Jharkhand: Administration forms Rapid Response team after Avian flu outbreak in state-run poultry farm The Animal Husbandry Directorate, Ranchi, has formed a Rapid Response Team (RRT) for the culling of poultry and cleaning and disinfection of infected areas after H5N1 Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) was detected in the poultry area, Hotwa. Assistant Manager Regional Poultry Farm, Dr Ganesh Ram Mahali, said, We have been asked to dispose of all the birds and eggs in the poultry farm, and also in the 1 km radius. We have formed a team for the task. Since the bird flu has been confirmed, we have to create awareness among people not to eat chicken, since it will increase the risk of infection. 1697 eggs and 1800 birds have been disposed of so far. The whole farm is being sanitised and we will not bring any birds for the next three months. We collected the sample and sent it to Kolkata, which they confirmed on April 20, after which the confirmation was sent to the Jharkhand government and also to the Central Government. The RRT team will work to disinfect the area within 1 km of Epic Centre in the poultry area, Hotwa. Meat technologist at the Regional Poultry Farm, Dr Santosh Kumar, told ANI, In the 1 km radius, all chickens and eggs will be disposed of. We will tell all farmers and shopkeepers not to bring any outside poultry. Until we do not receive a negative report, we will ask them not to farm chicken. On the orders of the District Collector, about 1745 chickens, 450 ducks and 1697 eggs living here have been disposed of. During this time, the doctor and other employees of the poultry farm have been ordered to spread awareness in the surrounding area. H5N1 stands for Highly Pathogenic Asian Avian Influenza (H5N1) Virus. Avian influenza is a strain of the influenza virus that primarily infects birds, but can also infect humans. This type of flu is most often contracted by contact with sick birds. It can also be passed from person to person. Almost all cases of H5N1 infection in people have been associated with close contact with infected live or dead birds, or H5N1-contaminated environments. (ANI)
Greater migrant Pandit voter participation likely in this LS polls after EC does away with Form-M
NAGROTA (JAMMU): Kashmiri Pandit Ramesh Kumar Suri, 55, will be voting for the first time in an election in Jammu and Kashmir since the migration of Pandits from the Valley in 1990, thanks to the Election Commission of India doing away with Form-M for the migrants. We used to live near Court Road, Srinagar and my family was among the Pandit families that migrated from Kashmir in 1990 after the eruption of militancy. We have been living in government quarters established for migrant Pandits at Jagti Township, Nagrota since over a decade. During these 34 years, I have never voted in any Assembly or parliamentary polls, Suri told this newspaper. He said it was a very cumbersome process to fill the Form-M and follow it up. Despite filling the Form-M many times, I could not vote because my voter slip could not be generated. Migrant pandit voters are mainly concentrated in the Baramulla, Srinagar and Anantnag-Rajouri LS constituencies. These voters were earlier required to fill out a form that would request the transfer of their vote from Kashmir to a polling station in Jammu, Udhampur or Delhi. The process of filling out the Form-M was complex, requiring specific documentation, proof of migration status and attestation by a gazetted officer, said Jagti Tenement Committee Jammu president Shadi Lal. The Election Commission of India has recently done away with these forms after repeated requests and pleas by the migrant Pandits. Now Suri and many others like him can vote without facing any problems in the special polling stations to be set up for the community at the transit camps. Shadi Lal says this move by the ECI will show in the voter turn out of migrant pandits. The Jagti township comprises of 4500 camp families and 1000 non camp families which house around 30,000 people. There are about 15,000 voters in this township, Lal said. Maximum number of votes will be registered in these polls and we are hopeful that our vote will make a difference, he added. Ramesh Kumar Kar, a migrant pandit who hails from Dragmulla, Kupwara and is now living in the Jagti township, said this year every migrant Pandit in the township has got the voter slip and everybody is excited to vote. Being a voter of Dragmulla, Kupwara, I have to decide the fate of candidates contesting from Baramulla LS seat in north Kashmir. I will definitely cast my vote in favour of the candidate who I think will work for my community and for people of north Kashmir and J&K, he said. As the polling date for the nears, some of the contestants are set to visit the Pandit transit camps in Nagrota and other areas in Jammu to seek votes from the migrant Pandit community. Some contestants visit the townships to seek votes and then we don't see them for five years. We hope that with greater participation of the community in polling this time, this trend will change for good, said Kar. Ashok Dhar, president of Bootanagar migrant Pandit Camp in Jammu said that the EC has made voting easy for the community. Due to ease in the voting process, more Pandit voters will exercise their right to franchise this time. There will be maximum participation of the Pandit community in the polls, he said. This is a good sign for democracy.
Varun Beverages Lanka (Pvt) Ltd.(VBLL), a leading carbonated beverage manufacturer and the official bottling and distribution franchise of PepsiCo beverages in Sri Lanka, is leading the charge towards a cleaner and greener future with an innovative initiative. This program encourages the general public to collect waste PET plastic bottles in an environmentally responsible manner. Mrs. Eresha Kumburulanda, Head-Legal, Compliance & Sustainability (AAL) at Varun Beverages Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, stated, At Varun Beverages Lanka Pvt Ltd for the Clean Green Sri Lanka project, we are dedicated to environmental responsibility. This initiative exemplifies our commitment to a sustainable future. By empowering communities and promoting responsible waste management practices, we can collectively create a cleaner and greener Sri Lanka. PET plastic is a valuable resource when managed responsibly. Through this initiative, Varun Beverages Lanka (Pvt) Ltd. aims to educate the public on the importance of proper PET plastic bottle collection and disposal. PET plastic bottles can have a positive impact if collected and recycled properly. Varun Beverages Lanka (Pvt) Ltd. is committed to empowering individuals to become active participants in environmental stewardship. Varun Beverages Lanka (Pvt) Ltds. commitment to sustainability extends beyond words. This initiative spearheads the introduction of electric bicycles specifically designed for collecting recyclable waste. These electric bikes offer a clean and efficient solution, promoting zero-emission waste collection and strengthening the economic viability of the recycling industry. Furthermore, the program empowers marginalized communities by providing opportunities for individuals to establish their own PET collection businesses. This innovative program marks the first time electric bicycles have been utilized for recyclable waste collection in Sri Lanka. These eco-friendly bikes offer a multitude of advantages: increased collection efficiency, strengthened recycling infrastructure, and economic empowerment for marginalized communities. Varun Beverages Lanka (Pvt) Ltds. program, Clean Green Sri Lanka, seeks to transform public perception regarding PET plastic bottles. Utilizing electric bicycles for collection, the program not only promotes environmental responsibility but also introduces a sustainable mode of transportation.
**Prioritizing Infrastructure Development: Ranchi Cong Candidate Yashaswini Sahay Focuses on Model Villages and Sports Infrastructure** Creating model villages, building sports infrastructure, preserving the heritage of Ranchi and generating employment are the priorities of Congress Ranchi candidate Yashaswini Sahay, a political newbie and daughter of former Union minister Subodh Kant Sahay. Yashaswini Sahay who practises law in Mumbai did not attach much importance to the BJPs criticism of nepotism, claiming that it was propaganda of the saffron camp for diverting people's attention from key issues like unemployment. ''Youths here have a strong interest in sports of all kinds. You might have read in the Congress party manifesto that each area will have its own sports academy. I promise to implement it initially in the Ranchi parliamentary constituency, she said in an interview with PTI. Sahay thanked the administration and the people of the Jharkhand capital for successfully organizing international sports events recently. Ranchi hosted FIH Womens Hockey Olympic Qualifiers in January and the Asian Champions Trophy last year. Sahay said that her goal is to make the villages in the constituency model ones and turn Ranchi into a metropolitan city, preserving its heritage. Our aim is to provide jobs to men and women in Jharkhand, to fill up government posts that have been lying vacant. I often think about how the young men and women here acquire jobs,'' she said. She claimed that having a Master's degree in Law and specialising in human rights, she had a societal orientation in her thoughts. Asked about getting help from her father Subodh Kant Sahay who was a minister in the Manmohan Singh government and a former MP of Ranchi, she said she grew up in a political climate in which there is no topic other than social service. ''My father had an extensive political career. I'll benefit from his extensive experience. This way, I will fulfil my responsibilities as his daughter, the 27-year-old Congress candidate said. Sahay who was pitted against BJP's sitting MP Sanjay Seth expressed confidence in winning. I have the blessings of the mothers, sisters, brothers and father-like people of Jharkhand who have joined me, she said. BJP had accused Subodh Kant Sahay whose name was earlier speculated as the Congress candidate from Ranchi of indulging in nepotism and securing a ticket for her daughter for the prestigious constituency of Ranchi. Subodh Kant Sahay was defeated by Sanjay Seth from Ranchi in the 2019 elections. Ranchi Lok Sabha seat with 21.62 lakh voters including 10.66 lakh female voters will go to polls on May 25.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru set to play 250th IPL game, a look at franchises journey
HYDERABAD: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will be playing their 250th Indian Premier League (IPL) game when they take on the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad on Thursday. This completes a big milestone of their journey, which has seen a lot of ups and downs and the creation of some of []
All-round Nitish value addition to rampaging SRH
CHENNAI: Andhra's Nitish Kumar Reddy is one of the finds for Sunrisers Hyderabad this IPL season. A fast bowling all-rounder for his state, Nitish has been giving a good account of himself with both bat and ball for the franchise. His cameos with the bat and ability to take a couple of wickets at crucial junctures have helped the Pat Cummins-led side win matches. The then chairman of the national junior selection committee Aashish Kapoor was all praise for the youngster while talking to this daily in 2020. Although he played a couple of games in the last edition, he did not get to bat.This year Nitish is making the best use of the opportunities he has been getting with both bat and ball. His half-century against Punjab Kings at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur set up the game for Hyderabad and since then he has been contributing in almost every match for his side. ''It feels really good to be contributing to the team's cause. I am happier when the team wins,'' said Nitish in an exclusive chat with this daily. Everyone knows about Nitish the bowler, but his prowess with the willow has surprised many. ''I can bat and bowl in equal measure. Before also I used to be a good batter, but I didn't get the chance to prove myself. Now I am getting a chance, maybe that's why I'm proving my worth as a batter,'' said the shy youngster. ''Aashish sir had told me to learn to bat at No 5 and No 6. He told me I needed to adapt and gain experience batting in the middle order if I wish to play at a higher level. I worked on that with my coach CD Thomson,'' added Nitish. Last year SRH had a forgettable season but they look a formidable unit this season under the new captain Pat Cummins. Given their show so far, the team is expected to make it to playoffs which in turn can put pressure on the players. ''I enjoy playing under pressure. It propels me to give my best. Last year I got to play two games, but I did not get a chance to bat. Since I got a chance to bowl people thought that I was only a bowler. After that I felt like, let's wait for a chance to bat and perform when I get one. So this year I got a good chance to bat and I didn't want to waste the opportunity. And I was like, now you can see how it (batting) is going.'' revealed the lanky all-rounder. Playing along with one of the best bowlers in the world like Cummins can be a rewarding experience for a young lad. ''He (Cummins) is one of the best bowlers in the world. I learnt from him how to keep things simple. He's not a guy who thinks a lot. He just works on his routines and all that. He asks us to to bowl according to wickets, and conditions and not worry too much about the batter. In other words, he wants us to have self-belief in our abilities,'' said Nitish. Cummins has been leading by example which is one of the reasons why SRH have made a remarkable turnaround from the previous seasons. ''He's cool, so calm. And he just wants to make sure that everyone is in agood frame ofmind. He ensures that everyone is cool and not in any undue pressure. He wants us to enjoy and express ourselves,'' revealed Nitish. So has Nitish made any adjustments to his batting this season? ''I go with a calm mind, I just think about the process and the situation. I want to bat effectively. So I have changed my practice routines where I get to practice everything, including power hitting. Yes, I have also been working on the downswing in my batting. So the idea is to bat as per the situation and the need of the team, not just whack a couple of boundaries and get out,'' he insisted. Finally the secret behind Hyderabad's ability to post big totals regularly. ''Freedom and the license to play as one wants. We have the freedom to express ourselves, but at the same time, we also have been cautioned to play responsibly when a couple of wickets are down. Freedom with responsibility has helped us bat well,'' signed off Nitish.
