Patna, March 30 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah arrived in Patna late Saturday for his two-day visit to Bihar, during which he met leaders of the BJP-led NDA, and will address a couple of public events.

This visit by the Union Home Minister is aimed at energising the BJP and its NDA allies ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections which is scheduled to take place later this year.

After arriving in Bihar on Saturday, Amit Shah took to his official X account and said: "Under the leadership of Modi ji, the NDA government in Bihar has become synonymous with public welfare and good governance. Today, I had a detailed discussion with the Ministers, MLAs and senior officials of the @BJP4Bihar in the Bihar government. Once again, the NDA government is going to be formed in Bihar."

The Union Home Minister was warmly welcomed at the Patna airport by senior BJP leaders from the state.

After his arrival, Home Minister Shah proceeded to the BJP office in Patna, where he held a meeting with local leaders.

Amit Shah held a meeting with Union ministers, MPs, state Ministers, and MLAs, emphasising the goal of securing 225 seats for the NDA in 2025 Bihar Assembly polls.

Taking To his official X account, BJP MP and former Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said: "Today, I attended a meeting with all the MPs, MLAs, Legislative Council members in the dignified presence of the country's illustrious Home and Cooperation Minister Mr. @AmitShah ji at the Bihar BJP office. In the meeting, I got guidance on the party's upcoming programs and organizational issues."

He told IANS, "There will be more people coming to Bihar, and Bihar has to win the the influence and create a new enthusiasm all over the country. The BJP won the Assembly polls in Maharashtra, Haryana and Delhi. So now the process of BJP's victory will continue..."

Commenting on Amit Shah's visit to Bihar, the former Union Minister added: "This is an organisational meeting focused on the upcoming elections. Discussions will be held with all MLAs and MPs, as well as core committee members..."

Asked about Union Home Minister Amit Shah's visit to Bihar, Union Minister Giriraj Singh told IANS, "The Home Minister has arrived, bringing joy across the state, especially among party workers. Known as the Chanakya of the party (BJP) organisation, his presence naturally enthuses the cadre..."

BJP MP Shahnawaz Hussain told IANS: "A wave of joy is sweeping across Bihar as Amit Shah arrives! Whenever he visits Bihar, an NDA storm begins to rise. There is an atmosphere of excitement and celebration among all party workers..."

BJP MP Janardan Singh Sigriwal told IANS, "The country's Union Home Minister, who also plays the role of a modern-day Chanakya in politics, is set to make a significant impact with today's crucial meeting in Bihar. With elections approaching, his visit at this time is highly strategic. Not just one, but multiple high-level meetings will take place. Initially, there will be discussions with MLAs, MPs, and Ministers, followed by another important meeting..."

BJP MP Dharmshila Gupta told IANS: "We (BJP) have gained new energy and will fully reach the booth level. Our target is the booth..."

She also added: "Today, on the sacred land of Buddha and the holy soil of Patna, we are honoured to welcome our country's respected Minister of Home Affairs and Cooperation, Amit Shah. With great enthusiasm, the senior leaders, dedicated workers of the Bharatiya Janata Party, and the sisters of the Mahila Morcha stand here with flowers and garlands to extend a warm welcome to him. We wholeheartedly greet and honor him..."

BJP MP Pradeep Kumar Singh told IANS, "We will win the elections, but the key is to secure a massive victory. Amit Shah has provided strategic guidance on achieving this goal. Following his advice, our party (BJP) workers will reach every village, every household, and every booth to ensure NDA's victory with a resounding majority..."

Union Minister Raj Bhushan Nishad told IANS, "You all know that this is an election year, and in this crucial period, organisational strengthening and strategic guidance are essential..."

The visit of Amit Shah, the first since last year's parliamentary polls, is seen as the unofficial start of the NDA's campaign with a target of winning 225 out of 243 seats.

Home Minister Shah will address a public meeting in Gopalganj on Sunday, a key political event designed to mobilise the party's grassroots.

Home Minister Shah's itinerary includes two official events on Sunday – one in Patna and the other in Gopalganj.

At Bapu Sabhagar, he will address a state-level cooperative conference attended by 6,950 representatives from various cooperative sectors, including PACS, fisheries, dairy and vegetable growers. He is expected to announce schemes worth Rs 903 crore for the cooperative and home departments.

In Gopalganj, before addressing the public, Home Minister Shah will distribute 100 micro-ATMs to ‘bank mitras' of Bihar State Cooperative Bank and launch several local initiatives, including a makhana processing centre in Darbhanga.

Both events align with the UN-declared International Cooperative Year 2025 and Home Minister Shah will also unveil a web portal dedicated to cooperative activities.

On Amit Shah's expected meeting with CM Nitish Kumar, JD(U) acting president Sanjay Kumar Jha said, "Amit Shah will meet the CM at his official residence on Sunday."

State BJP Chief Dilip Jaiswal added that Amit Shah would return from Gopalganj around 3 p.m. and hold a joint meeting with NDA leaders before leaving for Delhi.

