Sherlock Holmes actor Mark Strong visits Jaipur for first time, see pics
The actor, best known for Sherlock Holmes, took to his Instagram account to share a series of photos from several famous places he visited in the Pink City, including Hawa Mahal and Sabzi Market
Ministers satirical remark on Indira Gandhi sparks storm in Rajasthan Assembly; six MLAs suspended
JAIPUR: The Rajasthan Assembly turned into a battleground during Question Hour as a huge controversy erupted over a remark regarding former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on Friday. Heated exchanges led to multiple disruptions, forcing the House to be adjourned three times. The controversy stemmed from Social Justice Minister Avinash Gehlot's statement during a discussion, where he remarked, As always, you named this scheme after your 'Dadi' (grandmother) Indira Gandhi, in the last budget of 2023-24. In reply to a question by Congress MLA Rafeeq Khan, the minister quipped, Under previous Congress regimes schemes were launched in the name of your (Oppositions) Dadi (Grandma) Indira Gandhi. What was the fate (status) of those schemes? This comment triggered a sharp reaction from the opposition, with Leader of Opposition Tikaram Juli condemning it, asserting, Indira Gandhi was a former Prime Minister; such language is unacceptable. Strong protests from the Opposition benches, led by the Congress state chief Govind Singh Dotasara, saw opposition MLAs trooping into the well raising slogans against the Ministers utterance and demanding an apology from the latter. Dotasara retorted What Dadi? Is it the decorum of the House to use such language? Amid intense protests, Congress MLAs stormed into the well of the House, prompting disciplinary action. Following a proposal by Chief Whip Jogeshwar Garg, Speaker Vasudev Devnani approved the suspension of six opposition members, including Congress State President Dotasara, Deputy Leader of Opposition Ramkesh Meena, and MLAs Amin Kagzi, Zakir Hussain Gesavat, Hakam Ali Khan, and Sanjay Kumar, for the remainder of the budget session. In retaliation, Congress legislators staged a sit-in protest inside the Assembly, denouncing the suspension of their colleagues. Consequently, the House was adjourned until Monday. Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot also weighed in on the issue, taking to social media platform X to criticize the BJP-led Rajasthan government. He tweeted, The BJP government in Rajasthan appears unwilling to conduct Assembly proceedings smoothly. Their ministers and MLAs make unfounded and inappropriate remarks - sometimes about the late Prime Minister, sometimes about the late Chief Minister. Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) February 21, 2025 Slamming Minister Avinash Gehlots remarks on Indira Gandhi, he further wrote, Today, Minister Avinash Gehlot has made an unacceptable and disgraceful comment about Indira Gandhi, who sacrificed her life for the nation. Ashok Gehlot also rebuked BJP MLA Gopal Sharma for his recent claims that former Chief Minister Shivcharan Mathur had plotted encounters against Kirori Lal Meena and Harish Sharma. Calling the allegations deeply unfortunate, he reminded that Mathur was not just a dignified CM but also a freedom fighter. Taking a dig at the ruling party, he concluded, This exposes the BJPs regressive mindset, which prioritises baseless accusations over discussions on the states development.
Air India Mumbai-Delhi flight diverted to Jaipur due to low fuel
The Aircraft, anA320-251N (A320Neo) took off from Mumbai Airport at 9.57 am before it was diverted to Jaipur. An official statement from the airline is awaited
Kingsman actor Mark Strong shares photos from Jaipur trip: Wonderful people
Kingsman actor Mark Strong shares photos from Jaipur trip: Wonderful people
Indian data centres: 7 key trends
Tier II cities such as Patna, Jaipur, Lucknow, Ahmedabad, and Bhubaneswar are already in demand to set up facilities to manage growing data traffic
Mark Strong arrives in India; receives a warm welcome from Tabu
British actor Mark Strong has visited Rajasthan and shared his admiration for Jaipur's culture and hospitality on social media. He explored the city's heritage sites and visited the Amrapali Museum. His journey included a warm welcome from 'Dune' co-star Tabu and might hint at another visit during the production of his upcoming film 'Everest'.
Video: Gold medalist female powerlifter dies as 270-kg barbell falls on neck
Jaipur: A gold-medallist female power-lifter in the Junior National Games died when a 270-kg rod fell on her neck during practice in Rajasthans Bikaner district, police said on Wednesday, February 19. Female power-lifter Yashtika Acharya, 17, died while practising in the gym. The neck of the gold medallist player broke when a 270-kg rod fell 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 .
IPL Matches In Rajasthan To Be Organised By Sports Council
Health Minister Gajendra Singh Khinvsar: Amid controversy over hosting IPL matches in Rajasthan, the state government on Thursday clarified that the tournament will be conducted by the Sports Council. Neeraj K. Pawan, Secretary of the Youth Affairs and Sports Department, confirmed to IANS that the IPL matches in Rajasthan will be conducted by the Sports Council. He said that his department has written a letter to BCCI for the same which has been accepted. Earlier, former RCA officials also confirmed to IANS that the sports council has an edge and there is a strong possibility that it will organise the upcoming series of IPL matches in the state. Besides Pawan and RCA officials, Dhananjay Singh Khinvsar, a member of the ad hoc committee and son of Health Minister Gajendra Singh Khinvsar has also confirmed that the Indian Premier League (IPL) matches in Rajasthan will be held under the leadership of the Rajasthan State Sports Council Sports Council. Dhananjay Singh Khinvsar stated that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has entrusted the Sports Council with the responsibility of organising IPL matches in the state. He further said that hosting IPL matches in Rajasthan is a proud moment for everyone. However, he suggested that all seven IPL matches allocated to Rajasthan should have been played within the state itself. Khinvsar also advocated for hosting matches not only in Jaipurs Sawai Mansingh Stadium but also at Jodhpurs Barkatullah Khan Stadium, allowing a wider audience to experience live IPL action. On February 10, Jaideep Bihani, convener of the Rajasthan Cricket Associations (RCA) ad hoc committee, wrote to Neeraj Kumar Pawan, Secretary of the Sports Department, requesting that IPL matches be organised under RCAs leadership. He demanded that Sawai Mansingh Stadium be handed over to the ad hoc committee by February 15. However, when the Sports Council did not transfer control even by February 19, Bihani expressed his intent to escalate the matter to the Chief Minister. Bihani asserted that the ad hoc committee had successfully organised major cricket tournaments throughout the season. I will meet the Chief Minister again regarding this issue, and we will abide by his decision. Our main priority is ensuring a top-tier cricketing experience in Rajasthan so that our players and the states cricketing talent gain recognition at both national and international levels, Bihani said. He said the CM would take a call on the matter, however, RCA officials expressed their annoyance with the association not conducting elections on time due to which the association's significance is becoming redundant. It needs to be mentioned here that RCA was dissolved last year and an adhoc body was formed. It was informed that RCA elections will be held within six months, however, the same has been delayed to date. Due to this situation, the Sports Council has taken the lead in organising IPL matches in Rajasthan. He said the CM would take a call on the matter, however, RCA officials expressed their annoyance with the association not conducting elections on time due to which the association's significance is becoming redundant. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS
JAIPUR: In a terrible tragedy, Yashtika Acharya, a 17-year-old powerlifter, lost her life while lifting weights at a gym in Rajasthan's Bikaner district. Acharya, a gold medalist, was attempting a squat with approximately 270 kg when she lost her balance, causing the barbell to fall on her neck. Despite immediate first aid and being rushed to the hospital, doctors declared her dead on arrival. According to reports, Acharya was undergoing her regular training session in a gym located near her home. Her trainer was present at the time and also sustained injuries in the accident. Eyewitnesses stated that before attempting the lift, her trainer counted down, saying, One... two... three, before instructing her to lift. However, as soon as she attempted the squat, the entire weight shifted onto her neck, and she was unable to stabilize. She collapsed under the pressure, leading to the fatal accident. A video of the incident has gone viral on social media and the young athletes untimely demises has left viewers in mourning. In the viral video, Yashtika's trainer can be seen standing behind her, guiding her through the lift. Other gym members were also present, observing her attempt. As she exerted full force to lift the 270 kg weight, she suddenly lost balance, and the barbell fell onto her shoulders, breaking her neck bone and causing her to fall unconscious. Yashtika was a rising star in powerlifting, having recently won a gold medal in the equipped category and a silver medal in the classic category at the 33rd National Bench Press Championship held in Goa. Her father, Aishwarya Acharya, 50, is a contractor. The gym where she was practicing had only been operational for a few months. Naya Shahar Police Station in-charge Vikram Tiwari stated that the family has not registered a case. While the police have conducted a post-mortem examination, no FIR has been filed. However, an internal investigation is underway. The tragic accident has sparked discussions on gym safety protocols and the importance of proper supervision during high-risk weightlifting exercises.
From Varanasi to Jaipur: A cultural journey through Indias best cities
Mishra, a skilled ventriloquist from Jaipur, uses his unique talent to bring his puppets to life, creating an illusion that they are speaking on their own. His performance in front of Premanand Maharj was no exception, leaving the saint and the audience in awe of his skill.
AIIMS Jammu starts cancer surgeries
Patients now will have access to advanced treatment Jammu, Feb 19: In a groundbreaking development in the healthcare in J&K, the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Jammu, has started cancer surgeries, the first in this Union Territory. AIIMS Jammu has started Gastrointestinal (GI) and Hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) cancer surgeries with the state-of-the-art facility at Vijaipur. []
Gold medallist power-lifter dies after 270-kg rod falls on neck during practice in Bikaner
JAIPUR: A gold-medallist female power-lifter in the Junior National Games died when a 270-kg rod fell on her neck during practice in Rajasthan's Bikaner district, police said on Wednesday. Female powerlifter Yashtika Acharya (17) died while practising in the gym. The neck of the gold medallist player broke when a 270-kg rod fell on her on Tuesday, Naya Shahar SHO Vikram Tiwari said. He said immediately after the accident, she was taken to the hospital where doctors declared her dead. Tiwari said the accident happened when the trainer was making Yashtika lift weights in the gym. The trainer also suffered minor injuries in the mishap. The SHO said the family has not registered any case in this regard. After the post-mortem, the body was handed over to the family on Wednesday.
