Raipur, Jan 18 (IANS) In a bureaucratic reshuffle aimed at ensuring effective governance in Chhattisgarh, a total of 63 officials have got new assignments. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Raipur Smart City, Ujjawal Porwal has been appointed as Janjgir-Champa District Magistrate.

According to a notification issued by the General Administration Department (GAD) of the Chhattisgarh government, Bilaspur District Magistrate Sunil Chandravanshi has been appointed as Deputy Secretary in the state secretariat.

Two senior IPS officers of Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) rank were also transferred.

According to the notification, Vedbrat Sirmor (ASP-Durg) has been appointed as general manager of Chhattisgarh Tourism Board.

Krishna Kumar Patel, ASP Raipur has been appointed as Deputy Commissioner of the Transport Department.

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai-led Chhattisgarh government made this major reshuffle ahead of the municipal and three-layer Panchayat elections in the state.

This time, the Mayors of Municipal Corporations will be elected through a direct election.

For this, the Chhattisgarh Cabinet led by CM Vishnu Deo Sai has already decided to amend the existing rules that govern urban body polls.

The Cabinet has approved a proposal for direct elections of Mayors in Municipal Corporations and Chairpersons of municipal bodies by the people.

The existing system to elect mayors and chairpersons of municipal bodies was indirect.

The first two electoral rolls regarding the municipal and panchayat elections have already been published, while the third and final electoral roll is scheduled to be published on Jan 18, according to the state government.

Notably, Vishnu Deo Sai became the fourth Chief Minister of the state of Chhattisgarh in December 2023 after the BJP came to power by defeating the Congress.

Chhattisgarh -- carved out of Madhya Pradesh -- officially became a state in 2000.

--IANS

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Dubai, Jan 18 (IANS) Avishka Fernando electrified the Sharjah Cricket Stadium with blistering innings, leading the Warriorz to a record-breaking chase in ILT20 history. Chasing 202 against Dubai Capitals, Fernando smashed an extraordinary 81 runs off just 27 balls, reaching his half-century in a record-breaking 16 balls — the fastest in the tournament's history.

Fernando’s blistering knock, featuring eight massive sixes and six fours, ensured the Warriorz scaled the target in 18.1 overs with five wickets in hand. Earlier in the evening, Shai Hope played a pivotal role for the Capitals, compiling 83 runs to help his team post a challenging 201/5.

Facing a steep target, Johnson Charles ensured the Sharjah Warriorz stayed on track in the first few overs. Supported by Jason Roy at one end, Charles took on the Capitals’ attack, carving three fours and three sixes on the way to 37 runs in 19 balls. His onslaught was halted in the final over of the Power-play, when he was dismissed by Olly Stone to leave the Warriorz at 56/1.

Dushmantha Chameera then broke through with the wicket of Jason Roy in the seventh over for 26 runs. Coming in at No.3, Avishka Fernando came to life in the ninth over tearing into Gulbadin Naib for a six and two fours in consecutive deliveries. UAE’s Rohan Mustafa also chipped in with 17 runs and vital boundaries until he was Chameera’s second wicket of the night bringing the score to 132/3 in 12.1 overs.

Fernando showcased sheer dominance as he shattered the ILT20 record for the fastest half-century, racing to the milestone in just 16 balls. The previous record, set by Desert Vipers’ Azam Khan, stood at 18 balls. Fernando then struck three consecutive sixes against Gulbadin Naib in a 27-run over, also marking the most runs conceded in an over in DP World ILT20 history. Fernando’s assault finally subsided when Obed McCoy scalped him, caught behind in the 16th over.

Luke Wells remained composed to put up 31 runs in 17 balls to help the Warriorz sail home comfortably.

In the first innings, the Dubai Capitals made the most of the fielding restrictions. Ben Dunk showcased his intent early, smashing two fours and a six, while Hope complemented him with three crisp boundaries. However, Dunk’s promising innings came to an end when an acrobatic effort from Kemo Paul off Adam Milne’s bowling saw him depart. The Capitals reached a solid 50/1 at the end of the Power-play.

Brandon McMullen continued the momentum before he was picked up by Adil Rashid on 22 runs in 14 balls. Captain Sikandar Raza joined Hope, and the pair ensured the run rate didn’t drop with a 67-run stand in 37 balls. Shai Hope brought up a 36-ball half-century that saw three fours and two sixes, in the 14th over. Raza departed for 27 runs in 20 balls, when he holed out to a sharp catch from Adam Milne, off Karim Janat.

