Rattan Singh Gill BHOPAL: A visit to the Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya here is unlike walking through a conventional museum, where objects are arranged behind glass or inside galleries. Spread across a vast natural landscape, the museum takes visitors through different cultural settings of India through houses, settlements, trails and community traditions. Within [] The post IGRMS An open habitat where Indias living cultures come alive- I appeared first on Northlines .
MP Police association condemns remarks against DCP Rawat
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Sep 21 (IANS) The Madhya Pradesh Indian Police Service Association has strongly condemned comments made by senior Congress leader and former minister Sajjan Singh Verma against Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP Indore) Narendra Rawat following an altercation during Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhis Chhatron Ki Goonj programme on September 19. According to a press note issued by the association on Monday, the association assigned DCP Narendra Rawat of the Indore Urban Police responsibility for stage management and security arrangements at the event held in Indore. During the programme, a large crowd gathered in the pandal, affecting the arrangements. The officer, following pre-issued official guidelines, was managing the crowd as part of his official duties. In this context, Sajjan Singh Verma made statements to the media regarding the police officer on duty. The association described these comments as indecent, objectionable and insulting. It condemned the act in strong terms and urged public representatives to maintain dignified, restrained conduct towards public servants. Reports indicate that Verma, reacting to the stage confrontation between the DCP and event organisers, remarked that an ordinary officer was behaving like Singham without realising that this is Indore, where many such officers have come and gone. He also suggested that the officer should understand that governments change. The associations press note emphasised that police personnel were performing their assigned responsibilities under official instructions. It expressed concern over the language used against an officer discharging duty and urged elected representatives to uphold decorum while interacting with or commenting on public servants. The incident occurred amid a heavy turnout at the student outreach programme addressed by LoP Rahul Gandhi. Police managed crowd control and security at the venue. Videos of the exchange between the DCP and organisers circulated, prompting political reactions. The Madhya Pradesh Indian Police Service Association has demanded that public representatives maintain respectful behaviour towards officials performing official duties. The body stated that such comments undermine the dignity of the police force and the principle of institutional respect.
MP: Namibian cheetah Gaurav dies at Kuno during treatment
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Sep 21 (IANS) A Namibian cheetah brought to India under the ambitious Project Cheetah died at Madhya Pradeshs Kuno National Park on Monday while undergoing treatment, days after it was rescued from the wild in a weak and dehydrated condition. Gaurav, aged over 10 years, was found weak and lethargic in the wild on September 12 and was subsequently rescued and shifted to a quarantine boma at Palpur for treatment and close monitoring. Gaurav was found to be markedly weak, with visible muscle wasting and severe dehydration. Immediate systemic and supportive treatment was provided, following which he was shifted to Palpur and kept in a Quarantine Boma for close observation and further management, the Director of Kuno National Park and Cheetah Project said in a statement. Preliminary clinical examination had indicated severe muscle weakness and dehydration, while an underlying chronic condition was suspected, officials said. Despite continued treatment and supportive care, Gauravs condition deteriorated, and he died at around 4 pm on Monday. The exact cause of death has not yet been established. A post-mortem examination will be conducted, and samples collected from the animal will be analysed to determine the cause. The exact cause of death will be ascertained after post-mortem examination and analysis of the samples collected. Further details will be available once the reports are received, the director added. Following Gauravs death, 51 cheetahs remain at Kuno, including 36 born in India, of which 16 are currently ranging freely in the wild. Four more cheetahs are housed at Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh, taking Indias total cheetah population to 55. The development comes four years after India launched Project Cheetah on September 17, 2022, with the translocation of eight cheetahs from Namibia to Kuno. A second batch arrived from South Africa in February 2023, followed by another batch from Botswana in February this year. The programme seeks to re-establish a viable cheetah population in India after the species became extinct in the country in 1952. Kuno remains the principal site of the programme, while Gandhi Sagar has emerged as a second habitat. The project has also recorded breeding in India, including the birth of four cubs in the wild to an Indian-born female cheetah in April this year.
University Revaluation 2026: Last Dates for Calicut, GCW Parade, and BU Bhopal
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'Our coaches were fighting': Rudrankksh Patil on hotel accommodation issues at Asian Games
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 21 (IANS) Double Asian Games 2026 medallist Rudrankksh Patil opened up on the accommodation issues he and his other shooting contingent faced during their travel to Japan for the Aichi-Nagoya Games. Patil clinched a silver and a bronze in the 10m Air Rifle team and individual event, respectively. Speaking to the media after the win, the fabled shooter highlighted the travel and accommodation issues he and his team had to face. So, while we were going from Bhopal to Delhi and from Delhi to Japan via Hong Kong, it was a long travel for us from Bhopal to Delhi. Our flight had some issues, and we did an emergency landing in Jaipur, Patil told reporters after his twin medals. From there.... we went to Delhi. The next day, we had our flight. In the evening, we took the flight and came to Japan. It was an almost five-hour flight to Hong Kong, then six hours, seven hours halt in Hong Kong. And then again, from Hong Kong to Japan, it was five hours flight. And after reaching here, within five minutes, everything was cleared, he said on the travel. Patil then highlighted that the contingent had to wait for hours for their bus to arrive, and then the coaches had an altercation with the hotel staff after they were not offered the hotel they booked their rooms in. We went to the welcoming centre. It took us three hours to wait for the bus over there. At 2 or 3 am, we started leaving for the hotel and reached there at around 3:30 or 4 am. After reaching the hotel, we realised that the hotel we had booked was not our hotel, we only had a couple of rooms over there, and that was supposed to be the best hotel. And our coaches were fighting over there that if you can give us the confirmation for the best hotel, then how are you shifting us to some other hotel? he highlighted. Patil further stated that the organisers had an accommodation of an apparent village, where the main hotel is connected to the other ones and they were offered much smaller rooms. So, apparently, they had that village thing that one hotel was the main hotel and everything; every other hotel was connected to that hotel. And whatever room was empty, they were supposed to give us in that way. It did not work in the reservation way. So, it was quite disappointing to know that, but we had a hotel beside the main hotel. The rooms are very small. We cannot open our suitcases over here, but our coaches promptly decided that these rooms are too small to have them with double occupancy. So, the coaches gave every shooter single occupancy, and that made us stay much more comfortable. And this room is small, but it's comfortable also. It's cosy also. I love this room now, he added. The 2023 Hangzhou Games gold medallist from the team event, Patil, further stressed another issue the contingent faced, and that was delayed buses, which was later solved by the Indian authorities. Then the second issue was with the bus. Japanese are known for their time efficiency, but it was very difficult to see that the buses were coming on time. It took two hours to reach, rather than the 70 minutes, which they had promised, and it took two and a half hours to reach. So, that was a big problem. The next day, they solved it. The return bus issue was solved by providing us with more buses, but for going (to the competition), we had no guarantee because they did not know how many athletes were coming and how many are going to leave. The bus's capacity was 50. So, our government provided us with private cars. So, every rifle, pistol and shotgun (teams), were given one car, or one car per day. And then whoever has a match will take the car so that no one misses the match, or even if the bus is delayed or due to any circumstance, the car will always be on time. So, again, yesterday was the women's match (rifle women's match); they took the car yesterday, and we had a match today; so, we took the car today. So, I think, you know, even though the things are not that good, but again, I like, you know, how it was handled, promptly handled and looking forward to how Japan is treating us, I would say the atmosphere is really good. The rooms look small, but this is part of their culture; as far as I am aware, they have small rooms, and the room has everything which a player would need. He also heaped praise on how Japan has been working ecologically on providing food so that minimal food is wasted. Other than that, Japan is always the first one to have a sustainable, ecological way of conducting tournaments, and that's what they are doing. They ask us if we are going to have lunch or dinner or breakfast and they create the food items accordingly, he said.
CM Yadav, Scindia to lead MPs telecom investor outreach in Bengaluru
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Sep 21 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia will jointly lead the states investor outreach in Bengaluru on Tuesday (September 22), seeking investments in the Telecom Manufacturing Zone (TMZ) being developed in Gwalior. Yadav and Scindia will attend an Investors Round Table with leading telecom companies and investors at Taj Bengaluru, focusing on investment opportunities in the Gwalior TMZ and developing a wider telecom and electronics manufacturing ecosystem in the state. According to the Madhya Pradesh government, Yadav will brief investors on opportunities available in the zone, industrial policies, incentives and support being offered. Through this interaction, investors will be informed about the investment opportunities available in the Gwalior Telecom Manufacturing Zone, industrial policies and the support provided by the state government, the government said in a statement. The meeting will also explore possibilities for research, innovation and expansion of allied industries linked to telecom equipment manufacturing. Additional Chief Secretary Neeraj Mandloi and senior officials from the Department of Telecommunications will present the TMZ, its key features, and the policy support available to investors. Representatives of leading telecom companies will share their experiences, while companies interested in the Gwalior zone will discuss investment proposals and requirements. The Chief Minister will address investors queries and suggestions and highlight the state governments commitment to investment in Madhya Pradesh and the support available to investors, the statement added. Scindias participation will bring the Centre and the state government together with industry representatives to discuss the development of the Gwalior manufacturing hub and prospects for the telecom sector. The government is also looking to leverage Bengalurus technology ecosystem to build research and technology partnerships for the Gwalior zone. During his visit, Yadav will tour Qualcomms R&D centre, Signalchip Innovations and Signaltron Systems to understand developments in telecom research, innovation and technology. The visits aim to explore possible collaboration between Bengaluru-based technology companies and the proposed manufacturing zone in Gwalior.
13 athletes from SAI Bhopal to represent India at 2026 Asian Games
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Female RTO inspector found dead in Bhopal, suspected partner dies by suicide
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Sep 21 (IANS) A 45-year-old female RTO inspector was allegedly murdered with a hammer at a house in Bhopal, while her partner was later found hanging from a tree near the residence, police said on Monday. The body of Meenakshi Gokhale was found in the outer room of a house in Lake Pearl Colony under Khajuri Sadak police station limits. She had injuries on her head, and a blood-stained hammer was found near the body, police said. Gokhale had reached the house around 7 p.m. on Sunday with her friend Kritika and her three-year-old daughter. Kritika and the child slept in an inner room that night. When she woke up around 7 a.m. on Monday, she found Gokhale's body and informed the police. The house belonged to 48-year-old Pawan Kumar Dwivedi, who was in a relationship with Gokhale. He was subsequently found hanging from a tree located around 20 metres from the house. A bank passbook was recovered from his pocket, police said. Police said the preliminary investigation revealed that Dwivedi wanted to marry Gokhale, but she was unwilling, and an argument over the issue late on Sunday night could have led to the alleged attack. Investigators suspect he struck her on the head with a hammer before later taking his own life.Prima facie, the investigation indicates there was a dispute between the two over marriage. The crime scene has been examined and forensic evidence collected. Further details will emerge after the postmortem and other investigation, Additional DCP Sanjeev Pathak said. Gokhale was from Datia district, while Dwivedi was originally from Sidhi district. Dwivedi had earlier run coaching classes in Indore, where the two had met when Gokhale was unmarried and preparing for competitive examinations, police said. Pathak said Gokhale had divorced her husband around two years ago. Police suspect that the assault took place in the courtyard and that Dwivedi later dragged Gokhale's body into the front room before locking it from outside. Police and forensic teams examined the crime scene and collected evidence. The exact sequence of events and circumstances surrounding the deaths are being investigated, police said.
