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Hemant Soren Pays Tribute to Dishom Guru Shibu Soren, Calls on Youth to Follow the Right Path

By
Neha Kumari
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Hemant Soren

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren paid an emotional tribute to the late Dishom Guru Shibu Soren, highlighting his unmatched contribution to the state’s identity and urging the younger generation to embrace his ideals and values.

Hemant Soren Pays Tribute to Dishom Guru Shibu Soren

Addressing a gathering held in memory of the veteran tribal leader, Hemant Soren said that today’s era belongs to the youth, who possess immense energy and limitless potential. He emphasized that while young people have great strengths, they also face significant challenges, making it the collective responsibility of society to guide them in the right direction.

Calls on Youth to Follow the Right Path

The Chief Minister noted that the legacy of Dishom Guru Shibu Soren has grown far beyond his birthplace or village. According to him, the veteran leader is remembered with deep respect and admiration across Jharkhand for his lifelong struggle for the rights, identity, and dignity of the people.

Hemant Soren acknowledged that adverse weather conditions had affected some preparations for the memorial event. However, he said the enthusiasm of the people remained undiminished, with citizens from across Jharkhand gathering to pay their respects. He added that people from every district came together, rising above political affiliations to honour the late leader.

Recalling Shibu Soren’s historic role in the Jharkhand movement, the Chief Minister said that Dishom Guru not only played a pivotal role in securing a separate identity for the state but also emerged as one of its greatest mass leaders. He remarked that Shibu Soren’s stature extended far beyond conventional politics, making titles such as leader, legislator, or minister insignificant in comparison to his enduring public legacy.

Hemant Soren said that the ideals and vision of Dishom Guru Shibu Soren will continue to inspire future generations and strengthen Jharkhand’s social and cultural values.

CM Yogi Adityanath: Shri Banke Bihari Corridor Project Advances as PWD Plans Dedicated Divisional Office in Mathura

By
Neha Kumari
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The Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath government has taken another step forward in the development of the Shri Banke Bihari Corridor by initiating the establishment of a dedicated Public Works Department (PWD) divisional office in Mathura. The move is aimed at ensuring faster coordination and execution of the ambitious pilgrimage infrastructure project.

Shri Banke Bihari Corridor Project Advances as PWD Plans

According to officials, the land acquisition process for the corridor is progressing despite legal challenges and ongoing court cases related to several identified properties. Out of nearly 400 structures earmarked for acquisition, around 20 structures have been acquired so far, marking steady progress in the project.

The corridor is expected to ease congestion

The proposed Shri Banke Bihari Corridor is designed to improve accessibility and enhance facilities for the millions of devotees who visit the famous Shri Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan every year. The corridor is expected to ease congestion, improve pedestrian movement, and provide better amenities while preserving the area’s religious and cultural significance.

To streamline the implementation of the project, the PWD is setting up a dedicated divisional office in Mathura. Officials believe the new office will strengthen project monitoring, accelerate construction-related activities, and improve coordination among various government departments involved in the corridor’s development.

The project is a key initiative of the Uttar Pradesh government under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The government has stated that the corridor aims to create a world-class pilgrimage destination by balancing modern infrastructure with the preservation of Mathura-Vrindavan’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage.

Despite legal hurdles, authorities remain confident that the land acquisition process will continue in accordance with the law, enabling the project to move forward in phases.

Bhagwant Mann Government Creates 9,593 Jobs in Electricity Department, Says State Undergoing Major Public Employment Expansion

By
Neha Kumari
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The Bhagwant Mann Government has announced that 9,593 jobs have been created in the state’s Electricity Department, describing the move as a major milestone in its efforts to strengthen public infrastructure and expand employment opportunities.

Bhagwant Mann Government Creates 9,593 Jobs in Electricity Department

According to the state government, the initiative has been undertaken under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, with a focus on improving essential public services while generating government employment across Punjab.

State Undergoing Major Public Employment Expansion

Officials stated that the recruitment drive in the electricity department is part of the government’s broader strategy to modernize infrastructure, enhance the efficiency of power-related services, and create stable job opportunities for the state’s youth.

The Punjab Government said the creation of 9,593 positions reflects its commitment to economic development, improved public service delivery, and long-term prosperity. The newly created jobs are expected to support the functioning of the electricity sector while contributing to better service for consumers across the state.