Rovman Powell unleashed a barrage of sixes against the Warriorz, racing to 28 runs in 15 balls, including an 18-run over against Karim Janat. Meanwhile, Hope continued his sensational form smashing two consecutive sixes in of Adam Milne in the 19th over as well. Tim Southee brought some control to the final over, dismissing Powell and Dasun Shanaka in quick succession. Despite his efforts, the Capitals crossed the 200-run mark, finishing at 201/5.

Player of the Match, Avishka Fernando said: "I wanted to play my natural game, and I thank God for how things turned out. The wicket was great to bat on, and when they scored 200, I knew I had to play positively. It came naturally, and I'm grateful for that. I didn’t realize I had broken the record for the fastest fifty, but I’m happy with the performance."

Dubai Capitals captain, Sikandar Raza said: “I thought it was a very good total. You don’t usually see 202 in Sharjah, so I was pretty confident it was a strong score, and we should have been able to win the game. Shai has been a fantastic addition to the team, and hopefully, the other players around him step up as well. The wicket got better later, and the dew made it tougher. The cutters weren’t holding in the wicket either. Our fielding could have been better, and Avishka played brilliantly”.

Brief scores

Dubai Capitals 201/5 in 20 overs (Shai Hope 83 not out; Tim Southee 2-35) lost to Sharjah Warriorz 202/5 in 18.1 overs (Avishka Fernando 81, Johnson Charles 37; Dushmantha Chameera 3-30) by 5 wickets.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Jan 18 (IANS) The Centre’s air quality panel on Friday revoked restrictions under Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi and neighbouring areas as air quality improved in the city.

The move comes a day after the Commission for Air Quality Management rolled back GRAP 4 following a dip in air pollution levels in Delhi-NCR.

The CAQM said in a statement that its sub-committee on GRAP conducted its meeting on Friday and reviewed the air quality scenario in the region as well as the IMD/IITM forecasts.

“As per the Air Quality & Weather forecast provided by IMD/ IITM, there is a likelihood of the AQI of Delhi to remain in the lower end of ‘Very Poor’ category in the coming days owing to favourable meteorological conditions and strong wind speeds,” the CAQM said in the statement.

“Construction & Demolition project sites etc. which have been issued specific closure orders on account of violations/ non-compliances of various statutory directions, rules, guidelines etc. under no circumstances shall resume their operations without any specific order to this effect from the Commission,” the CAQM statement added.

Delhi’s average AQI has significantly improved as the AQI clocked 289 on Friday, as per the AQI Bulletin provided by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), clearly indicating a downward trend.

Stages 3 and 4 of the GRAP were invoked on January 15 when the average AQI of Delhi breached the 350 mark and started to exhibit a sharp increasing trend, indicating a possibility to even breach the 400 mark.

--IANS

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Patna, Jan 17 (IANS) RJD leader Tej Pratap Yadav on Friday criticised Bihar Chief Minister Nishant Kumar’s son after his appeal to voters to support in father in the upcoming Assembly polls, saying that he does not know the ground reality of the state.

“Nishant has no understanding of the state. He does not know about the ground reality,” Tej Pratap.

When asked by media personnel whether he would welcome Nishant Kumar into politics, Tej Pratap adopted a conciliatory tone, saying, “If a youth is moving forward in politics, then there should be no problem.”

Tej Pratap’s criticism comes amid growing political rhetoric between the RJD and JD-U as both parties prepare for the upcoming Bihar assembly elections.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's son, Nishant Kumar, made headlines on Friday with a significant statement in Bakhtiyarpur, Patna.

Nishant urged the people to vote for his father and JD-U.

Speaking to media, Nishant Kumar highlighted the developmental work undertaken by Nitish Kumar during his tenure as Chief Minister.

"My father has done a lot of work for the development of Bihar. People should give their vote to him and his party JDU," Nishant said.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar visited his ancestral residence in Bakhtiyarpur to pay tribute to his late father, freedom fighter Ram Lakhan Singh Vaidya, along with four other freedom fighters: Shaheed Mogal Singh, Pandit Sheelbhadra Yaji, Shaheed Nathun Singh Yadav, and Dumer Singh.