After arriving in Patna, the Union Home Minister visited the BJP state headquarters for discussions with Union and state ministers, MLAs, MLCs and party office bearers.

--IANS

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Washington, March 30 (IANS) Faye Hall, an American woman who was recently freed by the Taliban in Afghanistan, thanked US President Donald Trump in a video message for securing her release.

Trump on Saturday shared a video on social media of Faye Hall, the freed American woman who had been detained by the Taliban since February.

"Thank you for bringing me home. I've never been so proud to be an American citizen," Hall said in the video posted by Trump, expressing her gratitude to the President and saying she was "so glad" he was in office.

Hall also took a moment to acknowledge the women still detained in Afghanistan.

"They're waiting for you to come and set them free," Hall said in her message.

"Thank you, Faye — So honoured by your words!" Trump's post read, accompanied by the video of Hall.

Hall was released on Thursday "following a court order and with logistical support from Qatar," which has been mediating on the US' behalf, a source told CNN.

Hall, a British couple and their Afghan translator had been detained since February 1 while travelling to the central Bamiyan province of Afghanistan.

Hall's release comes after Trump envoy Adam Boehler and former Trump official Zalmay Khalilzad travelled to Kabul to secure the release of American George Glezmann, which was also mediated by Qatar.

In a post on X, Khalilzad announced Hall's release, stating, "American citizen Faye Hall, just released by the Taliban, is now in the care of our friends, the Qataris in Kabul, and will soon be on her way home."

Taliban officials did not reveal the cause for the arrest, however media reports have said that Hall was detained on charges of using drones without authorisation.

The British couple detained with Hall remain in Taliban custody.

A senior Taliban official said Hall was held by the Haqqani network to gain concessions from the US governments.

Hall was released after the US dropped its bounties on senior Haqqani officials including a $10 million reward for Sirajuddin Haqqani, the Taliban government’s Interior Minister.

The Haqqani network was responsible for some of the most deadly attacks during the war in Afghanistan.

Hall is believed to be the fourth American released from Afghanistan since January.

Earlier this month, George Glezmann, an airline mechanic from Atlanta, was freed after more than two years in custody.

--IANS

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Chennai, March 30 (IANS) Actor Sivaji, who made a return to the silver screen after nearly 13 years with director Ram Jagadish's courtroom drama 'Court – State Vs A Nobody', on Saturday, was thrilled about actor Chiranjeevi appreciating him for his performance in the film.

Taking to X to post pictures of himself with Chiranjeevi, Sivaji wrote, "This moment will be etched in my heart forever! My dearest annayya @KChiruTweets garu watched our #CourtTelugu and expressed his immense appreciation to this Mangapathi & whole team. Words can't describe this happiness! Love you Annayya."

It may be recalled that Sivaji had earlier, in an interview, said that his dream of 25 years had come true with the character he had played in 'Court'.

Sivaji plays the powerful role of Mangapati in the film.

In an earlier event, Sivaji opened up on his comeback to films.

"The character of a man in court was my 25-year dream. I am very happy to have got this opportunity through Nani," he said.

Talking about his character in the film, Sivaji said, "I asked the director what made him select me for this character. He said that he had selected the perfect actor for this role. I feel this character was made for me. I somehow think that the director took this character from real life. The credit for everything related to my character must go to the director. He gave me the opportunity to prove that I can do this."

The film, which has been presented by actor Nani's Wall Poster Cinema, has now emerged a huge success.

The film, which opened to positive reviews, features Priyadarshi in the lead role and has been produced by Prashanthi Tipirneni. Deepthi Ganta is the co-producer.

--IANS

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Islamabad, March 30 (IANS) After months of conflict and more than six months of blockade of main routes in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province's Kurram district, tribal leaders from the Shia and Sunni sect came to an agreement and announced an eight-month peace agreement.

The tribal Shia and Sunni leaders have announced a ceasefire to the ongoing sectarian conflict, which has taken lives of hundreds and made living impossible for the residents of the district, who have been suffering due to the lack of food, fuel, medicines and other basic necessities for several months.

On Saturday, tribal leaders of Kurram district gathered at the district headquarter and signed a peace agreement with an aim to revive normalcy in the district by reopening of the Parachinar Tal main highway for normal traffic, opening of the Afghan border linked with the Kurram district and compliance with the previous Kohat Agreement to ensure peace, safety, security and stability in the district.

As per the peace agreement, both sectarian tribal leaders have mutually agreed to abide by the terms and conditions of the ceasefire and comply with the signed agreement, which implements an eight-month ceasefire to the sectarian conflict.

Both parties have agreed to abide and implement the terms and conditions of the Kohat Agreement, a peace deal was signed between the KP government and the tribal leaders on January 1, 2025.

This peace deal states allowing establishment of a special force consisting of at least 399 members to safeguard the routes leading to Kurram district, dismantling of bunkers established by tribal groups to target and attack each other, arms and weapons with tribal groups to be surrendered, and avoid the need for a military operation, and working in coordination with the government to ensure security and peace in the district.