2 Indian restaurants in Colorado duped investors of USD 380K: Officials
WASHINGTON: Two Indian restaurants in Colorado have duped investors to the tune of USD 380,000, state regulators have alleged and are now seeking to recover the amount from them. In a lawsuit, the Colorado Division of Securities has alleged that the owners of Indian restaurants Bombay Clay Oven and Saucy Bombay used half-truths and lies to sell investors on their grandiose plans for a nationwide expansion before spending the USD 380,000 that shareholders invested on rent, operating costs and Ponzi-like payments, local newspaper BusinessDen reported on Wednesday. The two restaurants were owned by The Bombay Group (TBG), which entered into an agreement with securities broker Michael Bissonnette. Both defendants declined offers to discuss the allegations with BusinessDen, the daily reported. Like many in the restaurant industry, TBG had grand plans to expand its business into a nationwide conglomerate, with hundreds or even thousands of locations. In 2014, TBG owned and operated two restaurants: Bombay Clay Oven, a restaurant that had operated for more than two decades, and Saucy Bombay, a new endeavour with a single location in a food court. TBG's plan was to franchise Saucy Bombay in order to capitalise on the fast-casual restaurant trend, the lawsuit said. The investors in this case really believed in The Bombay Group and their restaurant, Saucy Bombay, Tung Chan, the state's securities commissioner told the newspaper. But as we allege, the investors were not told the truth about the investments and they have not been paid back. If you have invested with The Bombay Group, please contact the Securities Division right away, he said.
Karnataka Elections: Cong, BJP in Fierce Battle as State Prepares to Vote
Karnataka Elections: Cong, BJP in Fierce Battle as State Prepares to Vote The Congress and BJP will lock horns on the electoral battleground again, in less than a year, in Karnataka as the stage is set for voting in the first phase in 14 Lok Sabha seats on Friday. It's going to be a straight fight between the ruling Congress and the BJP-JD(S) combine unlike the Assembly elections in May last year which witnessed a triangular contest among the three parties. The state has a total of 28 Lok Sabha constituencies. The second phase of polling in the remaining 14 seats is on May seven. A total of 247 candidates -- 226 men and 21 women -- are in the fray for the first phase in most of the southern and coastal districts. More than 2.88 crore voters are eligible to exercise their franchise in 30,602 polling stations where polling will take place between 7 am to 6 pm. While the Congress is contesting in all 14 seats, BJP has fielded nominees in 11 and its alliance partner JD(S), which joined the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in three -- Hassan, Mandya and Kolar. Besides the three, the segments where elections will be held on Friday are: Udupi-Chikmagalur, Dakshina Kannada, Chitradurga, Tumkur, Mysore, Chamarajanagar, Bangalore Rural, Bangalore North, Bangalore Central, Bangalore South and Chikkballapur. In the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Congress and JD(S), which were in alliance and ruling the state then, had secured just one seat each in these 14 segments. The BJP had won in 11 and ensured the victory of a party supported independent candidate in Mandya. Having scored a thumping victory in the Assembly elections, the Congress now appears determined to put up a strong show. Karnataka is the most important state for the BJP in south India as it's only here that it had held power in the past. ''Its alliance partner JD(S) is fighting to remain politically relevant, after the Assembly poll drubbing,'' a political analyst said. According to Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Meena, 1.4 lakh polling officials will be on duty for the first phase. Besides them, 5,000 micro-observers, 50,000 civil police personnel, 65 companies of Central Parliamentary Force and State Armed Police force of other States will also be deployed for security. All the 2,829 polling stations of Bangalore Rural parliamentary constituency will be webcast, Meena said. ''This is as per the request of our returning officers and observers; so we have given more than double the Central parliamentary force for Bangalore Rural constituency. Seven companies of Central paramilitary forces have been inducted at the constituency since April 22,'' he told reporters on Wednesday. In fact, out of the total 30,602 polling stations in the first phase, 19,701 will be webcast, and 1,370 covered via CCTVs, he said. Chikkaballapur has a maximum number of 29 candidates, followed by 24 in Bangalore Central, and Dakshina Kannada has the least number - nine. JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy from Mandya, his brother-in-law and noted cardiologist C N Manjunath from Bangalore Rural on a BJP ticket, erstwhile Mysuru royal family scion Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar from Mysore, also from the BJP, and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar's brother and MP D K Suresh of Congress from Bangalore Rural, are among the prominent candidates in the fray in the first phase. Also in the fray are BJP MP Tejasvi Surya from Bangalore South against Minister Ramalinga Reddy's daughter Sowmya Reddy of Congress, Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje on BJP ticket from Bangalore North against former IIM Bangalore professor M V Rajeev Gowda of Congress. The Congress' performance in the elections, especially in the first phase which covers almost all Vokkaliga-dominated districts, is being seen as a big test of sorts for its state unit chief Shivakumar, who has made no secret of his ambition to become chief minister, amid speculations of change in guard mid-way of the Assembly term. Stakes are also high for Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, as victory in particular in his home turf 'Mysore and Chamarajanagar ' is seen as key for strengthening hands, analysts say. For the JD(S) and its state chief Kumaraswamy, the task is cut out -- to prove that the regional party is still a force to reckon with, particularly in the Vokkaliga dominated Old Mysuru or South Karnataka region. Both Shivakumar and Kumaraswamy are Vokkaligas, and are engaged in a fierce turf war to consolidate their clout over the dominant community. It is also seen as a kind of a ''litmus test'' for state BJP president B Y Vijayendra, who has the onerous task of helping the party retain its supremacy in the Lok Sabha elections. Ensuring a BJP sweep is paramount for the son of veteran leader B S Yediyurappa, to consolidate his position and silence critics who have questioned his selection for the post, overlooking seniors and seasoned hands. The ruling Congress is mostly banking on the implementation of its populist five guarantee schemes. The BJP and JD(S) seem to be leveraging the ''Modi factor'' to the hilt.
Over 2.88 crore voters in Karnataka to cast their franchise on April 26
BENGALURU: Over 2.88 crore eligible voters will cast their franchise on April 26 in the Phase-2 of polling in south and coastal Karnatakas 14 parliamentary constituencies, including those in the state capital. Chief Electoral Officer, Karnataka, Manoj Kumar Meena, said there are 2,88,19,342 voters in Phase-2, of which 1,44,28,099 voters are male, 1,43,88,176 female and 3,067 third gender. Meena also launched the Chunavane app on Wednesday. It is available on Playstore and citizens can download it to find their polling booths. It tells voters the live status of the queue at their booth and show them parking spaces, Meena said. A total of 1,39,495 poll officials and 5,000 micro-observers will be on duty. In all, 65 companies of paramilitary forces and 50,000 police officials have been deployed on election duty at 30,602 polling booths. Webcasting will be done from 19,701 booths, while 1,370 booths will have CCTV cameras. The 14 parliamentary constituencies going to the polls on Friday are Udupi-Chikkamagalur, Hassan, Dakshina Kannada, Chitradurga, Tumakuru, Mandya, Mysore-Kodagu, Chamarajanagar, Bangalore Rural, Bangalore Central, Bangalore North, Bangalore South, Chikkaballapur and Kolar. Meena said people will be inked on the left hand forefinger and booths will be open from 7 am to 6 pm. Because of high temperature in most parts of the state, people will be allowed to vote till 6 pm, and the booths will remain open till the last person votes. Business enterprises, industries and other institutions, where voters are working on permanent basis or on daily wages have been directed to sanction a paid holiday on April 26. Over 90% voter slips with QR codes have been distributed to voters. Once the voter scans the QR code, it will help the voter navigate to his booth. A trial was done in the teachers constituency election and was found successful. Ramps, first-aid kits, ambulance facility, water, seating arrangement and other facilities have been arranged for voters. We also had the Saksham app, where people can apply seeking for assistance like pick and drop from the booth, wheelchair and other needs. The App is now closed for inputs, Meena said.
KOCHI: In the bustling streets of our cities exists a silent yet resilient community the homeless. Each day, they endure the unforgiving elements, from scorching heat to relentless downpours and blinding dust. Yet, during the daily struggles for survival, they have aspirations, hopes and dreams, even in the realm of politics. As the upcoming elections loom on the horizon, the homeless seek representation and recognition from those in power. Their expectations are simple yet profound assurance of the bare minimum like shelter and sustenance and policies that address their plight. TNIE delves into the narratives of those sidelined from society about their expectations, their choices, and whether they plan to participate in the voting process. Ravindran Nair, 76, TPuram I was a headload worker. Now, old, hence jobless and homeless. We get food delivered here every afternoon by some charities. When I get sick, I go to the local dispensary for medicines and come back to the street again. I still do not get my pension. I have asked several times and knockedon manydoors, but I was shooed away. My family member is a party worker, yet there is no help. No one has come to help, and no candidate has come asking about us. I have never defaultedon voting so far. But this time, I will not vote. Because no good is going to come to us no matter who gets power. Kunjumon, 51, Kochi Im originally from Kochi, I have a home there. Butsince my siblings and I dont get along, I am forced to live on the streets. Its hard to be here, the city is full of sound and dust. Its too hot. But what else can I do? But Ill be voting this time and its only because I dont want to waste my vote. Since I already have my name registered, Im just going to do it for the sake of it. There are several homeless people in Kochi city. Have the MPs and MLAs taken any steps to help them? We are seeing zero efforts from their side. None of the party members have approached us and asked about our concerns. I expected that at least during the campaign some would directly address our concerns. Arent we a part of society? Pic| B P Deepu Vijay 40, Tamil Nadu I consider myself a responsible citizen. So I travelled home to cast my vote. Many people like us sleep beneath the metro pillars in Kochi. This is what saves us from the heat and rain. I cant afford a place here because the advance amount itself would be quite hefty and it is difficult especially when we get work for barely three days a week. Our earnings arent enough to even satisfy our hunger. If the government helps us with the Aadhar card issue, then hopefully we can find a place to rest our heads. Rajashekaran 42, Tamil Nadu Im a daily wage labourer and do any job that could help me push through the day. I live on the streets mainly because it is difficult to get rooms here without an Aadhaar card. I hope the new representatives will bring some solution to this issue. Whoever wins should make sure that homeless people like us at least have an Aadhar card or at least provide us with shelter of some sort. I was planning to visit my village in Tamil Nadu to castmy vote. But I couldnt as my bag with all the IDS was stolen. Also, I dont have enough money to travel back home to apply for the documents. So I have dropped the plan. Raja, 80, Andhra Pradesh My wife Shubamma and I moved to Kerala because the situation back home was not favourable. We both beg for sustenance. Yes, we have a home and land back in our village, but it is difficult to make money there. We are too old to work on our land. In Kerala, even if we get Rs 10, we can live with it. Im planning to vote and the election in my constituency is next month. Since there are many in our place who do not even own a piece of land, my vote will go to those who can assure land to the poor people. Munni, 30s, Jharkhand My husband and I came to Kerala in search of work. Though he travelled home to vote in the previous elections, this time, it wont be possible. My child is sick and our priority is to take care of her. Thats all we are thinking about and we need money for it. Lachmi Devamma, 70s,Andhra Pradesh Im unwell and cannot travel home. I wasnt planning to vote since I dont even remember if I have an ID card or not. I sleep under the metro pillar every night. Its been four or five years since I came to Kochi and my life has been the same. The only way to earn a living in my old age is to beg. Im struggling here and the election wont change that. Nankusa, 60, Bihar Im from Bihar. Ive been in Kerala for at least 20 years. However, I dont think Ill be voting. Whats the point anyway? My expectations arent beyond one can fathom. Its just a basic right of every citizen a decent place to live. It would be good if the representatives consider us in their slew of promises. I dream of getting out of the street one day. Chandran Nair, 67, TPuram Voting is our right and I will surely exercise my franchise. I havea voter ID card too. A change is required to bring about a lot of opportunities for people and solace for senior citizens like us. No one even asks about us. We are denied whatever is our due. Now, many like me are on the streets. I am hoping for a changed politicalset-up, a new beginning. And for that reason, I will vote. I have researched a bit about the candidates. One ofthem shows some promise in my eyes. Vinod A P, 53, TPuram I am feeling hopeful this election. Maybe my vote can make a difference. I hope that the new government help me, my family and many like us. So far, there have been no changes in our living situation. We were just given vain promises and frameworksof projects that never happened. Especially in the past five years, nothing has happened. I am all set for April 26. Ram K, 40, Munnar I have been seeing many election campaigns around the city. Since I go to my hometown only occasionally, Im not aware of the election fervour back home. Here, one of the main attractions is the parody songs remixing film songs into election songs is fun to listen to.However, Im not keenon politics. At the end of the day, the objective is to find a safe space to sleep and have at least one meal. In the rush to akeendsmeet, theres no time for politics. Basheer, 78, Kakkanad I am a cobbler and travel to Kaloorevery dayas it is comparatively easier to run the business there. This has been my life for the past 55 years. My main concerns are finding a shelter and the rising prices. Everything, including basic grocery items, is unaffordable. Many MPs have come and gone, but none has ever tried to bring out a plan to construct a shelter or housing plan to accommodate people like us. Though the authorities are inconsiderate towards people like us, I would still vote in the coming elections. I believe that if there is a change in the Union government, then there will be a change in Kerala too. Compiled by Swathy Lekshmi Vikram, Niranjana K P, Aparna Nair & Mahima Anna Jacob
Kathaamaamens stories educate kids about elections
KOCHI: It was during the long months of Covid lockdown and isolation that Harish R Namboothiripad first nursed the idea of starting a storytelling group. The idea then was to give children an avenue for entertainment that was not confined to the six-inch screens of a mobile phone. By way of a WhatsApp group, Katha Parayam, Kelku, Harish, who is also a childrens author, started telling stories as audio notes. It was a big hit, with Malayali listeners tuning in from all corners of the world. Now, in the run to the election, Kathaamaamen, as Harish is now fondly called, is back with a new spell of stories which help dissect the intricacies of voting. Animals are used as characters to make these intricacies seem interesting for children. Its election time in the forest! Youngsters today are not interested in casting their vote. I hope to make a dent in this trend by getting children, the next to vote, excited to exercise their franchise. And what better way to do this than by the help of stories, says Harish, whos presently engaged in election duty in Kalamassery. The school teacher from Ramamangalam has told over 1,000 stories so far on his WhatsApp group. My son Abhinav and his friends too are getting ready to cast their first vote. To encourage them, I have prepared motivational songs as well, says Harish, who has written over 52 books for children. His next work, titled Kattile Voting, will compile all the election-related audio stories done so far. Harish has been writing and telling stories every day without fail for the past three and a half years. His efforts have won him recognition from many quarters and even awards, including the Bhashabhimana award and the Chintamani award.