The government has maintained that strengthening key departments through infrastructure upgrades and workforce expansion remains a priority as it continues to implement development-focused initiatives across Punjab.

The announcement highlights the state’s continued emphasis on public sector employment alongside efforts to improve infrastructure and support sustainable growth in the power sector.

CM Yogi Adityanath Cabinet Approves U-Hub Deep-Tech Centers in Lucknow and Noida to Boost Innovation

By
Neha Kumari
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CM- Yogi -Adityanath
Google

The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet, chaired by CM Yogi Adityanath, has approved the establishment of U-Hub (Deep-Tech Hub) centers in Lucknow and Noida, marking a significant step toward strengthening the state’s deep-tech innovation ecosystem, technology entrepreneurship, startup growth, and investment.

CM Yogi Adityanath Cabinet Approves U-Hub Deep-Tech Centers in Lucknow

The decision was taken during the Cabinet meeting held on August 4, 2026, as part of the state’s strategy to position Uttar Pradesh as a leading destination for advanced technology and innovation-driven industries.

Deep-Tech Centers in Lucknow and Noida to Boost Innovation

Under the approved proposal, the Lucknow U-Hub will focus on application-based artificial intelligence (AI), GovTech, healthcare technology, industrial AI, agricultural biotechnology, and diagnostics. The center aims to support startups, researchers, and businesses working on practical technology solutions across these sectors.

Meanwhile, the Noida U-Hub will specialize in high-end technologies, including quantum and advanced computing, semiconductor design and OSAT (Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test), physical AI and robotics, defence technology, and advanced biotechnology. The hub is expected to accelerate research, product development, and industry collaboration in emerging technology domains.

To support the initiative, the Uttar Pradesh government has allocated an initial budget of ₹100 crore for the financial year 2026-27, including ₹70 crore for capital expenditure and ₹30 crore for operational expenses. Additionally, the government has proposed financial support of approximately ₹387.5 crore over a three-year period to ensure the successful implementation and expansion of the project.

Officials said the infrastructure for both deep-tech hubs will be developed in a phased manner, creating a strong foundation for innovation, startup incubation, research, and technology commercialization.

Bhagwant Mann Conducts 676 Raids Under ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’ Campaign, Over 500 Arrested

By
Neha Kumari
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Bhagwant Mann in coordination with the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF), continued its statewide anti-gangster operation under the ongoing ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’ campaign, carrying out extensive raids across the state to crack down on organized crime.

Bhagwant Mann Conducts 676 Raids Under ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’ Campaign

According to Punjab Police, 676 targeted raids were conducted at identified and mapped locations as part of Day 196 of the campaign. The operation resulted in the arrest of 516 individuals, including 12 proclaimed offenders, while police also recovered six illegal weapons during the enforcement drive.

Over 500 Arrested

Officials said the campaign is aimed at dismantling gangster networks, disrupting criminal activities, and strengthening law and order across Punjab. Since the launch of the statewide operation, the total number of arrests has reached 56,455, reflecting the government’s continued focus on tackling organized crime.

Punjab Police reiterated its commitment to ensuring public safety and maintaining peace across the state through intelligence-based operations and coordinated enforcement efforts.

The department has also urged citizens to support the campaign by sharing information about criminal activities through its Anti-Gangster Helpline (93946-93946). Authorities stated that information provided by the public will be handled confidentially to assist ongoing investigations.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has consistently emphasized the government’s zero-tolerance policy against organized crime, with Punjab Police and the AGTF continuing to intensify efforts to curb gangster activities throughout the state.

Bhagwant Mann Govt’s Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana Reaches Families Across Every District; 2.91 Lakh Patients Receive Cashless Treatment Worth Over ₹1,044 Crore

By
Harsh
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CM Mann

The real measure of a healthcare scheme is not just the amount spent or the number of cases processed, it is whether people are able to get treatment when they need it most. Bhagwant Mann Government’s Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana (MMSY) has now reached a significant milestone, with 2,91,417 beneficiaries receiving treatment support since 8 January 2026.

