VIRAL: Couple ties knot by taking oath on constitution instead of customary rituals, the reason is...

Amid the discussions around the Indian constitution everywhere in the country's political landscape, a couple from Chhattisgarh hit headlines after their unusual gesture while getting married.

At 3.16 per cent in five years, Kerala's economic growth 4th lowest in country

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Despite topping the national charts on various human-development indices, Keralas economy has been limping for some time now. A recent central bank report further cemented the condition that the state finds itself in. In the Reserve Bank of Indias Handbook of Statistics on Indian States 2023-24, Kerala took the 30th spot among select 33 states and Union territories (UTs) in terms of economic growth over a five-year period. Keralas average annual growth rate (AAGR) in gross state domestic product (GSDP, at constant prices) between 2018-19 and 2022-23 stood at 3.16%, with only Delhi (3.13%), Uttarakhand (2.16%) and Goa (0.70%) performing worse. Mizoram topped the chart with 6.75% growth, followed by Chhattisgarh (6.64%) and Gujarat (6.26%). Major south Indian states also registered commendable growth during the period. While Karnatakas economy grew by 5.62%, Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh posted 5.61%, 5.27% and 5.19% expansions, respectively. The quick estimate for 2023-24 showed that Keralas GSDP improved to rs 6.35 lakh crore, posting a 6.52% year-on-year (YoY) growth, from the previous years Rs 5.96 lakh crore (+4.24% YoY). The handbook did not have data for all states/UTs for this year. Telanganas growth rate was pegged at 9.24%, followed by Tamil Nadu (8.23%), Andhra Pradesh (7.35%), and Karnataka (6.60%). There are various factors behind Keralas slow growth rate, economist Mary George said. The state is yet to be industry-friendly in the true sense and hence big investments are limited. Kerala continues to grapple with militant trade unionism, she said. The agriculture sector is facing a crisis due to price falls and human-wildlife conflicts. The drop in NRI remittances following the pandemic and outward remittances through migrant labourers have compounded the states woes, Mary added. Exponential increase in states expenditure on disaster relief The handbook showed that Kerala performed well in important social indicators like maternal mortality (MMR) and life expectancy. Kerala topped the chart in MMR with 19 deaths per one lakh births. At six deaths per 1,000, Keralas infant mortality rate was the fifth lowest in the country. The unemployment rate in rural Kerala was 76, fourth highest in the country. Unemployment in the urban areas saw a significant decline from 104 in 2019-20 to 67 in 2023-24, 19th position in the country. The report also threw light on the exponential increase in state governments expenditure on relief following natural calamities. Keralas expenditure rose by 232% from Rs 14,181 lakh in 2011-12 to Rs 47,060 lakh in 2023-24. At 3,13,376 lakh, the highest spending was in the flood-hit 2018-19. In the states finance sector, Keralas own tax revenue saw a quantum jump in 2022-23, from Rs 58,341 crore in the previous year to Rs 70,189 crore. The budget estimate for 2023-24 is Rs 81,039. The states own non-tax revenue too rose from Rs 10,463 crore in 2021-22 to Rs 15,355 crore in 2022-23. The estimate for 2023-24 is Rs 17,089 crore. Kerala had the fifth-highest pension expenditure in the country in 2023-24. The pension liability rose from Rs 26,689 crore in 2022-23 to Rs 28,240 crore in the current year.

Chhattisgarh: 5 dead, several injured after goods vehicle overturns in Jagdalpur

A tragic accident occurred in Chhattisgarh's Bastar district. A mini truck carrying around 45 people overturned. Five people died at the scene, and many others were injured. CRPF personnel and medical teams responded quickly. Around 30 injured individuals were taken to the hospital. An investigation is underway.

PRSI Dehradun honors Chhattisgarhs Dy CM

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 21: Public Relations Society of India (PRSI), Dehradun Chapter, honored Chhattisgarhs Deputy Chief Minister, Vijay Sharma, during the national convention in Raipur. On the occasion, the Deputy CM was presented with a symbol of Kedarnath, a Brahma Kamal cap and a booklet on Uttarakhands development. The PRSI national convention is being held in Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh, from December 20 to 23. Members of the Dehradun Chapter are actively participating in this grand event. PRSI [] The post PRSI Dehradun honors Chhattisgarhs Dy CM appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Forest fires down to 2.03 lakh in 2023-24 from 2.23 lakh in 2021-22

India's 2023-24 forest fire season witnessed a decline in fire hotspots, attributed to improved wildfire management strategies. Uttarakhand, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh reported the highest fire incidences. Globally, Russia experienced the most significant tree cover loss due to fires from 2001-2022. The Union environment minister expressed concerns and emphasized ongoing efforts to combat wildfires.

NIA charges 3 Reds with BJP leader's murder

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed supplementary charges against three Maoists involved in the murder of BJP functionary Ratan Dubey in Chhattisgarh last November. Two suspects were arrested in June, and three more were apprehended on Friday. The NIA is investigating the role of Maoist committees in the killing, which aimed to disrupt the 2023 elections.