Bhopal: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale has described caste-based discrimination as a blot on Hindu society and said casteism and untouchability cannot be ended by laws alone, but require a change in individual behaviour. Addressing a gathering of RSS volunteers at Lal Parade Ground here on Sunday, September 21, he also said Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
RSS leader calls casteism a blot on Hindu society, urges collective effort for social harmony
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Sep 20 (IANS) Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale on Sunday described casteism and untouchability as a blot on Hindu society and stressed that service to society and patriotism cannot remain limited to swayamsevaks alone. Speaking at a large gathering of around 30,000 swayamsevaks organised as part of the RSS centenary year at Lal Parade Ground here, he said every citizen must come forward during times of crisis and fulfil their role for the nation and society. Hosabale asserted that discrimination practised in the name of caste weakens society and cannot be eradicated merely through laws, sermons or the appearance of any divine figure. The change, he emphasised, must begin from ones own home and personal conduct. He called upon people to take a firm resolve that they would neither practise caste discrimination nor allow any trace of untouchability to remain. The questions confronting society, he said, do not belong to any single community or group but to everyone. Considering oneself separate on the basis of caste, sect, language or region only dilutes the strength of organisation. Society must therefore awaken and unite collectively. Drawing an analogy, Hosabale observed that four fingers remain weak when separate but gain strength when clenched into a fist. In the same way, society must organise itself to play its rightful role in national progress. An awakened and organised society, he underlined, is essential for the countrys advancement. Leaders of different communities and groups need to come together and recognise that the challenges before society are shared by all. Patriotism, he said, should not be a sentiment reserved for a single day such as 26 January but a 24-hour commitment. Every citizen must constantly reflect on what they can contribute to their village, locality and society in the larger national interest. He urged people to spend at least one hour daily in a selfless manner in their neighbourhoods to strengthen social organisation. Shakhas, he noted, work towards individual character-building and uniting society, transcending barriers of caste and language. On environmental protection, Hosabale stressed that merely passing resolutions from platforms is insufficient. Awareness and responsible action must be practised in homes, schools, workplaces, markets, streets and localities. Planting trees, reducing energy consumption and keeping rivers clean are collective responsibilities that will safeguard resources for future generations. Citing the recent Assam floods, he pointed out that while Seva Bharati swayamsevaks had reached out with relief work, people from various sections of society, including youth and college students, had also come forward in large numbers to help the affected. Service, he said, is not the sole responsibility of RSS workers; every individual must step up during crises. Similarly, the development of villages and localities is not the exclusive duty of the government and administration. Residents themselves must take ownership. Hosabale also highlighted the need to impart cultural values drawn from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, the teachings of saints and the guidance of gurus to the younger generation. Referring to the Sanghs concept of Panch Parivartan, he called for focused work on social harmony, family and values, environmental conservation, self-awareness and civic duties. Indias nearly 5,000-year civilisational journey, he recalled, has witnessed many crises, yet the nation has always risen again. What matters is not the arrival of problems but societys capacity to confront them.
Bhopal: MP to Fill 85,000 Vacant Government Posts, Says CM Yadav
Mr. Yadav further said that his government aims to generate on lakh new jobs every year, along with promotions for nearly 2.5 lakh posts.
University Revaluation Deadlines 2026: Urgent Dates for RMLAU, Cotton, and BU Bhopal
Rushing to apply for revaluation? Check the latest 2026 deadlines for RMLAU, Cotton University, and BU Bhopal. Avoid rejection by following these steps for fees, documents, and portals before the windows close.
Transport Union Protests Heavy Penalties Under Mineral Rules 2022 in Bhopal
Transport union leaders demand the removal of hefty fines imposed under the 2022 Mineral Rules, citing unfair burdens on truck owners. Transport Union Protests Heavy Penalties Under Mineral Rules 2022 in Bhopal
JKBOSE holds consultative meeting on development of vocational courses
Srinagar, Sep 19: The Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) held a consultative meeting to deliberate on the development of vocational courses tailored to the local needs and emerging employment opportunities in Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting, held at the JKBOSE headquarters at Bemina here, was organised as part of the Board's process for submission to the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET) for Dual Recognition and as a step towards developing a new vocational course in the sector of Agriculture. The consultation brought together experts from the vocational education and agriculture sectors, including Dr T. N. Giri, Director, Vocational Education, NIOS, and Prof V. S. Mehrotra, Head, PSSCIVE, NCERT, Bhopal, besides experts from SKUAST-Kashmir, SKUAST-Jammu and the Department of Agriculture, J&K. Addressing the gathering, the Chairman, JKBOSE, said the Board was among the few Boards in the country to have received a Letter of Intent (LoI) from NCVET, describing it as an important step towards strengthening vocational education and skill-based learning in school education. He said the Board was focusing on sectors having considerable potential in the Union Territory, particularly agriculture and tourism, with the aim of enabling students to acquire skills relevant to local employment and livelihood opportunities. In his welcome address, Dr Parveen Singh, Director Academics, JKBOSE stressed the need to establish stronger linkages between school education, skills and the requirements of the job market, while ensuring that vocational courses remain relevant to the socio-economic context of Jammu and Kashmir. The initiative, he said, is aligned with the vision of National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which seeks greater integration of vocational education, experiential learning and skill development into mainstream school education. During the meeting, experts deliberated on various aspects of curriculum development, including competency-based learning, sectoral and industry relevance, practical skills, assessment and certification.
JKBOSE consults experts on vocational courses
Srinagar, Sep 19:The Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) held a consultative meeting Saturday to discuss developing vocational courses aligned with local needs and emerging employment opportunities in Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting at the JKBOSE headquarters in Bemina was part of the Boards process for seeking dual recognition from the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET) and developing a new vocational course in agriculture. The consultation brought together experts from vocational education and agriculture, including Dr. T.N. Giri, director, Vocational Education, National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS), and Prof. V.S. Mehrotra, head, PSSCIVE, NCERT, Bhopal, besides experts from SKUAST-Kashmir, SKUAST-Jammu, and the Department of Agriculture, J&K Mehrotra, head, PSSCIVE, NCERT, Bhopal, besides experts from SKUAST-Kashmir, SKUAST-Jammu and the Department of Agriculture, J&K. Addressing the meeting, the JKBOSE chairman said the Board was among the few boards in the country to have received a Letter of Intent from NCVET, describing it as an important step toward strengthening vocational and skill-based education in schools. He said the Board was focusing on sectors with significant potential in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly agriculture and tourism, to help students develop skills relevant to local employment and livelihood opportunities. In his welcome address, JKBOSE Director Academics Dr. Parveen Singh stressed the need to strengthen links between school education, skills and job-market requirements. He said vocational courses should remain relevant to the socio-economic context of Jammu and Kashmir and align with the National Education Policy 2020, which calls for greater integration of vocational education, experiential learning and skill development into mainstream schooling. Experts discussed curriculum development, competency-based learning, sectoral and industry relevance, practical training, assessment and certification. The participants also stressed the need for courses that respond to emerging employment opportunities and promote local relevance, employment and entrepreneurship. The consultation is expected to contribute to JKBOSEs submission for dual recognition under NCVET and the development of a structured vocational education framework for schools across Jammu and Kashmir.
CM Mohan Yadav announces Rs 4 lakh aid for kin of eight killed in MP accident (Ld)
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Sep 19 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Saturday announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh each for the families of eight people, including three children and two women, who were killed after their car was swept away by a rain-swollen drain near the Maa Baglamukhi Temple in Agar-Malwa district. The Chief Minister expressed grief over the deaths and directed government officials to provide all possible assistance to the bereaved families. He also assured support to the families of the pilgrims from Odisha who had come to Madhya Pradesh on a religious visit. The news of the loss of lives in a road accident at Nalkheda in Agar-Malwa district is deeply saddening. I extend my condolences to the families of the pilgrims who lost their lives while visiting Madhya Pradesh from Odisha for a religious journey, CM Yadav said on social media platform X. The Chief Minister shared that he had directed officials to provide financial assistance of Rs 4 lakh to the kin of each deceased and extend all possible support. The accident took place around 3 a.m. near the Baglamukhi temple in Nalkheda when the car carrying the devotees fell into a drain that had swollen following heavy overnight rainfall, police said. According to Agar-Malwa Superintendent of Police Dilip Kumar Soni, preliminary investigation suggested that drowning was the cause of death. Police are examining CCTV footage from the temple and surrounding areas to establish the sequence of events. Seven of the deceased were from Odisha, while the driver, Arun Goyal, was a resident of Barod in Madhya Pradesh's Agar-Malwa. The group had rented the car from Ujjain to visit the Maa Baglamukhi Temple. Six victims, including the driver, have so far been identified as Arun Goyal, Radha Rani Behera, Gyanendra Kumar Behera, Ritarani (wife of Gyanendra Behera), Krishna Rajveer (son of Shivprasad Behera) and Shivprasad Behera. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi also expressed grief over the deaths and directed officials to coordinate with the Madhya Pradesh government and local administration for the return of the mortal remains of the deceased victims. Deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Odia tourists in an accident in Madhya Pradesh. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. May the departed souls rest in peace, Odisha CM Majhi said on X. The Odisha Chief Minister added, I have directed officials to coordinate with the Madhya Pradesh government and local administration to expedite all necessary procedures and ensure that the mortal remains are brought back to Odisha with due dignity. The state government stands firmly with the bereaved families in this hour of grief. The incident triggered protests in Nalkheda, with local residents staging a road blockade at Ambedkar Square and raising slogans against the administration. Shops were also closed in the area as police and administrative officials remained deployed at the spot.
Seven of Odisha family among 8 die as car falls into swollen drain in MP
Seven of Odisha family among 8 die as car falls into swollen drain in MP
BMHC Recruitment 2026: 66 Positions Available Including Nursing Officer, Apply Now
Bhopal Memorial Hospital is hiring for 66 positions including Nursing Officer. Apply by October 16, 2026, for various healthcare roles. BMHC Recruitment 2026: 66 Positions Available Including Nursing Officer, Apply Now
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Distributes E-Scooters to Over 7,400 Meritorious Students in Bhopal
CM Mohan Yadav distributed e-scooters to meritorious students in Bhopal, promoting academic excellence and mobility for higher education. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Distributes E-Scooters to Over 7,400 Meritorious Students in Bhopal
Surprise inspections in 4 resturants in Bhopal found severe hygiene violations, leading to food seizures and licence action.
MP eyes semiconductor growth, youth jobs: CM Yadav
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Sep 18 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh is looking to develop Bhopal, the Indore-Ujjain metropolitan regions, and other parts of the state as potential centres for semiconductor-related businesses, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said on Friday. He made the remarks after inaugurating a semiconductor lab at the Madhya Pradesh Pavilion at SEMICON India 2026 in New Delhi, where the state is showcasing investment opportunities in the semiconductor and electronics sectors. The youth of our state will get employment opportunities, there will be a chance for skill development, and a major business model is being created. In Madhya Pradesh, across Bhopal, the Indore-Ujjain metropolitan area, and many other areas, there is great potential for this, Yadav told IANS. The Chief Minister said the state government has implemented investor-friendly policies and is highlighting its land bank, skilled workforce, power availability, and robust infrastructure to woo investors. He added that the states central location, power-surplus status, and stable law-and-order situation give it an edge over others. Yadav said Madhya Pradesh's semiconductor future is bright because of favourable policies for investors, sufficient land availability, and strong potential for skill development. The Madhya Pradesh government has set up a dedicated pavilion at SEMICON India 2026, where officials are holding discussions with investors and business representatives from India and abroad. The Chief Minister said representatives of several companies he met in Delhi have shown interest in investing in Madhya Pradesh. He added that the state is also inviting investors to a major semiconductor-related event scheduled for Indore on October 23 and 24. The semiconductor sector is a key focus of the Centres efforts to expand domestic manufacturing capabilities and strengthen Indias position in global electronics and technology supply chains. SEMICON India 2026 brings together semiconductor companies, investors, technology firms, and policymakers to discuss investment and collaboration opportunities.