Mallikarjun Kharge slams PM Modi, terms 'mangalsutra' remark shameful
AFZALPUR(KALABURAGI DISTRICT): Hitting out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his remarks that the Congress wants to snatch the mangalsutra of women as part of its intention to redistribute wealth, AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge said that the PM should not stoop to such lows, which is a shameful act. Addressing an election meeting at Afzalpur in Kalaburagi district, Kharge said Modi was comparing the Congress manifesto with that of the Muslim Leagues. I do not know what has happened to the Prime Minister. I have written to him for an open discussion on a common platform on the issue. If he accepts my invitation, I will discuss with him our (Congress) manifesto. The Congress is such a great party that it aims at the welfare of all human beings, Kharge said, adding that the Congress manifesto has many schemes for the youth, women, farmers, and SC/ST students. Kharge, a former MP from Kalaburagi, also listed the development work done by him for the district when he was a minister in Karnataka and at the Centre during the UPA regime. Further hitting out at the PM, Kharge said, He (Modi) will not only tell lies, but he and Union Home Minister Amit Shah are not pro-people. If the time comes, they will sell the nation, and people like Ambani and Adani will buy it. PM should avoid instigating emotions by discussing temples, mosques and Mangalsutra : Sachin Pilot Speak on inflation, jobs, not mangalsutra, Priyanka dares Modi The AICC chief turned emotional while referring to his defeat in the 2019 Parliamentary elections in Kalaburagi. Though I secured fewer votes in Afzalpur, I cannot say that it was the only reason for my defeat. The so-called great leaders of the BJP, including Amit Shah and Sulibele Chakravarthi, camped here to defeat me. I have recovered from the shock of my defeat. Now, the Congress has fielded Radhakrishna Doddamani as the candidate. See my work in Kalaburagi district and exercise your franchise in favor of Radhakrishna to show that the people of Kalaburagi are in favor of the Congress. That would be a lesson for Modi. If he (Radhakrishna) faces defeat, it means you people have removed me from your heart, Kharge told the voters. Radhakrishna is the son-in-law of Kharge. Kharge further said that he will not retire from politics for now, and will continue his fight for the welfare of the oppressed classes and to defeat the RSS. I may or may not contest the elections it is a different thing. But I will not retire from politics at any time. I will be with the people of my karmabhoomi Kalaburagi and janmabhoomi Bidar till my last breath, an emotional Kharge said.
Fraudulent Activities by Indian Restaurants in Colorado: Officials Report USD 380,000 Loss to Investors Two Indian restaurants in Colorado have duped investors to the tune of USD 380,000, state regulators have alleged and are now seeking to recover the amount from them. In a lawsuit, the Colorado Division of Securities has alleged that the owners of Indian restaurants Bombay Clay Oven and Saucy Bombay used ''half-truths and lies'' to sell investors on their grandiose plans for a nationwide expansion before spending the USD 380,000 that shareholders invested on rent, operating costs and Ponzi-like payments, local newspaper ''BusinessDen'' reported on Wednesday. The two restaurants were owned by The Bombay Group (TBG), which entered into an agreement with securities broker Michael Bissonnette. Both defendants declined offers to discuss the allegations with ''BusinessDen'', the daily reported. Like many in the restaurant industry, TBG had grand plans to expand its business into a nationwide conglomerate, with hundreds or even thousands of locations. In 2014, TBG owned and operated two restaurants: Bombay Clay Oven, a restaurant that had operated for more than two decades, and Saucy Bombay, a new endeavour with a single location in a food court. TBG's plan was to franchise Saucy Bombay in order to capitalise on the fast-casual restaurant trend, the lawsuit said. ''The investors in this case really believed in The Bombay Group and their restaurant, Saucy Bombay,'' Tung Chan, the state's securities commissioner told the newspaper. ''But as we allege, the investors were not told the truth about the investments and they have not been paid back. If you have invested with The Bombay Group, please contact the Securities Division right away,'' he said.
PM has no bias, he had only reacted to Congress manifesto, says Tamilisai Soundararajan
COIMBATORE: Former Governor and BJPs South Chennai candidate Tamilisai Soundararajan on Wednesday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi does not discriminate against minorities and he had only reacted to the Lok Sabha election manifesto of the Congress party. Interacting with the media at the Coimbatore International Airport, Tamilisai asserted that Modis mantra is development and growth for all and he never differentiated between the minority and majority communities. In a recent election speech the PM warned that the Congress wants to distribute the nations wealth among infiltrators and those who have more children if it comes to power. This is widely deemed to be a reference to the Muslim community. Actually the PM stated that our countrys resources are plundered and our property should not go into the hands of infiltrators as over one crore who intruded into West Bengal were issued ration cards by the state government, Tamilisai clarified. In her defence of the BJP stalwart, Tamilisai also said even Muslims benefited from the central governments popular schemes. Muslims too were among the 10 crore beneficiaries of free LPG connections and the National Health Protection Scheme. However, the opposition parties are creating an impression that only they can protect the minorities. By projecting the BJP and Prime Minister Modi as against them (minorities) they are trying to make it a major issue in the election campaign, she said. Tamilisai also charged that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was not in the country to speak against it. We dont know where he is now. It is sad the Congress is accusing the PM when the party is having a leader like Rahul Gandhi who is unable to stand with the people during the election, said Tamilisai in an apparent reference to his recent absence from the poll campaign owing to ill-health. While referring to the BJP governments efforts to empower Muslim women, Tamilisai also took potshots at Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin. Despite CM Stalin speaking about womens rights, he did not take steps to help Muslim women go to the Hajj alone. However, the PM has given visa relaxation and appointed a woman as the V-C of Aligarh Muslim University, she remarked. Tamilisai also raked up her partys claim that the names of several eligible voters in the state were missing from electoral rolls. She urged the Election Commission to reconsider including the voters in the list as lakhs of voters were denied the right to franchise. Its sad that the Election Commission officials are saying that they can rectify the fault in the voters list only in the next election, she said. Tamilisai also questioned why CM Stalin, who is raising his voice even for small issues, remains silent over the alleged deletion of voters from the list. She also visited the temple near Perumanallur at her native place. ECI urged to ban Modis campaigns Madurai: Various human rights organisations like the Peoples Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) and the Peoples Watch, have requested the ECI to impose a ban on PM Narendra Modis election campaigns, after he allegedly violated the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and used pejorative language against minority communities during a recent canvassing trail. The bodies collectively submitted a petition to Collector-cum-Returning Officer MS Sangeetha, in which they said that PM had made a hate speech in Rajasthans Banswara. Modis speech, the statement added, was aimed at instigating hatred between Hindus and Muslims.
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Zack Snyder reveals his vision for 'Justice League' finale
Zack Snyder, the creative genius behind the Justice League of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), recently shared his vision for the franchise's finale.
UK's Labour outlines plan to renationalise railways within 5 years
UK's Labour outlines plan to renationalise railways within 5 years Britain's opposition Labour Party said it planned to renationalise the country's rail network within five years without paying compensation to private operators as it set out its plans to fix the troubled railway system. Labour wants to set up a publicly owned Great British Railways which will inherit passenger rail contracts currently held by private firms as they expire, a process it expects to be completed within its first term in office. The party leads the governing Conservative Party by around 20 percentage points in opinion polls with a national election expected later this year. Labour will deliver the biggest overhaul to our railways in a generation, Labour transport policy chief Louise Haigh said ahead of a speech on Thursday setting out the plans. Britain's train services were privatised in the 1990s but several operators have been renationalised in recent years, some of them losing their franchises after underperforming. Nearly 70% of voters support bringing train operators back into public ownership permanently, a poll conducted this month by polling firm YouGov showed. Fewer than 10% opposed it. The current government of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has also proposed establishing a new Great British Railways (GBR) company but with a different role. The government's proposals would group responsibility for rail infrastructure and services under GBR while maintaining a franchise system, giving it the role of contracting out passenger services to private firms. The government has highlighted the need for private sector involvement to boost efficiency in the network after the coronavirus pandemic reduced commuting by passengers. Latest statistics show that cancellations in the last three months of 2023 were at their highest level since records began in 2018 although industrial action by staff was a factor behind some of the problems. Labour said the increases in cancellations and rail fares showed the current system - with four rail operators already managed by the government - had failed. It said it planned to establish a Passenger Standards Authority to hold GBR accountable for its performance and passengers would be given price guarantees for future fares.