The peace agreement also stated that both parties will engage with each other through negotiations, whenever there are concerns or need to discuss matters related to the implementation of the peace agreement.

The tribal elders have also agreed that in case of any violations of the agreement by either party, the tribal leaders from both sects will cooperate with the administration, police and law enforcing agencies to take action and have the culprits be punished as per law.

The peace agreement holds pivotal value to the Kurram district, as the ongoing violence and sectarian conflict has claimed lives of hundreds of people, while for more than six months, all routes leading to the district, the border movement with Afghanistan has remained blocked.

The sectarian violence in the Kurram district between Shia and Sunni sects has recently claimed more than 150 lives, while the dispute has remained a major issue in the district for decades.

The KP government had announced a fresh military operation in the district during February after multiple attacks on security forces claimed lives of multiple security officials.

Moreover, aid convoys carrying food and medicine supplies for the Kurram district also came under multiple attacks in the past.

However, with the latest peace agreement and ceasefire between tribal leaders of the Shia and Sunni sect, locals say that a new message of hope for the people of Kurram district and creation of an atmosphere of peace and tranquility in the region through cooperation and mutual understanding has emerged.

The locals of the district hoped that the latest agreement will pave the way to a consist peace in the area and bring about positive changes in the lives of the people of the region, who have been the worst victims of the decade-long simmering conflict between the two sectarian tribes.

--IANS

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New Delhi, March 30 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to meet Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat in Nagpur on Sunday, in what will mark their first public appearance together since the Ram Mandir consecration in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya on January 22 last year and their first joint event at the RSS headquarters.

PM Modi will also visit Smruti Mandir in Reshimbagh to pay tributes to RSS founder Keshav Baliram Hedgewar on his birth anniversary.

This is the first time a sitting PM is visiting the Sangh headquarters at Nagpur’s Reshimbagh, where PM Modi will lay the foundation stone of the extension building of a hospital.

The meeting comes after a spell of speculation about tension in Sangh's ties with the BJP leadership.

Political circles, however, consider the forthcoming interaction significant because of the timing, venue and the purpose of the PM's visit to Nagpur.

It coincides with BJP's preparations to elect a new national president, expected by the first week of April.

The saffron party is likely to hold its national council meeting in Bengaluru on April 18 to endorse the new president's election.

RSS has always had a major say in the choice of the party chief.

That the meeting is happening in Nagpur where Sangh is headquartered and in the honour of Madhavrao Sadashivrao Golwalkar, 'Guru ji' to legions of Sangh swayamsevaks and sympathisers, has only invested the whole affair with even more significance.

PM Modi will participate in the foundation-laying ceremony of Madhav Netralaya, a state-of-the-art eye hospital and research institute, on Gudi Padwa, Marathi New Year.

PM Modi and Mohan Bhagwat's last one-on-one meeting was on May 10, 2014, in Delhi, ahead of Lok Sabha polls.

They were slated to appear together again on April 27, 2023, for the inauguration of National Cancer Institute and Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan's cultural centre in Koradi, 15km from Nagpur, but PM Modi's visit was cancelled due to the Karnataka Assembly elections.

At the Sunday event, PM Modi and Mohan Bhagwat will be joined on stage by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Acharya Govind Giri Maharaj, Avadheshanand Maharaj and Nagpur's Guardian Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule.

PM Modi's visit coincides with the preparations of the RSS centenary year celebrations, which begin on Vijayadashmi this October.

In Nagpur, PM Modi will visit Deekshabhoomi, where Dr. B.R. Ambedkar embraced Buddhism along with thousands of his followers in 1956.

BJP, ideologically mentored by the RSS, is currently in the process of holding organisational elections from the district to the national level.

J.P. Nadda, the incumbent BJP President, was inducted into the Union Cabinet by PM Modi in June 2024. He’s been on extension since, holding dual responsibilities.

PM Modi’s visit to Nagpur comes close on the heels of the Bengaluru meeting of the RSS Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha, the highest decision-making and policy formulation body of the saffron outfit, which passed a resolution expressing concerns over "Hindu persecution in Bangladesh".

--IANS

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New Delhi, March 30 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh on Sunday, where he will participate in various programmes and inaugurate multiple development projects.

His visit will commence in Nagpur and later extend to Bilaspur.

Taking to social media platform X on Saturday, PM Modi wrote, "I will be in Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh tomorrow, March 30, to attend various programmes. Upon landing in Nagpur, I will go to Smruti Mandir and thereafter to Deekshabhoomi. After that, will lay the foundation stone for Madhav Netralaya Premium Centre at Nagpur. I will also have the opportunity to visit Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited's ammunition facility."

The Prime Minister will begin his day in Nagpur at 9 a.m. with a visit to Smruti Mandir, followed by a trip to Deekshabhoomi, a significant Buddhist site where B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Constitution of India, embraced Buddhism in 1956.