As per recent data from the State Health Agency (SHA), Punjab, Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana has provided healthcare services worth around ₹1,044 crore through cashless treatment facilities. Behind these numbers are families who were able to focus on recovery instead of worrying about arranging money during medical emergencies. Speaking on the achievement, Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh said, “A healthcare scheme is successful only when it reaches people at the time they need it. Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana is not just about numbers; it is about making sure that a patient does not have to choose between treatment and financial burden. Every beneficiary represents a family that received support during a difficult time.”

The Health Minister further said, “We know that healthcare needs are constantly changing, and our responsibility is to keep improving the system. Through Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana, we are working to make cashless treatment more accessible, strengthen healthcare delivery, and ensure that every eligible citizen gets the benefit of this initiative.”

Many beneficiaries have expressed their happiness and satisfaction over Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana. For Sureshpal Kaur, Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana became a support system during a difficult pregnancy. “During my pregnancy, I faced health complications because of high blood pressure and needed a C-section delivery, that’s when the Sehat card came to rescue. After birth, my baby required special neonatal care, which was also provided under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana package. The scheme supported us at a difficult time and gave my baby the care needed for a healthy start,” said Sureshpal Kaur.

For Rupinder Kaur from Sunam, years of knee pain had made everyday activities difficult. “I was suffering from severe knee pain and the thought of surgery was difficult because of the expenses involved. Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana helped me get my knee replacement surgery free of cost. The treatment has helped me return to a better quality of life,” said Rupinder Kaur.

Furthermore, a beneficiary Bir Singh from Tarn Taran received timely cardiac care under Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana after being diagnosed with a heart condition. He underwent PTCA (Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty) along with angiography.

“Doctors said heart treatment cannot always wait, and the expenses can be stressful for families. Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana helped me receive the treatment I needed at the right time,” said Bir Singh.

The impact of Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana is visible across Punjab, with beneficiaries from every district receiving treatment support. As per district-wise data from State Health Agency (SHA) Punjab, a total of 2,91,417 people have benefitted from the scheme. Patiala leads the state with 27,892 beneficiaries, followed by Bathinda with 22,584 and Ludhiana with 21,729 beneficiaries. The numbers show that the demand for accessible healthcare support is not limited to one region but is spread across Punjab.

The scheme has also reached a large number of beneficiaries in Jalandhar (19,312), Hoshiarpur (19,075), Amritsar (16,550), Sangrur (16,549), Sri Muktsar Sahib (14,800), Firozepur (13,344), and Gurdaspur (12,037). The district-wise beneficiary count further includes Moga (11,669), Fazilka (11,516), Mansa (10,539), Faridkot (10,309), Barnala (8,773) Tarn Taran (8,714), Rupnagar (8,574), S.A.S Nagar (8,085), Fatehgarh Sahib (7,933), Shahid Bhagat Singh Nagar (6,999), Kapurthala (5,928), Pathankot (5,844), and Malerkotla (2,472). This wide coverage shows that Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana is not only reaching major cities but also extending healthcare support to families across districts, including smaller towns and rural areas.

The growing reach of Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana reflects a simple but important change in healthcare delivery, people are getting treatment without having to first worry about how they will pay for it. As the scheme continues to expand, its focus remains clear: making quality healthcare available, accessible, and affordable for the people of Punjab.

VB G Ram G Slows Down Employment Generation? Check Why

By
Purnima Jain
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VB- G- Ram- G
Google

Rural India’s oldest job guarantee scheme has a new identity, and a very different operating system. The Government of India has officially introduced the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission Gramin Act, 2025, popularly known as the VB-G RAM G scheme, as a modern replacement for MGNREGA, receiving Presidential assent in December 2025 and rolling out nationwide from 1 July 2026.

More Work Days, New Rules

The new Act guarantees 125 days of wage employment per rural household, up from the existing 100 days, for adult members willing to undertake unskilled manual work. A notable shift in funding structure also comes with it. While MGNREGA was demand-driven, with the Union government bound to allocate more money if demand for work existed, under the new scheme the Centre will determine state-wise normative allocation for each financial year.

Why the Government Made the Switch

The government acknowledged that several reforms had already been made under MGNREGA, including higher women’s participation and near-universal electronic payments, but investigations continued to flag issues including non-existent works, misuse of funds and large-scale misappropriation, with misappropriation across states amounting to Rs 193.67 crore in 2024-25 alone. Officials said this scale of the problem called for a new statutory framework rather than incremental fixes.