3.55 crore lamps illuminate MP on PM Modi's birthday, Ujjain sets world record
Digital Desk | Ujjain/Bhopal, Sep 17 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh on Thursday witnessed a spectacular display of lights as 3.55 crore 'Ashirwad Diyas' were lit simultaneously across the state to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday and launch the month-long 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan'. The main celebration was held in Ujjain, where 33.27 lakh lamps were lit simultaneously at various locations, including the ghats along the Shipra River and Mahakal Lok corridor. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, BJP national president Nitin Nabin, state BJP president Hemant Khandelwal and state in-charge Mahendra Singh joined thousands of residents at Ramghat to light the lamps. At 7 pm, the sound of sirens signalled the start of the mass lighting. More than 25,000 volunteers, devotees and citizens joined the ceremony at Ramghat, Datt Akhada, Kedareshwar, Sunhari and Bhookhi Mata ghats, besides Mahakal Lok. The lighting of lamps is a symbol of people's affection, respect and gratitude for Prime Minister Modi's 25 years of service to the nation and his contribution to nation-building, Yadav said. The Chief Minister said the celebrations were aimed at taking the spirit of service and public participation to every part of the state. The Seva Sankalp Abhiyan will carry forward the spirit of service through activities focused on public welfare and social participation. It is a collective pledge to contribute to the development and welfare of Madhya Pradesh, he said. The BJP leaders also participated in the Shipra Aarti and offered prayers for the happiness, prosperity and well-being of the people of the state. The massive illumination transformed the Shipra riverfront into a sea of lamps, with the glow stretching across the ghats and surrounding areas. The 33.27 lakh lamps lit at different locations in Ujjain included those at Ramghat, Datt Akhada, Kedareshwar Ghat, Sunhari Ghat, Bhookhi Mata Ghat and Mahakal Lok. Across Madhya Pradesh, the 'Ashirwad Diya' programme was organised simultaneously at 845 iconic locations, with people joining the celebrations in large numbers, according to a statement from the state BJP. Before it, Nitin Nabin, along with CM Yadav, launched 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan' in Indore.
EOW searches cooperative society manager's house in Balaghat
Digital Desk | Balaghat, Sep 17 (IANS) The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of Madhya Pradesh on Thursday searched the residence of a cooperative society manager in Balaghat district in connection with a disproportionate assets case, officials said. A team led by a Deputy Superintendent of Police reached the residence of Vilas Chaure in the Neemtola area of Lanji early in the morning and began examining documents and records related to his assets and income. The search was underway, and the agency had not yet disclosed details of the case or the assets found during the operation. Chaure is the in-charge manager of the Maneri Service Cooperative Society in Lanji. According to information, his family is also reportedly involved in the business of selling agricultural machinery. Three buses are also being operated under the name Matoshree on the Balaghat-Hyderabad route, according to information available during the search. The EOW team is examining documents and other records to determine the extent of Chaures assets and whether they are disproportionate to his known sources of income, said an official. The agency is expected to release details after the search and scrutiny of records are completed. The action comes nearly a fortnight after the EOW conducted searches at multiple premises linked to K K Singare, an executive engineer in charge of the Public Works Department (Buildings) in Balaghat, in another disproportionate assets case. On September 3, simultaneous searches were conducted at Singares premises in Balaghat, Chhindwara and Bhopal. Around Rs 2.5 lakh in cash, a Scorpio vehicle and documents were reportedly recovered from his Balaghat residence. The agency also examined properties, bank accounts and lockers linked to him in Chhindwara. The investigation had indicated that Singare possessed assets worth more than Rs 11 crore, allegedly 378 per cent higher than his known sources of income.
University Revaluation 2026: Critical Deadlines, Fees, and How to Apply Correctly
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NLIU Bhopal Recruitment 2026 - Walkin for Office Assistants, Multitasking Staff and More Posts
National Law Institute University, Bhopal (NLIU Bhopal) has announced the Recruitment 2026 notification for 9 Office Assistant, Network Assistant and Multitasking Staff posts. Eligible candidates can attend the walk-in interview on 24 September 2026 at the designated venue.
BJP Legislator Rameshwar Sharma Responds to Owaisis Remarks Amid UCC Debate
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Three Police Officers Suspended in Bhopal Following Gambling Raid
Three police officers, including a station chief, were suspended in Bhopal for negligence after a gambling operation was uncovered. Three Police Officers Suspended in Bhopal Following Gambling Raid
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi has raised the stakes in his feud with the BJP during his recent visit to Bhopal, questioning the comments of the state MLA Rameshwar Sharma regarding the alleged 'missile' remark about Qazi Camp. Speaking to reporters at
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AIMIM chief and MP Asaduddin Owaisi, who visited Bhopal to address a public meeting opposing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), gave an open challenge to BJP MLA Rameshwar Sharma over his reported remarks about launching...
Babil Khan says Golf helps him handle the pressure of carrying a legacy
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 16 (IANS) Actor Babil Khan, who is the son of late legendary star Irrfan Khan, was seen taking some time out to enjoy the game of golf in the scenic valley of Pahalgam and said that the sport helps him handle the pressure of carrying a legacy. Talking about what drew him to the sport, Babil, who is shooting for a project in Pahalgam, said: When life came to a point where immense pressure was needed to refine me to the next stage of my evolution, I started looking for tools to help that progress. I found golf in that search. The disposition needed to play golf is also, at a grander stage, needed to handle the pressure of taking upon a legacy so big and being an actor in the lineage I come from, he added. Babil named the three essentials needed to play golf. The actor wrote: The three essentials needed to play golf are practice, focus and surrender, which help me understand and navigate my own refinement. The actor further shared that golf has become something he looks forward to in between his professional commitments. What began as a newfound interest appears to have evolved into a meaningful pursuit. Speaking of Babil, the 27-year-old started as a camera assistant on the Bollywood film Qarib Qarib Single. In 2022, he made his acting debut with Anvita Dutt's psychological drama Qala alongside Triptii Dimri. In 2023, he was seen playing Juhi Chawla's son Siddharth Menon in Friday Night Plan. He was then seen in the web series The Railway Men, a story on the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, alongside Divyendu Sharma, Kay Kay Menon, and R. Madhavan. In May 2025, the Friday Night Plan actor had deleted his Instagram profile after he shared a video (later deleted) in which he appeared visibly upset and in tears.
Video: Bikes Collide In Asaduddin Owaisi's Convoy In Bhopal, Several Hurt
Owaisi's convoy was making its way through the busy VIP Road in Madhya Pradesh's Capital, when a few vehicles slammed brakes suddenly at a turn.
Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan to undertake extensive flood assessment in Bihar today
Digital Desk | Patna, Sep 16 (IANS) Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, will undertake an intensive visit to Bihar on Wednesday to assess the flood situation, inspect crop damage and review relief and rescue operations in the flood-affected areas of the state. During the visit, Chouhan will conduct an aerial survey of several flood-hit areas, interact with affected farmers and residents, and hold a high-level review meeting with Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary and senior officials to assess the situation and discuss relief measures and assistance required by the state. A team of senior officials from the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and Rural Development will accompany the Union Minister. According to the scheduled programme, Chouhan will arrive in Patna from Bhopal and depart from the Patna State Hangar at around 10:30 a.m. for an aerial survey by helicopter of flood-affected areas in Dighwara and Maner. He will subsequently travel by road to Terasia and Sarai-pur villages, where he will visit agricultural fields to assess crop damage caused by the floods and interact with local farmers to hear their concerns. After completing the field assessment, Chouhan will travel via the Gandhi Setu to Samvad, the Chief Ministers Secretariat in Patna, where he is scheduled to arrive at around 12:15 p.m. He will participate in a high-level review meeting with the Chief Minister and senior officials on flood disaster management, ongoing relief and rescue operations, and assistance to be provided to affected farmers. Earlier, CM Samrat Choudhary has also said that a central team led by Chouhan would visit Bihar to assess the flood situation and the damage caused by the floods. The proposed assessment comes as the flood situation remains serious in several parts of Bihar. According to official figures, around 49.67 lakh people across 15 districts have been affected by the floods. While water levels have begun receding in most rivers, including the Ganga, several rivers continue to flow above their respective danger marks at various locations. The Centres assessment is expected to provide a detailed account of the damage and help determine the extent of assistance required by Bihar for relief, rehabilitation and restoration of damaged infrastructure and agricultural areas. Chouhan is scheduled to leave Patna at around 1:30 p.m. and arrive at Nawabgarhi in Munger. He will visit the relief camp there, meet flood victims and assess the quality and effectiveness of the ongoing relief operations.
IISER Bhopal: Training scientists to cross disciplinary boundaries
From classrooms to advanced labs, institutes research provides insight for tackling climate, water and Himalayan challenges Rattan Singh Gill BHOPAL, Sept 15: A visit on media tour to the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Bhopal , leaves an impression that goes beyond its sprawling campus, sophisticated laboratories and impressive research facilities. What [] The post IISER Bhopal: Training scientists to cross disciplinary boundaries appeared first on Northlines .
Allies should oppose UCC if they disagree with BJP ideology: Owaisi
Bhopal: All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) president Asaduddin Owaisi on Tuesday, September 15, said if the NDA constituent parties such as the JD(U) and TDP have the slightest disagreement with the BJPs ideology, they should oppose the Uniform Civil Code. The UCC was being introduced in various states to target Indias 18 crore Muslims, and Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Engineers key to MP's economic and social development: CM Mohan Yadav
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Sep 15 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Tuesday said engineers are not merely involved in construction work but play a key role in shaping the state's economic and social development through innovation, technology and better infrastructure. He said every road, bridge and building project should be seen as an investment in the future of the state as it creates new opportunities for connectivity, employment and economic growth. Constructing a new road does not merely facilitate transportation; it opens new avenues for the economic and social development of the entire region, Yadav said while addressing the state-level Engineers' Day celebration at the Kushabhau Thakre International Convention Centre in Bhopal. The event was organised to mark the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna awardee and renowned engineer Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya. Yadav said Visvesvaraya's contributions to water management, irrigation, industrial development and institution building continued to benefit the country. He said India's ancient architectural heritage reflected the advanced technical knowledge of earlier generations and cited the Kailasa Temple at Ellora, Dharmarajeshwar Temple in Mandsaur and ancient water management systems as examples. The Chief Minister said this legacy should inspire present-day engineers to adopt modern technology and develop innovative solutions. The state government stands with engineers who undertake positive innovations in the public interest, he said, referring to experiments with eco-friendly construction materials and cement-free concrete. Yadav said the Public Works Department (PWD) was moving towards new technologies, research and innovation, and engineers would have an important role in building a 'Viksit Bharat' and 'Viksit Madhya Pradesh'. He also honoured engineers, officials, joint teams and construction agencies for their work in five categories covering quality, timely execution, technical innovation and environmental conservation. An MoU between the PWD and CSIR-AMPRI, Bhopal, on sustainable infrastructure construction was exchanged during the programme. Yadav also released a compendium of PWD circulars issued over the past decade. PWD Minister Rakesh Singh said engineers were the architects of Madhya Pradesh's development and stressed research, discipline and quality in departmental work.
Nitin Nabin to make first MP visit as BJP chief on PM Modi's birthday
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Sep 15 (IANS) BJP President Nitin Nabin will visit Madhya Pradesh on September 17 for the first time after taking charge of the party's top organisational post, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said on Tuesday. His visit coincides with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday and comes at a time when the BJP is focusing on strengthening its organisation in the state ahead of the 2028 Assembly elections. Nitin Nabin ji will be in our state on September 17 on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Yadav said talking to news reporters. The Chief Minister recalled PM Modi's visit to Madhya Pradesh last year, when he performed the 'bhoomi pujan' of the PM MITRA Park. He said the project was aimed at creating opportunities for farmers and the poor and strengthening the state's textile sector. Chief Minister Yadav added that the park would particularly benefit cotton growers and help revive the cotton industry in the state. More than six lakh cotton-producing farmers got an opportunity to benefit from it. There has been an effort to revive the cotton industry, he said. The Chief Minister said the PM MITRA Park was a significant initiative for Madhya Pradesh and part of the development-oriented approach pursued by PM Modi. He also highlighted PM Modi's long association with governance, first as the Gujarat Chief Minister and later as the country's Prime Minister, saying initiatives had covered different sectors. Over the past 25 years, first during his tenure as the Chief Minister of Gujarat and later as the country's Prime Minister, PM Modi has brought benefits across all sectors, Chief Minister Yadav said. Nabin's Madhya Pradesh visit is also significant for the state BJP as the party seeks to maintain its organisational momentum after its strong electoral performance in recent years. The state government led by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav is simultaneously highlighting welfare and development programmes, with the party's organisational machinery preparing for the next Assembly election due in 2028. During his visit, Nabin is expected to interact with Madhya Pradesh BJP leaders and workers.