At 10 a.m., PM Modi will lay the foundation stone for the Madhav Netralaya Premium Centre, an extension of the Madhav Netralaya Eye Institute and Research Centre. This new facility will feature 250 beds, 14 outpatient departments, and 14 modular operation theatres, aiming to provide world-class eye care.

At 12:30 p.m., he will inaugurate a loitering munition testing range and an airstrip for Unarmed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) at Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited's ammunition facility in Nagpur.

In Bilaspur, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone and dedicate to the nation development projects worth more than Rs 33,700 crore across power, oil and gas, rail, road, education, and housing sectors.

PM Modi will initiate NTPC's Sipat Super Thermal Power Project Stage-III (Rs 9,790 crore) and commence work on the Chhattisgarh State Power Generation Company's first Super Critical Thermal Power Project (Rs 15,800 crore).

He will also inaugurate three POWERGRID transmission projects worth Rs 560 crore.

To boost energy infrastructure, he will launch the City Gas Distribution project of BPCL, covering multiple districts, and the Visakh-Raipur Pipeline Project by HPCL, worth Rs 2,210 crore.

The visit includes railway and road projects, with the launch of seven railway projects (108 km) and the dedication of three completed projects (111 km).

Additionally, he will flag off a MEMU train in the Abhanpur-Raipur section.

Focusing on education, PM Modi will dedicate 130 PM SHRI Schools and a Vidya Samiksha Kendra in Raipur.

He will also hand over keys to beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Gramin.

His visit underscores the government's commitment to infrastructure development and social welfare.

--IANS

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Yangon, March 30 (IANS) India has intensified its efforts to assist Myanmar following the devastating earthquake, under 'Operation Brahma', by sending two C-17 aircraft with 118-member Indian Army field hospital unit, including women and child care services, as well as 60 tonnes of relief material which arrived in Myanmar later on Saturday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.

In total, five flights providing relief material from India have arrived in Myanmar, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.

Taking to social media platform X, MEA spokesperson wrote: "Two C-17 aircraft with 118-member Indian Army Field Hospital Unit, including Women & Child Care services and 60 tonnes of relief material have landed in Myanmar . With these, five relief flights from have landed in Myanmar today."

The spokesperson in another X post said: "Another C130 aircraft landed in the capital city Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar, with 38 personnel of @NDRFHQ & 10 tonnes of relief material. This is the third Indian aircraft @IAF_MCC to bring relief assistance to Myanmar today. #OperationBrahma."

Earlier on Saturday, two Indian naval ships, INS Satpura and INS Savitri, carrying 40 tonnes of humanitarian aid, have been dispatched to the port of Yangon.

Additionally, a field hospital with 118 personnel, including doctors and medics, is set to be airlifted from Agra later on Saturday.

The MEA confirmed that the first consignment of relief materials, including tents, blankets, food packets, and essential medicines, was delivered to Yangon by air.

India's ambassador is currently in Nay Pyi Taw coordinating the relief efforts, and no casualties have been reported among the Indian community in Myanmar.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed condolences to the people of Myanmar and assured that India would continue to provide all necessary assistance.

The Indian Navy is working closely with Myanmar's authorities to ensure smooth operations of the relief efforts.

In addition, an 80-member National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team, including specialists and search dogs, is en route to Nay Pyi Taw, where they will begin rescue operations.

The operation reflects India's longstanding solidarity with Myanmar, with both countries sharing a 1,643-kilometre-long border.

PM Modi on Saturday spoke with Min Aung Hlaing, the head of Myanmar's military-led government, offering condolences and support in the wake of the devastating earthquake and subsequent aftershocks. The quake resulted in more than 1,600 deaths in the country.

In a post on X, he said: "Spoke with Senior General H E Min Aung Hlaing of Myanmar. Conveyed our deep condolences at the loss of lives in the devastating earthquake. As a close friend and neighbour, India stands in solidarity with the people of Myanmar in this difficult hour."

India has immediately launched Operation Brahma, an extensive humanitarian mission to assist neighbouring Myanmar in its recovery efforts.

The massive 7.7-magnitude earthquake has led to widespread destruction, with the death toll surpassing 1,644 as more bodies are being pulled from the rubble of collapsed buildings. In response, India has stepped up its relief and rescue operations.

Focusing on India's commitment to aiding its neighbours, the MEA said, "It is our policy to be the first responder."

An 80-member National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team has been deployed to Myanmar with specialised rescue equipment, including concrete cutters, drill machines, hammers, and plasma cutting machines.

The first consignment of relief materials was formally handed over to Yangon Chief Minister U Soe Thein by Indian Ambassador Abhay Thakur.

Earlier, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar confirmed India's swift response, stating in a post on X: "Operation Brahma: Indian Navy ships INS Satpura & INS Savitri are carrying 40 tonnes of humanitarian aid and headed for the port of Yangon."

India also deployed a C-130J military transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force to deliver relief materials.

The supplies included tents, sleeping bags, blankets, ready-to-eat meals, water purifiers, solar lamps, generator sets, and essential medicines, MEA officials said.