The Technology Layer

The new framework includes biometric attendance, geo-tagging of worksites, GPS-based monitoring, AI-enabled fraud detection systems, real-time dashboards, digital wage payments and mandatory social audits, alongside weekly public disclosures. 

Village-level planning is also being restructured, with a new decentralised model through Viksit Gram Panchayat Plans, integrated with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan and the Viksit Bharat National Rural Infrastructure Stack.

Where the Debate Stands

Not everyone is convinced the tech layer solves the scheme’s real problems. Some observers note that beyond broad mentions of “technology-enabled” planning, there is not sufficient indication of exactly where AI will be deployed, while opposition voices have argued the shift from a demand-driven, rights-based guarantee to a centrally-controlled, normative-allocation model could reduce workers’ choice and bargaining power, even as the government frames it as a long-overdue modernisation on the road to Viksit Bharat 2047.

US Visa Fee Shake-Up again! How H-1B and L-1 Surcharges in August Could Reshape Indian Tech Hiring,Check

By
Purnima Jain
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H-1B- Visa
Google

H-1B Visa: A fresh round of US visa cost changes is on the horizon, and Indian tech professionals are once again at the center of it. According to a rule item first published as a proposed regulation in June 2024 and later folded into the Trump administration’s 2026 Unified Regulatory Agenda as a pending final rule, the Department of Homeland Security is moving to widen the scope of existing H-1B and L-1 surcharges.

What the Proposed Rule Changes

Currently, the so-called 9-11 Response and Biometric Entry-Exit Fees apply mainly to new H-1B and L-1 petitions, along with certain employer change filings. The additional charge presently stands at $4,000 for eligible H-1B petitions and $4,500 for L-1 petitions. Under the proposed change, these fees would also apply to extension and renewal filings for workers already in the US, a category that has so far been spared.

Why Indian Tech Workers Are Exposed

The impact could fall disproportionately on Indian nationals. In FY2025, Indian nationals accounted for 226,359 H-1B extension approvals, making up 77.6 percent of all H-1B extensions filed that year. Large IT and consulting firms with sizable H-1B workforces, many of which route significant hiring through India, would likely absorb the bulk of these added costs, potentially reshaping how aggressively they sponsor extensions.

Awaiting Final Review

H-1B Visa: The rule is still pending review by the Office of Management and Budget and the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs before it can take effect, so the exact August timeline and final fee structure remain unconfirmed. Still, the direction of travel adds to a string of visa-related cost hikes this year, following the $100,000 fee on fresh H-1B petitions announced last September, and signals that renewal costs.

No Insurance, No Fuel: Game-Changer for Road Safety or a Policy That Needs Fine-Tuning?

By
Purnima Jain
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No- Insurance- No- Fuel (2)
Google

India’s top court has put forward a bold fix for a problem that has quietly grown for years: millions of vehicles running on the roads without valid insurance. The Supreme Court has proposed linking fuel supply to valid vehicle insurance as part of a pilot project aimed at tackling the large number of uninsured vehicles on Indian roads.

Why the Court Stepped In

The Court said 56% of vehicles on Indian roads are uninsured and directed that mandatory third-party insurance for new cars be increased from three to four years and for new two-wheelers from five to six years. The bench referred to a parliamentary committee report stating that 16.54 crore of the country’s 30.48 crore registered vehicles are uninsured, and noted that India records more than 4.8 lakh road accidents every year, reiterating that road safety is an integral facet of the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution.

How the “No Fuel” Rule Would Work

The court asked the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India, in consultation with the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, to develop a pilot project linking the sale of fuel to a vehicle’s insurance status, under which vehicles without valid insurance would be denied fuel at petrol pumps until insurance is renewed. Notably, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has, in principle, no objection to the proposal.

A Policy Still Being Worked Out

While the intent behind the move is clear- road safety and faster accident compensation- its execution raises practical questions. Petrol pumps across India, many in remote or rural areas, would need real-time systems to verify insurance status at the point of sale, and enforcement consistency across states remains untested.

Beyond the Headlines, Actress’s Open Challenge to Udhayanidhi Stalin Sparks Wider Debate on Public Discourse

By
Purnima Jain
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Udhayanidhi- Stalin
Google

Udhayanidhi Stalin: Public arguments involving celebrities and politicians tend to be very newsworthy. Though the media usually reports on the debate itself, sometimes such arguments bring up important issues regarding how discussions take place publicly and how powerful voices affect public opinion. The latest argument reportedly initiated by Trisha Krishnan against Udhayanidhi Stalin has turned out to be an important issue on social media and news channels. 

