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BJP Attacks Congress On Rahul Gandhi’s Modi Mimicry, Congress Defends Student Interaction By Rahul Gandhi

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Rahul Gandhi: A political controversy erupted after a comedian mimicked Prime Minister Narendra Modi during Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ event in Indore. The BJP criticized the act, while the Congress defended Rahul Gandhi’s interaction with students and highlighted the event’s focus on education and student concerns.

BJP attacks Congress over Modi mimicry at Rahul Gandhi event

A political controversy has ensued after a comedian impersonated Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Congress Party leader Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ program in Indore on September 20. The Congress released a video of stand-up comedian Pulkit Mani performing the comedy sketch with Gandhi.

BJP slams the Congress

The BJP has strongly slammed the event, with Union ministers Piyush Goyal and Kiren Rijiju criticizing the Congress for mocking the Prime Minister. While Goyal termed the event as political drama, Rijiju has called out the decision to mock the Prime Minister and his mother. Yogi Adityanath, Smriti Irani, and Sandeep Pathak are some of the other BJP leaders who have criticized the event.

Congress defends Gandhi’s engagement with students

The Congress party has tried to defend Gandhi by highlighting his engagement with students and not responding to the BJP’s criticism about the mimicry. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh has said that Gandhi is taking up issues of students and is asking for accountability from the education system.

Political exchange continues

Rahul Gandhi: The controversy has led to another exchange between the BJP and Congress, with both parties presenting different interpretations of the Indore event. The BJP has focused its criticism on the mimicry, while the Congress has highlighted Gandhi’s student-focused campaign and interaction.

Banks To Close For 5 Days on the Trot? Bank Strike Announced, Check SBI Advisory

Bank- Strike
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Bank customers may have restricted access to normal branch services for five continuous days from September 26 to September 30 due to a proposed three-day countrywide bank strike, which will take place from September 28 to 30, 2026. The dates come right after the weekend holiday days of September 26 and 27.

SBI sends out an advisory before the bank strike

The State Bank of India (SBI) has issued an advisory asking customers to do all their critical banking transactions before the proposed strike commences. The advisory would be more helpful where the work is related to visiting a branch, assistance from bank personnel, or any physical document work. The three-day strike is proposed by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) from September 28 to September 30. 

What do SBI customers need to do?

Customers who have some branch-related pending work must try to complete it before September 28. This includes any document work, account work, or anything that involves assistance from bank employees.

Will UPI and online banking work?

Routine banking transactions through online banking, YONO, mobile banking, and UPI will still go on since these are possible means of payment and fund transfers without visiting the physical branch. Transactions that involve physical documentation, certain check processing, and those requiring human assistance may be delayed in case the bank branches are affected.

Why the disruption in banking service for five days?

The planned strike follows right after Saturday, September 26, and Sunday, September 27. Thus, the users of physical bank branches can be affected by the lack of regular physical banking service from September 26 to September 30. UFBU has earlier conducted a nationwide strike on September 11 and is planning further strikes, including a continuous strike starting October 26, as part of its ongoing program. 

8th Pay Commission: 10 Months Passed, What Has Happened on DA, HRA and Fitment Factor?

8th Pay Commission
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The 8th Pay Commission has completed around 10 months since its formation, with the commission currently holding consultations with central government employees, pensioners and their organisations on salary, pension and allowance-related issues.

The commission was constituted on November 3, 2025, and has been given 18 months to submit its recommendations. This means it has roughly until May 2027 to submit its report. However, no final decision has yet been announced on the fitment factor, Dearness Allowance (DA) merger or revised House Rent Allowance (HRA) rates.

8th Pay Commission Meetings Underway

The commission has been conducting meetings with employee and pensioner organisations in different parts of the country.

Recently, consultations were held in Chandigarh from September 16 to 18, following meetings in cities including Chennai and Puducherry. The commission is scheduled to hold its next meeting in Bengaluru on October 7 and 8, 2026.

These meetings are part of the consultation process through which the commission is gathering views on pay, allowances, pensions and other service-related matters.

Fitment Factor: No Final Decision Yet

The fitment factor is one of the most closely watched issues among central government employees because it will influence the calculation of revised basic pay.

Employee organisations have submitted different demands for a higher fitment factor. Some organisations have sought a factor close to 4, while other proposals have suggested different figures.

For example, if a hypothetical fitment factor of 2 were applied to the current Level 1 basic pay of ₹18,000, the revised basic pay would mathematically become ₹36,000. However, this is only an illustration and not an announced 8th Pay Commission decision.