Suzlon Energy Subsidiary Fined Rs 11 Lakh By Jaipur Central GST Authority Over Excess ITC
An appeal will be filed in due course of time against the penalty, it says.
Zypp Electric plans to deploy 1 lakh electric two-wheelers, enhance ties with Indofast Energy
NEW DELHI, Feb 19: Electric mobility player Zypp Electric on Wednesday said it plans to deploy 1 lakh electric two-wheelers in partnership with Indofast Energy, a 50-50 joint venture between IndianOil and SUN Mobility, over the next 12-18 months. Zypp Electric has already deployed over 10,000 EVs supported by Indofast Energys battery swapping infrastructure. The new fleet of 1 lakh electric two-wheelers (E2Ws) will be deployed across Indias top eight cities, including Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, Lucknow and Jaipur, [] The post Zypp Electric plans to deploy 1 lakh electric two-wheelers, enhance ties with Indofast Energy appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Elvish Yadav Accuses Jaipur 'Aunty' Of Selling Liquor Illegally, Police Launch Probe
This comes days after Elvish Yadav was also accused of sharing a fake video on social media and tarnishing the image of Rajasthan police.
Rajasthan govt committed to make state USD 350 billion economy: Finance Minister Diya Kumari
JAIPUR: Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari on Wednesday presented the Budget for the financial year 2025-26 and announced that the government is committed to make the state a USD 350 billion economy. Kumari, who also holds the finance portfolio, said the state government has delivered 58 per cent of its promises made in the election manifesto and has fulfilled 73 per cent of the previous Budget announcements. She announced that as many as 2 lakh new houses will be provided with drinking water connections and on this initiative Rs 400 crore will be spent. She said that nine greenfield expressways will be constructed. Diya Kumari started her Budget speech by presenting the state's income expenditure estimates for the year 2025-26. Starting the Budget session, Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani said the government will respond to issues raised by the Opposition after the Zero Hour on February 20. It is pertinent to note that the Opposition Congress is demanding the government's response to the allegations of phone tapping leveled by Cabinet Minister Kirodi Lal Meena. The Budget session of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly began on January 31, with the address of Governor Haribhau Bagde. Rajasthan Law minister uses cuss word when asked in Assembly about crop damage due to floods
Rishi Sunak, who seems to be on an extended holiday in India -- we spotted the former UK PM at the Jaipur Lit Fest and at the fourth T20I at the Wankhede late January -- was at Lok Kalyan Marg on Tuesday.
Rajasthan Budget: Focus on infrastructure, youth and economic growth
Rajasthan Budget: Focus on infrastructure, youth and economic growth Jaipur: Finance Minister Diya Kumari will present the Rajasthan Budget for the fiscal year 2025-26 on Wednesday in the state Assembly. This time, the budget is expected to prioritise infrastructure development, and economic strengthening over populist measures and focus on youth-centric policies and initiatives. This will [] The post Rajasthan Budget: Focus on infrastructure, youth and economic growth appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
How is India benefitting from the 30% rise in global coffee prices?
Indian coffee exports have grown in value, but export volumes remain stable, highlighting the need to increase coffee acreage for sustained long-term growth, says Praveen Jaipuriar, CEO, CCL Products (India) Ltd
PM Modi Meets Former UK PM Rishi Sunak And His Family, Calls Him 'Great Friend Of India'
PM Narendra Modi met former UK PM Rishi Sunak, praising him as a great friend of India. Sunak's India tour included the Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri, and Jaipur Lit Fest.
Police arrest seven as minors blackmailed, sexually exploited in Rajasthan's Beawar
JAIPUR: Four to five minor girls have been sexually exploited in Vijay Nagar town in Rajasthans Beawar district, according to sources. According to the local police, a group of miscreants trapped and blackmailed girls from a private school, subjecting them to rape and allegedly even tried to force them into conversion. The Beawar police have arrested seven culprits and detained two other offenders who are themselves minors in this sordid case. Family members of the victims complained to the police and shared details that a gang was behind this heinous racket. The criminals targeted a girl by assaulting and blackmailing her and coerced her into befriending other schoolgirls and systematically entrapping multiple victims. The minor girls were lured through gifts of Chinese mobile phones and were even forced to make their underage friends chat with the offenders who would sexually exploit them. The victims on Monday revealed that the culprits, all labourers and belonging to one community, had taken obscene photos and videos of the girls and were blackmailing them. The victims have also alleged that the criminals were even pressurising them to recite Kalma, keep Rozas or fasts, and adopt Islam. The case in the Vijay Nagar police station area has sparked public outrage with angry residents surrounding the local police station, demanding strong and swift action. As people gheraoed the police station, demanding the arrest of the accused, additional cops were summoned from four nearby police stations. The situation in the town remains tense as public anger is mounting. The accused have been identified as Rihan Mohammad (20), Sohail Mansuri (19), Shoaib (20), Arman Pathan (19), and Sahil Qureshi (19) who are all from Vijaynagar and close by areas. Two juvenile offenders have also been detained by the local police. The incident has triggered a political storm, drawing comparisons to a similar case in Ajmer 33 years ago, where schoolgirls were victimized through vulgar pictures and then subjected to rape and blackmail. Authorities are under pressure to act decisively as investigations unfold.
NEW DELHI: In a major relief toSocial media influencer and YouTuber, Ranveer Allahabadia , the Supreme Court on Tuesday directed no coercive action against him for hisalleged obscene remarks made on a YouTube show 'India's Got Latent'. Atwo-judge bench of the apex court, led by Justice Surya Kant and Justice N Kotiswar Singh passed the order on Allahabadia's plea under Article 32 of the Indian Constitution seeking to club various FIRs registered against him in various states including Maharashtra and Assam for his video of his controversial and alleged comments on parents and sex on social media and sought interim protection. Abhinav Chandrachud, a lawyer representing Allahabadia mentioned the matter on last Friday before the apex court's bench, led by the Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna. He said that the petitioner has received many death threats from Maharashtra, Assam, and now Jaipur. There was a reward. 'Bounty on my life, want my tongue severed': Ranveer Allahbadia reveals threats in SC plea Chandrachud further said that the offence is old Section 153-A (Prompting hatred) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). To this, Justice Kant asked him, what were the parameters of obscenity/vulgarity? If this is not obscenity in this country, then what it!? See the language you are using! You have got a license to speak all kinds of (language)?. This type of condemnable behaviour...it's not a question of an individual's morality.He is insulting his parents also! There is something dirty in this person's mind that has been spread through this program,he bench of the top court observed. Questioning the conduct of Allahabadia, the judge went on to observe that somebody thinks that because I have become so and so popular, I can speak any kind of words and take entire society for granted...you tell us anyone in the world who would like such words! Slamming him for his uttering such derogatory words, the court questioned him, you can seek cheap publicity by using abusive language? The words you have chosen, parents will be ashamed, sisters will be ashamed. Entire society will feel ashamed. The perverted mind. The perversion you and your henchmen have exhibited! We have a judicial system, bound by the rule of law. If there are threats, the law will take the course, the court lambasted him for his comments. Opining that this court were not supporting this kind of language, the SC said, what embarrassment he had caused to parents. Allahabadia also sought anticipatory bail, fearing arrest by the Guwahati police, who have already issued summons to him. Ranveer Allahbadia controversy: The cringe that 'shook' us
KIA keeps spirit of love alive, ships 44mn roses this Valentines Day
BENGALURU: With Valentines Day driving unprecedented global demand for fresh roses, Kempegowda International Airport has set a new record, processing 44 million rose stems weighing 1,649 metric tonnes (MT) for 22 international and 38 domestic destinations this season. This marks a remarkable 50% year-on-year surge in stems processing, and a 35% YoY increase in tonnage, reaffirming KIAs status as Indias No. 1 airport for perishable exports for the fourth consecutive year, according to a press release from the Bengaluru International Airport on Monday. Stating that with global demand at an all-time high, international rose shipments saw a 51% increase in tonnage and an 86% rise in stem count. The release further highlighted key destinations including Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Sharjah, Kuwait, Auckland, Amman, Manila, Riyadh, Colombo, and Abu Dhabi. Domestically, 1,344 MT of roses were transported a 32% increase, with major shipments heading to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Jaipur, Bagdogra, Udaipur, Ahmedabad, Agartala, and Chandigarh. This year, KIA also expanded its floral footprint, adding new destinations like Abu Dhabi, Jeddah, Beirut, Tokyo, Bahrain, and Dammam. The journey of a rose doesnt end at harvestit must reach its destination in perfect bloom, no matter how far it travels. At KIA, ensuring freshness, speed, and temperature precision is paramount. The state-of-the-art Coolport facility, equipped with real-time tracking and advanced cold chain technology, safeguards every shipment, proactively managing temperature fluctuations for seamless storage, handling, and transport, the release said adding that with faster turnaround times, enhanced security, and minimal wastage, KIA ensures that every bloom reaches its destination at peak freshness, meeting the soaring Valentines Day demand and keeping the spirit of love alive across the globe.
India's Got Latent Row | Another FIR Filed Against Ranveer Allahbadia In Jaipur Over Vulgar Remarks
| | Another FIR Filed Against Ranveer Allahbadia In Jaipur Over Vulgar RemarksFIR Also Names Samay Raina, Chanchlani And Apoorva Mukhija n18oc_indiaNews18 Mobile App - https://onelink.to/desc-youtube
Technological innovation will be the foundation of India's economic diplomacy
Experts agree on the necessity for India to utilize economic diplomacy to advance its interests. Emphasizing technological innovation and market access, India's future global economic engagement was central at a recent panel discussion in Jaipur. The discussion was part of the launch of a publication on India's economic diplomacy.