Conversation Larger than the Individual Case

Famous individuals can shape the opinions of millions of people. In the case of disagreements that hit the spotlight, there is always a larger conversation regarding accountability, freedom of speech, and the respect that comes with communication. Many people do not just focus on the issue that was raised but the way such conversations affect public opinion.

Social Media Influence

X (formerly known as Twitter), Instagram, Facebook, and even YouTube platforms have revolutionized public conversations. It takes only a matter of minutes before an individual comment reaches millions of people through hashtags and reaction videos, among others. Although social media allows everyone to have a voice, they have contributed to the spread of misinformation and selective editing, among other things. Therefore, audiences are urged to check facts before making their judgment based on what they see on the internet.

Why Public Debate Is Important?

Proper public debate relies on facts, respect, and constructive criticism. Regardless of whether the discussion concerns politics, films, or any other subject, disagreement plays a key role in a democratic state. Nevertheless, the form in which the disagreement takes place might impact the overall conversation greatly. According to many scholars, public debates tend to become more effective when the conversation focuses on issues rather than the individuals who are taking part in the discussion and allows for different viewpoints.

Going Beyond the News Headlines

Debates among famous people attract much media attention, but they might be used as a way to emphasize the necessity of proper dialogue. Instead of discussing only conflicts, the audience should look into the overall picture and analyze the information from credible sources.

Ajit Agarkar’s Reported Exit Talks Gain Momentum as the Rohit Sharma Controversy Continues to Dominate Headlines

By
Purnima Jain
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Rohit- Sharma
Goolge

Cricket from India makes headlines again due to reports about the future of Ajit Agarkar as a chairman of the selection committee. The rumors arise against the backdrop of ongoing talks about the role of Rohit Sharma, as fans and cricket experts watching every next news with great interest. Official information on the issue has not appeared yet; however, these reports have become an object of active discussion among the members of cricketing community.

Reports Spark Debate about the Future of Agarkar

Recently, media has started to spread news that Ajit Agarkar’s position as chief selector has become quite hot. There is no official information from either Agarkar or BCCI; however, such gossip has generated much attention. It can be said that the coming weeks will show whether something will change in regard to the work of the selection committee.

Controversy with Rohit Sharma Stays in Focus

On the other hand, the controversy with Rohit Sharma does not lose its relevance either. Leadership problems, team planning issues, and selection decisions made recently keep the veteran cricketer in the focus of public opinion.

Awaiting an Official Response

For now, both the reported exit talks and the Rohit Sharma controversy remain subjects of speculation. Until the BCCI issues an official update, the cricketing world will continue to watch closely for any confirmation regarding Ajit Agarkar’s future and its potential impact on Team India.

Could Leadership Changes Reshape Team India’s Future?

The reports surrounding Ajit Agarkar’s future have raised questions about the direction of Indian cricket. While no official decision has been announced, any change in the selection committee could influence future squad selections, leadership planning, and the team’s preparations for upcoming international tournaments. Until the BCCI issues a formal statement, the speculation continues to fuel discussions among fans and experts.

Pradeep Rawat: Top 5 Performances That Prove Bollywood’s Greatest Villains Never Needed Hero’s Spotlight to Become Legends

By
Purnima Jain
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Pradeep- Rawat
Google

Bollywood has seen many hero roles, but sometimes villains end up making a bigger impact on the viewer. One of the few actors who have perfected the craft of acting as a villain is Pradeep Rawat. Using his massive on-screen presence, sharp facial features, and strong dialogues, he has spent decades showcasing that villains are what make a movie a success. Having played a variety of characters from ruthless gangsters to brutal warlords in films in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam languages, here are five performances of Pradeep Rawat that will convince you about how he is an amazing villain actor in Indian cinema.

Pradeep Rawat’s Top 5 Performances That Stole the Spotlight

1. Ghajini (2008) – The Ruthless Business Tycoon

When one talks about Ghajini, the most remembered aspect is the makeover done by Aamir Khan. However, no less memorable was the performance of Pradeep Rawat as Ghajini Dharmatma, the ruthless business tycoon who is driven by greed and cruelty. Pradeep Rawat never went for dramatic facial expressions or loud dialogues. Instead, he made his presence frightening through his coolness and calculated attitude. 