The Bihar government organised a state ceremony in honour of these freedom fighters. Nitish Kumar garlanded their statues during the event as a mark of respect, emphasising the state's commitment to recognising its historical heroes.

Nishant Kumar, who accompanied his father to the event, surprised many by addressing the media and making a direct political appeal to voters. His statement has reignited speculation about his potential entry into active politics.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Jan 17 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate (ED), Mumbai Zone, has restituted immovable properties worth Rs 289.54 crore to the Competent Authority, MPID appointed by the Government of Maharashtra in the case of M/s Pen Co-operative Urban Bank Ltd, an official said on Friday.

A statement mentioned that the assets were provisionally attached by ED under Section 5 of Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002 as the erstwhile office bearers had cheated the banks and siphoned off the bank funds for private investments.

The investigation was initiated based on the FIR registered by Pen Police Station, District Raigad, Maharashtra. It was alleged by the LEA in its chargesheet that office bearers of the bank entered into criminal conspiracy with the then Auditors of the Bank willfully and intentionally manipulated the books of accounts of Pen Bank and fraudulently reported profit and caused a loss of Rs. 651.35 Crore to the bank.

ED investigations revealed that the proceeds generated out of crime of forgery and cheating was diverted and routed through the bogus cash credit accounts opened in the said bank using the services of cheque discounters in the market.

The statement further read that part of such Proceed of Crime (POC) was utilised for purchase of immovable properties at different locations in Raigad District of Maharashtra in the names of third parties (Benami properties).

"These Benami properties measuring 70.9 acres worth Rs. 25.20 Crore were attached u/s 5 of PMLA on 26.05.2014 and 03.12.2014. Further Prosecution Complaint dated 20.06.2018 has been filed in the subject case before Hon’ble Special Court, PMLA and the trial is underway," it read.

"In the meantime, a Criminal Writ Petition bearing was filed by one of Depositor of Pen Urban Cooperative Bank Ltd before the Hon’ble Bombay High Court praying for release of the properties attached under the PMLA. The Hon’ble Bombay High Court vide order dated 07.10.2016 directed the ED to hand over the properties to MPID. Against the said order, ED filed a SLP before the Apex Court vide order dated 03.11.2017 which granted a stay on the order of Hon’ble Bombay High Court. MPID authorities filed an application u/s 8(8) of PMLA dated 01.02.2019 before Hon’ble Special Court (PMLA), Mumbai to confiscate the attached property to MPID for its restitution," it further mentioned.

Pen Co-operative Urban Bank Ltd had 2 lakh depositors and 42,000 shareholders who have lost their hard earned money. In the larger interest of depositors and currently ongoing restitution efforts, ED took a pragmatic view and decided to withdraw the SLP before the Apex Court.

"Consequently an affidavit was filed before the apex court which was allowed vide order dated 13.12.2024 and SLP was withdrawn," the statement read.

It mentioned: "ED thereafter filed an affidavit before the Hon’ble Special Court (PMLA), Mumbai expressing willingness to restitute the properties covered by the Hon’ble High Court order dated 07.10.2016. Vide order dated 14.01.2025, the Hon’ble Special Court (PMLA) allowed the ED’s application and ordered the restoration of 29 immovable properties which are presently valued at Rs. 289.54 Crore to the Competent Authority under MPID Act."

--IANS

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New Delhi, Jan 17 (IANS) The Parliament's Budget Session is set to be held from January 31 to April 4 -- in two parts, with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman set to table the Budget for the eight consecutive time on February 1.

According to provisional calendar released by Lok Sabha Secratariat, the session will begin with President Droupadi Murmu's address to a joint sitting of both Houses of the Parliament -- Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha on January 31, followed by the tabling of the Economic Survey.

Taking to X, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju wrote: "The Hon'ble President of India Smt Droupadi Murmu ji on the recommendation of the Government of India, has approved summoning both Houses of Parliament for the Budget Session 2025 from 31st January, 2025 to 4th April 2025 (subject to exigencies of parliamentary business)."

He mentioned that President Murmu will address the joint sitting of both Houses on January 31 at 11 a.m. in the Lok Sabha Chamber.