'India's Got Latent' row: Ranveer Allahbadia continuously out of contact, says Police
Apart from Maharashtra Cyber and Guwahati Police, the Jaipur Police have also filed a case against Ranveer Allahbadia
Replace Urdu with Sanskrit, another school in Rajasthan told
A senior secondary school in Bikaner, Rajasthan, has received orders to replace Urdu with Sanskrit as a third language due to low enrollment in Urdu classes. The decision follows a similar directive to a school in Jaipur, sparking controversy and allegations about fake degrees among Urdu teachers.
Jaipuria nets AACSB accreditation
Crisis looms over Rajasthan's free electricity scheme
JAIPUR: A crisis is looming over Rajasthan's free electricity scheme of up to 100 units. According to sources, the state government is planning to end the scheme in the Budget for 2025-26. Recently, Union Minister Prahlad Joshi had hinted at this possibility. In a meeting held in Jaipur, Joshi remarked that free electricity is being provided in some states for political reasons, which he deemed unfair. He further asserted that long-term free electricity schemes increase the financial burden on the state. Significantly, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma was also present at the event. Currently, over one crore consumers are benefiting from free electricity up to 100 units. However, the government is exploring alternative solutions to mitigate the impact on consumers. Instead of the free electricity scheme, the state government may introduce an additional subsidy for rooftop solar installations, similar to initiatives in Uttar Pradesh and Haryana. Under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, subsidies are provided to those installing rooftop solar panels. The Rajasthan government is considering offering 300 units of free electricity to consumers who install solar panels on their roofs, along with a one-time subsidy of up to Rs 40,000. However, discontinuing the free electricity scheme could provoke widespread public discontent. Consequently, discussions on this issue are taking place at the highest levels of government. The final decision will be taken by Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, and once approved, the announcement of ending the subsidy may be made in the upcoming budget. To ease the transition, an additional subsidy may be introduced to encourage consumers to install solar panels. According to departmental sources, this model, inspired by Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, could replace the current free electricity scheme. Under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, the central government provides subsidies for rooftop solar panel installations. The Rajasthan government is considering offering an additional subsidy of 12 to 20 per cent from its own funds. Union Minister Prahlad Joshi had hinted at this shift in January, and its impact may be reflected in the upcoming budget announcements. He previously stated, Instead of providing free electricity, we should empower consumers so that they can not only use affordable electricity at home but also contribute to the nation's energy needs by supplying surplus electricity to the grid. Recently, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma echoed similar sentiments, stating, The PM Surya Ghar Yojana is set to become a boon for the entire country. Under this scheme, rooftop solar plants are being installed in millions of homes, enabling people to generate their own electricity. Such families will be able to use free electricity and also earn money by supplying excess power to the grid. Work is currently underway to install rooftop solar plants on five lakh houses in Rajasthan, and we aim to set an example by achieving this target soon. It is important to note that Rajasthan's power companies were already in a financial deficit of Rs 1.25 lakh crore as of March 2024. The Free Electricity Scheme was introduced by the previous government despite these heavy losses. Several other states had implemented similar schemes before Rajasthan, but the growing financial strain now compels the government to explore alternative solutions.
Rajasthan court directs juvenile trial for two accused in 25-year-old PSC paper leak case
JAIPUR: The vexed issue of paper leaks, rigged appointments, and examination irregularities is hardly new in Rajasthan. However, a recent development in a Year-old case has brought an interesting twist to the ongoing saga of academic fraud. In a significant ruling, a court has directed that the trial of two accused in the 1999 Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) paper leak case be conducted in a Juvenile Court. The decision was based on the fact that the accused were minors at the time of the incident. The case dates back to November 28, 1999, when the then RPSC Chairman, Devendra Singh, received information over the phone about the leak of General Knowledge and General Science papers for the RAS-Pre exam. Following this, Singh lodged a complaint at the Civil Lines police station, leading to an investigation that identified five individuals as accused: Pratap Meena, Nathulal, Rajendra Singh Sardar, Anil Meena, and Chandrashekhar. A charge sheet was subsequently filed in court. However, after years of legal proceedings, the court has now ruled that two of the accused, Anil Meena and Chandrashekhar, were minors at the time of the crime. Their school records and birth certificates were presented in court as evidence, confirming their juvenile status during the incident. Tragically, one of the accused, Pratap Meena, passed away during the trial. The remaining accused have been ordered to appear in court on February 25. Meanwhile, the court decided on February 7 that the case files of Anil Meena and Chandrashekhar be transferred to the Juvenile Justice Board. The court also directed both accused to be present for the proceedings on February 25. This ruling underscores the complexities involved in long-pending cases and highlights the significance of age-related legal considerations in criminal trials
Govt determined to broaden horizons of edu for students of backward classes: Itoo
Flags off 250 EWS students for cultural tour under Watan ko Jaano JAMMU: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo on Sunday flagged off a group of 250 school children for cultural tour to Delhi, Jaipur and Ajmer under Watan ko Jaano Youth Exchange programme. The 13 day tour is []
Itoo flags-off 250 EWS students for cultural tour under Watan ko Jaano
Jammu, Feb 16: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, today flagged off a group of 250 school children for cultural tour to Delhi, Jaipur and Ajmer under Watan ko Jaano Youth Exchange programme. The 13 day tour is being organised by the Social Welfare department in collaboration with Union []
Rajasthan CM Bhajan Lal Sharma, Swami Ramdev discuss promoting Yoga & Ayurveda in the state
Rajasthan CM Bhajan Lal Sharma, Swami Ramdev discuss promoting Yoga & Ayurveda in the state Jaipur: Yoga Guru Swami Ramdev met Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma at the latters residence here on Sunday. The Chief Minister shared details of the meeting on his official X handle. Today, I had the honour of meeting [] The post Rajasthan CM Bhajan Lal Sharma, Swami Ramdev discuss promoting Yoga & Ayurveda in the state appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Rajasthan Congress leaders mourn stampede deaths; slam BJP for poor crowd management
JAIPUR: Rajasthan Congress leaders expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of 18 people in a stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday night. They criticised the BJP-led central government and the railway authorities for inadequate crowd management, particularly in light of the large number of devotees travelling for the Kumbh Mela. Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot claimed that better arrangements could have prevented such a devastating incident. It is extremely sad to hear about the loss of so many lives in this stampede. My heartfelt condolences go out to the bereaved families affected by this unfortunate event, he said. Gehlot further emphasised the need for accountability, stating, Proper arrangements should have been put in place to manage the massive crowd of Kumbh devotees, which could have averted this tragedy. I hope strict action will be taken against those responsible. The Railway Ministry must ensure that such incidents do not recur in the future. I also pray for the speedy recovery of the injured. Congress leader Sachin Pilot also expressed grief over the incident, calling it deeply saddening and heartbreaking. He added, The loss of so many lives, including children, in this tragic accident is extremely painful. I extend my deepest condolences to the grieving families and pray for the quick recovery of the injured. Immediate and effective measures must be taken to prevent such tragedies in the future. 'Confusing announcements triggered stampede': Delhi police say after initial probe Meanwhile, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, and Governor Haribhau Kisanrao Bagde also expressed their sympathies to the victims and their families. Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma stated, The news of lives lost in this accident is deeply saddening. My heartfelt condolences go to the bereaved families. May God grant peace to the departed souls and strength to their families. I also wish a speedy recovery to the injured. Om Shanti. Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari echoed similar sentiments, saying, I am deeply shocked by this painful news. My prayers are with the families of the deceased, and I hope for the swift recovery of those injured. Governor Haribhau Kisanrao Bagde also conveyed his condolences, stating, I pray for the peace of the departed souls and strength for their families to bear this immense loss. I also wish for the speedy recovery of all those injured. The tragic incident has sparked concerns over crowd control and railway safety, with political leaders calling for urgent reforms to prevent such disasters in the future. High-level committee begins probe into New Delhi railway station stampede that killed 18 people
Rishi Sunak in India: Taj Mahal visit, cricket at Wankhede & more
Former UK PM Rishi Sunak visited the Taj Mahal, attended the Jaipur Lit Fest with his in-laws, and watched the India vs England T20I in Mumbai. He also played tennis ball cricket during his India trip.
IPL 2025 To Kick Off On March 22 With Kolkata Knight Riders vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru
Dharamsala will be the second home venue of Punjab Kings after Mullanpur, while Rajasthan Royals will set up their base in the Northeastern City apart from regular venue Jaipur.
Trump Turns Up At Lit Fests All Over!
The dramatic moves of Donald Trump, which have shaken up the global order, dominated the discussion. A sense of bewilderment prevailed, but there was also expectation that President Trump would settle down to a more traditional style of governance after a time of shock and awe, observes Ambassador T P Sreenivasan, an attendee at literary festivals in Calicut, Jaipur, Kochi, Sharjah and Thiruvanathapuram.
Kumbh Mela Devotee Found Dead on Train in Nizamabad
A 59-year-old woman returning from Maha Kumbh Mela was found dead on Jaipur-Hyderabad Express at Nizamabad station. Probe underway.