2. Lagaan (2001) – Deva Singh, The Loyal Enforcer

The film Lagaan is known for being one of the best sports dramas of India. Pradeep Rawat played an incredible role of Deva Singh, the loyal enforcer for Captain Russell. While other villains relied on dialogue, Rawat relied on his body language and silent communication. 

3. Baadshah (1999) – The Fearless Henchman

Pradeep Rawat gained popularity with the audience with his performance in the action-comedy film Baadshah starring Shah Rukh Khan. Playing one of the ruthless criminals in this film, Rawat showed the physicality that he would be known for in the future.

4. Sarfarosh (1999) – The Threatening Criminal Figure

Sarfarosh had one of the best stories in Bollywood, and the realistic performance of Rawat made it more convincing as he played a hardened criminal. In place of overacting the part, Pradeep Rawat relied on realism. His threatening looks and aggressive attitude were ideal for the serious movie.

5. Rowdy Rathore (2012) – Baapji, The Merciless Mafia Boss

In Rowdy Rathore, Pradeep Rawat came back full swing to play Baapji, the ruthless crime lord who rules an entire town using his frightening reputation. Being in the company of Akshay Kumar needed someone with a strong persona, and Rawat managed that perfectly. 

AAP’s Statement On ED Raid On PSIDC Officials

By
Harsh
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Aam Aadmi Party Logo

The massive public anger against the ‘ED Party’ (BJP), as witnessed during the Jantar Mantar protest, has clearly rattled Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Instead of addressing the growing public outrage, the ED Party (BJP) has chosen to misuse central agencies and pursue political vendetta against its opponents.

The ED Party (BJP) has already deployed the ED, CBI and Income Tax Department against Punjab and CM Bhagwant Singh Mann. Despite repeated investigations, they have failed to find any evidence against him. Having failed to level any credible allegation against the Chief Minister himself, the ED Party (BJP) has now resorted to targeting and maligning people associated with him.

This is nothing but a desperate attempt by the ED Party (BJP) to defame Punjab’s elected government through baseless allegations, without any evidence or factual basis. The ED Party (BJP) is trying to achieve through propaganda what it could not achieve through investigations.

The Aam Aadmi Party strongly condemns this politics of vendetta and intimidation. The people of Punjab and the country can clearly see that these actions are driven not by facts or law, but by political frustration and a desperate attempt by the ED Party (BJP) to silence those who are working honestly for the public.

Punjab Pays Some of Highest Govt Pay Scales in Country, Surpassing Central Govt in Several Categories: Harpal Singh Cheema

By
Harsh
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Harpal Singh Cheema

Emphasising that Punjab already pays some of the highest government pay scales in the country, surpassing the Central Government in several categories, Punjab Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema on Tuesday said the State Government has inherited a ₹14,191 crore liability in employee pay commission arrears due to the policies of the previous SAD-BJP and Congress governments. He said the AAP-led Punjab Government has already cleared over ₹6,000 crore under a High Court-approved liquidation plan and remains committed to paying all constitutionally and legally valid dues while examining the recent High Court judgment and the available legal remedies.

Addressing a press conference at Punjab Bhawan, Finance Minister Cheema said the employee pay commission report was originally formulated in 2016 during the tenure of the SAD-BJP government but remained unimplemented for years. “The report was implemented only in July 2021. As a result, Dearness Allowance (DA) arrears from January 1, 2016, to July 2021 were frozen, creating a liability of ₹14,191 crore,” he said.

The Finance Minister further said that although the process of implementing the pay commission recommendations had been initiated under the previous regime, the then Congress government remained in power without releasing even a single rupee towards clearing these arrears, leaving the entire financial burden for the present government.

Explaining the steps taken by the AAP Government, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that after various employees approached the High Court, the Punjab Government prepared a structured liquidation plan, which was accepted by the court. “Out of the total liability of ₹14,191 crore, the AAP Government has already paid over ₹6,000 crore to employees. The High Court accepted the liquidation plan, and its implementation is proceeding smoothly,” he noted.