‘Bhagwant Mann Sarkar Dobara’ Slogan Echo in Sri Anandpur Sahib Assembly Constituency

Punjab News

In a boost to the Aam Aadmi Party in the Sri Anandpur Sahib Assembly constituency, dozens of Congress leaders and workers from village Nanowal joined the party today, expressing their faith in the pro-people policies of the Punjab government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann. The new entrants said they were impressed by the development and welfare work being carried out by the Mann government across Punjab, particularly in the Sri Anandpur Sahib constituency. Cabinet Minister and MLA Harjot Singh Bains welcomed the new members into the party and urged them to work with greater commitment to further strengthen the party’s policies and public welfare initiatives.

On the occasion, the leaders who joined the AAP said that the development and public welfare works undertaken by the Mann government across Punjab, particularly in the Sri Anandpur Sahib constituency, had impressed them. They said that efforts were being made to maintain direct contact with people in the constituency, hear their concerns and address their problems at the spot. Referring to the recently held Lok Milni in village Jindwari, they said that a large number of people had used the platform to put forward their concerns and demands before the government.

The new members said that under the leadership of Cabinet Minister Harjot Singh Bains, several development works related to roads, bridges and other basic infrastructure were being carried out across the villages of the constituency. They said that work was also underway on several key projects, including arrangements for irrigation water in the Changer area and the construction of new bridges and culverts. They also highlighted the progress made towards the four-laning of the Nangal-Kiratpur Sahib road, saying the project would further improve transportation and connectivity in the region.

Cabinet Minister Harjot Singh Bains said that the Aam Aadmi Party government’s foremost objective was to ensure that every person benefited from government schemes and facilities without any discrimination. He said that AAP volunteers and party workers in the constituency were regularly reaching out to people, listening to their concerns and working to address their needs. He said that politics should be driven by communal harmony, mutual respect and development rather than a sense of revenge. He added that the pace of development in the constituency would be further accelerated by taking people from every village and every section of society along.

The new members who joined the party said that they would actively work to take the policies of the Aam Aadmi Party to every household and serve the people. They said that they would play their role in taking the development and public welfare works being undertaken by the government to the people. On this occasion, Harjot Singh Bains welcomed all the workers who joined the party and said that every new colleague would be given due respect in the party and that they would work together for the progress of the constituency.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Begins Door-To-Door Election Campaign From Dhuri, Highlights ‘Mann Da Munafa’

Punjab News

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday began the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)’s door-to-door election campaign from Dhuri, taking the government’s four-and-a-half-year report card directly to people’s homes and placing ‘Mann Da Munafa’ at the centre of its campaign narrative. Highlighting the tangible financial benefits of the government’s work, he said every family was receiving an annual benefit of ₹1.82 lakh through initiatives including free electricity, healthcare, education and Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna.

As people warmly welcomed him during the campaign, the Chief Minister said AAP would go to every household with its record of work since 2022 and keep the campaign positive, focused on what the government has delivered for Punjab. He said the AAP would seek people’s support on the strength of work delivered on the ground, while questioning the opposition over its record and the issue of drugs.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Goes Door-To-Door In Dhuri, Connects With Families

During the outreach, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann went door-to-door across Dhuri, meeting families and interacting with people from all walks of life, including elderly residents, women, youngsters and children. He listened to their views, discussed the work undertaken by the government over the past four-and-a-half years and explained how various schemes and initiatives were translating into direct benefits for ordinary households. Residents warmly welcomed CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, shared their experiences and expressed their appreciation for the work carried out by the government, as he said the same report card would now be taken to every household across Punjab.

Sharing a few snippets from this campaign, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated on X: “Today, I began the party’s door-to-door campaign from my constituency, Dhuri. We will go to every household with the report card of the work our government has done for Punjab over the past four and a half years. We have implemented all the guarantees we made in 2022 on the ground. With facilities such as free electricity, better schools and Aam Aadmi Clinics, every family is now saving around ₹15,000 per month. We have delivered on our promises, which is why we are coming before you today with our heads held high.”

Interacting with the people, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Every family in Punjab is today benefiting by ₹1.82 lakh annually from the initiatives rolled out by our government. This is not an abstract figure. It represents the money that a household no longer has to take out of its own pocket for electricity, healthcare, education and other essential services. I want every family to sit down and calculate for itself how much it is saving every month. That is the real meaning of ‘Mann Da Munafa’.”

The Chief Minister pointed out his government’s welfare initiatives had reduced the financial burden of essential services on families, allowing them to use their hard-earned money for other household needs. “Free electricity, healthcare, education and Maavan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna are helping people save their hard-earned money. Lakhs of households across Punjab are receiving zero electricity bills, which means that money that earlier went towards electricity charges can now be spent on children, homes and farms. The expansion of primary healthcare has also meant that a fever, a check-up or a basic diagnostic test does not have to force a family to borrow money or dip into its savings,” he said.