The transformation of six heritage buildings across India
From a 150-year-old house in Kolkata to a garden pavilion in Jaipur, here are some examples of adaptive reuse strategies that retain heritage features but improve accessibility and modern purpose in crowded cities
This Jaipur Based Startup Is Turning Coconut Shells Into Battery Superchargers
Have you ever heard about 55 Cancri e? Discovered by NASA in 2004, the exoplanet, located about 41 light-years from
Rajasthan Minister in Kerala for educational tour
Rajasthan Minister in Kerala for educational tour Jaipur: A delegation from the Rajasthan government, led by State Panchayati Raj Minister Madan Dilawar, embarked on an educational tour to Kerala to explore advancements in the Panchayati Raj system. On the first day of the visit, Minister Madan Dilawar had a packed schedule, engaging in discussions [] The post Rajasthan Minister in Kerala for educational tour appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Jaipur Diary | CM blends governance with spiritual spectacle
After he wasnt content with just one dip at the Maha Kumbh, CM Bhajanlal Sharma returned for another! First, he was spotted taking the holy plunge alongside Madhya Pradesh CM Mohanlal Yadav, a moment that got political circles buzzing. But the showstopper came when Sharma, accompanied by cabinet ministers, party MLAs and even the Assembly Speaker took the holy dip at Sangam. Politics followed them into the waters! Even a cabinet meeting was held at the Rajasthan Mandap in Prayagraj, blending governance with the spiritual spectacle. Is it in my hands? Raje reply triggers flutter Is Vasundhara Raje set for a political comeback or resigned to the sidelines? A viral video has set Rajasthan political circles abuzz after a supporter urged the two-time CM to take back the top post. Her response: a dramatic raise of both hands and a loaded question Is it in my hands? The remark has fueled fresh speculation about Rajes standing in BJP. Once the partys face in Rajasthan, the 71-year-old was seen as a frontrunner for the CM post after 2023 Assembly polls. Surprisingly, BJP chose debutant MLA Bhajanlal Sharma instead, leaving Raje loyalists fuming. Phone-tapping back in desert state politics Phone tapping is back in headlines in Rajasthan. At a recent public meeting, BJP leader Kirodi Lal Meena shocked everyone by accusing his own partys government of tapping his phone, sparking a political storm. But after facing much heat, Meena backtracked, apologising and clarifying his statement. But the damage was already done; the controversy had already been reignited. This uproar has dragged Rajasthans old phone-tapping scandal back into limelight. During Sachin Pilots 2020 rebellion, former CM Ashok Gehlot was accused of snooping on both Congress and BJP leaders. Sensing an opportunity, Pilot has now raked up the past. Rajesh Asnani Our correspondent in Jaipur rajesh.asnani@newindianexpress.com
Replace Urdu with Sanskrit: Rajasthan education department to govt school
Rajasthan's education department has instructed a school in Jaipur to discontinue Urdu classes and instead offer Sanskrit due to low Urdu enrollment. The decision followed a letter from the education minister's assistant. Despite an order claiming no such directive, protests from teachers ensued.
Rajasthan CM approves Rs 24 cr for Krishi Upaj Mandi Samitis
Rajasthan CM approves Rs 24 cr for Krishi Upaj Mandi Samitis Jaipur: To enhance facilities for farmers and traders, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma has granted administrative and financial approval for development works worth over Rs 24 crore in various Krishi Upaj Mandi Samitis across the state. Under this initiative, an amount of over [] The post Rajasthan CM approves Rs 24 cr for Krishi Upaj Mandi Samitis appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Three MP Kumbh returnees killed after bus collides with parked truck in Rajasthan
Three MP Kumbh returnees killed after bus collides with parked truck in Rajasthan Jaipur: At least three people were killed and two others seriously injured when the bus they were travelling in crashed into a parked truck on the Delhi-Mumbai eight-lane expressway in Rajasthan. The bus was carrying devotees from Maha Kumbh in Uttar Pradeshs [] The post Three MP Kumbh returnees killed after bus collides with parked truck in Rajasthan appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
In attacking BJP over phone tapping charges, Pilot also targets Gehlot
JAIPUR: Senior Congress leader Sachin Pilot launched a sharp attack on the BJP-led Rajasthan government over allegations of phone tapping made by its own Cabinet Minister Kirori Lal Meena. Speaking in Jaipur on Wednesday, Pilot questioned the government's inaction on the issue, emphasizing that such claims from a minister within the ruling party were alarming. If a responsible minister from their own government is saying his phone has been tapped, then action must be taken immediately, Pilot asserted. Expressing his astonishment, he added that instead of addressing the issue, the BJP leadership was issuing show-cause notices to Meena. Highlighting the principle of collective responsibility in governance, Pilot demanded a transparent investigation and urged the government to release a white paper on the matter. While targeting the BJP, Pilot also seemed to take an indirect dig at his own partys past actions under Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot. Phone tapping is a serious crime, whether it happened now or in the pastit must be thoroughly investigated, he remarked. His statement is significant, as the Gehlot-led Congress government had faced similar allegations in 2020. During Pilots rebellion against Gehlots leadership, several MLAs loyal to him had accused the government of surveillance and phone tapping. When asked about those past allegations, Pilot responded cautiously, stating, The matter is sub judice, under investigation, and the truth will eventually come out. The phone-tapping controversy has created a major stir in the Rajasthan Assembly, with the Congress seizing the opportunity to put the BJP on the defensive. However, the issue has also reignited scrutiny over former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlots tenure. BJP leader and Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat had previously filed a case over alleged phone surveillance, while former OSD to Gehlot, Lokesh Sharma, admitted in court that he had received phone recordings of rebel MLAs on a pen drive from Gehlot, which were then circulated to the media. The case is currently under trial at Patiala House Court in Delhi. Apart from addressing the phone-tapping row, Pilot also raised concerns about the ongoing farmers' agitation in Gharsana, where farmers are demanding increased water supply from the canal system. Warning that the protest could escalate, he urged the government to intervene immediately, noting that Gharsana has a history of intense farmer movements. As political tensions rise in Rajasthan, the phone-tapping allegations have become a major flashpoint, with both the Congress and BJP using them to corner each other. With legal proceedings underway, the issue is set to remain a focal point in the states political discourse.
Couple killed, six injured in road accident in Rajasthan
JAIPUR: A couple was killed and six others were injured when their car rammed into a divider near a toll in Rajasthan's Shrimadhopur area on Wednesday, police said. The deceased were identified as Ajit Singh (35) and his wife Seema (33), police said. According to police, the victims were travelling from Agra to Khatushyamji. Their vehicle rammed into a divider near the closed Ralavata toll on Khandela Road. Ajit Singh died on the spot and his wife died on the way to the hospital. All were rushed to a nearby hospital in Jaipur, Head Constable, Shriram said.
YouTuber booked for 'fake video' of getting police escort
YouTuber Elvish Yadav has been booked for posting a misleading video claiming he was escorted by the Rajasthan Police during a music video shoot in Jaipur. The police have denied providing any official security to Yadav and have registered a case against him for attempting to damage the reputation of the Rajasthan Police. The controversy erupted after Yadav uploaded a video on social media showing him traveling in a car with a police vehicle moving ahead of him. While Yadav claimed the police were escorting them, the Rajasthan Police has refuted this claim, stating that no such escort was provided. The matter is currently under investigation.
Elvish Yadav booked over 'false' claims of getting police escort during Jaipur shoot
The police have dismissed his claim, stating that no official security was provided to Mr. Yadav and a case has been registered against him for trying to damage the reputation of Rajasthan Police.
FIR to be filed against YouTuber Elvish Yadav after viral video triggers 'favouritism' allegations
JAIPUR: Controversial social media star and YouTuber Elvish Yadav is likely to face huge trouble from Rajasthan Police. A case against Yadav and former minister Pratap Singh Khachariyawa's son is set to be registered following a viral video that sparked allegations of 'police favouritism'. Jaipur Police Commissioner Biju George announced on Tuesday that legal action would be taken against both individuals. The controversy in Jaipur has erupted just at a time when social media influencer Ranveer Allahabadia, popularly known as Beer-Biceps, has sparked off a national furore over his obscene and objectionable comments in a programme called Indias Got Latent. The row in Rajasthan got ignited after Elvish Yadav visited Jaipur on February 8 for a song recording and uploaded a video blog featuring multiple police vehicles, including Dial 112 and a Chetak Escort patrol vehicle. In the video, Elvish and Khachariyawas's son allegedly claimed that these vehicles were part of their escort security, leading to widespread public scrutiny. The video shared on Elvish Yadav's social media handle, shows a police vehicle moving ahead of his car. At one point, Elvish can be heard saying to a co-passenger, Look, our Gypsy is back. He then asks about another vehicle, to which the person responds, The white one will come tomorrow. Its from the police station. Elvish then replies, It has come from the police station here. Reports suggest that the person sitting next to Elvish is Pratap Singh Khachariyawas's son. In the 15-minute vlog, Jaipur Police vehicles can be seen escorting Elvishs convoy. The Chetak-14 patrol vehicle allegedly accompanied him from Patrika Gate to his hotel, while a Dial 112 helpline vehicle followed him during his trip to Sambhar. Another white-colored police vehicle reportedly escorted him to Gurugram. The viral video sparked a backlash, with social media users accusing Jaipur Police of providing VIP treatment to the controversial YouTuber. However, authorities denied these claims, stating that no special security was assigned to Elvish Yadav. Additional Commissioner Rameshwar Singh clarified that no official vehicle was sent from the Commissionerate for Elvishs security. He emphasized that special escort vehicles are deployed only with prior approval, and not general police vehicles like Dial 112. At a press conference, Police Commissioner Biju George Joseph further stated, Elvish has misrepresented an old video to spread false propaganda. No security was provided to him, and we will take legal action against both. This is not the first time that Pratap Singh Khachariyawass son has been caught in controversy. Earlier, he was accused of assaulting the staff of a beer bar. Similarly, the son of Shanti Dhariwal, a former minister in the Gehlot cabinet has also faced serious allegations, including a rape accusation.
Rajasthan pushes green mobility with Rs 200cr electric vehicle subsidy
Jaipur: In a major decision to push electric mobility in the state, the Rajasthan government has decided to establish a 200 crore e-vehicle promotion fund under its Electric Vehicle Policy-2022. The initiative, aligned with the FAME-2 (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles) guidelines, aims to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) []
Muslim wedding card goes viral for THIS bizarre reason, leaves netizens amused, check here
An image of a wedding invitation has emerged on the Facebook page of Faiq Ateeq Kidwai, revealing that the wedding is set for February 9, 2025, in Jaipur. While the rest of the invitation follows traditional formats, the 'Darshanabhilashi' section has garnered significant attention.