Sharing an update, EAM Jaishankar further posted: "#OperationBrahma gets underway. First tranche of humanitarian aid from India has reached the Yangon Airport in Myanmar."

Earlier on Saturday, the Indian embassy in Myanmar had said that it is facilitating the swift delivery of assistance and relief supplies from India to Myanmar.

"Following yesterday's devastating earthquake, we are coordinating speedy delivery of assistance & relief supplies from India with Myanmar authorities. We are also in constant touch with Indian community. Reiterate our emergency number for needy Indian nationals: +95-95419602," the Embassy posted on X.

--IANS

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Yangon, March 30 (IANS) India has intensified its efforts to assist Myanmar following the devastating earthquake, under 'Operation Brahma', by sending two C-17 aircraft with 118-member Indian Army field hospital unit, including women and child care services, as well as 60 tonnes of relief material which arrived in Myanmar later on Saturday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.

In total, five flights providing relief material from India have arrived in Myanmar, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.

Taking to social media platform X, MEA spokesperson wrote: " #OperationBrahma continues. Two C-17 aircraft with 118-member Indian Army Field Hospital Unit, including Women & Child Care services and 60 tonnes of relief material have landed in Myanmar . With these, five relief flights from have landed in Myanmar today."

The spokesperson in another X post said: "Another C130 aircraft landed in the capital city Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar, with 38 personnel of @NDRFHQ & 10 tonnes of relief material. This is the third Indian aircraft @IAF_MCC to bring relief assistance to Myanmar today. #OperationBrahma."

Earlier on Saturday, two Indian naval ships, INS Satpura and INS Savitri, carrying 40 tonnes of humanitarian aid, have been dispatched to the port of Yangon.

Additionally, a field hospital with 118 personnel, including doctors and medics, is set to be airlifted from Agra later on Saturday.

The MEA confirmed that the first consignment of relief materials, including tents, blankets, food packets, and essential medicines, was delivered to Yangon by air.

India's ambassador is currently in Nay Pyi Taw coordinating the relief efforts, and no casualties have been reported among the Indian community in Myanmar.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed condolences to the people of Myanmar and assured that India would continue to provide all necessary assistance.

The Indian Navy is working closely with Myanmar's authorities to ensure smooth operations of the relief efforts.

In addition, an 80-member National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team, including specialists and search dogs, is en route to Nay Pyi Taw, where they will begin rescue operations.

The operation reflects India's longstanding solidarity with Myanmar, with both countries sharing a 1,643-kilometre-long border.

PM Modi on Saturday spoke with Min Aung Hlaing, the head of Myanmar's military-led government, offering condolences and support in the wake of the devastating earthquake and subsequent aftershocks. The quake resulted in more than 1,600 deaths in the country.

In a post on X, he said: "Spoke with Senior General H E Min Aung Hlaing of Myanmar. Conveyed our deep condolences at the loss of lives in the devastating earthquake. As a close friend and neighbour, India stands in solidarity with the people of Myanmar in this difficult hour."

India has immediately launched Operation Brahma, an extensive humanitarian mission to assist neighbouring Myanmar in its recovery efforts.

The massive 7.7-magnitude earthquake has led to widespread destruction, with the death toll surpassing 1,644 as more bodies are being pulled from the rubble of collapsed buildings. In response, India has stepped up its relief and rescue operations.

Focusing on India's commitment to aiding its neighbours, the MEA said, "It is our policy to be the first responder."

An 80-member National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team has been deployed to Myanmar with specialised rescue equipment, including concrete cutters, drill machines, hammers, and plasma cutting machines.

The first consignment of relief materials was formally handed over to Yangon Chief Minister U Soe Thein by Indian Ambassador Abhay Thakur.

Earlier, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar confirmed India's swift response, stating in a post on X: "Operation Brahma: Indian Navy ships INS Satpura & INS Savitri are carrying 40 tonnes of humanitarian aid and headed for the port of Yangon."

India also deployed a C-130J military transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force to deliver relief materials.

The supplies included tents, sleeping bags, blankets, ready-to-eat meals, water purifiers, solar lamps, generator sets, and essential medicines, MEA officials said.

Sharing an update, EAM Jaishankar further posted: "#OperationBrahma gets underway. First tranche of humanitarian aid from India has reached the Yangon Airport in Myanmar."

Earlier on Saturday, the Indian embassy in Myanmar had said that it is facilitating the swift delivery of assistance and relief supplies from India to Myanmar.

"Following yesterday's devastating earthquake, we are coordinating speedy delivery of assistance & relief supplies from India with Myanmar authorities. We are also in constant touch with Indian community. Reiterate our emergency number for needy Indian nationals: +95-95419602," the Embassy posted on X.

--IANS

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Hyderabad, March 10 (IANS) Day after recovering one body from the debris, rescue teams continued intense efforts to search for the remaining seven people in the SLBC tunnel in Telangana’s Nagarkurnool district on Monday.