"Union Budget 2025-26 to be presented on 1st February, 2025 in the Lok Sabha. Both Houses may adjourn for a recess on 13th February, 2025 to meet again on 10th March, 2025 to examine & report on the Demands for Grants of various Ministries/Departments," Rijiju wrote.

The first part of the Budget Session will have nine sittings from January 31 to February 13.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will respond to the Motion of Thanks on the President's address, while Finance Minister Sitharaman will reply to the discussion on the Budget.

After a break to examine the Budget proposals, the Parliament session will resume on March 10 during which discussions on demands for grants of various ministries will be held.

The entire budget session will have 27 sittings, and it will conclude on April 4.

FM Sitharaman in July last year, weeks after the formation of the new government at the Centre, presented her seventh Budget.

She then broke late Morarji Desai's record of presenting six consecutive Budgets.

FM Sitharaman, a key ministerial figure in the Union Cabinet, had earlier served as junior minister in PM Modi-led government between 2014 and 2017. She has been the Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance and the Minister of State in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs from May to November 2014, and then was the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Commerce and Industry from May 2014 to September 2017.

Later, she was elevated to senior posts in the Union Cabinet.

Sitharaman was the Defence Minister in the first PM Modi-led Cabinet during the Balakot surgical strikes of 2019.

She got the charge of Finance Ministry in 2019 in Modi 2.0 Cabinet and has been the Finance Minister since then.

--IANS

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London, Jan 17 (IANS) The Premier League title race could take another turn this weekend as teams head straight into another round of games following the midweek fixtures. Liverpool, held to a 1-1 draw by high-flying Nottingham Forest earlier this week, face another challenging away match against Brentford. Brentford, known for their attacking style, will look to make the most of playing in front of their home fans.

Both teams boast the league's best shot conversion rates, but with Arsenal narrowing Liverpool's lead at the top to four points (albeit having played an extra game), Liverpool must be clinical, reports Xinhua.

Arsenal secured a 2-1 win over Tottenham midweek despite their lengthy injury list. The Gunners' effectiveness from set pieces was key to the victory. This weekend, former Arsenal coach Unai Emery brings his impressive Aston Villa side to the Emirates.

With Villa's pacy forwards John Duran, Ollie Watkins, and Leon Bailey likely to test Arsenal's defense, the match promises to be a compelling contest. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta will hope Kai Havertz steps up, with Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus both sidelined. Nottingham Forest's spirited performance against Liverpool have boosted morale, and the team now faces bottom-of-the-table Southampton. Southampton's season appears to be about preparing for a likely return to the Championship.

Coach Ivan Juric will be frustrated by his side's collapse, conceding three late goals to lose 3-1 against Manchester United on Thursday. If Chris Wood and his Forest teammates perform well again, they could extend the club's feel-good run with another three points.

Newcastle coach Eddie Howe faces his former club, Bournemouth, as Newcastle aim for a 10th straight win in all competitions. Striker Alexander Isak has been in red-hot form, scoring in eight consecutive Premier League games and netting 14 goals in his last 13 appearances. Bournemouth will need to be at their best to challenge Newcastle at St. James' Park.

Manchester City, fresh off extending Erling Haaland's contract until 2034, visit Ipswich Town, a team fighting to avoid relegation. Defensive lapses have plagued City, as seen in their midweek draw against Brentford, but the team will look to bounce back. Tottenham coach Ange Postecoglou is under increasing pressure, with his team managing just one point from its last five league matches. Spurs travel to Everton, where David Moyes has returned to manage the struggling club. Everton have lost three straight league games, scoring only once in their last six outings.

Elsewhere, West Ham host Crystal Palace in what looks to be an evenly matched game. Leicester City stuck in a six-match losing streak and second-to-last in the table, desperately needs a win when it plays Fulham.

Manchester United will test their recent improvements at home against Brighton, while the round concludes Monday with Chelsea looking to recover from a poor run of form. The Blues host Wolverhampton, having taken just one point from their last three league matches under new coach Vitor Pereira.

--IANS

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Muscat, Jan 17 (IANS) Chinese teenager Chen Yuanyu shocked World No. 3 Tomokazu Harimoto of Japan 4-2 to capture the men's singles title, while Shi Xunyao emerged as the winner in an all-Chinese women's singles final over Kuai Man in straight games at the World Table Tennis (WTT) Contender Muscat on Friday.