He said, “Improvements in government schools have given parents greater confidence to educate their children without the burden of private fees. The philosophy behind these decisions is simple: the common man’s money must be spent on the common man. Public revenue belongs to the people who generate it and must return to them in the form of services they can see, use and feel.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “For decades, the people of Punjab paid taxes without receiving facilities in proportion to what they contributed. Our government is working to close that gap by directing resources towards households rather than privilege. ‘Mann Da Munafa’ is a simple question for every family: how much better off is your household today than it was before? Calculate what you save every month, and that answer will speak louder than any campaign speech.”

Turning to rural development, the Chief Minister noted that his government had changed the manner in which resources were being taken to villages and had made village-level development a central part of its approach. “For the first time in Punjab’s history, every village is receiving crores of rupees from the government for development works. Funds are now flowing to panchayats across the state for streets, drainage, water supply, community buildings, sports grounds, street lighting and other works identified by the villages themselves. The change is not only in the quantum of funds but also in how these funds are being distributed,” he said.

He said, “Every village, regardless of which party it supported, is now being treated as an equal claimant on the state’s resources. The money being spent belongs to all the people of Punjab, not to any party or leader. Rural Punjab was neglected for too long by successive governments that concentrated attention on a handful of constituencies while ignoring the rest. Our approach is to strengthen the village as the basic unit of development.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated strengthening village infrastructure was also important for creating better opportunities for young people within Punjab and reducing the need to migrate in search of basic facilities. “Better roads, reliable water, functioning schools and accessible health centres in every village are the foundation on which a prosperous Punjab will be built. Our young people should not be forced to leave their homes simply because their own villages do not have the facilities they need. The results of this investment are already visible in the pace of work being carried out across districts, and people can see for themselves the projects completed in their own and neighbouring villages,” he said.

On the campaign strategy, he said AAP would keep its election campaign focused on its governance record rather than personal attacks or negativity. “Our entire election campaign will remain positive and we will talk only about our work. We will place our record before the people and let them judge it, rather than build a campaign on abuse and negativity. Our workers and candidates will carry the same message into every constituency: the savings delivered to families, the villages developed and public money spent on public welfare,” he said.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, “Just like in 2022, we are once again receiving the love and blessings of people across Punjab. The affection shown by families in Dhuri reflects a sentiment that is visible across the state. This support also carries a responsibility, and we will continue to work with the same commitment with which we began.”

He said door-to-door outreach provided the most direct opportunity for political representatives to account for their work before the people. “Door-to-door outreach is the truest form of politics because it requires a leader to stand before a family and account for what has been done. We are going to every household with our report card and asking people to judge us on the basis of the work that has been delivered,” said the Chief Minister.

Commenting on the opposition, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Congress is fighting among itself in Punjab, with its leaders more occupied with internal contests than with the concerns of the people, while the Shiromani Akali Dal has been wiped out and no longer commands a presence on the ground. Parties that spent decades in power have been left with little to show for it, which is why they now avoid any discussion of performance.”

On the issue of drugs, the Chief Minister questioned the BJP’s position and referred to the movement of drugs from Gujarat into Punjab. He said those raising the issue for political purposes should also answer questions about their own record. “With what face is the BJP talking about drugs when it is bringing drugs into Punjab from Gujarat? Those who raise the issue for political advantage must first answer for their own record. They do not have the moral right to question the state government when they were the people who introduced the drug problem in the state during their time in power,” he said.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said the door-to-door campaign would now be taken forward across Punjab, with party workers and candidates presenting the government’s record directly before households. “Our party workers and candidates will now take this message to every constituency. We will talk about the record of savings delivered to families, the development of villages and public money being spent on the public. We have done the work, and that is why today we are coming before the people with our heads held high,” he said.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann launches the Distribution of 1.26 Crore Mukh Mantri Sehat Cards, Providing Security Cover To 54 Lakh Families

Punjab News

A serious illness can push an ordinary family into financial uncertainty, but in Punjab, a ₹10 lakh healthcare safety net is now reaching millions of households. At the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna Card Distribution Ceremony in Mohali, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann highlighted how 1.26 crore health cards have provided security cover to 54 lakh families, with ₹1,310 crore already spent on the treatment of more than 7 lakh patients under the scheme.

Calling it the world’s only unconditional and completely free healthcare scheme, the Chief Minister said the initiative ensures that families can access treatment without worrying about the cost, while Aam Aadmi Clinics are further strengthening affordable healthcare across the state. He said the government’s larger objective is to ensure every citizen remains healthy and build a ‘Rangla Punjab’.

Taking to X, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated: “Today, at the ‘Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna Card Distribution Ceremony’ in Mohali, I shared my thoughts with the people. Providing quality healthcare facilities to the people of Punjab is the top priority of our government. Today, health cards were distributed to beneficiaries, giving every family access to free treatment worth up to ₹10 lakh. The people attending the event also wholeheartedly appreciated this initiative of the government. Our goal is to keep every citizen healthy and create a ‘Rangla Punjab’. Inquilab Zindabad.”