As vigilance up in bigger airports, animal smuggling gangs jump to Andamans
CHENNAI: For the first time in the airports history, Customs and wildlife officials at the Port Blair international airport in Andaman and Nicobar Islands registered a case of exotic species smuggling against two Singapore citizens who arrived from Kuala Lumpur on Saturday, sources said. Based on intelligence, eight baby monkeys identified as pig-tailed macaque and gibbons were recovered from the bags of brothers MI Muhammed Abdullah and Mohammed Alavudeen who had travelled on the Air Asia flight AK55 . Originally from Kanniyakumari, the accused were on their way to Bengaluru, where the animals were to be delivered, the sources said. They were arrested by wildlife officials of Andaman and Nicobar under the Wildlife Protection Act, sources from the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) said. The animals, which are native to Southeast Asian countries, have been rescued and are under observation. The animals will be re-exported back to Malaysia, an official said. Both the macaque and gibbon are endangered species listed in the appendixes of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and safeguarded under the Wildlife Protection Act (WLPA). If the smugglers had evaded Customs at Port Blair, they might have had an easy pass to Bengaluru, as Customs does not have a presence in domestic terminals, sources said, explaining the modus operandi. The Port Blair seizure of exotic species is the latest indication that the organised smuggling racket operating from Thailand and Malaysia is moving away from Chennai and Bengaluru, where Customs and DRI strengthened vigilance. Earlier, such seizures were made for the first time in airports like Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam. The Tamil Nadu link to these seizures is also being closely monitored, official sources said. Gibbon On February 5, Abdul Rahman Ahamed, a 27-year-old from Chennai was arrested by Customs officials at Mumbai airport after five baby Siamang gibbons were seized from his bag. He had arrived from Kuala Lumpur on the Malaysian Airlines flight. Three of the baby monkeys had died during travel, while two remain critical. On February 7, Customs officials at Jaipur airport seized exotic snakes, lizards, spiders and other reptiles from two passengers who landed from Bangkok. On the same day, two red-shanked doucs, a primate native to Southeast Asian countries, were seized from a youngster who landed from Bangkok. He was employed as a carrier by a Tamil man from Bangkok. Officials are worried about the trend of smuggling exotic species into airports across India. Chennai Customs has written to WCCB seeking a red corner notice against two Tamil men who are alleged kingpins of this trade and operating from Thailand, sources said. Monkeying with rules Recent seizures of Exotic species from Thailand and Malaysia February 8, Port Blair: Four gibbons and four macaques seized from two passengers from Kuala Lumpur February 7, Jaipur: Exotic snakes, iguana, squirrel and tarantula seized from two passengers from Bangkok February 6, Kolkata: Two red-shanked douc seized from one passenger from Bangkok
JAIPUR: In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the North-Western Railway (NWR) is set to deploy psychologists to help employees cope with increasing work pressure and stress. This move makes NWR the first railway zone in the country to introduce such a program. Under the initiative, psychologists will interact with employees and provide counselling sessions every 15 days. According to railway sources, nearly 12,000 posts are currently vacant in the NWR, including 230 vacancies in the headquarters alone. This acute shortage of staff has significantly increased the workload on existing employees. Over the past two years, around 62 officers and employees from various departmentsincluding personnel, operations, commercial, and accountshave opted for voluntary retirement (VRS) due to stress. To counter this growing issue, psychologists are being appointed to assist officers and employees in managing their mental well-being. APO/T Amritlal Meena of the Railway Headquarters has issued an order regarding the deployment of psychologists. As per the order, psychologists will be stationed at key locations, including the headquarters in Jaipur, the DRM offices in Ajmer, Bikaner, and Jodhpur, as well as the Ajmer Workshop. These professionals will be hired on a contract basis. Notably, this initiative is being implemented on the recommendation of General Manager Amitabh. Instead of abolishing existing vacant Level-5 posts, these positions will be reallocated for the appointment of psychologists. Employees Union General Secretary Mukesh Mathur has praised the move, stating that the NWR is setting a precedent by prioritizing employee mental health. The decision to introduce psychologists comes in the wake of the recent suicide of Chief OS Narsilal Meena. According to railway sources, Meena had been struggling with work pressure and the inability to take leave for a long time. However, railway authorities have not officially confirmed any direct link between work stress and his death. Speaking on the matter, the Chief Public Relations Officer of Northern Railway Shashi said, Workload will always be there, but employees should not feel stressed in the office environment. If any employee is facing personal issues affecting their mental health, counsellors will help address them. We will begin this initiative from the headquarters and four divisions, gradually expanding further. Employees from all departments will be mapped and counselled in batches. He further assured that the recruitment process for vacant positions is ongoing and that efforts are being made to fill them as soon as possible. For the first time, we are introducing psychologists and counselors at the headquarters and division levels. They will regularly interact with railway employees to identify any psychological issues or mental health concerns. The goal is to provide appropriate solutions to help employees overcome stress, anxiety, and depression. The official added, While workload cannot be eliminated, we want to ensure that employees do not feel overwhelmed due to work or personal issues. The North-Western Railway already has a positive work environment, and we aim to make it even more supportive and stress-free. With this initiative, the NWR is taking a progressive step toward addressing employee well-being, setting an example for other railway zones across the country.
BJP issues show-cause notice to Rajasthan minister Kirodi Lal Meena over phone tapping allegations
JAIPUR: BJP state president Madan Rathore has issued a show-cause notice to Rajasthan Agriculture Minister Kirodi Lal Meena, citing indiscipline over his recent statement alleging that his own government was tapping his phone. The party has deemed his remarks a violation of discipline and has sought a reply within three days. In the notice sent to Meena, the BJP reminded him of his position as a party member, an elected MLA from Sawai Madhopur, and a minister in the Rajasthan government. The notice specifically pointed out that Meena had publicly accused the BJP-led government of phone tapping and had provided information regarding his potential resignation from the Council of Ministers for media publication. The party stated that such claims were baseless and had tarnished the image of the BJP government. The notice further emphasized that Meenas actions fell under the category of indiscipline as per the partys constitution. It also mentioned that the BJPs national president had taken cognizance of the matter and instructed the issuance of the notice. Meena has been given three days to respond, failing which it will be assumed that he has no defence against the allegations. It is notable that Kirodi Lal Meena, last week, made explosive claims during a public event, stating, My own government is tapping my phone. CID has been assigned to keep me under surveillance. He alleged that he had been monitored ever since he raised concerns about corruption and irregularities in the high-profile SI (Sub-Inspector) recruitment examination. His statement sparked a political uproar, with the opposition seizing the opportunity to attack the ruling party. The Congress and other opposition leaders created chaos in the Rajasthan Assembly, demanding Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharmas resignation and a clear explanation on the issue. Meena has been vocal in his dissatisfaction with the BJP government. On multiple occasions, he has accused the administration of corruption and mismanagement, particularly in recruitment exams. There were even reports that he was considering resigning from the cabinet. Sources suggest that Meena had expected a key portfolio, such as the Medical Department, and his disappointment over not receiving it has fueled his resentment. In an attempt to pacify him, the BJP had nominated his brother for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. However, Meenas failure to secure a victory in his stronghold has only widened the rift between him and the party leadership. Now, with the disciplinary notice issued, it is evident that the BJP is in no mood to tolerate his repeated outbursts. Political analysts believe that Meena may try to turn the situation to his advantage by portraying himself as a political martyr, leveraging public sympathy. This wouldnt be the first time he has taken such a stand. All eyes are now on Meenas response to the partys notice, which could determine his future within the BJP and Rajasthans political landscape.
Jaipur Cops Arrest Woman Who Made Allegations Against Jana Sena Leader Kiran Rayal
Meanwhile, Jana Sena gave a reply issuing an official statement on Sunday. The party confirmed that its president Pawan Kalyan had ordered a thorough inquiry into the matter.
From Jaipur to Bengaluru: Chef Karan Upmanyu's culinary journey - Mint
From Jaipur to Bengaluru: Chef Karan Upmanyu's culinary journey Mint
Jana Sena Party launches probe into allegations of extortion against Kiran Royal
TIRUPATI: Jana Sena Party (JSP) President and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has directed the partys Conflict Committee to investigate the allegations made against the Tirupati constituency in-charge, Kiran Royal. The directive follows the release of a video on social media platform X by YSRCP, in which a woman from Tirupati, identified as Lakshmi, accused Kiran of fraud, extortion, and claimed that he took over Rs 1.20 crore and 25 sovereigns (200 grams) of gold from her under false promises, leaving her in severe financial distress. In the now-viral video, she revealed that she had been driven to the brink of suicide due to his actions. In the video, Lakshmi said: I took loans and gave Rs 1.20 crore (to Kiran Royal). When I asked for my money back, I was threatened that my children would be harmed. He made me record videos under duress. He only gave me bonds and cheques worth Rs 30 lakh. I have all the proof. My children are asking me questions, and I have no answers. I cannot live anymore. If I die, I only hope that my children will get back the money. Until further notice, Kiran has been instructed to refrain from participating in party activities. Pawan also urged party members, including Jana Sainiks, Veera Mahilas, and leaders, to focus on public welfare and avoid personal disputes. He emphasised that no one is above the law and that the legal process will take its course. The YSRCP released Lakshmis video shortly after Kiran published a satirical poster criticising party president and former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy over his Jagananna 2.0 remark. Kiran denies charges; Lakshmi releases 10 voice recordings It may be pointed out that Jagan, during a recent interaction with YSRCP activists, had stressed that Jagananna 2.0 would be different, focusing on protecting and supporting every party activist. Following the allegations, women from various organisations gathered outside Kirans residence on Sunday, demanding his arrest. The police intervened and attempted to disperse the crowd, warning them of potential arrests if they continued their demonstration. However, the protesting women vowed to continue their fight for justice. Womens organisations also met with Lakshmi, expressed their support, and demanded that the JSP suspend Kiran Royal immediately. As the video spread widely, Kiran Royal allegedly contacted Lakshmi and hurled abuse at her, further intimidating her. In response, Lakshmi released voice recordings in which Kiran was heard threatening to kill her and stating that he would be released from jail within a month. Reacting to the allegations, Kiran held a press conference in which he dismissed Lakshmis claims, labelling her a criminal with cases in Jaipur, Visakhapatnam, and Bengaluru. He alleged that she was involved in betting rackets and had incurred debts due to her own actions. However, Lakshmi refuted these claims and provided additional evidence, including 10 voice recordings of Kiran threatening her, some of which contained explicit abuse and death threats. She also released CCTV footage showing him visiting her office and intimidating her. The woman stated that she approached the SV University SI for protection. She is likely to file an official complaint with the Tirupati SP on Monday. Womens organisations and protesters have demanded Kiran Royals immediate suspension from the party, questioning JSPs commitment to womens safety. Is this how Pawan Kalyan ensures womens protection? they asked. Lakshmi also stated that she has solid evidence against Kiran Royal and urged the authorities to take strict action.