IPL 2024: Rishabh Pant's carnage helps Delhi Capitals edge over Gujarat Titans in last-ball thriller
New Delhi: All-round performance from Delhi Capitals (DC) players guided them to victory over Gujarat Titans (GT) by four runs in the 40th encounter of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 at Arun Jaitley Stadium on Wednesday. Chasing a mammoth total of 225 runs, GT didn't have the start that they wanted as skipper Shubman Gill was sent back to the pavilion after scoring just six runs when the team score was 13. After the skipper's dismissal, the franchise's impact player Sai Sudarshan came out to bat in the middle along with wicketkeeper-batter Wriddhiman Saha. The Gujarat-based franchise completed the side's fifty in the fourth over as Sudarshan took a single on the bowling of Anrich Nortje. In the sixth over, Sudarshan and Saha brought up their 50-run partnership as the former smashed the third ball of the over for a boundary which was bowled by Mukesh Kumar. The second wicket of Gujarat innings fell in the 10th over as Saha was dismissed by Kuldeep Yadav. Saha was dismissed after scoring 39 runs off 25 balls which included five boundaries and a six. After Saha's wicket, Azamatullah Omarzai came out to bat but he was sent back to the dressing room after scoring just one run when the team score was 98. Sudarshan completed his half-century in the 10 over as he took a double on the bowling of Kuldeep. David Miller came out to bat next in the middle along with Sudarshan. The franchise completed its 100-run mark in the 11th over. The fourth wicket to fall was of Sudarshan who was dismissed after playing an outstanding knock of 65 runs in just 39 balls which was laced with seven boundaries and two maximums. In the 15th over, Shubman Gill-led side lost their fifth wicket when the team score was 139. Shahrukh Khan was dismissed after scoring just eight runs on the bowling of Rassikh Salam. Rahul Tewatia was the sixth wicket to fall at the score of 152. He was able to score just six runs. In the 18th over, the Titans lost the seventh wicket. Miller was dismissed after scoring a brilliant innings of 55 runs from 23 balls with the help of six fours and three sixes. In the 19th over, Tristan Stubbs's acrobatic effort saved five runs for the side which proved to be match-saving runs in the end. In the same over, the GT side lost the wicket of Sai Kishore. In the 20th over, 19 runs were needed to win but unfortunately, the side ended up on a losing cause as they were able to score only 14 runs. Rasikh Salam was the pick of the bowlers for the hosts as he conceded 44 runs in four overs. Two wickets were grabbed by Kuldeep Yadav and one wicket each was bagged by Anrich Nortje, Mukesh Kumar, and Axar Patel in their respective spells. Put to bat first, DC started with a new opening batting pair set up for this high-value fixture, with in-form Jake Fraser McGurk joining Prithvi Shaw in the absence of his usual partner David Warner. After being dropped on 4 Fraser McGurk started to show his usual explosiveness at the crease from the very start however he fell prey to Sandeep Warrier in the 4th over of the game. In an unusual decision, DC sent Axar Patel in at number 3 and the decision was proven right by the all-rounder as he kept piling runs for his team. A sensational catch by Noor Ahmed dismissed the other remaining DC opener - Prithvi Shaw as Warrier delivered a fine delivery to remove a well-set batter. Warrier turned the powerplay around for the Gujarat Titans with two wickets in an over courtesy of two catches from Noor. GT captain Shubman Gill chose to extend his faith in Warrier by bringing him on for the final over of the powerplay and the faith brought fruit as the bowler bagged his third wicket of the night in Shai Hope. Axar and Rishabh Pant with steady and strong at the crease brought up their 50-partnership within just 34 balls. DC's plans to send Axar Patel up the order brought fruit for them as he completed his second IPL half-century within just 37 balls. Axar's sensational innings of 66 runs came to an end with Noor Ahmed redeeming himself after getting hit for back-to-back sixes. Pant kept his blistering form going and brought up his third half-century of the ongoing season with six at long-on in just 34 balls. Tristan Stubbs then came out to bat. Captain Gill's plan of bringing Sai Kishore for the 19th over failed significantly as Stubbs single-handedly smoked the spinner for 22 runs with the help of two maximums and 2 boundaries. In the last over, Pant destroyed experienced bowler Mohit Sharma for 4 sixes and one boundary, taking DC's total to 224/4 in 20 overs. Brief Score: Gujarat Titans 220/8 in 20 overs (Sai Sudarshan 65, David Miller 55, Rasikh Salam 3/44) vs Delhi Capitals 224/4 (Rishabh Pant 88*, Axar Patel 66; Sandeep Warrier 3-15).
Ranchi's State-Run Poultry Farm Faces Avian Flu Outbreak, 2,196 Birds Culled
Ranchi's State-Run Poultry Farm faces avian flu outbreak, leading to culling of 2,196 birds and destruction of 1697 eggs.
Bird Flu Alert In Ranchi As State-Run Poultry Farm Reports Outbreak
A total of 1697 eggs were also destroyed. The presence of H5N1, a type of avian influenza A virus that causes disease in birds, was confirmed in the samples, the official said.
Sub-Collector Walks Ramp to Create Awareness on Voting in Kandhamal
Kandhamal: In an effort to make voters aware and motivated towards exercising their franchise in the 2024 elections, Baliguda sub-collector Rina Pradhan in Kandhamal district adopted a unique event for the purpose. She herself walked down the ramp holding placards to make people aware of their voting rights. The placard mentioned with My Vote, My [] The post Sub-Collector Walks Ramp to Create Awareness on Voting in Kandhamal appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Haryana families to get invitation letter to cast vote
In a novel initiative aimed at increasing voter turnout in Haryana, the state election commission will send an invitation letter to every family in the state urging them to exercise their franchise in the Lok Sabha polls.
Avian Flu Outbreak At Ranchi's State-Run Poultry Farm, 2196 Birds Culled
The Jharkhand government sounded an alert after bird flu cases were reported in a state-run poultry farm in Ranchi, an official said on Wednesday.
Ranchi Poultry Farm Avian Flu Outbreak: 2,196 Birds Culled to Contain Spread
Ranchi Poultry Farm Avian Flu Outbreak: 2,196 Birds Culled to Contain Spread The Jharkhand government sounded an alert after bird flu cases were reported in a state-run poultry farm in Ranchi, an official said on Wednesday. As many as 2,196 birds including 1,745 chickens were culled at the Regional Poultry Farm, Hotwar, an official told PTI. A total of 1697 eggs were also destroyed. The presence of H5N1, a type of avian influenza A virus that causes disease in birds, was confirmed in the samples sent to the ICAR-National Institute of High-Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) in Bhopal, the official said. The Union Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying has asked the state to take all measures to contain its spread. The state government has been asked to take immediate measures including declaration of infected and surveillance areas, restricting access to infected premises, destruction of birds and disposal of dead birds and infected material. The officials have been asked to notify areas within one km radius of the affected zone. Areas within a 10 km radius will be declared as surveillance zones. The official said that the farm that was closed for renovation was opened barely three months back and got poultry from Bhubaneswar. The Animal Husbandry Department has issued an advisory, urging people to inform it if they see dead birds.
Campaigning Ends for Jammu Lok Sabha Seat; Polling on April 26
SRINAGAR: Campaigning for the election to the Jammu Lok Sabha seat ended Wednesday evening, setting the stage for over 17.81 lakh eligible voters to exercise their franchise on April 26 to decide the fate of 22 candidates in the fray. This is the second Lok Sabha seat in Jammu and Kashmir to go to polls [] The post Campaigning Ends for Jammu Lok Sabha Seat; Polling on April 26 appeared first on Kashmir Life .
Mathura Roadshow Resonates with Festive Cheer as Hema Malini Exudes Confidence
Mathura Roadshow Resonates with Festive Cheer as Hema Malini Exudes Confidence Amid chants of 'Radhe, Radhe' and sweltering heat, actor-turned-politician Hema Malini, seeking a third successive term as Lok Sabha MP from Mathura, on Wednesday held a roadshow that wound its way through the narrow bylanes of the temple town. Dressed in a green saree, she used a yellow peacock feather motif dupatta to shield herself from the afternoon sun as she stood in an SUV and greeted voters with an elegant namaste. Hema Malini waved a cutout of the lotus, the BJP's poll symbol, and reminded voters to exercise their franchise on April 26, when Mathura goes to polls. An accomplished Bharatanatyam exponent, Hema Malini often showcased the 'flower mudra', gently opening her closed fingers to depict a flowering bud. People gathered in balconies and on rooftops showered rose petals on her carcade which snaked its way through the Chowk Bazaar area, considered the business hub of the old town. ''It (the roadshow) felt like it was a post-victory celebration. The roadshow was very beautifully organised by our party. Everybody, including our alliance partners, participated in it,'' Hema Malini told reporters after the roadshow. Hema Malini is pitted against OBC leader Mukesh Dhangar of the Congress, the nominee of the opposition INDIA bloc, and Chaudhary Suresh Singh of the BSP. ''This is a one-sided election. The Congress and the BSP are vying for the second spot,'' Dinesh Kumar Agrawal, a businessman in the local jewellery market, told PTI as Hema Malini's roadshow crossed the Chowk Bazaar. While the BJP is banking on the performance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the star power of Hema Malini, the Congress is seeking votes in the name of change. BSP's Singh, a veteran Jat leader who was earlier with the BJP, is hoping to cash in on the sizeable population of his community in Mathura and his party's committed supporters. RLD chief Jayant Chaudhary's last-minute decision to align with the BJP has not gone down well with his supporters here and Singh is eyeing this section. ''The Jat community in this region holds RLD founder Chaudhary Charan Singh in high regard. The BJP may benefit from bestowing the Bharat Ratna on him, but local leaders of the RLD are unhappy with Jayant's decision to align with the BJP,'' said Hemant Chaudhary, a local hotelier. Among the 19.30 lakh voters in Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, the Jat community is the most influential with around 5 lakh votes, followed by Rajputs and Brahmins (approximately 3 lakh each), Jatavs (2 lakh), Muslims (1.6 lakh) and OBCs. A large section of the locals still view Hema Malini as an ''outsider'' but BJP supporters turned out in large numbers for her roadshow on Wednesday, the last day of campaigning for the second phase of the Lok Sabha polls. ''Vote toh Modi aur Yogi baba ke naam par padna hai, Hema ji toh bahar ki hai (people will vote in the name of Modi and Yogi baba, Hema is an outsider),'' local BJP leader Sanjay Bhardwaj said. Vinod Kumar Gola, who belongs to the Prajapati community of potters, said he will vote for the BJP and listed central government initiatives that have benefited his community. The Jatav community, considered a staunch supporter of former chief minister and BSP president Mayawati, appears to be firmly backing her party. ''Behen ji ko vote nahi diya toh vote bekar hai (my vote will go waste if I don't vote for behen ji),'' said daily labourer Phool Chand Jatav, dismissing concerns over a Jat candidate fielded by the BSP. BJP corporator Kunjvihari Bhardwaj claimed that the real fight in Mathura was for the second rank as Hema Malini's victory was a ''foregone conclusion''. ''In 2019, she won by a margin of nearly 3 lakh votes. If the voter turnout is good on the election day, Hema ji can win by even a margin of 5 lakh votes. The Congress and the BSP are in the race for the second spot,'' he said.
Kumble unravels details of his RCB transfer in inaugural IPL auction
During his three-year stint with RCB, Kumble made 42 appearances for the Bengaluru franchise, picking up 45 wickets at an average of 23.51 and an economy of 6.58
Sampling and grading of coal at 427 mines completed; new grades to be applicable for FY24
The Coal Controller's Organisation (CCO), having its field offices at Dhanbad, Ranchi, Bilaspur, Nagpur, Sambalpur, and Kothagudem, carried out the exercise of drawing the coal samples and its analysis from coal and lignite mines for the ongoing financial year.