Addressing the gathering during the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna card distribution function here, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the scheme provides cashless treatment of up to ₹10 lakh without charging beneficiaries a single penny. “While people in many foreign countries have to purchase health insurance and pay a premium before accessing medical facilities, Punjab is providing cashless treatment of up to ₹10 lakh without putting any financial burden on the beneficiaries,” he said.

The Chief Minister affirmed, “Our objective is not merely to provide treatment but to ensure that no family is forced into debt or financial distress because of illness. Healthcare should not become a luxury available only to those who can afford it.”

He said, “In foreign countries, people generally have to purchase health insurance by paying a premium. In Punjab, our government is providing this health facility without putting any such financial burden on the people. We have ensured that people can access treatment without worrying about whether they have money in their pockets. No family should have to postpone or abandon treatment because of financial constraints.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Expensive treatment can push a poor family into a situation where it has to choose between an unaffordable medical bill and life. We have changed this situation. Today, people can get treatment from a government or private hospital of their choice. This scheme provides cashless treatment of up to ₹10 lakh and is a major step towards providing both health and financial security to the people of Punjab. There are no conditions for availing its benefits.”

The Chief Minister said, “Our government’s healthcare initiative represents our broader philosophy of putting the common man at the centre of governance. We understand the difficulties faced by ordinary people because our policies are designed around their everyday needs.”

Taking a dig at his political opponents, he said, “If the treatment is right, there is no need to change the doctor. Similarly, if the government is people-oriented, there is no need to change it.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The transformation is not restricted to healthcare. The colours of ‘Rangla Punjab’ have started becoming visible across different sectors. Punjab is a blessed land with immense potential and we are working to realise the dreams of Shaheed Bhagat Singh by creating opportunities for our people within the state.”

The Chief Minister said, “We want to carve a happy, prosperous and vibrant Punjab. We do not want a California. We want Punjab to become strong on its own soil so that our young people can build their future here.”

Highlighting the financial relief being provided through various government initiatives, he said, “Schemes such as the Maavan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna, free bus travel scheme, regulation of private school fees, Meri Rasoi Scheme, Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna and others are collectively providing substantial savings and benefits to families. According to our assessment, every family is benefiting by around ₹1.82 lakh annually, while for some families the total benefit is as high as ₹2.72 lakh. These initiatives are aimed at putting money back into the hands of the common man by reducing expenditure on essential services.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Our healthcare infrastructure has also been strengthened through a network of 1,100 Aam Aadmi Clinics. These clinics have recorded around 5.5 crore OPD visits, which reflects how primary healthcare services have been brought closer to residential areas. People should not have to travel long distances for basic healthcare. Aam Aadmi Clinics have taken healthcare facilities closer to their homes and made them accessible to ordinary families,” he said.

The Chief Minister also announced that a three-month instalment under the Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna will be released on October 1. “We are committed to supporting our beneficiaries and ensuring that the benefits of our schemes reach people at the grassroots level,” he said.

Taking a dig at opposition parties, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Those who failed to provide meaningful relief to ordinary people are now questioning schemes that are directly benefiting families. People can themselves see the difference between governments that merely made announcements and a government that is delivering benefits at the grassroots level.”

The Chief Minister also hit out at the Centre, saying, “The Centre has withheld funds due to Punjab, but we have not stopped providing facilities to the people. Despite this, we have continued our welfare initiatives and development works.”

He said, “We have plugged leakages and ensured that public money is used for public welfare. We have never said that the treasury is empty. Instead, we have ensured optimum utilisation of government resources.”

“We are also honouring our commitments towards employees and ensuring payment of their legitimate dues,” he said.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann further announced that government employees will also receive a Diwali gift.

“Under previous governments, powerful people benefited from government schemes. Our government is working to ensure that the benefits reach ordinary citizens,” he said.

Highlighting the government’s work in the education sector, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Punjab was earlier ranked 27th in education. Today, Punjab has reached the first position, even moving ahead of Kerala. Our education reforms are aimed at giving students better infrastructure, quality teaching and improved learning opportunities. Punjab’s achievements are not confined to the education sector. The sacrifices made by Punjabis for the country, our contribution to India’s food security and our achievements in sports are unmatched.”

“Punjabis have always remained at the forefront and have proved their mettle in every field,” he said.

The Chief Minister said, “Punjab’s sporting culture is once again being strengthened through initiatives such as ‘Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan’, in which lakhs of players are participating. The fact that four national teams have Punjabi captains is a reflection of Punjab’s deep-rooted sporting talent and contribution to Indian sports.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Our vision is to create a Punjab where young people have opportunities in education, employment and sports, while families have access to healthcare and essential services without facing crippling financial pressure. Our ultimate objective is to create a Punjab where people can live with dignity, families can secure their future and the younger generation can see a promising future within the state itself. We want to build a Punjab where people are healthy, educated, prosperous and confident about their future,” he said.