No One Can Undermine Farmers Role In Indias Journey Towards Development: VP Dhankhar
JAIPUR, Feb 9: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Sunday said that no one can undermine the role of farmers in Indias journey towards development. Addressing the Akhil Mewar Region Jat Mahasabha in Chittorgarh, the vice-president said the farmers possess political strength and economic capability, adding they should not depend on anyones help. When the economic situation of farmers improves, the countrys situation improves. After all, farmers are the providers and they should not look to anyone or depend on anyone [] The post No One Can Undermine Farmers Role In Indias Journey Towards Development: VP Dhankhar appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Rajasthan Dy CM takes holy dip at Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj
Rajasthan Dy CM takes holy dip at Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj Jaipur: Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari took a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj on Saturday and offered prayers to Ganga with full rituals. She expressed her gratitude and divine connection with the sacred event, saying: Being present [] The post Rajasthan Dy CM takes holy dip at Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Fact Check: Viral 2019 Train Crash Video Falsely Linked to Jaipur
A 2019 Hyderabad train collision video is falsely shared as a Jaipur accident in 2025. No such incident occurred.
Rajasthan Minister Kirodi Meena claims own govt phone tapping him for raising concern on corruption
JAIPUR: Cabinet Minister Dr Kirori Lal Meena has yet again stirred controversy in Rajasthan by claiming that his own party's government is tapping his phone. He alleged being under surveillance since raising concerns about corruption in the high-profile SI (Sub-Inspector) examination. Speaking at an event in Jaipur, Dr Meena said, When I demanded the cancellation of the SI examination, the government ignored me. Instead, I am facing the same treatment as in the previous regime. The CID is following me at every turn, and my phone conversations are being recorded. But this does not affect me. It is noteworthy that a few days ago, Dr Meena had made a cryptic statement in the Rajasthan Assembly, saying, This is the era of deception. If we always agree, relationships remain intact. But if someone dares to say 'no' in a world of 'yes-men,' he will perish. I do not believe in blindly agreeing; I speak the truth, even if it pains me. Dr Kirori Lal Meena has expressed his dissatisfaction with the Bhajan Lal government since its formation. He has repeatedly accused the government of corruption in various departments and irregularities in recruitment exams. At one point, he even hinted at resigning from the cabinet. Sources suggest that his disappointment over not being assigned a crucial portfolio, such as the Medical Department, has fueled his growing resentment. The BJP had attempted to pacify him by nominating his brother for the Lok Sabha elections, but Meena failed to secure a victory in his stronghold, further deepening the rift. Following Dr Meenas allegations, a major political showdown is expected in the Rajasthan Assembly. The opposition, led by Congress, is preparing to raise the issue of phone tapping aggressively. From Zero Hour to the debate on the Governors address, opposition MLAs plan to attack the government on the floor of the House. Meanwhile, the BJP is likely to counter the Congress by pointing out similar allegations of phone tapping against the previous government. However, what makes this case unique is that a sitting minister has accused his own governmenta situation that puts the ruling party in a precarious position. As tensions rise, all eyes are now on the Rajasthan Assembly, where a heated debate is expected in the coming days.
8 Dead As Bus Collides With Van After Tyre Burst On Rajasthan Highway
Eight people were killed after a Rajasthan roadways bus collided with a van in Jaipur's Dudu district on Thursday following a tyre burst, police said.
Notes from the Jaipur Literature Festival
Where major themes ranged from AI in publishing to the Israel-Palestine conflict, and stardom arrived with the Murthy-Sunak quartet
Government plans new law to facilitate safe overseas migration amid US deportations
NEW DELHI: The government is seriously considering enacting a new legislation to establish an enabling framework that will promote safe, orderly and regular migration for overseas employment. The proposal to frame a new law comes at a time when the US has deported 104 illegal Indian immigrants. The proposed legislation on Emigration (Overseas Mobility (Facilitation and Welfare) Bill, 2024) seeks to replace the Emigration Act of 1983 with a view to facilitate the circular mobility of people intending to emigrate for overseas employment. This has emerged from a report by the Parliamentary Committee on External Affairs chaired by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, which was presented in Parliament on Monday. Countries are 'obligated' to take back illegal immigrants: Jaishankar speaks on deportations by US in Rajya Sabha The panel also said it desires establishment of PoE (Protector of Emigrants) offices in states where such offices do not exist currently and additional PoE offices in migration hotspots, including states like Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, etc, should be expedited to ensure better outreach and support for emigrants. The Committee said the emigration process in India is governed by the Emigration Act of 1983, administered by the Ministry of External Affairs through the Protector General of Emigrants (PGE). Keeping in view the contemporary global migration dynamics and the needs of Indian citizens, the Committee has over the years underscored the pressing need for a comprehensive legislative overhaul to replace the outdated provisions of the Emigration Act 1983, the report says. After much delay, the Ministry is seriously considering enacting a new law tentatively titled 'Overseas Mobility (Facilitation and Welfare) Bill, 2024,' it said. The Ministry has told the Committee that the proposed draft is under consultation with line Ministries and will, thereafter, be put up for public consultations, it said. The Committee has said it desires that it should be consulted on the salient features of the Bill and the enactment of a revised act reflecting changed global migration realities should be done in a time bound manner i.e.not later than one year. Legs and hands tied: Deportees recount 40-hour flight back from the US under harsh conditions An update about the progress made in this regard may be submitted to the Committee within three months, it added. The report further said that after the internal consultations draft will be put up for public consultation for 15/30 days thereafter it will be followed up by Inter Ministerial Consultations along with the Draft Cabinet Note on revised draft. The Ministry has also informed that the Protector General of Emigrants (PGE) oversees the functioning of all Protector of Emigrants (PoE) offices across India. As of now there are 14 offices of the Protector of Emigrants (POEs) located at Mumbai, Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata, Chandigarh, Hyderabad, Cochin, Thiruvananthapuram, Jaipur, Raebareli, Patna, Bengaluru, Guwahati and Ranchi. In order to expand the outreach of the PoEs, the Ministry has established additional PoE offices in Patna, Bengaluru and Guwahati, which are fully functional, it said. Additional offices are being planned in Tripura, Bhubaneswar and Ahmedabad, the report said. Underlining the need to spread awareness about safe migration, the Committee has recommend that the Ministry should collaborate with local civil society groups, media outlets in the most affected regions to ensure that emigrants are fully informed about their rights, processes involved and the risks of illegal migration. In addition, the Committee has urged that all citizens departing India should be given basic information at the immigration counters. A US military aircraft carrying 104 illegal immigrants from various states landed in Amritsar in Punjab on Wednesday, the first such batch of Indians deported by the Trump government as part of a crackdown against illegal immigrants. Why did PM Modi let this happen: Priyanka Gandhi questions Centre on deportation of Indians from US
Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur Opens, Offering a Window into Rajasthan's Royal Heritage
GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme.
On the sidelines of the Jaipur Literature Festival, the author talks about penning characters that are multi-dimensional and true to her feminist ideals
Rajasthan court holds state liable for mans death in bullfight; orders Rs 33 lakh compensation
JAIPUR: In a significant ruling, the district court in Bikaner has held the state government accountable for the death of a man caused by a bullfight and ordered compensation of 33.22 lakh to the victims family. The case dates back to May 21, 2018, when 40-year-old Asharam Suthar, a resident of Kesardesar Jatan village, was on his way home. As he passed through a street, two fighting bulls collided with him, resulting in fatal injuries. His family subsequently filed a compensation claim, which led to the court's decision. In its ruling, the court held both the Gram Panchayat and the Rajasthan government responsible for negligence. It stated, Ensuring the safety of citizens and managing stray animals is the duty of the authorities. Proper arrangements should have been made to relocate such animals to shelters or implement government schemes to prevent such incidents. Their failure to do so resulted in Asarams untimely death. Breakdown of Compensation The court ordered the defendants to jointly or separately pay 33,22,600 to the deceaseds heirs, allocated as follows: 32,52,600 as compensation for loss of life. 40,000 for emotional loss to the wife. 15,000 for funeral expenses. 15,000 for loss of estate. Income and Dependency Calculation According to the court, Asharams annual income from carpentry and agriculture was estimated at 2,89,117, averaging 24,093 per month. Considering his six dependentshis wife, three children, and parentsa deduction of 6,023 for personal expenses was applied, leaving 18,070 as the dependent family's financial loss. Based on this, the total compensation amount was determined. This landmark verdict could set a precedent for similar cases where individuals have lost their lives, suffered disabilities, or incurred major losses due to stray animal attacks.
The clip, shared on Instagram by Hetwik Singh, (Jaipur Idol winner) features him strumming his guitar and delivering the timeless melody. As his voice resonates, the audience eagerly joins in, creating an impromptu chorus that adds to the video's charm.
Hindu Sena supports Diwans demand to declare Ajmer Dargah a Jain pilgrimage site
Jaipur: The Hindu Sena said on Wednesday that they supported the Ajmer Dargah Diwan Syed Zainul Abedin Ali Khans demand to declare the historic shrine as a Jain pilgrimage site At least he (Diwan) has acknowledged that this is a Jain pilgrimage site. He has also accepted that Jain temples once stood here, said Vishnu 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 .