Rescue teams from various agencies were undertaking digging work at another point identified by the cadaver sniffer dog squad from Kerala.

Rat miners from Uttarakhand, miners from Singareni Collieries and personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) were carefully digging around the point with mini-excavators.

The search operation continued for the 17th day in the last 70 metres of the 14-km-long tunnel, where the eight workers were trapped after a portion of the tunnel roof collapsed on a Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) on February 22.

Rescue workers on Sunday evening exhumed one body from the point identified by the cadaver dog squad.

The body was identified as that of TBM operator Gurpreet Singh. The 40-year-old hailed from Punjab and was working for Robbins Company, which supplies and operates tunnel boring machines.

The body was shifted to government hospital at Nagarkurnool and after completing medical and legal formalities was taken to his hometown in Punjab.

The seven people yet to be traced are Manoj Kumar and Sri Niwas from Uttar Pradesh, Sunny Singh from Jammu and Kashmir and Sandeep Sahu, Jegta Xess, Santosh Sahu and Anuj Sahu, all from Jharkhand.

The rescue agencies hoped that more bodies would be recovered soon based on the sniffer dog leads and the ground probing radar (GPR) scanning information provided by the National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI).

The rescue workers continued to face challenges due to the debris of the TBM and the large amount of muck.

The TBM, which had a total length of 132.5 metres, was buried under silt and rocks in the February 22 incident.

The workers who were present in the front portion of the TBM were trapped while 42 others who were at the back end managed to come out of the tunnel.

The technicians from the South Central Railway (SCR) have so far cut the TBM into pieces for a length of about 60 metres.

The head portion of the TBM remained buried in the debris and the last 70 metres of the tunnel is still filled with 3 to 9 metres deep slush and other debris, posing a risk to the rescue workers.

While continuing dewatering and desilting, the rescue agencies were mobilising special equipment for the workers to carry out their work without the risk of being trapped in the slush.

Two cadaver dogs trained to locate missing humans and human bodies were brought from Kerala by a special helicopter three days ago.

According to officials, these dogs of the Belgian Malinois breed can detect smell even from a depth of 15 feet.

Indian Army, Navy, NDRF, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Singareni, SCR and other agencies are participating in the search operation.

The authorities on Saturday deployed robots for rescue operations in the tunnel as suggested by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy during his visit to the tunnel on March 2.

Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy announced the deployment of robotic technology to accelerate rescue operations.

Robots equipped with cameras, infrared sensors, and robotic arms have been deployed to assess conditions and aid extraction.

Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy expressed condolences over the death of Gurpreet Singh and announced Rs 25 lakh ex-gratia to his next of kin.

--IANS

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New Delhi, March 10 (IANS) The cost of preparing both vegetarian and non-vegetarian thalis at home declined by 5 per cent in February compared to the corresponding figure for January this year, according to a Crisil report released on Monday.

For the vegetarian thali, the decline was driven by lower vegetable prices, particularly of onions, tomatoes and potatoes, while for a non-vegetarian thali, the cost eased with a decrease in broiler (chicken) prices, the report said.

Going ahead, the arrival of fresh rabi crops is expected to keep vegetable prices subdued, offering continued relief for vegetarian thali costs.

However, temperature conditions in March that have been above normal can impact the shelf life and quality of onions, which need to be stored for the next six months, as well as the quantity and quality of wheat -- the most significant crop of the rabi season, the report states.

The average cost of preparing a thali at home is calculated based on input prices prevailing in north, south, east and west India. The monthly change reflects the impact on the common man’s expenditure. The data also reveals the ingredients (cereals, pulses, broilers, vegetables, spices, edible oil and cooking gas) driving the change in the cost of the thali.

The ICRA report is in line with official figures that India’s retail inflation is on a downward trajectory. Inflation based on the Consumer Price Index fell to a 5-month low of 4.31 per cent in January as prices of vegetables and pulses eased during the month, bringing respite to household budgets, according to figures released by the Ministry of Statistics.

The easing of inflation reflects a steadily declining trend after having touched a 14-month high of 6.21 per cent in October. CPI inflation had declined to 5.48 per cent in November and 5.22 per cent in December.

The food inflation at 6.02 per cent in January 2025 is the lowest after August 2024.

RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra announced a 25 basis cut in the policy rate from 6.5 per cent to 6.25 per cent in the monetary policy review to accelerate growth amid global uncertainties.

He said that inflation has declined and is expected to moderate further and gradually align with the RBI’s target.

Now, with the retail inflation continuing with its downward trend, the RBI will have more headroom to follow a soft money policy to make more credit available to businesses and consumers, which will propel economic growth.

--IANS

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Patna, March 10 (IANS) The Bihar government is set to take strict action against illegal encroachments on Bettiah Raj properties, with senior officials already mobilizing efforts to reclaim government land.

On Monday morning, the Additional Chief Secretary and Chairman of the Revenue and Land Reforms Board, K.K. Pathak, visited Bettiah City to assess the situation.