Chen, currently sitting 51 positions below Harimoto on the world rankings, fell 8-11 in the opening game, while winning 11-7, and 11-7 in the next two games to turn the tables.

Although the top seed Harimoto levelled the match 11-3 in the fourth game, the 19-year-old Chinese held on to triumph 11-4, 12-10 to notch one of the biggest victories in his career, reports Xinhua.

Facing Kuai, winner of the title in last week's WTT Star Contender Doha, Shi took command with an 11-6, 11-9, 11-8, 11-4 victory.

Also on Friday, Japanese paddlers claimed both titles in doubles events, with Tomokazu Harimoto and Sora Matsushima coming on top in the men's doubles, while Satsuki Odo and Sakura Yokoi were crowned the women's doubles champions. In Thursday's mixed doubles final, second seeds Alvaro Robles and Maria Xiao of Spain dispatched Chinese qualifiers Huang Youzheng and Shi Xunyao 3-1.

The next WTT Series event will be the Singapore Smash from January 30 to February 9.

Earlier in November, China claimed all five titles in WTT Contender Muscat concluded in the capital of Oman. After pairing up to clinch the mixed doubles title, Lin Shidong and Kuai Man went on to secure singles titles in their respective finals against Chinese teammates.

In the men's singles, Lin endured a tough semifinal battle against Japan's Yukiya Uda, ultimately prevailing to set up a title clash with Wen Ruibo. After the two finalists each won a game, Lin raised his level, taking control of the match and winning the next three games to secure a 4-1 victory.

On the women's side, Kuai carried momentum from her semifinal victory over Japan's top seed Satsuki Odo, the WTT Champions Montpellier winner. Kuai built a 3-1 lead against Qian Tianyi in the final. Although Qian pulled one game back, Kuai remained steady, clinching the match 11-9 in the sixth game.

--IANS

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Guwahati, Jan 12 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Sunday that the Panchayat elections will be held in April.

Sarma told reporters here, “The High Court (Gauhati) has given the permission today to conduct Panchayat elections. However we have lost the time as if we start from today, the elections can be held in mid-February. But we have examinations of class 10 and 12 in the next month and conducting an election at that time will create a lot of troubles for the students in the villages. Moreover, it will be difficult to get halls for counting of votes.”

The CM said that the state administration will look into the possibility of conducting Panchayat elections in April. “The panchayat polls will likely to happen around Bihu in April,” he added.

The High Court had previously ordered that no notification for the Panchayat elections should be issued until January 8. However, the state government has sought reconsideration of this decision, citing concerns over the need to proceed with the elections as planned.

In response, the court has instructed the plaintiffs to submit their replies by Sunday (January 12). Additionally, the court has directed that those copies of the government’s application be served to the parties involved today, ensuring transparency in the legal proceedings.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had earlier announced that the Panchayat elections would be held as per the original schedule. But the administration could not proceed with the notification of polls due to bar from the court. The government requested the court to allow the elections to take place without further legal entanglements, emphasising the need for the polls to proceed in panchayats despite ongoing cases.

The court’s decision follows multiple petitions filed due to discrepancies in the constituency redetermination process. These petitions argue that the elections should be postponed until these errors are rectified.

--IANS

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Dumka, Jan 12 (IANS) The mobile phone of a Rajasthan High Court judge was stolen at the famous Basukinath temple in Jharkhand's Dumka on January 1, despite tight security at the spot, prompting immediate action by the police.

Within days, the case was cracked, leading to the busting of an inter-state gang of mobile thieves and the recovery of eight stolen mobile phones, including the judge's device.

According to Shyamanand Mandal, officer-in-charge of the Jarmundi police station, the theft took place during New Year’s Day at the Basukinath Dham temple, a popular pilgrimage site which attracts thousands of devotees, making it an attractive target for organised theft.

Along with the judge, several other devotees also reported stolen mobile phones. An FIR was promptly registered at the Jarmundi police station, and a special investigation team was formed under senior police officials.

Leveraging technical evidence and intelligence inputs, the team launched a series of raids across multiple locations. The first breakthrough came with the arrest of two suspects from Babupur village in the Teenpahar police station area of Sahibganj district. Their interrogation provided leads that resulted in the arrest of two more gang members from areas near the Bihar-West Bengal-Bangladesh border. In addition to the judge's mobile phone, several other stolen devices were recovered.