Shakespeare plays and Freuds theories at second chance in life
NEW DELHI: On day four of the Jaipur Literature Festival, a packed house was seen at an interesting session that talked about Shakespeare and Sigmund Freud the two most discussed figures in literature and philosophy. In the session on book In Second Chances: Shakespeare and Freud, American historian Stephen Greenblatt spoke about the theme of a second chance in life with an examination of Shakespeares plays and Freuds theories with Paul Smith. Greenblatt wove through plays like Hamlet, King Lear, Othello and The Winters Tale to discuss how Shakespeare desired a second chance in life through his stories. He shared how these stories present a deep-seated hope for redemption despite difficult circumstances. Smith said opening the session that the book relates to every individual. The book is about how you live your life and how you actually accept your life or not accept it and try to change it. Greenblatt said that Shakespeare was oddly obsessed with the possibility of having a second chance. It was a feeling that you could glimpse early in his career which became increasingly intense as he got older. For instance, his later stage plays like The Winters Tale and The Tempest, are very explicitly and directly concerned with the notion that youve ruined something in your life -- something has fallen apart and youre dreaming about the possibility of getting something back. Greenblatt mentioned how Shakespeares longing for another chance is also reflected in his personal life. He moved to London for his career leaving behind his family of two daughters, a son and a wife. Shakespeare was absent from his familys lives. He didnt abandon them financially but on a sentimental level was not there with them. When he decided to retire in his 40s, he made the decision to return to his family. Shakespeare began to think about what relations would be between fathers and daughters, and whether it would be possible for a father to find the daughter that he had lost, and whether it would be possible for the daughter to find the father whom she had lost due to long periods of absence. That feeling that you might reconnect after a terrifying period of absence is one that haunts his late plays.
Royalty share well-guarded recipes, culinary practices at Jaipur Lit Fest
JAIPUR: Billed as the greatest literary show on Earth, the Jaipur Literature Festival 2025 has brought together a vibrant mix of writers and thinkers exploring the transformative power of literature and its unique ability to connect people across cultures. Sessions on Food and Culinary cultures across the globe is a special highlight of the JLF this year and a session on Royal Recipe Traditions featuring Rohini Rana and Fiona Carnarvon was a delectable delight. In a free-wheeling chat with Meru Gokhale, a seasoned publishing professional, Rana and Fiona discussed their books on the cuisine of royalty in different parts of the world. In this session presented by TNIE , Rohini and Fiona the duo reflected on how royal recipes remained exclusive so far and how they have brought these recipes out of locked chests to the public through their recent books. In the session, Rohini shared details of her fine new book, Rana Cookbook . Rohini Rana, born in Uttar Pradesh in India, married into the Rana royalty of Nepal. Besides being an author, Rohini has been a restaurateur. She spoke at length on how her book is an endeavour to delve into the rich royal cuisine of the Ranas and revealed how she now curates recipes for the masses. As I was growing up, I found it is important to hang on to these old traditions and try to preserve them. That is, I think, most important in today's fast-changing culinary practices happening these days along with the bad digestive practices. And I think it's important to preserve culinary heritage and literature as the Rana family of Nepal is famous for culturally rich cuisines with Lucknow roots. During the session, Rohini talked about food culture of the Rana family of Nepal. She said that dal, bhat and tarkari (vegetables and meat) are the staple food in Nepal. She then said, In the Rana family, no one eats breakfast because they have lunch before 10 am, adding that is the best meal of her day. Then you go to the office from 10 am to 5 pm, where you have a mid-day meal called 'khaja' at 3 o' clock, which will consist of betan rice, vegetables, meat and sweets like jalebi, she further said. Dinner would be at 7:30 pm mostly, on a wooden stool in the kitchen, and a Brahmin lady or person of your own caste serves the food, she continued. In the same session, Lady Fiona Carnarvon spoke at length about her book, At Home at Highclere . Her much-acclaimed volume has virtually thrown open the doors to Highclere Castle in England. Fiona revealed how her effort was to showcase recipes from across the centuries in a bid to make the royal cuisine available to her readers. She also reflected on how the Highclere Castle has been the location of the award-winning show Downton Abbey which made the session even more appetising for the audience at JLF. Rohini and Fiona, although divided by distance, united over their love for food. The two speakers, members of royalty themselves, revealed how their recipes cook up a taste of the royal life and how that is closely intertwined with the culture of their spaces.
YouTube Video Shows Girl With Syringe, Court Flags Negligence In Custody Battle
Several YouTube videos shot by an 11-year-old girl in Jaipur, including one that showed her playing with a syringe, have highlighted the impact of social media on children and drawn strong remarks from the Rajasthan High Court.
Doctor's burnt body found in his room in government hospital in Rajasthan's Jalore
JAIPUR: A charred body of a doctor was found in a room of a government hospital in the Jalore district of Rajasthan on Monday morning with police suspecting that the fire was caused due to smoking, police said. According to police, the victim was identified as Muralilal Meena (45), a doctor working with the Ayurveda Hospital in Ummedabad village. He lived in a room within the hospital premises. On Monday morning, the police received information that smoke was emanating from his room, Circle Officer Gautam Jain said. A police team rushed to the spot and sent for the body for post-mortem. Prima facie it appears that the fire was caused due to smoking cigarettes in the room, Jain said. The victim was alone in the room when the incident happened. His family had gone to Jaipur to attend a wedding, the officer said. The officer added that no case has been registered yet. During the initial probe, the police found that Meena had difficulty in movement due to pain in his body and knees.
Rajasthan Law minister uses cuss word when asked in Assembly about crop damage due to floods
JAIPUR: The Rajasthan Assembly erupted in chaos on Monday when Parliamentary Affairs Minister Jogaram Patel used unparliamentary language in the House. Patel made the remarks during the Question Hour, which became a bone of contention when the house resumed after lunch for debate on the Governor's address. The matter settled when Patel apologised saying he did not mean to use the word. The incident occurred during a discussion, when Minister Otaram Dewasi was replying to the question raised by Congress MLA Chetan Patel related to crop damage due to floods. Leader of Opposition Tikaram Jully expressed his displeasure over the minister's answer and asked counter questions, leading to an uproar. And when Jully asked the minister to give the figures of damage in Sangod of Kota, Patel stood up and used an abusive word. As soon as the House resumed after lunch, Congress state president Govind Singh Dotasra said, The House was in session. When the Leader of Opposition was speaking, the Parliamentary Affairs Minister objected to the Leader of Opposition. He did not only objected, but also abused. There can be nothing more unfortunate than this. He added, What can be more shameful that the Parliamentary Affairs Minister abusing? We come here for the issues of the common people, we do not come here to be abused. Patel responded by saying he and his party always respected and honoured the members. We present our point effectively, we do not lack in this. There was no intention to hurt anyone's dignity, he said. I never had the intention to speak unparliamentary words in the House nor will I have in the future. If someone gets excited while speaking in the flow, there was no such intention. Therefore, it should be deleted and such feelings will never be there towards any member in future. I feel sorry for this, he added. Dotasra reacted saying, If it came in the record, then an apology should be made. Our Dhariwal ji had apologised, I had apologised on his behalf, you are the Law Minister. Patel said, I have not said this and if I have said it, then I feel sorry. We do not remain adamant like you. We respect everyone. Later, Speaker Vasudev Devnani directed the members to maintain decorum of the House. If something goes wrong, we should immediately take action against it. If something happens then I think there is no harm in apologising, he said. The House proceeded for debate on the Governor's address and adjourned till Wednesday. Rajasthan Assembly tables bill to curb 'unlawful' religious conversions
Telangana: 16 suspected poachers held at Kagaznagar rly station
Hyderabad: The state police reportedly has taken into custody a gang of wild animal poachers at the Kagaznagar railway station in Kumram Bheem-Asifabad district during routine checks on Monday. The poachers were caught in a train going from Jaipur to Chennai during the searches. The gang was suspected to be killing endangered wild animals by 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 .
Rajasthan assembly tables bill to curb unlawful religious conversions
JAIPUR: The Rajasthan Legislative Assembly on Monday tabled the Rajasthan Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Bill, 2025, aiming to curb religious conversions through inducement, fraudulent means, or marriage. The bill was introduced in the House by Health Minister Gajendra Singh Khinvsar, with Parliamentary Affairs Minister Jogaram Patel emphasising its necessity in the state. Patel stated that the bill addresses forced conversions, ensuring that othing should happen against a persons will. He alleged that several organizations and individuals were misleading people, particularly in tribal areas, through false propaganda and financial enticements. This law will grant rights to individuals so that no one is treated unfairly in the future. Strict legal provisions will prevent any forced conversions, he asserted. Leader of Opposition Tikaram Julie questioned the intent behind the bill, calling for a detailed review of its provisions. He remarked that while action should be taken against forced conversions, the government seemed more focused on religious propaganda than addressing pressing issues like deaths at the Kumbh Mela. The bill incorporates elements from the Rajasthan Religious Freedom Bill, 2008, which was twice passed during Vasundhara Rajes tenure but failed to receive central approval. Under the new bill, even voluntary religious conversion will require prior notification to the district collector at least 60 days in advance. A significant provision in the bill targets so-called love jihad. If a marriage is found to have been carried out for the sole purpose of religious conversion, it can be annulled by a family court. The bill defines love jihad as a marriage conducted with the intent of converting a persons religion. The legislation also introduces stricter penalties for forced conversions, particularly those involving minors, women, and individuals from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. Convictions could lead to imprisonment ranging from one to five years, along with fines. Additionally, the state government is considering mandatory registration of live-in relationships to ensure better oversight. Legal experts suggest that the bill aligns with the BJPs broader strategy of strengthening anti-conversion laws in states under its rule. If enacted, the Rajasthan law will set a significant precedent in curbing forced religious conversions while also sparking further political and social debates on personal freedoms and religious rights. The bill, after passing in the Assembly, will require Presidential assent before becoming law.
Indian job market enters 2025 on steady footing; white-collar hiring in Jan marks 4% YoY growth
India's white-collar job market began 2025 on a positive note with a 4% increase in hiring. Strong demand in sectors like FMCG, Insurance, and Pharma bolstered growth despite a dip in IT hiring. Emerging tech hubs like Jaipur and sector surges in Aviation, Media, and unicorn hiring contributed to the market's stability and growth.