Responding to the recent High Court judgment regarding current DA disbursements, the Finance Minister said certain constitutional benchmarks and judicial precedents appeared to have been overlooked in the interpretation of the single bench.

Referring to the 2005 Constitution Bench judgment in the State of Maharashtra case, he said Punjab currently offers some of the highest pay scales in the country, exceeding Central Government pay structures in several categories.

Presenting comparisons between Punjab Government and Central Government pay scales for various posts, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said, “The State Government’s legal argument was that a state could not simultaneously sustain both the highest basic pay scales and the highest Central DA rates when the state’s pay structures were already significantly higher.”

He added that the previous Congress government had itself decided that newly recruited employees would be inducted under the Central Pay Commission guidelines.

Reiterating the Punjab Government’s commitment to employees, the Finance Minister said all constitutionally and legally valid dues would be paid. “Our legal team is examining the recent judgment in detail, reviewing the judicial precedents and consulting legal experts to determine the appropriate legal course, including the possibility of filing an appeal before the Supreme Court,” said Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema.

Concluding the press conference, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that despite inheriting a heavy fiscal burden from the previous SAD-BJP and Congress governments, the Punjab Government remains fully committed to resolving all pending financial liabilities in a systematic and transparent manner.

Police Stop Arvind Kejriwal on Way to Meet Prime Minister With 100 Victims to Oppose E-20 Petrol

By
Harsh
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Arvind Kejriwal

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal was stopped by the Delhi Police while marching to PM Narendra Modi’s residence with 100 people affected by E20 petrol and more than 233,000 public petitions demanding the policy’s withdrawal. After being prevented from meeting the Prime Minister, Arvind Kejriwal sat-in on the road with the petitions, insisting that they be accepted. The Delhi Police informed him that the Prime Minister would not meet the delegation before taking custody of all the petitions and ending the demonstration.

The AAP Chief called out the Modi government for imposing E20-Blended Petrol under pressure from US President Trump and urged the Prime Minister to stand up to Trump instead of displaying strength against the public. He emphasised that if E20 is not withdrawn, the country will be compelled to launch another major movement. Senior AAP leaders including Punjab Prabhari Manish Sisodia, Uttar Pradesh Prabhari Sanjay Singh and other party leaders were also present.

Following the demonstration, AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal took to ‘X’ and posted, “Today, we tried to meet PM Modi with more than 233,000 petitions from the public opposing E20, but PM Modi’s police stopped us. We have sent all the petitions to PM Modi.”

He asked, “PM Modi, what is the point of showing your strength against us? Show the same courage in front of Trump and stop imposing E20 on the country. Otherwise, the nation will once again be compelled to launch a major movement.”

Addressing a press conference, AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal stated, “We had gone today to submit 233,238 petitions to the Prime Minister. A month ago, we had sought time to discuss the forceful imposition of the E20-Blended Petrol issue with him, but we received no response. Today, when we went to hand over the petitions, we were informed that he would not meet us. This reflects the dictatorial attitude. Just as he displayed dictatorship throughout the entire NEET examination leaks episode, he is showing the same approach on the E20 issue by remaining adamant.”

Questioning the Centre’s stand on E20, Arvind Kejriwal asserted, “The BJP-led Central Government itself admitted in Parliament that fuel efficiency does decrease. It also admitted that engine components are affected, specifically the rubber components. So if engine parts are getting damaged and mileage is also reducing, then why is this being imposed forcibly? It appears that the only reason is US President Trump’s pressure on PM Modi. Trump is putting so much pressure on him that PM Modi does not have the courage to say no. He is forcing India to buy ethanol from the United States and sell it here. That is why this entire E20 policy has come about.”

Questioning the government’s justifications for E20, he added, “They also claim that it saves foreign exchange. But when you buy ethanol worth billions of dollars from the United States, how is foreign exchange being saved? In fact, more foreign exchange is being spent. They also claimed that Indian farmers would benefit.”

The AAP Chief pointed out, “It is not Indian farmers who are benefiting, but American farmers. Trump is forcing this ethanol policy to protect farmers in the United States. Ethanol there is produced from maize, and American farmers have put tremendous pressure on Trump. Trump, in turn, put pressure on PM Modi to buy ethanol to protect American farmers. Our farmers are not benefiting at all. American farmers are. So, fundamentally, this entire exercise is being carried out solely under Trump’s pressure because our Prime Minister is a weak Prime Minister.”