The investigation revealed that the arrested thieves were part of a larger inter-state mobile theft network operating out of the Tinpahar area in Sahibganj district. This region has gained notoriety as a hub for mobile theft operations, with multiple gangs running "Pathshalas" (training schools) to train children in pickpocketing and theft techniques.

After completing their training, the children are deployed to crowded places such as temples, markets, and railway stations, both locally and in big cities across the country. These operations are meticulously planned, with gang leaders assigning specific tasks and closely monitoring the young recruits.

The Tinpahar gangs have been implicated in similar incidents in the past, with police records showing that Ranchi police recently apprehended members of a similar gang from the same area.

The arrested individuals were produced in court and subsequently sent to jail. Meanwhile, the police are continuing their investigations to trace other members of the gang and recover additional stolen items.

The theft, which occurred despite the presence of heightened security measures due to the judge's visit, raises serious concerns about the safety of devotees at prominent religious sites. The police have assured the public that measures are being strengthened to prevent such incidents in the future.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Jan 12 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a large gathering of the youth at the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue on National Youth Day on Sunday. The interaction marked the event with several unprecedented initiatives.

Addressing the young India, PM Modi stressed the significance of setting big goals for India’s development by 2047. He also urged the youth to step out of their comfort zones to achieve these objectives.

The event was remarkable for its many “firsts”. PM Modi spent a remarkable six hours with the young leaders, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., engaging in discussions and interactions on various topics and subjects.

The event started off with an exhibition where PM Modi held interactions with the youth and witnessed a range of innovative ideas that showcased their creativity and problem-solving abilities.

During the event, 10 young leaders presented their ideas on diverse topics, including sustainable development, integrating technology with agriculture, and strategies to transform India into a manufacturing and startup hub.

PM Modi shared his insights with the leaders, offering suggestions and urging them to work towards these goals. He emphasised the importance of their contributions in realising a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India).

Around 3000 young minds from across the country participated in these enriching discussions, providing a platform for open dialogue and idea exchange.

In a unique first, PM Modi also had lunch with the young leaders, engaging in thought-provoking conversations at the lunch table. During the lunch, young girls from the Northeast interacted with the Prime Minister, offering a chance for regional representation and inclusion in the discussions.

The event concluded with PM Modi delivering an inspiring speech, presenting his vision for India’s future and calling on the youth to join the journey towards a prosperous and developed nation. He urged them to become catalysts for change, drawing from the innovative ideas shared throughout the day.

This dialogue not only set a new precedent in youth engagement but also reflected the government’s commitment to empowering the younger generation as leaders of the future.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Jan 12 (IANS) Underscoring the role of youth in shaping the nation's future, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday asked them to step out of their comfort zones and embrace risks to achieve the vision of a 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047.

Addressing 3,000 young leaders on the occasion of National Youth Day, commemorating the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, PM Modi said while the goal of Viksit Bharat is significant, it is not impossible, dispelling the views of naysayers.

“With the collective efforts of millions of young people driving the wheels of progress, the nation will undoubtedly reach its target,” he said.

PM Modi warned against complacency, urging the youth to step out of their comfort zones.

"We must avoid getting used to our comfort zone. Comfort zones can be dangerous. Progress requires taking risks and pushing boundaries. The youth participating in this dialogue have already demonstrated this by stepping out of their comfort zones to be here. This life mantra will take you to new heights of success," PM Modi said.

"Many of the world's largest companies are being run by Indian youth. The entire world admires the potential of Indian youth. We have a 25-year golden period, an Amrit Kaal, and I am fully confident that India's Yuva Shakti will make India a developed nation," he said.

"Achieving big goals is not solely the responsibility of government machinery but requires the collective effort of every citizen," PM Modi said, highlighting the importance of deliberation, direction, and ownership in achieving national objectives.

The Prime Minister remarked that the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue exemplifies this process, led by the youth who participated in quizzes, essay competitions, and presentations.

He commended the youth for their expansive thinking and active participation in discussions with experts, ministers, and policymakers.

The Prime Minister announced that the ideas and suggestions from the Young Leaders Dialogue will now become part of national policies, guiding the country's development.

He congratulated the youth and reiterated his commitment to bringing one lakh new young people into politics, encouraging them to participate actively in implementing their suggestions.