Parimal Nathwani reveals trophy for Inaugural Gujarat Super League (GSL)
BILKULONLINE Ahmedabad, April 24: The Gujarat Super League (GSL) marks a significant step in franchise-based football in the state, with The post Parimal Nathwani reveals trophy for Inaugural Gujarat Super League (GSL) appeared first on Bilkul Online .
Rayudu clarifies 'brain fatt jayega' comments about former franchise MI
Rayudu clarifies brain fatt jayega comments about former franchise MI
Second Phase of Assam Lok Sabha Polls Concludes
Second Phase of Assam Lok Sabha Polls Concludes A high-pitched campaign for five parliamentary constituencies in Assam for the second phase of polls scheduled on April 26 ended on Wednesday. A total of 61 candidates are in the fray. Polling will be held for the two constituencies in Barak Valley - Silchar (SC) and Karimganj, one in the hill district - Diphu (ST) and two in the Brahmaputra Valley - Nagaon and Darrang-Udalguri. Among the national leaders, Union Home Minister Amit Shah campaigned during the second phase by holding a roadshow in Silchar (SC) for the BJP candidate and Assam Minister Parimal Suklabaidya, while Trinamool Congress leader and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also campaigned in the second phase for the partys Silchar (SC) candidate Radheshyam Biswas. BJP's election campaign was spearheaded by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma who daily held at least four rallies in all the constituencies going to the polls while Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, who contested from the Dibrugarh constituency in the first phase, campaigned for the BJP candidates in Silchar (SC) and Karimganj in Barak Valley. The opposition parties, on the other hand, mostly relied on the state leaders in their campaigns. Lok Sabha Deputy leader of the opposition Gaurav Gogoi, Raijor Dal President Akhil Gogoi, and Assam Jatiya Parishad President Lurinjyoti Gogoi campaigned for the Congress candidates in Barak Valley. The BJP campaign was focused on highlighting the various development schemes of both the central and state governments and the achievements made by the saffron party during its ten-year and eight-year rule at the centre and state, respectively. The opposition parties focussed on the citizenship issue, doubtful voters, connectivity issues, poor infrastructural development, unemployment, price rise, benefits of schemes not reaching, and lack of industrial development, among others. Karimganj constituency has the highest number of 24 candidates, with 19 independents, and Diphu (ST), with only five candidates in the fray. A triangular contest is on the cards among sitting BJP MP Kripanath Malla, Hafez Rashid Choudhury of Congress and AIUDF's Sahibul Alam Choudhury in Karimganj. In Silchar, eight candidates are in the fray, and the contest is likely to be triangular between Assam minister Parimal Suklabaidya of BJP, Surya Kanta Sarkar of Congress and Radheyshyam Biswa of Trinamool Congress. Five contestants are in the fray in Diphu (ST), and the contest is likely to be between BJP's Amarsing Tisso and Joyram Engleng of the Congress. A total of 13 candidates are in the fray in Nagaon, and the contest is set to be triangular between sitting Congress MP Prodyut Bordoloi, BJP's Suresh Bora and AIUDF's Aminul Islam. In Darrang-Udalguri, 11 candidates are contesting, with the contest likely to be directly between sitting BJP MP Dilip Saikia and Congress candidate Madhab Rajbongshi. In the first phase of LS polls held on April 19, 78.25 per cent of the voters exercised their franchise to decide the fate of 35 candidates for the Kaziranga, Jorhat, Dibrugarh, Sonitpur and Lakhimpur constituencies. In the outgoing Lok Sabha, BJP held nine seats, Congress three, while the AIUDF and an independent have one each from the state.
Korean film 'The Roundup: Punishment' smashes records on opening day
The latest installment of the popular Korean crime action franchise, The Roundup: Punishment, has set a new opening day presale record in its domestic (South Korea) market.
DC Academy kids enjoy unforgettable outing at Arun Jaitley Stadium ahead IPL 2024 clash against GT
DC Academy kids enjoy unforgettable outing at Arun Jaitley Stadium ahead IPL 2024 clash against GT Delhi Capitals on Tuesday welcomed the DC Academy kids to watch their team in the training session ahead of their upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match against Gujarat Titans (GT) at Arun Jaitley Stadium on Wednesday. As many as 300 DC Academy kids enjoyed an unforgettable experience when they were given the opportunity to watch Rishabh Pant & Co. train from close quarters for their next match, as per the media release by the DC franchise. They also interacted with the Head Coach Ricky Ponting and Director of Cricket Sourav Ganguly in the stands. The young players also got a chance to watch opener David Warner's free-flowing stroke play and young Aussie batter Jake Fraser-McGurk's colossal sixes in the nets. Started with an objective of identifying and grooming cricketing talent, the Delhi Capitals Academy has centres across India. Yash Dhull and Anuj Rawat are proud DC Academy Prodigies who have been currently featuring in the IPL. Delhi-based franchise lost their last match against Sunrisers Hyderabad by 67 runs. The Capitals stand in eighth place on the IPL 2024 table with six points after winning three of eight games. Delhi Capitals Squad: David Warner, Abishek Porel, Ricky Bhui, Yash Dhull, Shai Hope, Prithvi Shaw, Tristan Stubbs, Kumar Kushagra, Swastik Chikara, Ishant Sharma, Jhye Richardson, Rasikh Dar Salam, Vicky Ostwal, Anrich Nortje, Mukesh Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Praveen Dubey, Khaleel Ahmed, Sumit Kumar, Axar Patel, Mitchell Marsh, Lalit Yadav, Rishabh Pant (C), Jake Fraser-McGurk. (ANI)
Now only a few days are left for April to end. After this, the month of May will begin, but do you know how many days banks are going to remain closed this time in May? Probably not, but like every time, this time too there will be bank holidays. In such a situation, it is obvious that you should plan your bank-related work according to bank holidays. Otherwise, you may face problems later. So let us know when the banks of your city will be closed in May. You can see the complete list of holidays for the month of May in the next slides... Banks will remain closed for so many days in May, see the complete list:- Due to May 1st being May Day, there will be a bank holiday in all the states. At the same time, banks will remain closed in Maharashtra also on 1st May due to Maharashtra Day. Then May 5 is Sunday, so banks across the country will remain closed. May 8 is the birth anniversary of Guru Rabindranath Tagore, due to which there will be a holiday for the banks of Kolkata. Banks will remain closed in Bengaluru on May 10 due to Basava Jayanti/Akshay Tritiya. Banks will remain closed across the country due to May 11 being the second Saturday. There will be a Sunday holiday on 12th May in all the banks of the country. Banks to remain closed in Gangtok on 16th May due to Statehood Day There will be a Sunday holiday on 19th May in all the banks of the country. Banks will remain closed in Agartala, Aizawl, Bhopal, Belapur, Dehradun, Itanagar, Chandigarh, Jammu, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Nagpur, New Delhi, Raipur, Ranchi, Shimla and Srinagar due to Buddha Purnima on 23 May. May 25 is the fourth Saturday, hence there will be a holiday in banks across the country. (PC: ISTOCK)
New outlets, cheaper options fail to revive fast-food earnings in India
BENGALURU/CHENNAI, April 24 (Reuters): Top fast-food franchisees in India are likely to report a slump in quarterly earnings as cash-strapped consumers continued to cut back on dining out and ordering in, analysts said, spurning the hundreds of new restaurants that operators opened in 2023. Pizza franchisees such as Jubilant Foodworks, Devyani International and Sapphire Foods India. struggled throughout 2023 due to heightened competition, with burger chains alsojoining the strugglelater in the year due to inflation. Even new affordable menu items, such as Burger Kings 99-rupee combination of burger, beverage, and fries, introduced last year, failed to lure customers as Indias
To Trade Cameron Green...: Finch, Once An RCB Star, Rips Into Franchise
Former Australia captain Aaron Finch didn't mince words as he blamed the RCB management's poor decision-making behind the team's below-par IPL 2024 run.
Shubman Gill to play 100th IPL game as Gujarat locks horns with Delhi today
Shubman Gill to play 100th IPL game as Gujarat locks horns with Delhi today As he takes the field for Gujarat Titans (GT) during the Indian Premier League (IPL) clash against Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Wednesday, skipper Shubman Gill will be featuring in the 100th match of his career in the cash-rich league. GT will be locking horns with DC in a mid-table clash in Delhi on Wednesday. In their last match, Delhi managed to beat Gujarat comprehensively, skittling out the 2022 champions for just 89 runs and chasing it easily. GT won its previous league match against Punjab Kings while DC registered a heavy loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Since his debut with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) following the ICC U19 World Cup win, Gill has managed to carve out an enviable IPL career within such a short span that not many have been able to. In 99 matches, Gill has scored 3,088 runs at an average of 38.12 and a strike rate of 38.12, with three centuries and 20 fifties. His best score is 129. He is already the 25th-highest run-scorer in league's history. Gill represented KKR from 2018-21 and the franchise played a crucial role in his development as a cricketer. He was given backing right from the first season, getting to play 13 matches, in which he scored 203 runs at an average of 33.83 and a strike rate of 146.04, with a knock of 57* as his solitary fifty. He went on to star in franchise's brilliant 2021 season, where it first won just three out of its first eight games but made it to the finals. He was his franchise's highest-run getter and overall eighth-highest run-getter with 478 runs in 17 matches at an average of 28.11 and a strike rate of 118.90, with three half-centuries and the best score of 57. Gill preserved his best for the knockout stages, scoring a quickfire 29 in 18 in a low-scoring eliminator against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), where KKR chased down 139 with two balls to go. Later, his useful knocks of 46 and 51 during the Qualifier two against Delhi Capitals and final against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) announced to the world that he was ready for big games. KKR parted ways with Gill in the 2022 season. In 58 matches for KKR, Gill made 1,417 runs at an average of 31.49 and a strike rate of 123.00, with 10 fifties and best score of 76. He signed with Gujarat Titans for the 2022 season and won the title with them in their debut season. Gill starred in this winning season, ending as the second-highest run-getter for GT with 483 runs in 16 games at an average of 34.50 and a strike rate of 132.33. He also scored four half-centuries, with his best score being 96. Gill's unbeaten 45* in the final helped the franchise chase down 131 runs in a low-scoring clash against Rajasthan Royals. These seasons served as a trailer for what Gill could accomplish. The batter's game was elevated multifold during the next season as he found runs and the ball found the middle of his bat like never before. Gill took home the 'Player of the Tournament' and 'Orange Cap' honours for scoring the most runs in the season, with 890 runs at an average of 59.33 and a strike rate of 157.80. His best score was 129 in just 60 balls, scored against Mumbai Indians (MI) in Qualifier two. GT finished as runners-up to CSK. In the ongoing season, Gill has scored 298 runs in eight matches at an average of 42.57 and a strike rate of 146.80. He has struck two fifties, with the best score of 89*. With GT, Gill has scored 1,671 runs in 41 innings at an average of 46.42 and a strike rate of over 147, with three tons and 10 fifties and the best score of 129. Promising rookie seasons, crucial knocks during knockout matches, IPL trophy, Orange Cap, Player of the Tournament award and captaincy. Gill has ticked a lot of franchise cricket boxes at such a young age of 24. Could he become the next captain to lead Gujarat to glory? (ANI)
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Last Night's Bill Was More: Sehwag Reveals BBL Offer He Turned Down
Former India cricketer Virender Sehwag revealed he was once offered a contract by a BBL franchise. However, he turned it down as the money was too low.
Arjun Munda, Kali Charan set up showdown rerun in Khunti
Arjun and Kali Charan filed for Khunti Lok Sabha seat with respective party members. Campaigns intensify with various party leaders joining. Election dynamics shift as issues like development, promises, and leadership come to the forefront.