Speaking about the petition drive, he added, “We had taken all the petitions. If the Prime Minister’s Office asks us, we will send them a fresh set of all the petitions. If 233,000 people signed them in such a short period, it is obvious how much anxiety and concern exists across the country over this issue. We want to appeal to the Prime Minister to stop buying ethanol from the United States. Learn to withstand Trump’s pressure.”

Highlighting the growing opposition to the policy, he emphasised, “The entire country is suffering. Just now, the Punjab Assembly passed a resolution demanding that E20 be withdrawn. E20 is against the interests of the people and the Prime Minister must not bow to Trump’s pressure. AAP has two MLAs in Goa, five MLAs in Gujarat and one MLA in Jammu and Kashmir. Our MLAs in Jammu and Kashmir, Gujarat and Goa will also introduce resolutions seeking the withdrawal of E20. We know these resolutions may not be passed because the BJP is in power there. At least in Gujarat and Goa they will not allow them to pass, but we will still place these resolutions before the Assemblies.”

Arvind Kejriwal stated, “We have realised that the movement will have to become much bigger. During the entire NEET leak movement, PM Modi himself had to decide whether or not to seek Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation. But here, there is pressure from Trump, and in front of Trump, PM Modi becomes completely submissive. PM Modi has no say. It looks like he has his compulsions. Therefore, if people want relief from E20 and want to get rid of it, they will have to come out on the streets on a very large scale.”

Speaking about the movement ahead, the AAP Chief added, “The agitation will continue. We will deliberate on what the next activity will be and we will inform everyone. The 100 people who came today, the victims, showed tremendous courage. In today’s atmosphere, showing courage is extremely difficult. If someone merely uploads a video on social media, these people make life miserable for them. They register FIRs, their trolls threaten them and their goons reach people’s homes. They have unleashed widespread goondaism. But this very goondaism will ultimately become the reason for their downfall.”

Meanwhile, senior AAP leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh stated, “Under pressure from Trump, PM Modi has mortgaged the country’s self respect, dignity and the 30 crore vehicles of India into Trump’s hands. Because of his subservience to Trump, PM Modi is going to buy ₹22,000 crore worth of ‘trash’ from the United States. A month ago, Arvind Kejriwal wrote to the Prime Minister requesting a meeting to discuss this issue. In addition, over 233,000 people signed a petition stating that they are against E20. But because of his subservience to Trump, the Prime Minister did not listen to Arvind Kejriwal.”

Sanjay Singh added, “Today, Arvind Kejriwal, along with 100 victims whose vehicles were damaged due to E20 petrol, was going to submit these 233,000 petitions to the Prime Minister. However, to stop just 100 people, a massive police force was deployed and nearly 1,000 police personnel were stationed. This is the true nature of Narendra Modi’s rule. Led by Arvind Kejriwal, this fight against E20 will continue, and we will not allow Prime Minister Narendra Modi to remain subservient to Trump or act as his broker.”

On the other hand, senior AAP leader and former Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia said, “The issue of E20 is about forcing ethanol into the vehicles of 30 crore people across the country. Crores of people are saying that it is damaging their vehicles, reducing mileage, harming engines and increasing servicing costs.”

Manish Sisodia added, “When the public is suffering such huge losses, why is PM Modi still adamant about it? Only because of pressure from the United States and pressure from Trump. Trump had surplus ethanol, and he forced PM Modi to bow down and purchase it for India. Today, we had gone to submit petitions signed by lakhs of people to the Prime Minister on this very issue, but the Prime Minister refused to meet us. The petitions were then sent to the Prime Minister’s Office through the police.”

*People signed the following petition addressed to the Prime Minister:*

There is a huge outcry against imposition of E20 petrol across the country. I am distressed to see that the government is not listening to us and is hell bent upon imposing it. There is neither logic, nor science, nor engineering, nor economics which justifies government’s decisions. Perhaps, there is politics, which is beyond me and I fail to understand.

*As a citizen of this country, I urge you to:*

1. Provide us the choice between pure petrol and E20 at fuel stations, so that we are not forced to use fuel that damages our vehicles.

2. Reduce the price of E20 to reflect the lower calorific value and reduced mileage it delivers, so that we are not paying full price for a compromised product.

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