India, Air India have been a wonderful experience: Outgoing CEO Campbell Wilson
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 15 (IANS) Outgoing Air India Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Campbell Wilson on Tuesday described his tenure at the airline as a wonderful experience and said it had been a privilege to be part of the carrier's long history. Air India and India have been a wonderful experience. It's been a privilege to be part of Air India's long and proud history. I'm very happy to be handing over to Tewolde Gebremariam as my successor. I wish Air India and India all the very best in the continued rise to become a world-class airline, Wilson told reporters. His remarks come ahead of a leadership transition at the Tata Group-owned airline with incoming CEO and Managing Director Tewolde Gebremariam set to take over after receiving the required government security clearances. Earlier this month, Gebremariam told employees that he was determined to lead Air India into a stronger future, borrowing the acronym MAGA to say, We will Make Air India Great Again. Addressing employees at a town hall attended by Air India Chairman N Chandrasekaran and Wilson, Gebremariam said the airline had a powerful heritage, a strong brand and significant growth potential. At the town hall, Chandrasekaran said the airline's priorities would include safety, rebuilding customer trust, operational excellence and financial discipline. Chandrasekaran also highlighted recent challenges faced by the airline, including geopolitical disruptions, airspace restrictions, fuel price volatility and the impact of the AI171 accident. On September 13 (Sunday), two flight operations were disrupted due to weather and technical errors. An Air India aircraft (AI431) was diverted to Lucknow due to unfavourable weather and visibility conditions. Similarly, a flight of the airline from Bhopal to Delhi on September 13 was forced to divert at Jaipur due to a technical issue as per laid down procedures.
Delhi airport sees protest as Dubai-bound SpiceJet flights face disruption
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 15 (IANS) Passengers of two SpiceJet flights from Delhi to Dubai faced prolonged delays with one flight remaining grounded for more than 24 hours, leading to protests at Delhi airport on Tuesday, a report said. NDTV reported that Flight SG 5111 which was scheduled to depart at 7:45 am on Monday delayed several times and had not departed by the time of reporting. However, flight tracking platform Flightradar24 showed the flight as cancelled. Another flight (SG 5105) which was scheduled to leave Delhi at 6:45 pm on Monday was delayed until Tuesday afternoon, it added. Moreover, passengers said they had not received fresh updates from the airline. In addition, viral videos on social media platforms from the airport showed stranded passengers sitting on the terminal floor and demanding information about their flights. According to sources, Delhi Airport authorities provided food and refreshments to affected passengers while assisting them during the disruption, the report said. Moreover, an X user posted, Delhi airport passengers protested after two SpiceJet flights to Dubai faced over twenty-four hour delays due to operational issues. Stranded travellers waited on terminal floors while authorities provided food and refreshments. SpiceJet said the delays were caused by operational issues after one of its aircraft was grounded. SpiceJet flights SG 5111 and SG 5105, operating from Delhi to Dubai, have been delayed due to operational reasons following the grounding of an aircraft, the airline said in a statement. The airline added that alternate flights were being arranged for affected passengers and apologised for the inconvenience caused. Recently this month, several flight operations were disrupted due to weather and technical errors. On Sunday, an Air India aircraft (AI431) was diverted to Lucknow due to unfavourable weather and visibility conditions. Similarly, a flight of the airline from Bhopal to Delhi on September 13 was forced to divert at Jaipur due to a technical issue as per laid down procedures.
PIB Tour: Jammu Media Delegation visits Bhojpur, Bhimbetka heritage sites
Bhopal, Sept 14: A 10-member media delegation from Jammu, on a press tour organised by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Jammu, on Monday visited the historic Shiva Temple at Bhojpur and the Bhimbetka rock shelters, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At Bhojpur, the journalists were briefed on the history and architectural significance of the temple, [] The post PIB Tour: Jammu Media Delegation visits Bhojpur, Bhimbetka heritage sites appeared first on Northlines .
Madhya Pradesh CM to gift e-scooties to meritorious students on Sep 19
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Sep 14 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav will distribute e-scooties to meritorious students under the Chief Minister Scooty Scheme on September 19 in Bhopal. Over 7,500 eligible students from across Madhya Pradesh are set to receive the e-scooties for the 2025-26 academic session. The initiative aims to reward academic excellence among students of government higher secondary schools and ease their commute to colleges for higher education. To qualify, students must have secured the first position in their school in the Class 12 examination with a minimum of 70 per cent marks in the first attempt. Regular students enrolled in government higher secondary schools under the School Education Department and the Tribal Affairs Department are eligible. Students from all academic streams can benefit under the scheme. Launched by the state government to encourage meritorious students, the Chief Minister Scooty Scheme has so far benefited more than 23,000 students across Madhya Pradesh. The government has spent approximately Rs 246 crore on the scheme to date. Officials said the distribution of e-scooties not only recognises the hard work and achievements of talented students but also motivates others in government schools to strive for excellence. The forthcoming event in Bhopal will see the Chief Minister personally hand over the e-scooties to selected meritorious students. Authorities have completed the process of identifying eligible beneficiaries for the current academic year. The scheme continues to serve as an important incentive for students from government institutions to pursue higher education with greater confidence and convenience. By facilitating mobility and recognising academic performance, the programme seeks to strengthen the participation of government school students in higher education and foster a culture of excellence. The September 19 ceremony is expected to mark another significant milestone in the schemes ongoing implementation.
'Playing With Our Health': Railway Water, Food Under Scrutiny In Bhopal
A sample of Rail Neer, the packaged drinking water supplied through the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation, was reportedly found to be substandard during a recent quality check.
UCC debate intensifies after HM Amit Shahs 2029 implementation push (Lead)
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 14 (IANS) The debate over the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) intensified on Monday, a day after Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that it would be implemented in all 21 states governed by the BJP-led NDA before 2029, with BJP leaders and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) backing the move while some NDA partners and Muslim organisations called for wider consultations. BJP leaders strongly endorsed Shah's announcement, arguing that a common set of laws was necessary for national unity and social reform. BJP MP Naresh Bansal said Uttarakhand, his home state and the first in the country to enact a UCC law, had shown the way for other states. He described the legislation as necessary for the country and said it would help safeguard demographic balance. BJP West Bengal President Samik Bhattacharya said the party had consistently supported a UCC and asserted that there should be one law in one country. State Minister Dilip Ghosh also backed implementation, saying the process should begin in Bengal and subsequently extend to other states. BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said Shah's announcement was in line with Article 44 of the Constitution, which directs the state to endeavour towards securing a Uniform Civil Code for citizens. Bihar Minister Ram Kripal Yadav also welcomed the move, saying the UCC should be implemented in BJP-ruled states before 2029. The VHP welcomed Shah's announcement, with spokesperson Vinod Bansal saying implementation would be a milestone for women's and children's rights by addressing gender inequality and discrimination. He also appealed to non-BJP-ruled states to initiate the process. However, the announcement has also exposed differing views within the NDA. Union Minister and Lok Janshakti Party-Ram Vilas leader Chirag Paswan called for the proposed UCC draft to first be made public and sought extensive consultations, pointing to India's diverse customs, traditions and constitutional protections for tribal communities and special-category regions. Meanwhile, opposition-ruled Jharkhand Minister Sanjay Prasad Yadav too adopted a cautious approach, saying the state government would examine all aspects and there was no need to rush to conclusions. Opposition to the UCC also emerged from Muslim organisations. The All India Muslim Personal Law Board opposed the proposed legislation, with Bhopal Shahar Qazi Mushtaq Ali Nadvi questioning its necessity in view of constitutional guarantees on religious freedom and minority rights. He appealed to people to participate in a September 17 protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Jitu Patwari criticised the BJP, alleging that the UCC was being used to divert attention from economic and social issues. The UCC seeks to establish a common framework governing personal matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance and adoption irrespective of religious affiliation. Bills have been passed in Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Assam, and Madhya Pradesh, though the law is currently in force only in Uttarakhand.
BU Bhopal Revaluation 2026: Last Chance to Apply for Retotaling and Answer-Book View Today
Today, September 14, 2026, is the final day to apply for BU Bhopal revaluation, retotaling, and answer-book view. Follow our step-by-step guide to complete your MPOnline application and payment before the portal closes tonight.
Fresh UCC debate in MP as Muslim leaders oppose Bill, appeal for Delhi protest on Sep 17
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Sep 14 (IANS) A fresh debate over the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) has begun in Madhya Pradesh, with Muslim leaders opposing the proposed common personal law framework and appealing to the community to participate in a September 17 protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. It has been nearly two months after the Madhya Pradesh Assembly passed the UCC Bill on July 21. The legislation has been sent to the President for assent and is yet to come into force in the state. Members of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) held a meeting at its Khanugaon campus in Bhopal on Monday to discuss the UCC. After the meeting, Bhopal City Qazi Mushtaq Ali Nadvi and Congress leader Arif Masood, an executive committee member of the AIMPLB, addressed a press conference and opposed the proposed law. Nadvi said the Muslim community did not accept the UCC and questioned its necessity in view of constitutional guarantees on religious freedom and minority rights. The Constitution guarantees religious freedom and the rights of minorities, so the necessity and impact of the UCC need to be seriously considered, the Bhopal City Qazi said. He also referred to a 1972 speech by former RSS Chief late M S Golwalkar, claiming that Golwalkar had said a civil code was not essential for national unity. Nadvi said matters related to Muslim personal law should be addressed by members of the community and those having knowledge of it. He also rejected arguments that Muslim personal law was inadequate on women's rights, saying Islam had granted women rights as mothers, daughters and wives, including rights in property. He appealed to the Muslims and secular citizens to join the September 17 programme at Jantar Mantar, saying the community would follow further directions issued by the AIMPLB. Masood said the Board had taken its position after consultations with people and organisations across the country. Five members associated with the Board in Madhya Pradesh deliberated on the issue and, with the Board's approval, we are appealing to people of the state to join the movement at Jantar Mantar on September 17, the Congress leader told IANS. The issue has acquired greater political significance after Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Sunday that the UCC would be introduced in all 21 states and Union Territories governed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led NDA before the 2029 Lok Sabha elections. The UCC Bills have already been passed in Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Assam and Madhya Pradesh, though the law is currently in force only in Uttarakhand. Gujarat, Assam and Madhya Pradesh are awaiting the President's assent and subsequent notification. Madhya Pradesh Congress President Jitu Patwari also criticised the BJP over the UCC, alleging that the issue was being used to divert public attention from pressing economic and social concerns. UCC is a tool in the hands of the BJP to mislead the country and spread hatred, Patwari told IANS.