Tramell Tillman joins the cast of 'Mission: Impossible 8'
Tramell Tillman, best known for the Apple TV+ series Severance, has signed up for Mission: Impossible 8. The actor joins the other new additions to the cast such as Katy OBrian, Hannah Waddingham, and Nick Offerman, alongside franchise veterans including Tom Cruise, Simon Pegg, and Ving Rhames. Christopher McQuarrie will be returning to direct the eighthfilm in the long-running Mission Impossible franchise, with Cruise serving as a producer. The makers are yet to reveal any plot details of the film produced by Skydance and Paramount. In Mission: Impossible Dead Reckoning, Cruises IMF agent character goes up against a sentient AI tool that penetrates networks, mimics human form and voice, and threatens to destroy the world. Formerly titled as Mission: Impossible Dead Reckoning Part 2, the eighth MI film is slated for a May 23, 2025, release. The film also stars Vanessa Kirby, Pom Klementieff, and Hayley Atwell. Tillman was earlier nominated at the Spirit Award and SAG Awards for his performance in Severance. The actor will be returning for the second season of Severance. His upcoming slate also includes Dietland, Hunters, and Godfather of Harlem.
This Show Changed My Life: MasterChef India Telugu Judge Nikitha Umesh
The chef said that she has been inspired by the MasterChef franchise since her childhood.
Wishes pour in for Sachin Tendulkar as he turns 51
Former India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar flagged off the half-marathon held in New Delhi on Sunday to salute martyrs (Photo: AFP) Former India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar flagged off the half-marathon held in New Delhi on Sunday to salute martyrs (Photo: AFP) Hyderabad: Former team India captain and legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar turned a year older as he celebrated his 51 birthday on Wednesday. The master blaster, as fans called him, retired from international cricket in 2013 after playing his 200th test match. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), wished the veteran and wrote on the microblogging site X, 664 international matches, 34,357 international runs, 201 international wickets, 2011 World Cup winner, The Only cricketer to score 100 international hundreds. Here's wishing the legendary Sachin Tendulkar a very Happy Birthday Mumbai Indians, the IPL franchise to which Sachin acts as a mentor has also wished him on the special day and wrote on X, To the man who made batting look cool and magical- happy birthday, Sachin Tendulkar. Many of his former team-mates including Yuvraj Singh and Suresh Raina also sent their greetings to Sachin. Many cricketing fans across the world have also wished their favorite player as #HappyBirthdaySachin topped the trending searches on X earlier in the day.
MCU Fans Arent Happy About Logan's Outfit Choice In Deadpool & Wolverine: Ruins Whole Look
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Famke Janssen hints at possible return to 'X-Men' franchise
Famke Janssen, the original actor who portrayed the character Jean Grey/Phoenix in the X-Men franchise, has hinted at a potential return to her iconic role.
Sports News Roundup: Soccer-US women's soccer team to play Olympic send-off match against Costa Rica; NFL tampering probe won't affect 2024 draft picks for Eagles, Falcons and more Following is a summary of current sports news briefs. Reports: Caitlin Clark to sign 8-year, $28 million Nike deal Caitlin Clark is far from done setting records. Her latest will come off the court. The Iowa star-turned-No. 1 pick in the WNBA draft has agreed to an eight-year, $28 million contract with Nike that features a signature shoe, the Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday. Soccer-US women's soccer team to play Olympic send-off match against Costa Rica The United States women's soccer team will play Costa Rica in Washington in their final match before heading to the Olympics, U.S. Soccer said on Tuesday, as the four times champions hope to get back to the top of the podium in Paris. The Tokyo bronze medallists will play the friendly on July 16 at Audi Field with new head coach Emma Hayes at the helm. Report: NBA looking into alleged actions of Nikola Jokic's brother The NBA is investigating a brother of Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic, who was shown on video appearing to punch someone following the Nuggets' win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday night, The Athletic reported. A video of Strahinja Jokic made the rounds after the Nuggets beat the Lakers 101-99 in Game 2 of the Western Conference first-round playoff series. It appears to show Strahinja and another Jokic brother, Nemanja, confront two men in the stands at Ball Arena, with Strahinja landing a punch with the right hand on the fan's face. Cowboys commit to Dak Prescott, 'all in' on youth movement Dak Prescott and the Cowboys are committed to staying together in Dallas, but owner Jerry Jones warned the cost is likely a diminished roster around the quarterback in the future. Prescott is entering the final season of a four-year, $160 million deal and cannot be given the franchise tag under terms of the agreement. None of that is bothering Jones, who said the partnership is certain to continue. NFL tampering probe won't affect 2024 draft picks for Eagles, Falcons The NFL's investigation into potential tampering by the Atlanta Falcons and Philadelphia Eagles is ongoing and will not be completed this week, the league said Tuesday. With the 2024 NFL Draft scheduled to begin Thursday, the league will not be docking either team draft picks -- should it find one or both guilty of tampering -- this year. NBA roundup: Nuggets rally, shock Lakers at buzzer Jamal Murray hit a step-back jumper as time expired and the host Denver Nuggets rallied from a 20-point deficit to beat the Los Angeles Lakers 101-99 on Monday night in Game 2 of a Western Conference first-round playoff series. Murray, who struggled shooting all game, dribbled to the baseline and launched a 16-footer over the outstretched hand of Anthony Davis to give Denver a 2-0 series lead. From Rice to Harrison, bloodlines run deep in 2024 NFL Draft As payback for an elbow to the Adam's apple in a game that season, John Lynch nearly threw hands with Terrell Owens poolside in Hawaii before a Pro Bowl more than two decades ago. Lynch was held back by his wife that day, but the current GM of the San Francisco 49ers might need to be restrained from jumping headlong into a draft class with depth in the gene pool. MLB roundup: Cards prevail on Nolan Gorman's walk-off HR Nolan Gorman hit a walk-off two-run homer in the ninth inning to lift the St. Louis Cardinals to a 5-3 victory over the visiting Arizona Diamondbacks on Monday night. Lars Nootbaar drove in two runs and Paul Goldschmidt also went deep for the Cardinals, who snapped a four-game losing streak. St. Louis starting pitcher Lance Lynn allowed three runs on seven hits and three walks in five innings. Report: Purdue star Zach Edey declares for NBA draft Purdue center Zach Edey, the two-time national player of the year, has officially entered the 2024 NBA Draft. The 7-foot-4 behemoth, who posted a brief message to Instagram last week saying Purdue changed his life, told ESPN on Tuesday that he's submitted the paperwork to enter the draft. NHL roundup: Hurricanes storm back, stun Isles Sebastian Aho and Jordan Martinook scored the tying and go-ahead goals nine seconds apart with just over two minutes left as the Carolina Hurricanes rallied to beat the New York Islanders 5-3 in Raleigh, N.C., on Monday in Game 2 of an Eastern Conference first-round playoff series. With goalie Frederik Andersen pulled for the extra attacker, Aho tipped in Andrei Svechnikov's shot to tie the game 3-3 with 2:15 to go. Martinook got the winner with 2:06 left when he jammed in a loose puck from the side of the net. Jake Guentzel added an empty-net goal with 56 seconds remaining.
Reuters Sports News Summary Following is a summary of current sports news briefs. Reports: Caitlin Clark to sign 8-year, $28 million Nike deal Caitlin Clark is far from done setting records. Her latest will come off the court. The Iowa star-turned-No. 1 pick in the WNBA draft has agreed to an eight-year, $28 million contract with Nike that features a signature shoe, the Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday. Soccer-US women's soccer team to play Olympic send-off match against Costa Rica The United States women's soccer team will play Costa Rica in Washington in their final match before heading to the Olympics, U.S. Soccer said on Tuesday, as the four times champions hope to get back to the top of the podium in Paris. The Tokyo bronze medallists will play the friendly on July 16 at Audi Field with new head coach Emma Hayes at the helm. Report: NBA looking into alleged actions of Nikola Jokic's brother The NBA is investigating a brother of Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic, who was shown on video appearing to punch someone following the Nuggets' win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday night, The Athletic reported. A video of Strahinja Jokic made the rounds after the Nuggets beat the Lakers 101-99 in Game 2 of the Western Conference first-round playoff series. It appears to show Strahinja and another Jokic brother, Nemanja, confront two men in the stands at Ball Arena, with Strahinja landing a punch with the right hand on the fan's face. Cowboys commit to Dak Prescott, 'all in' on youth movement Dak Prescott and the Cowboys are committed to staying together in Dallas, but owner Jerry Jones warned the cost is likely a diminished roster around the quarterback in the future. Prescott is entering the final season of a four-year, $160 million deal and cannot be given the franchise tag under terms of the agreement. None of that is bothering Jones, who said the partnership is certain to continue. NFL tampering probe won't affect 2024 draft picks for Eagles, Falcons The NFL's investigation into potential tampering by the Atlanta Falcons and Philadelphia Eagles is ongoing and will not be completed this week, the league said Tuesday. With the 2024 NFL Draft scheduled to begin Thursday, the league will not be docking either team draft picks -- should it find one or both guilty of tampering -- this year. NBA roundup: Nuggets rally, shock Lakers at buzzer Jamal Murray hit a step-back jumper as time expired and the host Denver Nuggets rallied from a 20-point deficit to beat the Los Angeles Lakers 101-99 on Monday night in Game 2 of a Western Conference first-round playoff series. Murray, who struggled shooting all game, dribbled to the baseline and launched a 16-footer over the outstretched hand of Anthony Davis to give Denver a 2-0 series lead. From Rice to Harrison, bloodlines run deep in 2024 NFL Draft As payback for an elbow to the Adam's apple in a game that season, John Lynch nearly threw hands with Terrell Owens poolside in Hawaii before a Pro Bowl more than two decades ago. Lynch was held back by his wife that day, but the current GM of the San Francisco 49ers might need to be restrained from jumping headlong into a draft class with depth in the gene pool. MLB roundup: Cards prevail on Nolan Gorman's walk-off HR Nolan Gorman hit a walk-off two-run homer in the ninth inning to lift the St. Louis Cardinals to a 5-3 victory over the visiting Arizona Diamondbacks on Monday night. Lars Nootbaar drove in two runs and Paul Goldschmidt also went deep for the Cardinals, who snapped a four-game losing streak. St. Louis starting pitcher Lance Lynn allowed three runs on seven hits and three walks in five innings. Report: Purdue star Zach Edey declares for NBA draft Purdue center Zach Edey, the two-time national player of the year, has officially entered the 2024 NBA Draft. The 7-foot-4 behemoth, who posted a brief message to Instagram last week saying Purdue changed his life, told ESPN on Tuesday that he's submitted the paperwork to enter the draft. NHL roundup: Hurricanes storm back, stun Isles Sebastian Aho and Jordan Martinook scored the tying and go-ahead goals nine seconds apart with just over two minutes left as the Carolina Hurricanes rallied to beat the New York Islanders 5-3 in Raleigh, N.C., on Monday in Game 2 of an Eastern Conference first-round playoff series. With goalie Frederik Andersen pulled for the extra attacker, Aho tipped in Andrei Svechnikov's shot to tie the game 3-3 with 2:15 to go. Martinook got the winner with 2:06 left when he jammed in a loose puck from the side of the net. Jake Guentzel added an empty-net goal with 56 seconds remaining.
VHP & Bajrang Dal field joint candidate against BJP in Jharkhand
In Hazaribag, right-wing groups field Shashibhushan Kesri against BJP's Jaiswal, criticizing Modi's governance. Kesri aims to provide jobs and protect Hindu interests. This move challenges NDA's prospects.
'Met him on a flyover': RCB players share Sachin memories
Sachin Tendulkar remains a source of inspiration for cricketers across generations. Today, as the legend marks his 51st birthday, players from the Royal Challengers Bengaluru IPL franchise fondly revisited their best memories of the batting maestro by reminiscing about some of the privileged moments they spent with him over the years.