The Chief Minister said, “We want to create a Punjab where every family feels secure and every young person gets an opportunity to move forward. We are moving forward in this direction and leaving no stone unturned for this noble cause.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Our government is committed to the welfare of every section of society and every step is being taken for their progress. Today, over 1.26 crore health insurance cards distribution have been launched, providing a safety net to 54 lakh families. So far, ₹1,310 crore has been spent on the treatment of more than 7 lakh patients under the scheme.”

“This scheme is providing treatment without conditions and without cost. It is the only such scheme in the world,” he said.

During this, Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh stated that timely treatment can prevent complications, improve recovery and reduce the long-term cost of illness for families. “MMSY is supporting access to essential services, including dialysis, cardiac treatment, cancer treatment, knee replacement, cataract surgery, C-section deliveries, transplant services and emergency care,” he added.

The Health Minister further informed that the first kidney transplant at Rajindra Hospital, Patiala, was performed entirely under MMSY and further highlighted the successful heart procedure performed on 37-year-old women under MMSY. “This demonstrates the Government of Punjab’s efforts to upgrade its institutions so that advanced super-speciality services are available to the people of the state,” he added.

On the occasion, Cabinet Minister Dr Balbir Singh, Lok Sabha MP Malwinder Singh Kang and others were also present.

Beneficiaries Share Experiences Of Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna

Sharing his experience, an elderly beneficiary said he had been suffering from a knee problem and was grateful to the CM Bhagwant Singh Mann for providing free treatment under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna. He said such a facility, under which people can get treatment without worrying about the cost, had not been available to them under previous governments, and expressed his gratitude to the government for introducing the scheme.

Another beneficiary shared her experience of taking her child for treatment, saying that a private hospital had demanded a substantial amount of money for the treatment but under Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, the treatment was taken care of properly without putting the family under financial pressure in government hospital. She thanked the Punjab Government for introducing a scheme that has made quality treatment accessible to families without the burden of unaffordable medical expenses.

MMSY Cards To Reach Every Eligible Family Through Camps, Door-To-Door Distribution

Under the next phase of Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, Sehat Cards will be taken directly to eligible families across Punjab, with camp-based distribution being carried out in more than 1,800 villages. The remaining areas will be covered through door-to-door delivery by designated Sehat Mitras and ASHA Workers. Field teams will visit beneficiaries at their homes, hand over the complete card kit and inform them about the benefits of the scheme, while those unable to receive their e-Cards at camps will be covered through follow-up visits. The Chief Minister has directed district administrations, health officials, Sehat Mitras, ASHA Workers and other field functionaries to ensure that no eligible family is left out because it lives in a remote village, is unable to attend a camp or is unaware of the enrolment and distribution process.

MMSY Covers Life-Saving And High-Cost Treatments

Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna currently covers 2,356 treatment packages through more than 900 empanelled hospitals across Punjab and Chandigarh, including government and private hospitals. The scheme provides access to specialised treatment involving repeated treatment, long-term care, surgery and advanced medical intervention, with special attention to high-cost and life-saving procedures such as dialysis, cancer care, cardiac procedures, kidney transplantation and liver transplantation. The Health Department has also highlighted services including knee replacement, cataract surgery, C-section deliveries, transplant services and emergency care under the scheme.

Hemant Soren Jharkhand Rajya Fasal Rahat Yojana: Eligibility, Benefits and Crop Loss Compensation

PM Fasal Bima Yojana
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The Jharkhand Rajya Fasal Rahat Yojana is a Hemant Soren government scheme aimed at providing financial assistance to farmers whose crops are damaged due to natural calamities and certain natural accidents.

The scheme was launched by the Department of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Cooperative, Government of Jharkhand. Unlike a conventional crop insurance programme, it provides compensation to eligible farmers in the event of crop loss and does not require farmers to pay a crop insurance premium.

Objective of Jharkhand Rajya Fasal Rahat Yojana

The primary objective of the scheme is to provide financial support to farmers affected by unforeseen natural calamities and help them continue agricultural activities after crop damage.

The scheme also aims to:

  • Strengthen farmers’ income after crop losses.
  • Maintain the flow of funds required for agricultural activities.
  • Support food security and crop diversification.
  • Promote growth and competitiveness in the agricultural sector.

Both Landowners and Landless Farmers Covered

One of the key features of the Jharkhand Rajya Fasal Rahat Yojana is that the scheme covers both landowning farmers and landless farmers, subject to the applicable eligibility conditions.