Over 70 passports under scanner, MP STF widens fake passport probe
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Sep 14 (IANS) The Madhya Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) has widened its probe into a suspected fake passport racket, with more than 70 passports under scrutiny and four persons arrested so far. The investigation has spread to Bhopal, Gwalior, Betul, Chhindwara and Pandhurna, where investigators are examining passport applications, addresses and documents allegedly used to obtain the travel documents. STF Deputy Inspector General Rahul Lodha on Monday told IANS that the agency was also examining a passport of an accused arrested in Nagpur, which was found to have been issued in Gujarat. So far, a total of 70 passports are under investigation in connection with the fake passport case. We have also included another passport of an accused arrested from Nagpur, which was found to have been issued in Gujarat. The investigation is still underway, Lodha said. The four arrested accused are from the Northeast, including Assam, and their identities and other details are being verified, he said. The investigation has revealed that several passport applications were allegedly made using the same or suspicious addresses, raising the possibility of an organised network. In Madhya Pradesh, fake passports have been issued from four to five districts. In Gwalior, 17 passports were fraudulently applied for from the same location in Semariya Tal area of Dabra. In Bhopal, 40 passports were issued using an address in Anna Nagar, Lodha said. The STF is examining the Bhopal cases in which 40 passports were allegedly issued using the address of a math in Anna Nagar under the Govindpura police station area. Investigators are verifying the documents and addresses submitted with the applications to establish how the passports were obtained and whether local facilitators or agents were involved. The STF is also examining the suspected inter-state links of the network and checking whether the passports under scrutiny are connected. The officer also shared that further action, including arrests, would follow if the ongoing investigation establishes the involvement of more persons or uncovers additional fraudulent passport applications. The probe is being extended to other locations to determine the full extent of the suspected racket, he added.
Eiffel Tower and Indian Orthodoxy in the Shadow of the Supreme Court
ON THE NEW YEAR OF 2019, from the northern tip of Kerala to the southern end of Kerala stretching over 620 kilometres, half a million women of Kerala stood holding their hands as a human chain which was described as Mahila Mathilugal (womens wall) demanding gender equality which also wanted access to the Sabarimala temple to worship the Lord Ayyappa who is adorning the temple. It was stated that the women during their menstruation cycle are not allowed to enter Sabarimala because it is considered menstruation will pollute and disturb the celibacy of the Lord who is considered as a Brahmachari . The women were demanding implementation of the judgment of the Supreme Court delivered on September 28, 2018 which ruled that keeping the menstruating women out considering that they were impure and had the effect of polluting the place was nothing but untouchability hit by Article 17 of the Constitution. The news of the women's human chain got hardly reported in spite of the fact that it was a unique agitation involving several thousands women. The majority of the five-judge bench held: Article 17 is the constitutional promise of equality and justice to those who have remained at the lowest rung of a traditional belief system founded in graded inequality It has been placed on a constitutional pedestal of enforceable fundamental rights, beyond being only a directive principle, for two reasons. First, untouchability is violative of the basic rights of socially backward individuals and their dignity. Second, the Framers believed that the abolition of untouchability is a constitutional imperative to establish an equal social order. Its presence together and on an equal footing with other fundamental rights, was designed to give vulnerable people the power to achieve collective good. Article 17 is a reflection of the transformative ideal of the Constitution, which gives expression to the aspirations of socially disempowered individuals and communities, and provides a moral framework for radical social transformation. But the demand of these women was never implemented in spite of the fact that there was a judgment in their favour and the State was supposed to implement the order under Article 144 of the Constitution. However, what prevented them was that a Review Petition was not only entertained, but also referred to a larger bench of 9 judges which took almost 8 years to hear the case for days together, whose verdict is awaited. However, what was shocking was that the bench never fixed any time limit for arguments of the counsels and they went on for more than three weeks. More shocking was that the counsels were willing to put forth arguments which were based on ancient texts and discarded over the years. Some arguments sounded similar to the ones which were advocated before the Privy Council in the beginning of the 20th century about the time tested practice and belief of the Hindu sect which should not be altered by any notions invented over the period. Little do they realise that by the 42nd amendment to the Constitution of India (1976), fundamental duties were introduced and Article 51-A makes several duties on the citizens and the sub-clause (e) specifically directs them to renounce practices derogatory to the dignity of women. While the women fight for their self-respect and dignity in the court, a group of Sanyasis belonging to the Swaminarayan sect calling themselves Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) recently went to Paris to attend the consecration of their temple in the outskirts of the city. The said group also wanted to have site-seeing in the city, one unavoidable place being the Eiffel Tower situated in the middle of the city. They intimated their tour operators that they should ensure that during their visit there should not be any interactions with the women working in the Tower. In essence, they wanted the women staff of the Eiffel Tower to be kept away from their eye contact. The management also attempted to implement the said request which led to a woman protesting against such crude discrimination and leading to the strike of the Eiffel Tower staff on September 7. In India, we may be accustomed to such blatant discrimination, but in Paris and other places it gave rise to a wide range of protest. The Mayor of Paris, Emmanuel Gregoire was quoted saying Equality between women and men will never stop at the foot of our historical monuments, nor anywhere in this country. It must be applied everywhere, for everyone. The Indian Express quoted a spokesman of the Ministry of External Affairs as saying, We are aware of the opening of a temple by the BAPS Sanstha in the Paris area. As to the particular issue pertaining to the Tower, this is a matter purely between the entities concerned. Thus the Indian Government washed off its hands instead of reacting to the conduct of the group of Sadhus who went abroad and did something contrary to the spirit of India, that too in a country where three centuries ago in a revolution overthrowing the monarchy, people raised slogans of Liberty, Equality and Fraternity which prominently finds a place in the preamble to our Constitution. To add a caveat, however, Dr. Ambedkar said that he was inspired to include these words after being inspired by the teachings of Lord Buddha who was his master. India and the Promise of Article 15 Notwithstanding the fact that the Constitution assures equality before law and Article 15 specifically prohibits any discrimination by the State on grounds of sex and other reasons set out therein. Even during the debates while framing the Constitution and when the Constituent Assembly called for responses from the general public, there were several representations received from the Hindu orthodoxy that religious rituals, such as funerals or menstrual cycles of women, rendered certain persons temporarily untouchable. To criminalise the practice of untouchability, they argued, constituted direct interference with religion.( Assembling Indias Constitution , Rohit De Ornit Shani, Penguin Random House, 2025, p. 56) The very same book which gathered this information from the archives of the Constituent Assembly also referred to several exercises made by the Hindu orthodoxy to preserve the tradition and practice of the religion. Notwithstanding these sectarian approaches, the Constituent Assembly unanimously introduced Article 14 , 15 , 16 and 17 of the Constitution and wanted to remove any kind of discrimination practiced against women. Added to this is the fundamental duty provided under Article 51-A(e). The Government of India is also party to the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination of Women (CEDAW) (June 25, 1993). Article 11 of CEDAW, to which India is a party, requires State parties to take all appropriate measures to eliminate discrimination against women in the field of employment. In its General Recommendation No. 19 (1992), the United Nations Committee on CEDAW further clarified that equality in employment can be seriously impaired when women are subjected to gender-specific violence, such as sexual harassment at the workplace. Indias commitment to protection and promotion of womens constitutional rights as well as respect for its obligations under various international treaties is unequivocal. However, in the matter of providing equality and non-discrimination against women, however progressive the government may be, it was the judiciary which gave its peculiar interpretation, especially interpreting Article 15 of the Constitution which bans discrimination based on sex. Saurabh Kirpal, commenting on this wrote: Chief Justice M.C. Chagla [who] held that personal laws could not be challenged as violating any fundamental right guaranteed under the Constitution. This was on the basis that the definition of the term law (under Article 13 ) in the Constitution did not include personal laws in its purview. Justice P.B. Gajendragadkar, who went on to become Chief Justice of India, agreed with Chief Justice Chagla, and explained the position in starker terms. He ruled that the rules prescribed for marriages are determined by the social and economic condition of the society. In dealing with these rules, it is also necessary to remember the obvious natural differences between the sexes themselves and considerations which may legitimately arise from these differences. In his view, Article 15 of the Constitution prohibited discrimination against women if it was based on the ground of sex only. This use of the word only, as per the learned judge, implied that if there was some other ground to differentiate between men and women, other than sex alone, the legislation would be upheld. ( Who is Equal? , Saurabh Kirpal, Penguin Random House India, p.187-88) That the Indian judiciary is still in the learning process was recorded in the case of Gwalior Judge in which Indira Jaisings intervention was described by a lawyer with a phrase which was completely misogynist. Justice J.S. Khehar observed: Every day is a matter of learning there is a lot to be learnt, from what she innocuously conveyed. Her sensitivity to the issue, one may confess, brought out to us, a wholly different understanding on the subject. It is therefore, that we have remarked above, that the evaluation of a charge of sexual harassment, would depend on the manner in which it is perceived. It took 8 years for the Supreme Court to issue a Hand Book on Combating Gender Stereotypes (2023). Writing the preface for the book, Chief Justice Dhananjay Chandrachud wrote: Our oath as judges mandates that we perform the duties of our office without fear or favour, affection or ill-will. The oath demands that we discharge our functions with impartiality and objectivity, applying the law to every case before us. A judges oath demands rejecting improper attempts to influence their decision-making. The oath also requires a judge to put aside any preconceived notions about the parties before the court. Relying on predetermined stereotypes in judicial decision-making contravenes the duty of judges to decide each case on its merits, independently and impartially. In particular, reliance on stereotypes about women is liable to distort the laws application to women in harmful ways. (Handbook on Combating Gender Stereotypes, Supreme Court of India, 2023) No sooner Chief Justice Surya Kant took over, he dismissed the book as too Harvard-oriented and said that it may not be understood by the rape survivor, her relatives or commoners. He said that judges should receive practical training on the issue, directing the National Judicial Academy, Bhopal to frame fresh guidelines , rather than sermonise High Court judges from the Supreme Court. But what is happening in the country is quite different. There was a Hindu Swamiji from South who told the women to stay at home and take care of the children and if they want to earn some amount, they can prepare kumkum or pappad at home. This trait is not confined only to Hindu swamijis . An Islamic scholar from Kanthapuram in Keralam, A.P. Aboobacker Musliar apparently advised women to remain confined to their homes because their public appearances led to great destruction. When a journalist Aparna Kurup questioned and criticized the view, she got death threats. When she approached the police for her protection, a case was booked against her which is still going on. Four women judicial officers were terminated by the Madhya Pradesh High Court; they approached the Supreme Court. When the matter came up before Justice Nagarathna she got furious and even at the admission stage remarked: I wish men had menstruation, then only they would understand. Finally allowing all the four applications and setting aside those termination orders, she emphasized that the only way such discriminations will disappear is that women should enter the field in large numbers and ultimately have positions where the decision-making will be in their hands. She said : To holistically understand womens effective participation in the Judiciary, it is important to look at three main phenomena: (I) the entry of women into the legal profession; (II) the retention of women and growth of their numbers in the profession; and (III) the advancement of women, in numbers, to senior echelons of the profession. Many have stressed that increased diversity within a judiciary, and ensuring judges are representative of society, enables the judiciary as a whole to better respond to diverse social and individual contexts and experiences. It is a recognition of this fact that a greater representation of women in the judiciary, would greatly improve the overall quality of judicial decision making and this impacts generally and also specifically in cases affecting women. Ultimately, whether any case will be filed against those BAPS sadhus is not known. Since their newly consecrated temple may attract many devotees and tourists from Europe, the French govt. may not attempt any such exercise. But theoretically if any case is instituted in India, what will be the outcome, is anybodys guess? Since Article 15 (2) is qualified by the word only and in the absence or conditions of sex plus theory is applied in all probabilities the Sadhus may escape by saying that the religious right will exclude an application of discrimination theories. Ultimately, the nine-judge bench will decide, of which Justice B.V. Nagarathna is also a part of the key answer. If they decide that the Hindu Sadhus cannot dictate as to who should be the Eiffel Tower staff and what should be their sex identity, it will be well and could and on par with the civilized world. If they decide otherwise, then the Prime Minister shouting on all platforms about Nari Shakthi will only become a mirage.