Karnataka: Transporters to operate after noon on polling day
BENGALURU: To discourage people from heading out of the city to tourist destinations, religious places or their home towns on polling day (April 26), District Election Officer Tushar Girinath requested transport operators to offer services only after noon when citizens would have cast their votes. Girinath, who is also BBMP chief commissioner, held a meeting with representatives of maxi cab, stage carriage, contract carriage operators and others in the transport sector on Monday. As polling day falls on a Friday, there are chances that many Bengalureans might plan an extended weekend holiday to go out of the city. To improve the voting percentage, transport operators have been urged to operate vehicles only after citizens have exercised their franchise, Transport Commissioner Yogesh A M said in a statement on Tuesday. Yogesh said transport operators and representatives of transport associations have responded positively to the demand. He urged the transport operators to inform their passengers that services will be available only after noon on April 26.
Assam: Muslim votes matter, BJP has edge in 5 seats
GUWAHATI: The spotlight will be on the Muslim voters when Assam goes to the polls in the second phase of Lok Sabha elections on April 26. People of five constituencies such as Karimganj, Silchar (both in southern Assams Bengali-majority Barak Valley), Nagaon, Darrang-Udalguri and Diphu are set to exercise their franchise. Nagaon is held by the Congress while the others are under the BJP. Barring Diphu which is reserved for Scheduled Tribes, the others have sizeable Bengali-speaking Muslim populations. Bengali Hindus also have a large number of voters in Silchar and Karimganj seats. While Karimganj leads with over 55.7% Muslim voters, Silchar has less than 40%, Nagaon 58%, and Darrang-Udalguri about 40%. Several Muslim-majority Assembly segments, which were parts of erstwhile Kaliabor (now Kaziranga) parliamentary seat, were added to the Nagaon seat following last years delimitation exercise, thereby substantially increasing the number of its Muslim voters. As Kaliabor underwent massive changes in terms of demography, sitting MP Gaurav Gogoi of the Congress contested this election from the adjoining Jorhat seat. A straight contest is on the cards between the ruling BJP and the Congress in all constituencies other than Nagaon. Nagaon is poised for a triangular contest among the Congress, the BJP and the minority-based All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF). Despite having a large number of Muslim voters, the BJP managed to win this central Assam constituency four times 1999, 2004, 2009 and 2014. This was primarily because of the division of Muslim votes. The Muslims had then voted for the Congress as well as the AIUDF. The Congress had stopped the BJPs juggernaut in 2019 when the AIUDF did not contest. The AIUDF fielded a strong candidate in Aminul Islam, who is an MLA, this time around. His main rivals will be sitting MP Pradyut Bordoloi of the Congress and Suresh Borah of the BJP. The BJP is expected to win the Silchar seat but faces a stiff challenge from the Congress in Karimganj. The BJP replaced Silchar MP Rajdeep Roy with minister Parimal Suklabaidya and renominated sitting MP Kripanath Malla in Karimganj. The contest in Silchar will be between Suklabaidya and the Congress Surya Kanta Sarkar. In Karimganj, the Congress Hafiz Rashid Ahmed Choudhury, who is a senior lawyer, is expected to give Malla a run for his money. In past elections, the BJP had an advantage in both Silchar and Karimganj seats when Hindus were (and they still are) in a majority in Silchar while Muslims could not contest from Karimganj as it was reserved for Scheduled Caste (SC). After delimitation, Silchar is now an SC-reserved seat while Karimganj became a general seat. It is unclear why their status was tweaked. A large number of people from the valley are believed to have been left out of the National Register of Citizens. During campaigning recently, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma assured to solve the D Voter (doubtful voter) issue, particularly involving the Bengali Hindus, within six months. The BJP is hardly facing any contest in the Diphu seat in Karbi Anglong district. The BJPs advantage is that it rules the autonomous Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council and North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council. The party is also expected to retain the Darrang-Udalguri seat. Half of the constituency straddles the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR). The BJP-United Peoples Party Liberal combine is in power in the Bodoland Territorial Council which administers the BTR.
Kalpana Soren takes charge, says BJP will get befitting reply
RANCHI: Kalpana Soren, who entered public life a few weeks ago and has been quite vocal against the NDA government at the centre, has once again challenged the centre, saying that the dictatorial forces conspiring to destroy democracy and the Constitution will receive a befitting reply in the upcoming elections. Posting on social platform X immediately after the nomination of INDIA Alliance candidate from Singhbhum, Joba Manjhi, Kalpana Soren congratulated her in advance for her massive victory in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. Many congratulations, best wishes, and blessings to you, INDIA Alliance candidate, senior leader from Jharkhand Mukti Morcha @JobaMajhi, for filing nomination papers from Singhbhum Lok Sabha seat. Best wishes in advance to respected Mrs. Joba Ji for her massive victory. In the upcoming elections, the dictatorial forces conspiring to destroy democracy and the Constitution will receive a befitting reply, posted Kalpana Soren on X, further adding, Jharkhand Jhukega Nahin! INDIA Rukega Nahin! (Jharkhand will not bow down! INDIA will not stop!), she added. Earlier, Joba Manjhi filed her nomination after a road show during which Chief Minister Champai Soren, Kalpana Soren, Minister Deepak Biruwa, and other JMM leaders were present. Joba Manjhi will be taking on NDAs Geeta Koda, who has already filed her nomination on Monday. There is a direct contest between the two women candidates on the Singhbhum seat. Geeta Koda had won the election on this seat on Congress ticket but left Congress and joined BJP just before the elections. Voting will be held on May 13 for Singhbum Lok Sabha seat. Addressing a gathering, Soren said that BJP had been trying to topple the Soren government since it was formed in 2019, but he introduced welfare schemes and continued working in the interest of Adivasi-Moolwasi. Recruitment process for government jobs was on, but BJP put him in jail, hatching a conspiracy against him.
3,500 Kerala cops on poll duty in other states to miss voting
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As many as 3,500 cops, deployed in other states to ensure smooth conduct of Lok Sabha polls there, are all likely to be deprived of the right to exercise their franchise. The predicament arose as the senior state police officers nor the officials in the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) did not factor in the Kerala poll date while preparing the election duty roster of the cops. The cops are now deployed in Karnataka and Maharashtra, where the polls will be held in various phases and end by May 7 and May 20, respectively. Office-bearers of the Kerala Police Association, which delayed in taking up the matter, met the Election Commission officials and requested them to allow the cops on outstation duty to do postal voting upon their return. A police source said the office-bearers moved their request on Tuesday seeking orders from the commission for the same. However, there are slim chances for the request to be accepted, the source added. The cops on election duty within the state were allowed to cast their votes in facilitation centres that were set up from April 21- 23. However, shockingly no provision was made for those working in other states. Earlier, the cops on election duty in other states were sent back just in time to cast their votes. But this time, no such arrangements were made, said an association office-bearer. The police department also did not ask for postal voting for the cops, who were to go to other states. Earlier, postal voting provisions were there for cops, but they were later withdrawn due to complaints of misuse.
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Adhere to SOPs strictly, DIG to security personnel
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IPL 2024: Chennai Super Kings shed off middle-overs slowdown to go big
CHENNAI: After their heavy loss against Lucknow Super Giants last week, Chennai Super Kings skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad admitted that middle-overs slowdown cost them dear as the team fell short by about 10-15 runs. I know we finished off really well couldn't have asked for more but I think after the powerplay, we couldn't just kick-off from the start we got until the 14th or 15th over, Gaikwad had said. We kept losing wickets at regular intervals. I think (we were) 10-15 runs short, he had added. The five-time champions had scored 62 runs between 7 and 16 overs losing three wickets in Lucknow in the first leg match between the two teams. Five out of those 10 overs were bowled by LSG's spinners Ravi Bishnoi and Krunal Pandya and they went for only 29 runs, In those overs, Pandya bowled Ajinkya Rahane for 36 off 24 balls and had CSK'S Impact Sub Sameer Rizvi stumped for 1. It was a cause of concern for the Chennai franchise and needed to be addressed as soon as possible. Before the loss against Lucknow, CSK had defeated Mumbai Indians, their only away win from the four matches so far. What stood out in the win was the team's scoring rate between 7 to 16 overs wherein they scored 103 runs, losing two wickets. It was the only time CSK scored more than 100 runs in that period before Tuesday as the Gaikwad-led side improved their previous best by scoring 105 runs in the middle overs against the visiting LSG here at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Centurion Gaikwad (unbeaten 108 off 60), along with power-hitter Shivam Dube (66 from 27 balls), played a big role in providing the momentum in the middle overs as they added 104 runs from 47 balls to help the home team post their highest score of the tournament so far, 210/4. Among the top four sides of the tournament, second and third placed teams Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad respectively have scored more than 100 runs from 7 to 16 overs thrice in their seven outings so far. This gave them a good chance to finish off well posting a formidable total against their opponents. Chennai followed the template on Tuesday as they shed off their sluggish start in the powerplay, where the team scored 49/2, to come down heavily on the Lucknow bowlers in the middle phrase of the innings. Such was the impact of the onslaught that Chennai easily crossed the 200-run mark in the end despite them scoring only 56 runs in the last four overs. Chennai also lost only one wicket during the period, the minimum so far which in turn ensured that well-set batters stayed at the crease to up the ante in the death overs. Dube made the most of it in the 16th over when he slammed pacer Yash Thakur for three consecutive sixes to plunder 19 runs, which ultimately proved to be the most expensive over of the innings. Only against the Kolkata franchise, CSK had lost one wicket in the period. In their remaining matches, they had lost at least two wickets in that duration of the match making it almost impossible to accelerate the run rate. One more area of concern for the CSK before Tuesday's match was their bowlers' show in the powerplay. They had picked up three Bengaluru wickets and two against Gujarat but apart from that, they hadn't had much success. It was addressed against LSG as Deepak Chahar struck in the first over before Mustafizur Rahman sent back skipper KL Rahul to deal a double blow to the visitors. For the record, the duo added 134 runs for the opening stand to make sure their team comfortably overhauled the 176-run target set by CSK in their first meeting. CSK finally managed to address a couple of concerns which were ailing them they needed to work on their remaining flaws if they wish to defend their title.