PM Modi praised the achievements of the younger generation over the past decade, stating: "In just 10 years, you have propelled India to become one of the top three startup ecosystems globally, advanced India in the manufacturing sector, popularised the Digital India initiative worldwide, and made significant strides in sports. If India's youth can make the impossible possible, they will undoubtedly make Viksit Bharat a reality."

The Prime Minister reaffirmed the government's commitment to empowering youth, emphasising efforts to expand educational infrastructure.

"Every week, a new university is being established in India. Every day, a new ITI is being set up. Every third day, a new Atal Tinkering Lab is being opened. Additionally, two new colleges are being established daily. Today, there are 23 IITs in the country. In just one decade, the number of IIITs has increased from nine to 25, while the number of IIMs has risen from 13 to 21. The number of AIIMS has tripled, and medical colleges have nearly doubled," he said.

He also pointed to the growing global recognition of India's educational institutions.

Highlighting that India is now nearly a $4 trillion economy, the Prime Minister said that the current infrastructure budget is over Rs 11 lakh crore, nearly six times higher than a decade ago, and more is being spent on railways alone than the entire infrastructure budget of 2014.

He noted that this increased budget is evident in India's changing landscape, with Bharat Mandapam being a beautiful example.

“India is rapidly moving towards becoming a $5 trillion economy, which will greatly expand development and facilities,” said PM Modi.

Expressing confidence that by the end of the next decade India will surpass the $10 trillion economy mark, PM Modi said that the young generation will not only drive the greatest transformation in the country's history but also be its biggest beneficiary.

--IANS

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Chennai, Jan 17 (IANS) Buoyed by the emphatic success of his film Madha Gaja Raja, which has now emerged a blockbuster, actor Vishal on Friday said that the film’s feat of emerging a success must go down in record books.

The actor, who participated in a Thanksgiving meet organized by the unit Madha Gaja Raja, spoke at length on a number of issues.

Speaking on the occasion, Vishal said, “I was in tears when doctors told me not to go for the pre-release event as I was shivering and running a high temperature. But when I looked at the mirror, I could only see director Sundar C’s face. For 12 years, we would talk to each other about this film. Every year, we would feel it would be great if this film released that year. I had given my heart and soul for this film and Sundar C sir would always comfort me saying, "Don't worry, whenever it releases, it will win."

Continuing to speak, Vishal said, “Honestly, in Indian film history, Madha Gaja Raja is the first film which has released after 12 years and still emerged a mega blockbuster. This is something I want to register. This feat should go in the book of records. It is unbelievable. By God's grace, people are celebrating this film.”

Stating that this was like God was telling to him to wait and do other films with Sundar C, Vishal said, “It was like God telling us ‘MGR will get its due.’ He has now given us a date with nine days holidays. I thank God."

The actor thanked a number of people on the occasion -- from his director Sundar C, his producer, the cast and crew to audiences, the press and friends who had stood by him – for the success of the film.

Directed by Sundar C, Madha Gaja Raja has been produced by Gemini Film Circuit and stars Vishal, Anjali and Varalaxmi Sarathkumar in the lead. Actors Santhanam and Sonu Sood play pivotal roles in the film, the production of which began in 2012 and got completed in 2013. The film had remained unreleased for over a decade due to financial troubles but now, the film has released and emerged a success.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Jan 17 (IANS) The enchanting trailer of Shahid Kapoor and Pooja Hegde's "Deva" has added to the excitement for the film, leaving the fans wanting more. Speaking during the trailer launch event, Shahid Kapoor shared his experience about stepping into the role of Dev Ambre.

Describing the film as deeply personal, the actor revealed, “Deva is a piece of my heart,” he said. “For many years, people were telling me to do a massy film, something that resonates with the masses. For me, this is the next step in my journey. It’s been one of the most challenging films of my career. There’s so much in Dev’s character that I don’t want to reveal just yet—you’ll have to watch it on January 31.”

Shahid Kapoor also spoke about Saif Ali Khan's horrific stabbing incident during the trailer launch. Wishing him a speedy recovery, Shahid Kapoor said, "All of us from the fraternity are extremely concerned. We hope that Saif's health gets better. We hope that he is feeling better. We are very shocked about what happened. It is a very difficult thing to absorb that something like this can take place in Mumbai. I am sure, the police are trying their best. Usually, things like this do not happen. Mumbai is an extremely safe place. We proudly say that even if your family member is outside at 2 or 3 am they are safe."