MP transfers 10 IPS, 127 state service police officers in major reshuffle
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Sep 13 (IANS) The Madhya Pradesh Home Department on Sunday issued fresh posting orders for 10 Indian Police Service (IPS) officers and 127 State Police Service officers, effecting a significant reshuffle in the state police force. All new assignments are temporary and will remain in force until further orders. According to the official order, Manish Bhardwaj has been posted as Kotwali Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) in Indore City. He was earlier serving as Deputy Superintendent of Police at the Cyber Police Headquarters in Bhopal. Alok Kumar Verma has been appointed Rewa City Superintendent of Police (CSP). He previously held the post of Assistant Superintendent of Police in Dewas. Vaibhav Priya has been made Sub-Divisional Officer of Police (SDOP) for Nepanagar in Burhanpur district, moving from Ratlam. Shubham Singh Thakur has been posted as Gadarwara SDOP in Narsinghpur, shifting from Jabalpur. Manoj Kumar has taken charge as ACP of MP Nagar in Bhopal City after being transferred from Gwalior. Among other key changes, Lekhraj Meena has been posted as Sailana SDOP in Ratlam from Chhatarpur, Kajal Singh as Khurai SDOP in Sagar from Ujjain, and Rajiv Agrawal as Kukshi SDOP in Dhar from Rewa. Deepanshu has been assigned as Manawar SDOP in Dhar, moving from Sagar, while Amit Kumar has been given charge of Singrauli SDOP after his transfer from Khandwa. The transfer list includes four IPS officers from the 2023 batch and six from the 2024 batch. In addition to the IPS officers, 127 State Police Service officers of Deputy Superintendent of Police rank and equivalent have also been given new responsibilities across various districts. These postings cover roles such as Deputy Superintendent of Police, SDOP, City Superintendent of Police, Assistant Commissioner of Police and Assistant Commandant. Officials described the reshuffle as a routine administrative exercise aimed at strengthening law and order and ensuring efficient functioning of the police department across the state. The officers have been directed to join their new assignments at the earliest.
Swine Flu Claims First Victim In Bhopal, 65 Tested Positive In City So Far
The deceased, admitted in a private hospital here, was found to be infected by H1N1 virus and had respiratory issues: Reports
Madhya Pradesh: 15 Tigers Sighted Near Bhopal-Raisen Belt
The region was tigerless four years ago, as per the 2022 tiger census report.
Air India Mumbai-Dehradun flight diverted to Lucknow due to bad weather
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) An Air India flight from Mumbai to Dehradun was diverted to Lucknow on Sunday, according to the airline. As per Air India's flight status, the Mumbai-Dehradun flight -- AI431 -- diverted to Lucknow. While reports claim that the flight was unable to land in Dehradun as weather conditions and visibility were not favourable. Following directions from Air Traffic Control (ATC), the aircraft was diverted to Lucknow and landed safely at the airport at 4:45 pm. The flight was cleared to continue its journey after weather conditions in Dehradun improved, the reports said. The aircraft departed from Lucknow for Dehradun at around 6 pm, as per Air India's website. Earlier in the day, Air India's flight from Bhopal to Delhi was diverted to Jaipur due to a technical issue, according to the airline. The aircraft landed safely in Jaipur and is being checked in accordance with Air India's safety standards. Flight AI1886 operating from Bhopal to Delhi on 13 September was diverted to Jaipur due to a technical issue as per laid down procedures, the airline stated. Apart from that, Air Indias pilot died due to cardiac arrest while he was on a layover rest at a hotel in the national capital, the airline said on Saturday. He was on a layover rest at a hotel in Delhi, where he was found unconscious last evening. He was rushed to the hospital immediately, where he was declared dead, the airline statement said. The Mumbai-based pilot was found unconscious at the hotel on Friday evening and was immediately taken to a hospital, where he was declared dead. He had earlier worked with Air India Express and moved to Air India a couple of months ago. He was scheduled to operate a flight early on Saturday morning. Earlier in August, an Air India Express flight operating from Kochi to Abu Dhabi had made an air turnback in line with established safety protocols after the crew detected a problem with the aircraft.
Air India Bhopal-Delhi flight diverted to Jaipur after technical issue
Flight AI1886, which was operating from Bhopal to Delhi on Sunday, was diverted to Jaipur in accordance with established safety procedures, Air India said
Teacher sexually harasses 14-year-old girl at residential school in Chhattisgarh; booked
Teacher sexually harasses 14-year-old girl at residential school in Chhattisgarh; booked
Air India Bhopal-Delhi Flight Makes Emergency Landing In Jaipur After Engine Issue
Air India flight AI1886, travelling from Bhopal to Delhi, was diverted to Jaipur after a left-engine technical issue, with passengers later sent to Delhi by road.
Air India flight from Bhopal to Delhi diverted to Jaipur due to technical issue
Air India flight AI1886, operating from Bhopal to Delhi on Sunday (September 13), was diverted to Jaipur due to a technical issue, the airline said. The aircraft landed safely in Jaipur and is undergoing necessary...
MP hooch tragedy: Wanted accused caught after encounter in Sagar; 19 held so far
The 21-year-old accused, Shivanjay Rajput, who was carrying a bounty of 30,000, suffered a gunshot wound to his leg during the face-off.
Bhopal court acquits man in interfaith marriage conversion case
A Bhopal court acquitted a Muslim man in an interfaith marriage case after the woman denied threats and the prosecution failed to prove conversion charges.
CM Mohan Yadav to transfer 40th Ladli Behna instalment to 1.25 crore MP women tomorrow
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Sep 12 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav will transfer the 40th monthly instalment of the Mukhyamantri Ladli Behna Yojana to the bank accounts of 1.25 crore eligible women from Agar Malwa on Sunday, involving a total amount of Rs 1,835.09 crore, the state government said on Saturday. With the September instalment, the total amount disbursed as regular monthly financial assistance under the scheme since its launch will reach Rs 65,395.99 crore, it said. The scheme was launched in June 2023 with a monthly assistance of Rs 1,000. The amount was increased by Rs 250 in October 2023 and later raised by another Rs 250, taking the current monthly assistance to Rs 1,500. As per the scheme rules, eligible women who are already receiving Rs 900 per month under the Social Security Pension Scheme are also covered, with the difference in amount being provided under Ladli Behna scheme. The state government said 39 regular monthly instalments had been transferred between June 2023 and August 2026, while the 40th instalment will be released on September 13. In addition to the regular assistance, eligible women were given special financial assistance of Rs 250 on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan in August 2023, 2024, 2025 and 2026. A total of Rs 63,560.90 crore was transferred to beneficiaries under the scheme between June 2023 and August 2026, while expenditure during the 2026-27 financial year is estimated at Rs 11,300 crore up to September. The state government has made a budgetary provision of Rs 23,882.81 crore for the scheme for 2026-27. During his Agar Malwa visit, Chief Minister Yadav will also perform the groundbreaking ceremony for 33 development projects worth more than Rs 225 crore and inaugurate 17 projects valued at more than Rs 28 crore, the state government said.
Sagar hooch tragedy sparks political slugfest; Digvijaya targets BJP, Sarang hits back
Digital Desk | Sagar/Bhopal, Sep 12 (IANS) The Sagar spurious liquor tragedy has triggered a political confrontation in Madhya Pradesh, with senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh alleging a nexus between BJP leaders and government officials in the illegal liquor trade, while state minister Vishwas Sarang accused the opposition of politicising the deaths. Former Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh, during a visit to Chhatarpur on Saturday, said the government should take action against those involved in the illegal sale of liquor across the state and questioned why the trade was allowed to continue despite the administration being aware of it. I say that this should be stopped across the entire state. When the government knows that liquor is being sold on such a large scale, why is it allowing this to happen? Why have licenses not been cancelled, and why has no action been taken against it? Singh asked. He alleged that the issue could not be viewed only as a law-and-order failure and claimed that government revenue from liquor had also contributed to the situation. This is also a source of income for the government, and it affects revenue as well. Therefore, somewhere, officials in the administrative system and some Bharatiya Janata Party leaders are involved in this, which is why this is happening, Singh told IANS. The allegation drew a response from state minister Vishwas Sarang, who claimed that the government had taken all necessary steps following the tragedy and urged opposition leaders not to politicise the deaths. There should be no class conflict or confusion, and attempts should not be made to do politics over the dead. The incident is certainly unfortunate, and the government has taken all necessary steps, Sarang said while speaking to IANS in Bhopal. He reiterated that the government is committed to preventing such incidents from happening again, and opposition leaders should also refrain from politicising deaths. The exchange of words comes after the suspected consumption of illicit liquor in villages in the Banda area of Sagar district left 18 people dead. More than 80 affected persons have recovered and returned home, according to the district administration. Several patients were admitted to Bundelkhand Medical College (BMC), where some critically ill persons required ventilator support. We were able to bring them to BMC within the given timeframe, and out of those, more than 80 people have recovered and returned to their homes. The team made significant efforts, including for some patients who had to be put on ventilators, helping them recoup and recover, Sagar collector Pratibha Pal said. Police have arrested several accused in the case, while some others were initially reported absconding. Key accused Ravi Lakhera was subsequently arrested after sustaining a gunshot injury during a police encounter in the Baraytha forest area on Friday. The state government has already suspended officials in connection with the incident and ordered a judicial inquiry into the tragedy.
MP doctor couples low-cost sickle cell screening innovation finds place in Harvard Press book
MP doctor couples low-cost sickle cell screening innovation finds place in Harvard Press book
Hanuman Ansh singer Suneel Lodhi sings 'Maine Tere Hi Bharose Hanuman' on flight, video goes viral
Suneel Lodhi, the visually impaired singer whose voice has become closely associated with the devotional song Maine Tere Hi Bharose Hanuman from Hanuman Ansh, recently found an unexpected audience at 30,000 feet. A video circulating on social media shows Lodhi singing the song for fellow passengers during a flight reportedly travelling from Bhopal to Mumbai.
Book on Mohan Bhagwat's views released in Bhopal
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Sep 11 (IANS) A book compiling RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's views on national issues, social harmony, nation-building and contemporary subjects was released on his birthday on Friday, with All India Organisation of Imams Chief Imam Dr Umer Ahmed Ilyasi stressing the importance of dialogue in strengthening social harmony. Titled Dr Mohan Bhagwat Sandesh, the book has been authored by senior journalist and writer Krishna Mohan Jha and was released at the Manasrovar Auditorium in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly premises. Former Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Narottam Mishra and Arogya Bharati National Organisation Secretary Dr Ashok Kumar Varshney released the book in the presence of Mahamandaleshwar Swami Akhileshwaranand Giri and other dignitaries associated with public life and social organisations. Addressing the programme, Ilyasi said Bhagwat believed in dialogue and described his personality as towering. Dr Mohan Bhagwat always believes in dialogue, and his personality is towering. The stronger the dialogue in society, the stronger mutual trust and harmony will be, Ilyasi said. He said India's diversity and social fabric made dialogue necessary for understanding different traditions, communities and perspectives. He also appreciated Krishna Mohan Jha's effort to bring together Bhagwat's views on different subjects, saying it could help readers understand his thoughts in a broader context. Varshney said the book was not merely a compilation of Bhagwat's statements but also presented an analysis of his views and conclusions based on them. He said the RSS had consistently engaged with the youth and Bhagwat's views on contemporary issues could help young people understand their role towards society and the nation. Mahamandaleshwar Swami Akhileshwaranand Giri said the book brought together Bhagwat's views on national thought, social harmony and nation-building, and stressed the importance of understanding India's broader cultural perspective. Addressing the programme, senior BJP leader Narottam Mishra praised Jha's effort to compile Bhagwat's views in book form. Dr Mohan Bhagwat is not merely an individual but an idea. The effort to take his thoughts to readers is commendable, Mishra said. Author of the book, Jha said the idea for the book emerged after he read Bhagwat's speeches and statements on different subjects and decided to present them together for readers. He said the book covers subjects including national thought, social harmony, nation-building, youth, dignity of labour, organisation and society. Jha also recalled his association with the Sangh and the Swadeshi movement in the 1990s, saying he had worked for the movement in 1994 under the guidance of senior Sangh functionaries. The programme was organised on the occasion of Bhagwat's birthday and was attended by representatives of the RSS, social organisations and other sections of public life.