Farmers are not required to pay any crop insurance premium under the scheme. Financial assistance is provided by the government to eligible beneficiaries when crop damage occurs due to covered risks.

Natural Calamities Covered Under the Scheme

Crop losses caused by several natural calamities and events are covered under the scheme. These include:

  • Flood and waterlogging
  • Earthquake
  • Volcanic eruption
  • Landslide
  • Drought or dry winds, where drought has not been officially declared by the state government
  • Widespread epidemic
  • Naturally caused fire
  • Thunderstorm
  • Storm
  • Torrential rainfall
  • Cyclone

The assistance is intended to provide financial relief when agricultural crops are affected by such unforeseen events.

Risks Excluded From the Scheme

Certain types of losses are excluded from the Jharkhand Rajya Fasal Rahat Yojana.

These include losses arising from war or nuclear risks. The scheme also excludes malicious losses and preventable losses, including those resulting from unscientific farming practices by farmers.

Financial Support After Crop Damage

The scheme is designed to provide a financial safety net when farmers face crop damage because of covered natural calamities. By providing compensation without requiring farmers to pay an insurance premium, the programme seeks to reduce the financial burden associated with unexpected agricultural losses.

The assistance can also help farmers maintain agricultural activities after a damaging natural event and support continuity in farming.

Importance for Jharkhand Farmers

Agriculture remains vulnerable to weather-related events and other natural calamities. Crop damage can directly affect farmers’ income and their ability to invest in the next agricultural cycle.

Through the Jharkhand Rajya Fasal Rahat Yojana, the state government aims to provide financial assistance after eligible crop losses while supporting agricultural continuity, food security and crop diversification.

Jharkhand Naxal Commander Brijesh Ganjhu Killed in Varanasi Encounter, ₹30 Lakh Bounty

Chhattisgarh Naxalite Attack

Jharkhand-based Naxal commander Brijesh Ganjhu alias Gopal Singh Bhokta, who carried a combined bounty of ₹30 lakh, was killed in an encounter with the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) and police in Varanasi on Sunday, according to officials.

Ganjhu, a resident of Chatra district in Jharkhand, was identified by police as a commander of the banned Tritiya Prastuti Committee (TPC). He was reportedly wanted in nearly 50 criminal cases, including cases being investigated by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

₹30 Lakh Reward on Brijesh Ganjhu: Jharkhand

The combined reward on Ganjhu included ₹25 lakh announced by the Jharkhand government and another ₹5 lakh offered by the NIA, according to officials.

The accused had been under the radar of security agencies for his alleged involvement in Naxal-related activities and other criminal cases. Uttar Pradesh police officials said he was among the wanted members of the TPC network.

Encounter Took Place in Varanasi’s Ramnagar

According to the police version, an ATS team received information about Ganjhu’s presence in the Ramnagar area of Varanasi on Sunday morning.

Police said Ganjhu was travelling towards Mughalsarai on a motorcycle when the team attempted to intercept him. Officials alleged that he opened fire at the police team and tried to escape, following which an exchange of fire took place.

Ganjhu sustained bullet injuries during the encounter and was taken to a hospital, where doctors declared him dead.

Police Personnel Saved by Bulletproof Jackets

During the exchange of fire, bullets reportedly struck the bulletproof jackets of UP ATS Deputy Superintendent of Police Vipin Rai and Head Constable Nitin Krishna.

Negotiations or the Ultimate Battle? Iran Presents Seven Preconditions for Talks to US as US-Iran War Heats Up, Check

US-Iran- War
Google

US-Iran War: The Islamic Republic of Iran has presented seven conditions to the United States to resume negotiations as part of the continuing conflict between the two nations. These conditions have been sent to the White House via the intermediary of the State of Qatar, with Tehran waiting for a response from the US President Donald Trump.

Iran puts forward conditions for talks

Mohsen Rezaei, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said Qatar had conveyed Tehran’s conditions to Washington as part of efforts to restart negotiations. Although the complete list of seven conditions has not been made public, Rezaei highlighted three key demands. Iran is seeking an end to the war on all fronts, the release of frozen Iranian funds and the lifting of the US naval blockade.

Tehran keeps both diplomatic and military options open

This statement comes at a time when Qatar and Pakistan continue their efforts to get Washington and Tehran back to the negotiating table. Rezaei said that Iran is keen to talk but also said that the nation is prepared for more military action if the conditions are turned down. Rezaei also added that Iran was getting ready for another attack from the US forces. The statements about the strength of Iran’s military power and targets are

What happens next?

US-Iran War: The next stage will depend on Washington’s response and whether mediation efforts can bring both sides back to negotiations. For now, Iran’s seven conditions remain only partly public, while the three demands disclosed by Rezaei indicate Tehran’s stated requirements for restarting talks

Campus Rules or Political Agenda? Congress Asks IIM Jammu About Disciplining Students for Not Participating in PM’s Birthday Event

IIM- Jammu
Google

There is controversy regarding a notice that has been issued to certain students at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu, who did not participate in the lamp-lighting ceremony organized to celebrate Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday on September 17.