Will root out Naxalism from Chhattisgarh..., PM Modi in Mahasamund
Will root out Naxalism from Chhattisgarh..., PM Modi in Mahasamund Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday promised the people of Chhattisgarh that his government would oot out Naxalism from the state. Addressing a public rally in Mahasamund, PM Modi lashed out against the callousness of the opposition towards the country's security and said that wherever Congress ruled, development derailed. Congress and development don't go hand in hand. Instead, violence and corruption peaked. In the North East, Congress couldn't stop the violence. In Chhattisgarh, Naxalism flourished under Congress. Why? Corruption. To hide its corruption, Congress fueled violence. While people suffered, Congress filled its coffers. Under the BJP, corruption and Naxalism are under control. Naxalism is rapidly decreasing in Chhattisgarh. I guarantee to eliminate Naxalism in Chhattisgarh, the PM said. PM Modi said that the first phase of voting on 102 constituencies has been a one-sided voting in favour of the BJP-NDA across the country adding that the public has rust only on the Bharatiya Janata Party. Voting for Bastar seat was held in our Chhattisgarh on 19th April. Voting was also held in other states of the country and the first phase of voting has made things clear. The mind of the country speaks to make a powerful developed India and a strong government has to be formed, hence the public has trust only on BJP, the Prime Minister said. He further said that Chhattisgarh can accelerate the journey of developed India. Today I have come to seek blessings for Viksit Bharat and Viksit Chhattisgarh. Today I have come among you to ask for something for me and I have faith in you. Every time I have asked you for something, Chhattisgarh has never disappointed me, it has filled my bag. Chhattisgarh is the state that has the power of steel, coal, and forest wealth, Chhattisgarh can accelerate the journey of developed India. Since you made me the Prime Minister, you have seen my work. You have given me a chance and you have seen that I have been serving you without taking any leave. I kept working day and night, I never did anything for me, he said. Prime Minister Modi urged voters to exercise their franchise in record numbers in the Lok Sabha polls. Polling for the Lok Sabha in Chhattisgarh is being held in three phases. While only a lone seat polled in the opening phase on April 19, the remaining 10 Lok Sabha constituencies will go to polls on April 26 and May 7. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, BJP won 9 of the 11 Lok Sabha seats in the state, while the Congress had to settle for just 2 seats. (ANI)
Arrangements in place for LS polls in Malappuram
33.9 lakh voters to exercise their franchise in the district
Congress stoked violence to hide its corruption: PM Modi in Chhattisgarh
Congress stoked violence to hide its corruption: PM Modi in Chhattisgarh Continuing his verbal assault on the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday accused the grand old party of 'fuelling violence' in its rule at the Centre to 'hide its corruption'. Addressing the public meeting in Chhattisgahr's Mahasamund on Tuesday, PM Modi said Congress and development can't go hand in hand, adding, Wherever and whenever the Congress ruled, development was derailed. The Congress and development don't go hand in hand. Violence and corruption peaked under their rule instead. Alleging that Naxalism 'flourished' under the Congress rule in Chhattisgarh, Prime Minister Modi said the Left-Wing terror has been reined in to a significant extent under the present BJP dispensation. He added, for good measure, that the double-engine government in the state was committed to rooting out the menace from the state. The Congress couldn't stop the violence in the Northeast. In Chhattisgarh, too, Naxalism flourished under Congress. Why? It was because of their corrupt ways. To hide its corruption, Congress fuelled violence. While people suffered, they filled its coffers, PM Modi said. Under the BJP, corruption and Naxalism are under control. Naxalism is rapidly decreasing in Chhattisgarh. I guarantee that Naxalism will be rooted out altogether in Chhattisgarh, he added. Taking a dig at the Opposition bloc--INDIA--over apparent disunity, PM Modi added, It seems that there is a conflict within the INDI alliance. Two days ago, there was a rally of the INDI alliance in Jharkhand, where heads were broken and clothes torn off in public. During their first rally, several leaders were seen holding each other's hands on stage. However, in the last rally, you could all see that almost half of their leaders have left them. In Delhi, where the royal family of the Congress lives (New Delhi constituency), the vote of their first family, itself, will not go to Congress this time (the grand old party has set aside the constituency for AAP as part of a seat-sharing deal). And, they are going around the country, asking you to vote for them. There is no Congress candidate this time where their first family resides, PM Modi added. He asserted that the first phase of polling was one-sided voting in favour of the BJP-led NDA, adding that the people have made up their minds to repose their electoral trust in the BJP again. He also urged voters to exercise their franchise in record numbers in the second phase. Earlier in the day, he termed the country's 'Nari Shakti' (women power) as his 'Raksha Kavach' (protective shield) and said that as long as the 'mothers and sisters' are with him, the Opposition's attempts to peddle its 'agenda' against him wouldn't succeed. Addressing a public rally at Janjgir-Champa in Chhattisgarh, PM Modi hit back at Congress leader Charan Das Mahant over his call to 'break' his head, saying No one can inflict any harm on Modi. Congress people (Mahant) are now saying they will break Modi's head. As long as my mothers and sisters are with me, no one can bring any harm to Modi. The mothers and sisters are my 'Raksha Kavach' (protective shield). You can imagine the kind of leaders, who abuse the 'Modi Samaj' (a reference to Rahul Gandhi's alleged imputation that everyone with the surname 'Modi' was a thief) and 'Sahu Samaj' (a community of traders), the Prime Minister said. Now, they are threatening to break Modi's head. A Congress leader even wished death to Modi. But his wish will never come true because where 140 crore people stand with you, 'vaha maut ko bhi lambe samay ke liye intezar karna padhta hai' (even death has to wait a long time), he added. Polling for the Lok Sabha in Chhattisgarh is being held in three phases. While only a lone seat polled in the opening phase on April 19, the remaining 10 Lok Sabha constituencies will go to polls on April 26 and May 7. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, BJP won 9 of the 11 Lok Sabha seats in the state, while the Congress had to settle for just 2 seats. (ANI)
Surprising Roster Changes in IPL 2024: Players on the Move!
The IPL auction is always a fingerprint, stuff happening, strategy sessions, and sometimes, curveballs. The IPL 2024 was eventful and not disappointing! The player draft results were predictable to the usual picks, while some franchises created a stir by playing surprising cards. Thus, both the fans and analysts were stunned. Lets dive into some of [] The post Surprising Roster Changes in IPL 2024: Players on the Move! appeared first on Nagpur Today : Nagpur News .
Sports News Roundup: Nuggets rally, shock Lakers at buzzer; Cards prevail on Nolan Gorman's walk-off HR and more Following is a summary of current sports news briefs. Olympics-USADA wants investigation into China swimming, welcomes WADA lawsuit The head of the United States Anti-Doping Agency demanded on Monday an investigation into the World Anti-Doping Agency's (WADA) handling of 23 positive tests by Chinese swimmers and welcomed the global body's threat of legal action. During a nearly two hour Zoom call with the media WADA fired back at critics and provided detailed explanation of its decision not to pursue sanctions on the swimmers, who tested positive for trimetazidine (TMZ) months before the COVID-delayed Tokyo Olympics began in July 2021. Olympics-Canadian Olympic Committee joins Centre for Sport and Human Rights The Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) has become the first national Olympic committee to join the Swiss-based Centre for Sport and Human Rights, the two organisations said on Tuesday. By joining CSHR's network, the COC aims to ensure their high performance success is achieved in a safe, inclusive manner with barrier-free access to sporting opportunities. Fever feed Caitlin Clark demand, boost local TV exposure Indianapolis fans with a case of Caitlin Clark fever can catch 17 Indiana Fever games for free on local television channels this season. The WNBA franchise struck a deal earlier this week with Tegna to broadcast those contests on the region's NBC (WTHR) and MeTV (WALV) affiliates. Doping-USADA calls for WADA overhaul amid Chinese swimming scandal The U.S. Anti-Doping Agency said on Tuesday that the World Anti-Doping Agency must be overhauled to restore confidence in the global body ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics following its handling of a Chinese doping case. USADA wants an independent prosecutor to review the case of 23 Chinese swimmers who tested positive before the Tokyo Olympics began in 2021. Report: Mediation session scheduled in Wolves' sale dispute The Minnesota Timberwolves' ownership dispute will advance to a mediation session on May 1 in Minneapolis, ESPN reported on Wednesday night. Longtime majority owner Glen Taylor put an end to a three-year ownership succession plan with the group headed by Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez on March 28. Taylor claimed the former Walmart eCommerce CEO and retired baseball star did not meet contractual obligations laid out in the purchase agreement between the two sides. Golf-Scheffler, Korda take men's and women's game by storm with dominant runs Scottie Scheffler and Nelly Korda, the two leading players in the men's and women's games, respectively, have produced the most dominant run that professional golf has seen in years and neither appears ready to slow down. With his three-shot win at Hilton Head Island on Monday, Masters champion Scheffler has won four of his last five starts and become the first player to win a major and win on the PGA Tour the following week since Tiger Woods in 2006. NBA roundup: Nuggets rally, shock Lakers at buzzer Jamal Murray hit a step-back jumper as time expired and the host Denver Nuggets rallied from a 20-point deficit to beat the Los Angeles Lakers 101-99 on Monday night in Game 2 of a Western Conference first-round playoff series. Murray, who struggled shooting all game, dribbled to the baseline and launched a 16-footer over the outstretched hand of Anthony Davis to give Denver a 2-0 series lead. Two-thirds of Canadians consider themselves fans of women's sport - study Two thirds of Canadians consider themselves to be fans of women's sport, according to a study released on Monday calling for greater investment in professional women's sport in the country. Canadian Women & Sport, a national non-profit that launched in 1981, said a poll of Canadians aged 13-65 showed two in three people (67%) consider themselves to be fans of women's sports, which is equivalent to over 17 million Canadians. MLB roundup: Cards prevail on Nolan Gorman's walk-off HR Nolan Gorman hit a walk-off two-run homer in the ninth inning to lift the St. Louis Cardinals to a 5-3 victory over the visiting Arizona Diamondbacks on Monday night. Lars Nootbaar drove in two runs and Paul Goldschmidt also went deep for the Cardinals, who snapped a four-game losing streak. St. Louis starting pitcher Lance Lynn allowed three runs on seven hits and three walks in five innings. NHL roundup: Hurricanes storm back, stun Isles Sebastian Aho and Jordan Martinook scored the tying and go-ahead goals nine seconds apart with just over two minutes left as the Carolina Hurricanes rallied to beat the New York Islanders 5-3 in Raleigh, N.C., on Monday in Game 2 of an Eastern Conference first-round playoff series. With goalie Frederik Andersen pulled for the extra attacker, Aho tipped in Andrei Svechnikov's shot to tie the game 3-3 with 2:15 to go. Martinook got the winner with 2:06 left when he jammed in a loose puck from the side of the net. Jake Guentzel added an empty-net goal with 56 seconds remaining.
Housing prices in India expected to moderate 5% in 2024-25: India Ratings
Housing prices in India expected to moderate 5% in 2024-25: India Ratings India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra) has maintained a neutral outlook for the residential real estate sector for the financial year 2024-25. Absorption in residential real estate and prices are likely to be supported by affordability and stability of interest rates, the rating agency said. However, given the high base of the just-concluded financial year 2023-24, the growth rates are likely to taper down. The residential real estate market registered a strong performance in the first three quarters of 2023-24 where the sales growth exceeded 25 per cent year-on-year for the top eight real estate clusters, despite price increases and sticky interest rates. With most regions witnessing a surge in prices, Ind-Ra expects the pre-sales growth to moderate to 8 per cent to 10 per cent year-on-year in the current financial year. Inventory levels have also risen over FY24 in the premium and luxury segment, as launches increased encouraged by the sharp rise in sales and realisations, said Mahaveer Shankarlal Jain, Director, Corporate Ratings, Ind-Ra. Further, Ind-Ra expects the prices to have been higher 22 per cent year-on-year at end-2023-24 and would be subdued at around 5 per cent for 2024-25, due to the base effect and large amount of new launches planned. Ind-Ra expects the mid-income and upper mid-income segments, which emerged as the leading consumer segments in 2023-24, to continue to witness a strong buyer interest. While the premium and luxury segments witnessed sharp demand growth in 2023-24, Ind-Ra expects them to cool down due to the high base as the unsold inventory levels remain elevated and are the highest over the past five years. Tier II and III Cities to Report Significant Growth: Renewed government focus on developing infrastructure and improving connectivity across new cities, with mega projects such as highways, airports, metros, and digitization, is likely to stimulate the development of Tier II and III cities and generate substantial growth. While the relatively new markets of Thiruvananthapuram, Guwahati, Rajkot, and Ranchi market are witnessing exponential growth in housing, Outer Mumbai, Surat, Vadodara, Jaipur, Nashik, Chandigarh, and Bhopal forming over 60 per cent of the market in terms of the units sold, grew at a CAGR by 14 per cent during 2021-2023. (ANI)
'Mission: Impossible 8': New star, release date and more about Tom Cruise action film
Tillman will join franchise newcomers Katy OBrian, Nick Offerman and Hannah Waddingham, along with Mission veterans Henry Czerny, Hayley Atwell, Ving Rhames, Simon Pegg, Pom Klementieff and Vanessa Kirby.