Bank fraud case: ED attaches 18 properties worth over Rs 13 crore in Indore
Digital Desk | Indore, Sep 11 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate (ED), Indore Sub-Zonal Office, has provisionally attached 18 immovable properties valued at Rs 13 crore under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, in connection with a bank fraud case involving Alok Sharda and others. The provisional attachment order was issued on Thursday. The ED investigation was initiated on the basis of two FIRs registered by the Economic Offences Wing (EOW), Bhopal. The FIRs relate to allegations of cheating and fraud involving IDBI Bank and M/s Kisan Dhan Agri Financial Services Private Limited, a non-banking financial company. According to the ED, Alok Sharda, proprietor of M/s Sharda Warehouse located at Manpur in District Indore, in connivance with others, misused the Warehouse Receipt Finance Scheme. The accused allegedly showed agricultural commodities purportedly belonging to farmers as stored in the warehouse and issued warehouse receipts. On the basis of these receipts, loans were sanctioned to 42 farmers against a total of 62,965 bags of soybean and gram. Investigators found that the pledged commodities were unauthorisedly removed and disposed of. Forged or fictitious warehouse receipts, false representations regarding the availability of stock, and the suppression or removal of records were used to obtain and continue the loan facilities. This resulted in a wrongful loss of Rs 14.04 crore to IDBI Bank and a corresponding wrongful gain to the accused persons, the ED said in a press release. In a related transaction, M/s Kisan Dhan Agri Financial Services Private Limited had sanctioned warehouse receipt finance of Rs 12.04 crore to Alok Sharda against agricultural commodities claimed to be stored in the same warehouse. Subsequent verification revealed a substantial shortage of the pledged stock. The commodities had been removed and disposed of without obtaining the requisite release or no-objection certificate from the lender. Taken together, Alok Sharda and the other accused persons, acting in collusion, caused a wrongful loss of approximately Rs 26 crore to IDBI Bank and M/s Kisan Dhan Agri Financial Services Private Limited while deriving corresponding wrongful gains.
AIIMS NEET 2026 Round 2 Cutoff Out - Check Category-Wise Closing Ranks @ aiimsexams.ac.in
AIIMS NEET 2026 Round 2 cutoff is out based on MCC's provisional seat allotment result. Check category-wise (Open, EWS, OBC, SC, ST) closing ranks for AIIMS Jodhpur, Bhopal, Rishikesh, Bhubaneswar, Nagpur, Madurai and 14 more institutes.
IISER Bhopal Project Junior Research Fellow Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online
Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Bhopal (IISER Bhopal) Recruitment 2026 for 1 post of Project Junior Research Fellow. Candidates with M.Sc Can Apply Online. The last date to apply online is 20-09-2026. The candidate shall apply online through IISER Bhopal official website iiserb.ac.in.
Sagar hooch tragedy: Prime accused injured in police encounter
Digital Desk | Bhopal/Sagar, Sep 11 (IANS) The prime accused in the Sagar spurious liquor tragedy, Ravi Lakhera, was injured in a brief exchange of fire with police in the Baraytha forest on Friday morning while attempting to evade arrest. Lakhera sustained a bullet injury to his leg and was admitted to Banda Hospital for treatment. Police had announced a reward of Rs 20,000 for information leading to his arrest. The encounter came as Madhya Pradesh Police intensified its crackdown on those allegedly involved in the manufacture and supply of spurious liquor in Sagar district, where the tragedy has triggered widespread concern. The administration has officially confirmed 16 deaths in the incident so far. Three more patients undergoing treatment at Bundelkhand Medical College reportedly died on Thursday, though the higher casualty figure has not been officially confirmed. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has assured that stringent action will continue against all those responsible for the tragedy. I have directed the administration to take strict action, and those responsible will not be spared, Yadav told reporters on Friday. Referring to the police action against the prime accused, the Chief Minister said he had been informed about the encounter and reiterated that no person involved in the incident would be spared. We will not spare anyone responsible and will continue taking strict action against those involved in such incidents, he said. The tragedy unfolded after several people in villages in the Banda-Shahgarh area allegedly consumed spurious liquor on the night of September 4-5. Several victims were subsequently admitted to hospitals with serious symptoms. Police have so far named 33 people as accused in the case. Of them, 18, including Lakhera, have been arrested. One accused has died, another is undergoing treatment in hospital, while 13 others are absconding. The administration has also launched action against properties allegedly linked to the accused. On Thursday, bulldozers demolished illegal portions of five houses belonging to three accused -- Manish Lodhi, Chandrabhan Singh Rajput and Ashish Sahu. The crackdown follows Yadav's directive for strict action against those involved in the tragedy and related illegal activities. The state government has also ordered a judicial inquiry into the incident.
IISER Bhopal Project Research Scientist Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online
Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Bhopal (IISER Bhopal) Recruitment 2026 for 1 post of Project Research Scientist-III (Non-Medical). Candidates with M.Sc, Ph.D Can Apply Online. The last date to apply online is 23-09-2026. The candidate shall apply online through IISER Bhopal official website iiserb.ac.in.
Main accused in MP hooch tragedy held after encounter in Sagar: Police
Main accused in MP hooch tragedy held after encounter in Sagar: Police
MP CM Yadav watches Hanuman Ansh; says film promotes faith, social service
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Sep 11 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav watched the feature film 'Hanuman Ansh', based on the life of spiritual leader Neem Karoli Baba, and praised its portrayal of faith, devotion and India's spiritual traditions. CM Yadav watched the film at a private plaza in the Kolar area of Bhopal on Thursday and appreciated its subject, presentation and performances of the actors. He said the film provides an insight into the spiritual traditions associated with Neem Karoli Baba and devotion to Lord Hanuman. Hanuman Ansh is a medium to understand our faith, spiritual traditions and the path of devotion to Lord Hanuman. The film effectively presents the spirit of worship and service and the power of devotion to bring about social reform, CM Yadav said. The Chief Minister also praised actor Shobhinav Satya, who plays the role of Neem Karoli Baba, saying his performance brought the character alive. CM Yadav said films based on the lives of saints and spiritual figures could help connect the younger generation with India's cultural and spiritual heritage. Our cultural and spiritual traditions have always drawn inspiration from the lives of saints. Films on such subjects can play an important role in connecting the younger generation with its roots, values and spiritual heritage, he said. The Chief Minister also appealed to people of Madhya Pradesh to watch the film, saying it carries a message beyond devotion. He said the film encourages people to follow the values of service, dedication, compassion and goodwill towards others. The CM also wrote on X, Today, I watched the much-discussed film Hanuman Ansh with the workers. This film, centred on the life story of Neem Karoli Baba, inspires us with integral humanism, service, and the welfare of the proletariat class. Heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the entire team of the film for this meaningful and inspiring presentation. The film's focus on Neem Karoli Baba's life and his spiritual association with Lord Hanuman has generated interest among audiences, according to the statement. The screening was attended by people associated with the film and other guests. CM Yadav's comments came after he watched the film and also praised the acting and presentation.
AIIMS Bhopal Recruitment 2026 - Walkin for Project Research ScientistI Project Technical Posts
All India Institute of Medical Sciences Bhopal (AIIMS Bhopal) has announced the Recruitment 2026 notification for 3 vacancies, including Project Research Scientist-I (Medical) and Project Technical Support-II posts. Eligible candidates can attend the walk-in interview on 29 September 2026 at the designated venue. The detailed notification is available on the official website.
IMD issues thunderstorm, rain alert for multiple districts in Madhya Pradesh
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Sep 10 (IANS) The India Meteorological Departments Centre in Bhopal has issued a nowcast warning for moderate to light thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and rain across several districts of Madhya Pradesh in the coming few hours. Several districts of Madhya Pradesh observed a recess in the persistent rain spell during the past two days. According to the forecast released late Thursday evening, moderate thunderstorm with lightning and moderate rain is likely over Chhatarpur (including Khajuraho), Panna, Katni, Singrauli, Sidhi, Anuppur (including Amarkantak), Dindori, Mandla (including Kanha), Balaghat, Chhindwara, Pandhurana (including Pench), Narmadapuram (including Pachmarhi) and Raisen (including Bhimbetka and Sanchi). Rainfall intensity in these areas is expected to range between 5 and 15 mm per hour, with a 30 to 60 per cent probability of cloud-to-ground lightning. Light thunderstorm with lightning and light rain is predicted over Bhopal (including Bairagarh), Rajgarh, Vidisha, Ashoknagar, Datia, Bhind, Sagar, Tikamgarh, Niwari, Orchha, Damoh, Narsinghpur, Seoni, Jabalpur, Satna, Chitrakoot, Maihar, Rewa, Mauganj, Umaria and Shahdol districts during the midnight hours. Rainfall in these regions is likely to remain below 5 mm per hour, with less than 30 per cent chance of lightning. The weather office has cautioned that intense rain could lead to waterlogging, slippery roads and disruption in traffic, especially in low-lying areas. There is also a possibility of damage to weak structures, uprooting of trees and temporary power outages. Farmers have been advised that standing crops may suffer minor to moderate damage in some pockets. Residents have been urged to stay indoors during thunderstorms, avoid taking shelter under trees or near water bodies, and keep a safe distance from electric poles and open fields. Those living in temporary or incomplete structures should move to safer locations. Motorists have been asked to drive carefully on wet roads and avoid low-lying stretches prone to sudden flooding. Authorities have recommended preparing emergency plans, securing loose outdoor objects and monitoring updates from the India Meteorological Department. People have also been advised not to venture near overflowing drains, rivers or reservoirs.
Two minor girls killed, woman injured as house collapses in MP's Chhatarpur
Two minor girls killed, woman injured as house collapses in MP's Chhatarpur
Bhopal Intern Doctors End 3-Day Protest After 50% Stipend Hike
MP interns secured a 50% stipend hike as two cops faced action after protest clashes.
IISER Bhopal Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online for Junior Research Fellow, Lab Assistant Posts
Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Bhopal (IISER Bhopal) has released the Recruitment 2026 notification for 3 Junior Research Fellow and Lab Assistant posts. The online application process will be conducted up to 17 September 2026. Eligible candidates can apply through the official website, IISER Bhopal.
Justice Alpesh Yeshvant Kogje sworn in as Chief Justice of Madhya Pradesh High Court
Madhya Pradesh Governor Mangubhai Patel administered the oath of office to the newly appointed Chief Justice at a function in the Lok Bhawan in Bhopal.
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Sep 10 (IANS) Amid controversy surrounding allegations of donation theft at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, senior Congress leader and Rajya Sabha member Digvijaya Singh has announced the 'Sanatan Swabhiman Yatra', which will begin in Ujjain on October 20, coinciding with Dussehra, and proceed towards Ayodhya. While announcing the march, Digvijaya Singh described it as a journey from 'Shivdham' (the abode of Lord Shiva) to 'Ramdham' (the abode of Lord Ram), saying that the significance of Dussehra inspired him to undertake the yatra. Dussehra symbolises the victory of 'Dharma' (righteousness) over 'Adharma' (unrighteousness), and it is with this spirit that I decided to undertake the march... The objective of the march is not to oppose any political party or individual, but to hold a mirror to those allegedly involved in the misuse of devotees' faith and the funds offered at the temple, he said. Digvijaya Singh levelled serious allegations against the government over the alleged misuse of offerings made to the Ram Mandir Trust and claimed that the government was attempting to shield Champat Rai. The Congress leader also pointed out that allegations of irregularities had implicated certain individuals associated with the trust, which was constituted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He maintained that any alleged misuse of funds donated by devotees at a major centre of faith could not be accepted and stressed that contributions made by devotees must be handled and utilised in a transparent manner. Singh said the proposed march was not intended as an attack on any particular political party or individual, but was rooted in Sanatan tradition, religious faith and respect for devotees. He said the allegations surrounding donations made to the Ram Temple would be raised before the public through the yatra. During the announcement, Singh also referred to his political history and recalled that despite his opposition to the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), he had participated in the 'Ram Shila Pujan' campaign during 1988-89. The announcement drew a sharp response from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which accused Singh of using the Ram Temple issue for political purposes and urged him to first question Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi over his absence from the Ayodhya temple. Uttar Pradesh Minister Rakesh Sachan, speaking to IANS, said Singh himself had not visited the Ram Temple to offer prayers and questioned the basis of his criticism. He (Digvijaya Singh) never even went there to offer prayers. Those involved in the theft of donations have already faced action after the Chief Minister constituted a full-fledged inquiry committee. A CEO has also been appointed there in a new arrangement. CM Yogi has consistently been concerned that no such incident should take place, Sachan said. Bihar BJP President Sanjay Saraogi also hit out at Digvijaya Singh and said the Congress leader should first ask Rahul Gandhi why senior leaders of his party had not visited the Ram Temple in Ayodhya to pay obeisance. Digvijaya Singh should first ask Rahul Gandhi why his party's senior leader has not visited the Ram Temple in Ayodhya to pay obeisance even once. Don't these people feel ashamed? Saraogi told IANS. Saraogi said the Uttar Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, acted promptly after allegations regarding the theft of donations surfaced and constituted a committee to look into the matter. This is just an example of the Congress party's appeasement politics. Next year, Uttar Pradesh is going to polls, and hence now they are remembering Lord Ram out of nowhere, Saraogi added. JD(U) National General Secretary Shyam Rajak also questioned Digvijaya Singh's reference to Sanatan while attacking the Congress leader over his decision to launch the yatra. Which Sanatan is Digvijaya Singh talking about? He should first put his own house (Congress party) in order and take care of his own family, Rajak said.