Notice issued to students raises controversy

Based on information provided in the purported notice by the Congress leader, Syed Naseer Hussain, students who had missed the “Deepak Lighting Ceremony” were required to explain in writing why they had missed the ceremony. In the notice, it was mentioned that attendance was mandatory and exceptions would only be considered based on health conditions. Furthermore, those students who failed to respond are liable to pay a fine of ₹500. The ceremony was organized at IIM Jammu as part of the celebration of the PM’s birthday on September 17. As per reports, the program was organized to reflect the progress made by India towards Viksit Bharat 2047.

Congress questions mandatory participation

Congress MP and Jammu and Kashmir party in-charge Syed Naseer Hussain criticized the reported action and questioned whether attending a prime minister’s birthday celebration should be treated as an academic responsibility. He argued that educational institutions should encourage independent thinking rather than compel students to participate in political leaders’ celebrations.

IIM Jammu disputes the fine claim

IIM Jammu has disputed the allegation that students were actually fined. An institute spokesperson said no such fine had been imposed and described the matter as being politicized. The institute also said participation in campus activities is intended to support students’ broader development. The controversy therefore centres on the difference between the reported student council notice and the institute’s position that no student was ultimately fined. Further clarification from the institute could determine how the notice was issued and what disciplinary action, if any, was actually taken.

Nawada Video: Girl Students Allege Inappropriate Touching And Molestation By Headmaster, Booked Under POCSO

Nawada- Video
Google

The complaint made at the Anandpura area in Nawada, Bihar, regarding the headmaster of a government school where there were accusations of inappropriate touching and harassment against a few girl students of Classes 6 to 8, has led to police intervention. This particular issue came into light after it was brought out in Bihar Police’s official social media page, wherein it has asked Nawada police to investigate the matter.

The complaint is reported to Bihar Police

As per the information provided by the police, the complaint was regarding issues that involved children. After the complaint was brought to its notice, the Bihar Police page asked the Nawada Police to investigate the matter. This issue then proceeded to enter the investigative phase, where the local police arrested the accused headmaster. As this issue involves children, it comes under the purview of child protection laws.

Headmaster arrested and put into judicial custody

The Nawada Police have confirmed the arrest of 52-year-old headmaster Mahesh Prasad Yadav. He was put into judicial custody after action was taken according to legal provisions, including the POCSO Act.

POCSO Act provisions

The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act serves as a legal document for tackling sexual crimes involving children. At the same time, it outlines procedures that are designed to provide protection for minors in the process of filing a report, investigation, and trial. Cases related to sexual abuse committed by people in positions of authority, such as teachers, can receive special attention, as it is the obligation of schools to provide a safe environment for children.

Child protection mechanisms

This case brings into focus the necessity of having adequate reporting mechanisms for instances of abuse reported by children and their parents. In this instance, the public report received via the Bihar Police Twitter account was referred to the local police for an investigation. All authorities who deal with the cases of sexual abuse of minors are supposed to guarantee 

confidentiality to the minors. Schools, parents, law enforcement bodies, and child protection systems need to work together in order to make sure that reports involving children are processed legally.

Societal awareness

At the same time, it should be pointed out that the current case puts emphasis on the necessity of awareness of child-safety issues and available reporting channels.

Daayra Box Office Collection Day 2: Weekend Surge? Kareena Kapoor, Prithviraj Film Fares Better, Check Numbers

Daayra- Box -Office- Collection- Day- 2
Google

The Box Office Collection of Daayra Box Office Collection Day 2 reflects an improvement in the movie’s earnings as it moved into the weekend. On the second day, the film performed better, with a positive response from weekend audiences helping to boost its overall collections. The rise in Saturday earnings has strengthened the film’s early box office performance and could be important for its overall opening weekend.

Daayra Day 2 Box Office Collection

On Day 2 of the movie, Daayra earned a net of ₹1.60 crore from 2,062 showings in India. The collection of the second day of the movie reflects better performance than the opening day of the movie due to the contribution of weekend audiences. By adding the collection of the second day to the opening day’s collection, the India net collection of the movie becomes ₹2.60 crore till date. Till date, the total India gross collection of the movie becomes ₹3.10 crore.

Opening Weekend performance till date

The weekend days, especially Saturday are very important in the opening week of the movie because it may get better response than other days due to theatrical footfalls. The ₹1.60 crore net collection on the second day of the movie Daayra has increased the movie’s opening week total.