Shahid Kapoor will essay the role of a brilliant yet stubborn police officer in his next.

Directed by Rosshan Andrrews, "Deva" has been bankrolled by Zee Studios and Roy Kapur Films. Shahid Kapoor will be accompanied by Pooja Hegde as the leading lady, along with Pavail Gulatie, Pravessh Rana, and Kubbra Sait in crucial roles.

While Amit Roy is a part of the team as the cinematographer, A. Sreekar has looked after the editing.

"Deva" will be out in the cinema hall on 31st January 2025.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Jan 17 (IANS) Rashmika Mandanna has been making quite a wave both in Bollywood and the South. Aside from this, the 'Animal' actress also loves to stay connected with her InstaFam. Recently, the diva took to her social media and dropped an exciting video asking about everyone's favorite smell.

In the clip shared on her Instagram, Rashmika Mandanna can be seen enjoying a chit-chat session with her makeup team while getting ready.

She can be heard saying, "I just love good smell. I think I am a very fruity, floral, amber, musky sort of a girl. And the first rain, Oh my God! I think that's a universal favorite. The smell of books. That's why I love reading books in a book form, not in a Kindle. Do you really actually know why two people are attracted to each other? Apparently, it's because of their smell." Rashmika Mandanna's latest IG post included the caption, "What’s your favourite fragrance?"

Recently, the stunner suffered a leg injury during a workout session. However, it looks like the 'Pushpa' actress has decided to join the workforce again.

On the work front, Rashmika Mandanna will soon be seen opposite Vicky Kaushal in the much-awaited drama "Chhaava". Recently, the makers announced that the trailer of the film will unveiled on 22nd January 2025. The announcement poster shows Vicky Kaushal in a regal look

"Chhaava" is touted to be a “stirring tale of the courageous warrior whose coronation on this day in 1681 marked the beginning of a legendary reign.” Bankrolled by Maddock Films, the movie has been directed by Laxman Utekar.

Rashmika Mandanna also has AR Murugadoss' action entertainer "Sikandar" opposite Salman Khan in her kitty. The much-anticipated flick will also feature Kajal Aggarwal, Sathyaraj, Sharman Joshi, and Prateik Babbar in crucial roles, along with others. Financed by Sajid Nadiadwala, "Sikandar" will be reaching the cinema halls on 30th March this year during Eid.

In addition to this, Rashmika Mandanna also has Sekhar Kammula's "Kubera", and Aditya Sarpotdar's "Thama" lined up for release.

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Mumbai, Jan 16 (IANS) Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor Khan has issued an official statement after her husband, actor Saif Ali Khan was attacked early on Thursday.

The actress, who shares Taimur and Jeh with Saif, took to her Instagram, and penned a note in which she asked the media to not relentlessly pursue the family as it will put them on a greater risk thereby compromising with their security.

She wrote, "It has been an incredibly challenging day for our family, and we are still trying to process the events that have unfolded. As we navigate this difficult time, I respectfully and humbly request that the media and paparazzi refrain from the relentless speculation and coverage. While we appreciate the concern and support, the constant scrutiny and attention are not only overwhelming but also pose a significant risk to our safety. I kindly request that you respect our boundaries and give us the space we need to heal and cope as a family".

She further mentioned, "I would like to thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation during this sensitive time".

Saif was reportedly attacked with a 2.5 inch knife by an assailant who barged into his Bandra house through his youngest son, Jeh’s room.

As per media reports, doctors removed the 2.5 inches of knife from his wound. The actor, who underwent a surgery, has now been shifted to the ICU and is said to be out of danger.

The actor was stabbed multiple times in an attempt to fight off a burglar during the wee hours of Thursday. The actor sustained six stab wounds, two of which are said to be serious as they are closer to his spine. The incident took place at 2:15 am when the burglar allegedly barged into their Bandra home, and attacked their house help and then Saif when he intervened.

At the time of the incident, his wife Kareena Kapoor Khan was present at home along with other members of the family as they all were sleeping. Saif was woken up by the commotion in his son Jeh’s room.

He went inside the room to see the culprit arguing with their house help, looking at this, Saif intervened to save the house help with bare hands to fight off the culprit.

--IANS

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