Keralam soldier Mithilaj who died of heart attack in Bhopal laid to rest with military honours
Mithilaj experienced sudden chest pain during his morning exercise in Bhopal. Though he was rushed to a hospital, he could not be saved.
CM Mohan Yadav orders judicial probe into Sagar liquor deaths; transfers top officials
Digital Desk | Bhopal/Sagar, Sep 9 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Wednesday ordered a judicial inquiry into the deaths allegedly caused by illegal liquor in Sagar district. In a late-night action, the Chief Minister also announced administrative changes, including the appointment of a new divisional commissioner and Inspector General, and directed that strict action be taken against those responsible for the incident in the Banda-Shahgarh area. Senior IAS officer Dilip Kumar has been appointed as the new Sagar divisional commissioner, while senior IPS officer Irshad Wali has been appointed Inspector General of Sagar division, according to the state government. Yadav directed officials to ensure accountability for any negligence or irregularities and said no person found guilty should be spared. The action came after the Chief Minister visited Bundelkhand Medical College in Sagar, where he met patients undergoing treatment and interacted with their family members. He personally enquired about the condition of those admitted to the hospital and assured their relatives that the government stood with them. During a meeting with police and administrative officials and public representatives at the medical college, Yadav directed authorities to maintain strict law and order and launch an intensive investigation into illegal liquor activities in Sagar and adjoining and border areas. Ensure strict action against those responsible. No guilty person should be spared, he said. The Chief Minister directed officials to seize illegal liquor and related material and conduct prompt investigations wherever there was suspicion or any possibility of illegal activities. He said the government was following a zero-tolerance policy towards crime and anti-social activities, while stressing that action should be impartial and transparent and no innocent person should be targeted. I have given the administration a free hand to take the strictest possible action against those involved, including those carrying out illegal encroachments or running such illegal empires, he said in a statement issued late on Wednesday. Yadav also directed officials to keep a close watch on people spreading rumours through social media and other platforms with an intention to disturb peace and communal harmony, and take strict action against them. On the wider issue of substance abuse, the Chief Minister also called for an intensive de-addiction campaign with the participation of religious institutions, social organisations and voluntary groups. We will need collective social commitment to deal with this problem, he said.
MP govt agrees to raise intern doctors stipend to Rs 21,500 after three-day protest
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Sep 9 (IANS) The Madhya Pradesh government on Wednesday agreed to raise the monthly stipend of MBBS intern doctors to Rs 21,500, following their three-day agitation demanding an increase in remuneration. The decision was taken at a meeting between Deputy Chief Minister and Health Minister Rajendra Shukla and representatives of intern doctors, the Junior Doctors' Association (JUDA) and the Medical Teachers Association (MTA). The agreement came after intern doctors staged protests at various places in the state, including a major demonstration near Kamala Park in Bhopal. The agitation had intensified after police used lathis and water cannons to disperse protesting students. Several intern doctors were injured during the protest. After the meeting, Shukla said the government had ordered an inquiry into the incident and taken preliminary action against two police personnel. Two police personnel, prima facie found to be involved in the incident, have been reassigned to police lines, and an inquiry team has been constituted. Appropriate further action will be ensured based on the findings, he said. The Deputy Chief Minister also assured the delegation that students injured during the police action would receive proper medical treatment. In a democracy, every individual has the right to express their views peacefully, and the government is working with sensitivity to address the students' concerns and resolve their issues, Shukla said. The meeting also covered strengthening healthcare services in rural areas and the role of young doctors in improving medical facilities in remote parts of Madhya Pradesh. Shukla said the state was working to strengthen rural healthcare through an MoU signed with 'Sevankur Bharat' and appealed to young doctors to serve in rural areas with a spirit of service and sensitivity. The stipend hike is expected to provide financial relief to MBBS graduates during their compulsory internship, which involves clinical training and patient-care responsibilities in government hospitals and other healthcare institutions.
Watch: Thar goes on rampage in Bhopal, smashes cars as women, kids flee
A Thar SUV caused panic in Soumya Fortune Heritage colony on Tuesday night. The vehicle rammed several parked cars and smashed through an exit gate. It also drove towards women and children, forcing them to flee for safety. The driver, who frequently visited the colony, then fled the scene. Police are investigating the incident and tracing the vehicle's driver.
Mbbs interns in Bhopal continue protest over stipend hike; delegation meets government
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Teacher Recruitment Protest Enters Day 20 In Bhopal, Still No End In Sight
Many candidates are close to crossing the required age limit for teacher recruitment and will not be eligible to appear in the next exams
MP: 3 days on, intern doctors stick to higher stipend demand
Bhopal: The protest for higher stipend by medical interns in Madhya Pradesh entered its third day on Wednesday, September 9, with the agitators slamming the alleged lathicharge and use of water cannons by the police on their colleagues two days ago. Senior resident doctors have also backed the protest, currently underway near the Kamala Park Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
MP medical interns protest enters Day 3, demand stipend hike to Rs 30,000
Senior resident doctors have also extended their support to the protest, which is currently underway near the Kamala Park intersection in Bhopal. Doctors at the government-run Gandhi Medical College (GMC), Bhopal, have announced a boycott of the outpatient department (OPD)
MP govt steps up illegal liquor crackdown after Sagar tragedy; 1,554 cases registered
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Sep 9 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh has intensified its crackdown on the illegal liquor trade following the recent spurious liquor tragedy in Sagar in which several people were killed. Police and Excise Department teams registered 1,554 cases and seized 12,107 litres of liquor during a three-day statewide enforcement drive till September 8, the Madhya Pradesh Police said in a statement. The special drive, conducted from September 6 to 8, targeted the illegal manufacture, transportation, possession and sale of liquor. Action was initiated against 974 people during the campaign, according to the Excise Department. The figures showed a steady increase in enforcement action during the three-day period. As many as 475 cases were registered on September 6, followed by 525 on September 7 and 554 on September 8. Liquor seizures during the three days stood at 3,096 litres, 4,729 litres and 4,282 litres, respectively. Of the 1,554 cases 1,536 were registered under Section 34(1) of the Excise Act, 11 under Section 34(2) and seven under Section 49-A. The intensified enforcement comes after the Sagar spurious liquor tragedy, which claimed several lives and brought renewed focus on the illegal manufacture and supply of liquor in the state. The incident also led to demands for stronger action against those involved in the illicit liquor trade. A senior MP Police official said the campaign was aimed at preventing illicit liquor from reaching consumers. Following the Sagar hooch tragedy, surveillance has been intensified and police teams are working with the Excise Department to identify the source and supply chain of illegal liquor, MP police said in a statement. Sagar district was also covered under the special drive. Eight cases were registered there, including six under Section 34(1), one under Section 34(2) and one under Section 49-A. Seven cases were registered in Sagar on September 7, involving five accused and seizure of 101 litres of liquor. On September 8, one case was registered and 17 litres of hooch was seized. No action was reported in the district on September 6. Another police official said enforcement would continue beyond the special drive. Strict action will be taken against those involved in the manufacture, transportation, possession or sale of illicit liquor. Police said that field-level surveillance and checking would continue to curb the illegal liquor network.
Bhopal intern doctors' protest enters Day 3, OPD services to remain shut today
The protest by intern doctors in Madhya Pradesh's capital Bhopal entered its third consecutive day on Wednesday, with doctors refusing to back down from their demand for a hike in stipend. Amid the continuing agitation, OPD services at the medical college will remain closed on Wednesday. However, emergency services will continue to operate to ensure that patients requiring urgent medical attention do not face difficulties.
Probe ordered into police action against protesting Bhopal intern doctors
On Monday, September 7, hundreds of interns of the GMC, Bhopal, protested at their campus over their longstanding demand that their stipend be increased from the current 14,437 to 30,000.
Intern doctors block roads in Bhopal demanding written stipend hike assurance
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Intern Doctors at Hamidia Hospital to Strike, Demand Stipend Increase
Intern doctors at Hamidia Hospital in Bhopal announce a complete OPD shutdown, demanding a stipend increase to 30,000 and compensation for injured protesters. Intern Doctors at Hamidia Hospital to Strike, Demand Stipend Increase
Shivraj Singh Chouhan pushes MP's Vidisha towards regional cancer-care hub with new centre
Digital Desk | Vidisha, Sep 8 (IANS) A new cancer day-care facility was inaugurated at the government medical college in Madhya Pradesh's Vidisha on Tuesday, marking the first phase of a larger plan to provide advanced cancer treatment closer to patients in the state's smaller cities and surrounding districts. Union Agriculture Minister and Vidisha MP Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who inaugurated the facility along with Minister of State Jitendra Singh, said the initiative would help patients avoid repeated trips to major cities such as Mumbai and Delhi for treatment. Cancer does not affect only the patient; it causes financial and mental distress to the entire family. When patients have to travel to Mumbai or Delhi for treatment, the cost of travel and accommodation itself can run into lakhs of rupees, Chouhan said. The facility at Atal Bihari Vajpayee Government Medical College has been developed with technical support from Tata Memorial Centre (TMC), with an MoU also signed between the medical college and AIIMS Bhopal. The centre will provide chemotherapy, diagnostics and specialist consultation, while serious cases will be linked to AIIMS Bhopal for further treatment. The initiative is also being expanded into a comprehensive cancer-care programme. Minister of State Jitendra Singh said a radiotherapy facility with a Linear Accelerator is expected to become operational at the medical college within two to three years. He added that two doctors and seven nursing officers from Vidisha had already undergone specialised oncology training at Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer (ACTREC) in Mumbai. Surgeons and other surgical staff will also receive advanced training in oncology procedures. A regional cancer registry and a local data centre are planned to help generate reliable data on the cancer burden in the area and support prevention and treatment strategies. The cancer-care programme began with a gap analysis conducted by a multidisciplinary TMC team in June, followed by a screening and awareness camp. According to the Department of Atomic Energy, 586 cancer patients and 254 suspected cases were identified during the screening programme. The proposed expansion will cover medical and surgical oncology, radiotherapy, pathology, early detection, prevention, cancer registration and palliative care. Getting cancer treatment in Vidisha itself will be a major relief for patients and their families. Our effort is to ensure that people do not have to travel to big cities for every stage of treatment, Chouhan said. Minister of State Jitendra Singh said the Vidisha initiative was part of a wider national effort to take specialised cancer-care facilities beyond major metropolitan centres through the Department of Atomic Energy and TMC. The programme was attended by Madhya Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla, doctors, medical college officials and representatives of TMC and AIIMS Bhopal.