Anti-conversion bill tabled in Rajasthan Assembly
JAIPUR: The Rajasthan Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Bill, 2025 was introduced in the ongoing Budget Session of the state Assembly on Monday. The offence under the anti-conversion bill will be cognisable and non-bailable and triable by a court. The Bill is aimed at prohibiting unlawful conversion from one religion to another and has provisions for imprisonment of up to 10 years and a fine of up to Rs 50,000. It was introduced by Health Minister Gajendra Singh Khinvsar and will be passed by the House following a debate during the session. Religious conversion by misrepresentation, force, undue influence, coercion, allurement or by any fraudulent means or by marriage has been made an offence in the Bill. The Bill provisions imprisonment for a term not less than one year but it may extend to five years with a fine of Rs 15,000. Those who violate the rules in respect of a minor, a woman or a person belonging to the Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe shall be punished with imprisonment for a term of two years which may extend to 10 years along with a fine of Rs 25,000. The bill provisions three years of jail extending up to 10 years and a fine of Rs 50,000 in case of mass conversion. However, those who desire to convert his/her religion shall give a declaration in the prescribed form at least sixty days in advance, to the District Magistrate. According to the aims and objectives of the Bill, the Constitution of India guarantees religious freedom to all people which reflects the social harmony and spirit of India. The objective of this right is to sustain the spirit of secularism in India. In the recent past, many such examples have come to light where gullible persons have been converted from one religion to another by misrepresentation, force, undue influence, coercion, allurement or fraudulent means. The law related to the right to religious freedom already exists in various states of the country but there was no statute on the said subject in Rajasthan. In view of the above, it was decided to enact a law to provide for prohibition of unlawful conversion, the Bill states. As per the Bill, the court shall also grant appropriate compensation payable by the accused to the victim of said conversion which may extend to a maximum of Rs 5 lakh. The Bill proposes double punishment for repeat offenders.
Rajasthans Startup Revolution Takes Centre Stage at Jaipur Literature Festival 2025
The 17th edition of the five-day-long annual Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF), touted by many as the worlds biggest literary extravaganza,
The 18th edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF) began on January 30 and ended on February 3, 2025. The festival was held at Hotel Clarks Amer in Jaipur, Rajasthan.
Three Worlds: Memoirs of an Arab Jew
JAIPUR: The morning of Day 4 at the Jaipur Literature Festival began on a nostalgic note. At the session, Three Worlds: Memoirs of an Arab Jew, organised by The New Indian Express, author and historian Avi Shlaim talked about his memoir with old friend and American historian Eugene Rogan. The author discussed how his book offers a deeply personal and poignant account of the Jewish community that once thrived in Iraq his home for the first five years of his life between 1945-50. Before 1948, there was a thriving Jewish community in the Middle East countries like Iran, Egypt, Iraq, and North Africa. Specially in Iraq, the Jewish community was well integrated into Iraqi society and even hand close bonds with locals. My family and I had a very comfortable life amid the prevailing religious tolerance towards minorities. My fondest memories are the ones where I slept under the starry sky at night on the roof and my garden table where we relished the feasts, Shlaim said. Shlaims world changed after the Farhud an anti-Jewish programme in Baghdad in 1941. It led to attacks on the Jewish community; murder, rape, looting and destruction of Jewish homes and businesses. We were left in shambles. Many Jewish families lost their Muslim friends in Baghdad as they were made to flee; the author recollects pieces from shattered lives Zionism, a movement towards re-establishment of a Jewish nation through formation of Israel in 1948, also contributed to displacement of Arab Jews. Zionism supported only European Jews; Iraqi Jews like us considered ourselves Arab Jews and had a distinct identity. When we were made to flee Baghdad to be in the new country of Israel, it felt like being uprooted like a tree from its roots. When many Jews came to Isreal, at the airport, they were sprayed with chemicals like DDT as part of disinfection, leading to a sense of dehumanisation in Isreal. I felt inferior as an Iraqi Jew living in Israel in the 1950s. He also shared that while his family endured much hardships for survival, his father went absolutely silent, out of hopelessness and depression. My mother stayed resilient. She took a telephonist job and became the breadwinner of the family when my father lost his business and fortune. She kept hopes when survival seemed difficult, he said remembering his mother Saida Shlaim. As the Israel-Palestine conflict is still not resolved, despite years of violence, refugee crisis, and deepening divide, Shlain hopes for a better future. He said, the two-state solution is there due to the Israeli settlement. I advocate one state where people can live peacefully, irrespective of religion, ethnicity, region, language. In Three Worlds: Memoirs of an Arab Jew, Avi Shlaim memoir brings to life the cultural richness of Arab-Jewish experience exploring complexities of identity and belonging.
Citing Vivekananda, Tharoor says mine is not only way of Hinduism
JAIPUR: Author and parliamentarian Shashi Tharoor, slamming Hindutva politics at the Jaipur Literature Festival on Sunday, said some people have reduced Hinduism to something like the team identity of the British football hooligan who become violent if someone doesnt support the team of their choice. Tharoor argued that religion is essentially a private domain, that ought to be independent of state encroachment. The Congress MP claimed that the people who have such a mindset often say, if you dont support my team, Im going to hit you on the head. Similarly, some say if you dont say, Jai Shri Ram, Im going to flog you. Tharoor added, Thats not Hinduism. That has nothing to do with Hinduism. Tharoor was sharing the stage with Spanish writer and co-author of the global bestseller Ikigai Francesc Miralles and discussed the way of Purusharthas the four goals of human life. The MP referred to Swami Vivekanandas teachings as he said that there are four ways to be a good Hindu. Tharoor also quoted Swami Vivekananda to assert that the Hindu will never light the fires of inquisition. He argued that there is no place for saying, mine is the only way in Hinduism. There is no place for saying, as some unfortunately now claim in the name of Hinduism they reduce it to something like the team identity of the British football hooligan. While discussing the different paths of Hinduism, Tharoor made a veiled attack on the BJP and RSS brand of politics. In an implicit criticism of right-wing politics. In another session Bollywood actor and director Amol Palekar also claimed that Indian Democracy is now in danger of turning into a mobocracy as he slammed the tendency these days to debunk all criticism of political leaders and the government as an anti-national act. He claimed the tendencies to curb dissent are becoming more dominant in Indian politics these days.
The post Bollywood actor Huma Qureshi at a session during the Jaipur Literature Festival, in Jaipur, on Sunday. (PTI) appeared first on The Shillong Times .
Athletes of J&K UT displaying medals during the AU International Jaipur Marathon.
Athletes of J&K UT displaying medals during the AU International Jaipur Marathon. The post Athletes of J&K UT displaying medals during the AU International Jaipur Marathon. appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
National Institute of Ayurveda launches plant-based skincare products
JAIPUR: The National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA), a Deemed to be University under the Ministry of Ayush, has launched a line of plant-based cosmetic products aimed at providing safe, chemical-free alternatives for skincare. The range includes foot care cream, Aloe Vera gel, lip balm and a variety of herbal soaps, among others, using plant-based extracts to offer effective skincare solutions. Ayurveda has always advocated harmony between nature and human health. Our mission is to bring this wisdom into everyday skincare, ensuring that people have access to safe, effective, and sustainable products, Sanjeev Sharma, vice-chancellor of NIA, said. The NIA is actively working on technology transfer mechanisms to introduce these products to the wider market, fostering a collaboration between the academia and the industry, he added.
Living texts of new voices, lingering memories and old wounds at lit fest
JAIPUR: The early session on the third morning of the Jaipur LitFest saw authors Priyanka Mattoo and Peter Godwin in an insightful conversation with Sayari Debnath on Memoirs of Family, Loss and Exile. It was about their different registers of loss and the process of memorialising them as they elaborated on their books and their writing processes. Author and filmmaker Mattoo spoke about her book Bird Milk and Mosquito Bones, a narrative of her search for home, from Kashmir to Los Angeles and the places in between. Mattoo spoke movingly about how she and her family could never return to her beloved Kashmir as it no longer existed. In a largely similar vein, celebrated war journalist and author Peter Godwin shared nuggets from his book, Exit Wounds: A Story of Love, Loss and Occasional Wars, which documents his life-story set between New York, London and Zimbabwe. Peter revealed that he has spent his life missing his Zimbabwean childhood, a longing that never diminished all through his life. He stressed that his book was a quest to understand the life of migrs, exiles and refugees, and the multiple losses that make life both amazing and unbearable. Other sessions dealt with nature, recipes, war, politics and history. One was by four debut authors and new-age vulnerabilities. Quartet: Four New Voices, presented by New Indian Express brought them on stage--Anisha Lalvani, Rupleena Bose, Nayantara Violet Alva and Atharva Pandit in conversation with Amrita Tripathi. They discussed their challenges as first time authors, and how they manage to find their unique voice with contemporary topics ranging from the stories of women, love, betrayal, hyper modernist living, and murky world of crime. Lalvani told TMS about her debut book, Girls Who Stray (Bloomsbury 2024), a crime-novel based on a true story, emblematic of inequality and delayed justice. Pandits book Hurda (Bloomsbury, 2023) is also a true crime novel based on a real incident of 2013 in a small village in Maharashtra, a murder mystery. Bose touched on a serious and critical theme -- of assault and harassment. In her debut book Summer of Then (Penguin 2024) she explores the inner lives of women through sexual, romantic, and platonic relationships. Violet Alva found catharsis in writing drama-romance Liberal Hearts (Penguin, 2024), a coming of age story of two youngsters. The themes deal with privilege, and class conflicts, said the writer.
Meet girl, who got 97% in class 12, secured 705 out of 720 marks in NEET exam, she is now...
Vedika hails from Rajasthan's Jaipur city and made headlines after scoring 705 out of 720 marks in the NEET UG 2023 exam
Jaipur: Former UK PM Rishi Sunak waves Namaste on mothers advice, netizens react