His visit has created a sense of urgency among officials in the Revenue and Land Reforms Department, that the government is serious about removing illegal occupants from these properties.

A total of 1,326 acres of additional Bettiah Raj land has recently been discovered, which was not included in the 2017-18 land survey. The administration is now expediting the process of registering this land in government records to ensure its protection.

With K.K. Pathak personally reviewing the status of these properties, a major crackdown on encroachments is expected soon. The government’s focus on land reforms could lead to wider action across the state to recover illegally occupied public land.

Following strict instructions from District Magistrate Dinesh Kumar Rai, officials have been tasked with conducting a detailed investigation into the land records of Bettiah Raj.

K.K. Pathak is expected to review illegal occupations on government lands during his visit. Many long-standing cases of encroachments have surfaced, and strict action is anticipated against those involved.

His visit will also include a review of the digitization of Bettiah Raj properties for better record-keeping and transparency. The government is considering a heritage development plan to restore and develop the palaces and historical sites of Bettiah Raj.

Pathak’s reputation for swift action has put district officials on edge. Even before his arrival, they have started reviewing land records and preparing reports on pending cases. This visit is expected to be a critical test for the revenue and administrative officials in Bettiah.

With the Bihar Assembly passing the bill about the Bettiah Raj during the winter session last year, the property comes under the state government's ownership, which marks a significant development in the state's governance and land management.

The last ruler of Bettiah Raj, Harendra Kishore Singh, passed away in 1893 without leaving an heir, leading to the management of the estate by the "Court of Wards" starting in 1897.

The property, totaling 15,221 acres in Bihar and 143 acres in Uttar Pradesh, has seen significant encroachments. Over 66 per cent of the estate’s land in West Champaran and 60 per cent in East Champaran are reportedly occupied illegally.

Many current residents of the estate are likely to approach the judiciary, contesting their eviction or seeking ownership rights based on long-term occupation or other claims.

--IANS

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New Delhi, March 10 (IANS) Congress national spokesperson Pawan Khera on Monday slammed the Central government for Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids at Bhupesh Baghel's residence and called it a part of BJP's conspiracy to distract attention from larger issues, particularly the Parliament.

Khera remarked, "BJP, which is surrounded on all sides and finding it hard to go unscathed on multiple issues, needs a distraction. They want to divert attention, change the headlines, and this could very well be part of that conspiracy."

Khera’s comments come as ED raids continue at multiple locations linked to Bhupesh Baghel and his family.

Further questioning the rationale behind ED raids, he said, "It is happening in an unclear case, and no one knows why it is taking place. Just few days ago, a court dismissed a CBI case against Bhupesh Baghel, so there is no case against him. Still, ED is raiding his premises today. It’s possible that this raid coincides with the start of Parliament’s session."

He also hinted that the central agency might have been brought in, by the ruling dispensation, to disrupt Bhupesh Baghel’s political activities in Punjab, where he recently took over as in-charge for the state.

"It could be an attempt to disturb him as he begins his political activities in Punjab," Khera added. He emphasised that such actions by the BJP, with ED working under their influence, would not be forgotten.

The ED conducted raids on the residence of Chaitanya Baghel, son of Bhupesh Baghel, in the Padumnagar locality of Bhilai, Chhattisgarh.

The teams, arriving in four Innova cars, began their search early in the day, and according to reports, this operation is part of a wider investigation, with approximately 14 locations across the state being raided, some of which are linked to Chaitanya Baghel.

The raids were reportedly conducted in connection with alleged financial irregularities and money laundering cases, including a notorious liquor scam.

Bhupesh Baghel, who is facing accusations of irregularities in the liquor trade during his tenure, has consistently denied these allegations.

--IANS

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Mumbai, March 29 (IANS) Singer Neha Kakkar's Melbourne concert is in the limelight once again, and not for the right reasons.

After the singer claimed that the mismanagement was responsible for the delay in her performance, the organizers decided to share their side of the story. The organizers have asserted that they have suffered significant losses due to the event.

Refreshing your memory, Neha was booed by the audience at her recent Melbourne concert after she arrived a few hours late at the venue. She was even seen crying on the stage as a result of this. The singer blamed the company for mismanagement, alleging that they ran away with her money.

Reacting to this, the organizers took to their Instagram handle and dropped a note that read, “We will be back with all the proof and details of what happened with the Neha Kakkar show. We will expose everybody (sic)."

They shared a statement on social media according to which the total expenses for the concert came up to $709, 200, while the total revenue generated was $ 180000, leading to a total loss of $ 5,29,000.

The organizers stressed that the singer should be the one to pay them compensation as they suffered a big loss due to her arriving late at the concert. They also stated that, contrary to Neha's claim, they had made all the necessary arrangements for her, including sending multiple cars and booking five-star hotels.

Not just that, the post also mentioned that because of the unprofessional behavior and three-hour delay in Neha's arrival at the concert, they have been banned from all Olympic Park venues.

