. Manmohan Singh's Memorial at Rashtriya Smriti Sthal

The memorial for Dr. Manmohan Singh will be built at Rashtriya Smriti Sthal alongside other leaders, following his family's formal consent.

In a recent development at the Rashtriya Smriti Sthal near Delhi's Raj Ghat, the family of the late Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has provided written consent for a memorial to be constructed in his honor.
This memorial is to be situated on a 900 sq m plot within the samadhi complex.
Following a site visit by Singh's family, including his daughters Upinder and Daman Singh and their spouses, Gursharan Kaur, Dr. Singh's widow, reportedly sent a formal acceptance letter to the government.
Upinder Singh confirmed this to The Indian Express, mentioning that a formal acceptance has indeed been dispatched.
At present, only two vacant plots remain at the Rashtriya Smriti Sthal. Earlier this year, one was offered to the family of former President Pranab Mukherjee.
The Singh family was offered the other plot, which is centrally located within the complex.
The process now involves establishing a Trust to which the land will be allotted. The family may apply for a construction grant of up to Rs 25 lakh for the memorial. The samadhi complex, which comprises nine sites, follows a unified architectural design for its cenotaphs.
The designated plot for Dr. Singh's memorial is flanked by the samadhis of notable figures, including former Prime Ministers and Presidents, such as Chandra Shekhar, R Venkataraman, Giani Zail Singh, and Pranab Mukherjee.

A third individual, Muraleedharan PV from Kerala, also sentenced to death in the UAE, is expected to be buried soon after necessary formalities are completed, as per sources from The Indian Express.

Indian Nationals Executed in UAE: Burials Completed

A third individual, Muraleedharan PV from Kerala, also sentenced to death in the UAE, is expected to be buried soon after necessary formalities are completed, as per sources from The Indian Express.

Two Indian nationals, Shahjadi Khan and Muhammed Rinash Arangilottu, who faced execution after receiving death sentences in the UAE, were laid to rest on Thursday in the presence of their families, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
Their burials adhered to UAE regulations, the MEA noted.
A third individual, Muraleedharan PV from Kerala, also sentenced to death in the UAE, is expected to be buried soon after necessary formalities are completed, as per sources from The Indian Express.
Shahjadi, aged 33 and a caregiver from Banda district in Uttar Pradesh, was executed on February 15 following her conviction for allegedly murdering a four-month-old child.
Rinash, hailing from Kannur in Kerala and employed at a travel agency in Al Ain before his arrest for the alleged murder of a UAE national, was executed a few weeks earlier. Muraleedharan was sentenced for the murder of an Indian expatriate.
On Thursday, the MEA announced, "Burial of Shahjadi Khan, an Indian national, was conducted today in Abu Dhabi following UAE authority regulations."
Family representatives paid respects at the mosque's funeral prayers and at Baniyas cemetery.
The Indian embassy was notified of the executions on February 28 by UAE authorities, subsequently contacting the families.
The MEA assured that the embassy extended all feasible consular and legal support to the nationals involved.
Embassy personnel assisted family representatives and participated in the final rites.
"The burial of Muhammed Rinash Arangilottu, another Indian national, was also conducted today.
His family participated in the prayers and paid last respects before his interment," the ministry relayed.

The DMK government has consistently opposed NEET, citing various discrepancies and has requested the central government to revoke the exam while seeking an exemption for the state.

Amit Shah vs MK Stalin: Hindi, NEP Clash

The DMK government has consistently opposed NEET, citing various discrepancies and has requested the central government to revoke the exam while seeking an exemption for the state.

In a recent address, Union Home Minister Amit Shah responded to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin&rsquo;s criticism of the central government's &ldquo;Hindi imposition&rdquo; and its approach towards the delimitation exercise.
Speaking at the 56th Raising Day of the CISF in Ranipet, Shah highlighted the Modi government&rsquo;s initiative allowing CISF aspirants to write exams in their regional languages, including Tamil.
He called on CM Stalin to introduce engineering and medical education in Tamil, praising Tamil Nadu&rsquo;s contribution to India&rsquo;s cultural and educational landscape.
As Tamil Nadu gears up for assembly elections next year, Stalin has intensified his criticism of the BJP, describing the three-language policy in the National Education Policy (NEP) as unpopular in the state.
He argued that past efforts to enforce Hindi faced resistance and political realignments, asserting that Tamil Nadu would stand against what he termed "Hindi colonialism."
Stalin has also been vocal against Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan&rsquo;s stance on the three-language formula.
Pradhan reassured that the NEP doesn&rsquo;t impose Hindi but focuses on mother-tongue education, including Tamil in Tamil Nadu, suggesting political motives behind the state&rsquo;s opposition.
The BJP-led central government had earlier withheld Rs 2,152 crore under the Samagra Shiksha scheme, pending Tamil Nadu's adoption of the NEP. Stalin&rsquo;s response framed this as an affront to the Tamil language, a sensitive topic given the state's historical aversion to Hindi imposition.
The CM&rsquo;s request for the release of funds came amid ongoing controversies over the NEP, perceived as an attempt to undermine regional languages.
Tamil Nadu&rsquo;s historical resistance to Hindi, tied to its Dravidian roots, has been reignited with its rejection of the NEP and criticisms over NEET.
The DMK government has consistently opposed NEET, citing various discrepancies and has requested the central government to revoke the exam while seeking an exemption for the state.
With these tensions and the election on the horizon, the interaction between the state and central government continues to underscore longstanding cultural and linguistic friction.

Supreme Court approves Adani's Dharavi project involvement amidst Seclink's appeal, acknowledging economic changes since 2019.

Supreme Court Backs Adani in Dharavi Case

Supreme Court approves Adani's Dharavi project involvement amidst Seclink's appeal, acknowledging economic changes since 2019.

The Supreme Court has decided not to halt the ongoing construction of the Dharavi Redevelopment Project, maintaining the Bombay High Court's decision in favor of Adani Group.
Seclink Technologies Corporation, a UAE-based company, had appealed against the Maharashtra government's decision to award the project to Adani Properties Limited after revoking Seclink's earlier bid.
During the hearing, the court acknowledged that work, including the demolition of railway quarters, had already commenced.
Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna, along with Justice PV Sanjay Kumar, noted that the Bombay High Court's ruling was reasonable, especially considering that the project would also include development of the railway line.
The Supreme Court also instructed that all project-related payments be processed through a single escrow account.
Notices have been issued to the Maharashtra government and Adani Properties, with the next hearing scheduled for May 25.
Seclink Technologies, which had initially proposed a Rs 7,200 crore bid for the redevelopment, informed the Supreme Court of its willingness to increase the offer by 20 percent. The court has asked Seclink to submit an affidavit with the revised bid details.
Back in December 2024, the Bombay High Court supported the Maharashtra government's choice to annul Seclink's 2019 bid and issue a new tender in 2022, ultimately awarding the project to Adani Group. Seclink's appeal to the Supreme Court followed this decision.
The government defended its action, pointing to significant changes in economic conditions from 2019 to 2022, including the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, currency fluctuations, and rising interest rates as reasons for the decision.

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