Daayra sees a weekend boost 

Daayra Box Office Collection Day 2: Daayra showed improvement in its performance on the second day as more people started watching this movie at the movies during the weekends. This was because Daayra got better responses from the audience that attended the movies over the weekend period.

Punjab Women to Receive ₹3,000 and ₹4,500 Again From October 1, Says Bhagwant Mann

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has announced that women beneficiaries under the Mukh Mantri Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojana will receive another financial assistance payment from October 1.

Mann shared the announcement during a Lok Milni programme, saying women would once again receive notifications on their phones as the financial assistance is credited to their bank accounts.

₹3,000 for Women, ₹4,500 for SC Beneficiaries

Under the scheme, eligible women from the general category receive ₹1,000 per month, while eligible women belonging to Scheduled Castes receive ₹1,500 per month.

The three-month payment structure means beneficiaries receive ₹3,000 for three months, while eligible SC women receive ₹4,500 for the same period.

The scheme was launched by the Punjab government in July 2026, with the first three-month instalment transferred directly to eligible beneficiaries’ bank accounts.

Bhagwant Mann Announces October Payment

During his latest public interaction, Mann said the payment process would begin again on October 1. AAP Punjab described the announcement as good news for women across the state and said there was enthusiasm among beneficiaries.

The financial assistance is being provided through direct bank transfers under the state government’s women-focused welfare scheme.

Punjab Women’s Financial Assistance Scheme

The Mukh Mantri Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojana provides monthly financial assistance of ₹1,000 to eligible women and ₹1,500 to eligible women from Scheduled Caste communities, subject to the scheme’s eligibility criteria.

The Punjab government has allocated ₹9,300 crore for the scheme and has said it expects a large share of women in the state to benefit from it.

Direct Benefit Transfer to Bank Accounts

The assistance is transferred directly into beneficiaries’ bank accounts. When the scheme was launched in July, beneficiaries received notifications confirming the transfer of the three-month amount.

Amritsar ASI Murder: Main Accused Killed in Police Encounter Within 24 Hours: Anurag Dhanda

The main accused in the killing of Punjab Police Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Harjit Singh was shot dead in a police encounter in Amritsar, less than 24 hours after the officer was killed while on duty. The development was highlighted by AAP leader Anurag Dhanda, who said the action sent a clear message that criminals would face strict action if they opened fire on police personnel.

ASI Harjit Singh Killed While on Duty

ASI Harjit Singh, who was posted at the Gate Hakima police station, was shot dead near the Bhagtanwala grain market area in Amritsar during the intervening night of September 18 and 19.

According to reports, two assailants travelling on a scooter opened fire at the police officer before fleeing from the spot. Police subsequently launched an investigation and examined CCTV footage and other intelligence inputs to identify the suspects.

Main Accused Deepak Singh Killed in Encounter

The accused was identified as Deepak Singh, a resident of Mulechak village. Police said CCTV footage, technical inputs, tower-dump analysis and local intelligence helped investigators identify him as one of the suspects.

According to the police version, a team intercepted two suspects travelling on a scooter at a checkpoint on Saturday night. The suspects allegedly opened fire at the police team and attempted to flee. Police said they opened retaliatory fire in self-defence, during which Deepak sustained injuries and later died at a hospital.

Weapons Recovered

Police said a .30-bore pistol, two magazines containing eight live cartridges, a mobile phone and an Activa scooter allegedly used in the crime were recovered from the accused.

Another suspect reportedly managed to escape by taking advantage of the darkness, and further investigation into the case is underway.

Bhagwant Mann Conducts 593 Raids, Arrests 269 in Gangster Crackdown

Bhagwant Mann, in coordination with the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF), carried out a statewide crackdown on gangster networks as part of its ongoing ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’ campaign.

According to Punjab Police, the operation was conducted on Day 242 of the campaign, with targeted raids carried out at identified and mapped locations across the state.

593 Raids Conducted Across Punjab: Bhagwant Mann

Punjab Police said its teams conducted 593 raids at different locations as part of the latest enforcement drive.

The coordinated action focused on locations identified during police mapping of gangster networks. The operation was aimed at intensifying action against individuals allegedly linked to organised criminal networks.

269 Individuals Arrested

During the statewide operation, police reported the arrest of 269 individuals.

In addition, six proclaimed offenders were apprehended during the raids. The latest arrests have taken the total number of arrests made since the launch of the campaign to 72,049, according to Punjab Police.

Three Weapons Recovered

Police teams also recovered three weapons during the latest operation.

The Punjab Police said the continued action against gangster networks forms part of its broader efforts to disrupt criminal activities and strengthen public safety across the state.

Punjab Police Appeals for Information

Punjab Police reiterated its commitment to taking action against gangster networks and maintaining security across Punjab.

The department also appealed to citizens to share information about criminal activities anonymously through its Anti-Gangster Helpline at 93946-93946.