They further added that the team even smoked in the artist room of the Crown Tower Sydney, something which is strictly prohibited. As a result of this, the organizers have been banned from all Crown Towers.

Neha is yet to react to the claims.

--IANS

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Mumbai, March 29 (IANS) Actress Kubbra Sait opened the show for designer Namrata Joshipura during the Lakmé Fashion Week 2025.

Sharing her experience, the 'Sacred Games' actress said, "It is amazing, the light, the sound, the music, the clothes, everything was just amazing- the energy was superb. This was my first ever ramp walk as a show opener, and that's really big- it's massive, I am celebrating right now."

Kubbra further revealed what happens to a collection after the show.

"It goes to great stores, a lot of great people get to wear this great collection - but more importantly I feel like it's important to know what we are wearing - you putting your mind and thought into picking garments that you choose to wear and I am very happy to say that every single garment made in this collection by Namrata Joshipura, which is an athleisure collection has been made by recycling pet bottles- so, it's sustainable, it's amazing, it's good on your skin, it's good on your heart, it's good on your consciousness," she disclosed.

Talking about her work, Kubbra will be a part of the highly awaited sequel of the popular web series, 'The Trial Season 2'. She will be seen sharing the screen with Kajol in the drama. The show is an adaptation of Robert King and Michelle King's "The Good Wife".

Over and above this, Kubbra's lineup further includes Ajay Devgn and Mrunal Thakur's 'Son of Sardar 2'. Helmed by Vijay Kumar Arora, Ajay Devgn has produced the film under his home banner Devgn Films, along with Jio Studios. The movie is a sequel to the 2012 film 'Son of Sardaar', featuring Ajay Devgn and Sonakshi Sinha.

Furthermore, Kubbra has also been roped in for David Dhawan's untitled comedy entertainer starring Varun Dhawan, Mrunal Thakur, and Maniesh Paul.

--IANS

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Mumbai, March 29 (IANS) Luxury brand Shivan & Narresh showcased their swimwear collection during the ongoing Lakme Fashion Week 2025.

During an exclusive chat with IANS, the designers were asked, "If you had to give a hashtag to your collection, what would it be?"

Reacting to this, Narresh shared, "I think if it would have a hashtag, the hashtag would be #leisureleisure. The collection is called Leisure Leisure because it looks back at the French artist called Fernand Léger, and takes him as an inspiration. It's 15 years of Shivan & Naresh, so we are looking back, reinventing some of our signature prints, and in this case, this print is a Leisure Leisure print that we did back in 2016. And, we have decided to look at that and expand that collection into what it would mean like if we had to take Fernand Léger as an inspiration today."

Talking about choosing a color palette for their collection, Shivan shared, "That's something that we feel comes naturally to us being brought up in a country which is full of color, diverse and just- you wake up and you see color in India. So, that's our core strength. So you see, whenever we do collections, it tends to be vibrant, it tends to be very out there, but at the same time, the collection is called Leisure Leisure so you will see pieces that you want to wear on a holiday."

For those who do not know, Shivan & Narresh is India’s first luxury holiday brand that was launched in Cannes at ‘Mare di Moda’ with its 100% stitch-free swim line.

The Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 started on March 26th 2025 and will conclude on March 30th, 2025, at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai. The 25th year of the event is celebrating beauty, fashion innovation, and sustainability with over 100 designers.

--IANS

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Los Angeles, March 29 (IANS) Hollywood legend Denzel Washington has played an array of strong, stoic characters with quiet intensity and unshakeable dignity, both on screen and on stage in his career spanning more than four decades.

However, the actor, who hasn’t let the audience see his vulnerable side, can be moved to tears by cinematic artistry, reports ‘People’ magazine.

In the new two-part Apple TV+ documentary ‘Number One on the Call Sheet’, Washington, 70, recalls one memorable moment when he was overcome with emotion in the darkness of a movie theater.

The actor, who has stepped into the shoes of iconic real and fictional characters such as Stephen Biko, Malcolm X, Rubin Carter, Macbeth and Othello, said, "I cried a little bit when I saw ‘Black Panther’”.

The 2018 blockbuster film starred Chadwick Boseman and Michael B. Jordan, and was directed by Ryan Coogler.

"I was on Broadway (in The Iceman Cometh), in fact, and I went to the premiere, and I wasn’t interested in the red carpet and all that”, he shared.

"So I went backstage and I saw Chad and Ryan”, he continued. "I spoke to them and then I sat down and watched the movie. And I felt like the baton had been passed. I was like, ‘Wow, these young boys are gone’, you know. I felt, I don’t know if the word is ‘relieved,’ but I was proud to see what they had done and seeing where they were headed”.

As per ‘People’, the actor, a nine-time Oscar nominee for acting with two wins, who has starred in such critically acclaimed fare as ‘Malcolm X’ and ‘The Hurricane’, felt like the future of cinema was in good hands.

"You know, I didn’t know then they were gonna make a billion dollars, but they did. So that, uh, that was a special moment for me”, he added.

--IANS

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