Chhattisgarh police constable found dead

Family alleges he was being framed in the police recruitment scam to protect superiors

Chhattisgarh: New Principal Secretary Appointed After RSS Meet

Raipur: Four days after a team of senior Rasthriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) functionaries held a marathon meeting with chief minister (CM) Vishnu Deo Sai here, the CMs office was recast with appointment of a new principal secretary to the CM late on Friday. A notification issued late on Friday evening said that 1997-batch IAS officer of Chhattisgarh cadre Subodh Kumar Singh was appointed principal secretary to chief minister on his return from the Central deputation. Mr Singh who was in the CMO of the former chief minister Raman Singh was serving as the additional secretary and financial advisor with the Ministry of Steel. The Chhattisgarh government had requested for his repatriation that the Appointment Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved on Tuesday, official sources said here on Saturday. The CMO currently has three secretaries to CM. They are P Dayanand, 2006-batch IAS officer of Chhattisgarh cadre, S Basavaraj, 2007-batch IAS officer of Chhattisgarh cadre and Rahul Bhagat, 2005-batch IPS officer of Chhattisgarh cadre. Mr Singh is scheduled to take charge of the CMO. Mr Singhs appointment comes in the wake of nearly half-a-dozen senior RSS functionaries holding a marathon meeting with Mr Sai at the latters official residence here late on Tuesday night to review the performance of the government and the ministers in the Sai ministry and decide measures to streamline the state administration, sources said. The team of RSS functionaries was headed by RSS saha- karyavah, sangathan (co-general secretary), Arun Kumar Singh. Sources said that the appointment of the new principal secretary to the chief minister indicated that a massive reshuffle in the bureaucracy and police is on the cards. A reshuffle in the Sai cabinet may also happen very soon, sources said.

4 Killed, 30 Injured As Mini Goods Vehicle Overturns In Chhattisgarh

Four persons, including three women, were killed and nearly 30 others injured when a mini goods vehicle they were travelling in overturned in Chhattisgarh's Bastar district on Saturday, police said.

Four killed, 30 injured as mini goods vehicle overturns in Chhattisgarh's Bastar

JAGDALPUR: Four persons, including three women, were killed and nearly 30 others injured when a mini goods vehicle they were travelling in overturned in Chhattisgarh's Bastar district on Saturday, police said. The accident took place in the afternoon near Chandameta village when the victims were returning to Koleng village from a weekly market, a police official said. As per preliminary information, the driver of the mini goods carrier, with around three dozen people on board, lost control over the wheel following which it skidded off the road and overturned, he said. Four persons, among them three women, died on the spot and about 30 others sustained injuries, he said. Some of the injured persons have been admitted to the primary health centre in Koleng, while others are receiving treatment at a hospital in Darbha, he said. Further investigation into the accident is underway, he added.

Gadchiroli will be Naxal-free in three years: CM Fadnavis

Devendra Fadnavis said the northern part of the Gadchiroli district, bordering Telangana and Chhattisgarh, has been rid of Naxals and is on the path of development

UP registers second-highest green cover increase in country

Uttar Pradesh witnessed the second-largest increase in forest and tree cover in India, adding 559 sq km, according to the 2023 India State of Forest Report. The state's achievement follows Chhattisgarh, with Odisha also showing a similar increase. India's total forest and tree cover grew by 1,445 sq km, contributing to a larger carbon sink.

Chhattisgarh cop writes suicide note on palm, accuses officers involved in alleged police recruitment fraud

RAIPUR: A constable who was deployed on duty in the Chhattisgarh police recruitment process in Rajnandgaon district, 80 km from Raipur, committed suicide on Saturday in an apparent attempt to bring out alleged covert plan to implicate only the lower rung staff in corrupt practices in the selection procedure. Anil Ratnakar, was reportedly among the 14 other constables, under some suspicious role over alleged dishonest dealings in the ongoing police recruitment process in the district. Ratnakar, who joined the state police service in the year 2021, was posted at Khairagarh and placed on duty during the procedure of enlisting candidates for the state police force. There are over 66000 candidates who have applied for the posts of around 630 constables in Rajnandgaon. His body was found hanging from a tree at Rampur village. Senior police officers, forensic team and dog squad reached the spot and have began probe. Ratnakar was on duty in the police recruitment process in Rajnandgaon. There seems to be data manipulation to benefit some candidates. We have already lodged an FIR regarding changes of data and our investigation has begun. The constable has written on his hand (palm) claiming that staff are being accused of wrongdoing while the responsible officials are being shielded. There will be actions against those found at fault. The available CCTV footage and the data manipulations are quite apparent (at some location) pointing something dubious during the recruitment process, Mohit Garg, Rajnandgaon district police chief, told this newspaper. The deceased jawan has tried to specify reason behind his suicide by writing small text on his palm. Ratnakar was very simple upright man and tragically died by suicide, said his grief-stricken family. The corruption in police recruitment in Rajnandgaon looks quite serious as content written by constable Anil Ratnakar before committing suicide suggests the workers are been implicated while officers are safeguarded. It means the officials are involved (CM) Vishnu Deo Sai ji, former chief minister Bhupesh Baghel stated on his micro-blog X-post and demanded high-level inquiry into it. (If you are having suicidal thoughts, or are worried about a friend or need emotional support, someone is always there to listen. Call Sneha Foundation - 04424640050, Tele Manas - 14416 (available 24x7) or iCall, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences' helpline - 02225521111, which is available Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 10 pm.)

Indias forest and tree cover increased to 25.17 per cent in 2023

India's total forest and tree cover has increased to 25.17 per cent in 2023 from 24.62 per cent as per the latest India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023. The forest cover has minimally increased, compared to tree cover in the country. Meanwhile, first-time trees grown under agroforestry have also been covered. The ISFR 2023 report recorded forest cover and tree cover was 25.17 per cent. The total forest cover was 7,15,342.61 sq km which is 21.76 per cent of the geographical area of the country and the tree cover is 3.41 per cent of the geographical area of the country. With these two, total forest and tree covers are 8,27,356.95 sq km. The scrub area covers 43,622 sq km (1.33 per cent) and the non-forest area covers 24,16,489 sq. km (73.50 per cent). States that added forests and tree covers are Chhattisgarh, UP, Odisha, Rajasthan and Jharkhand and states which reduced its forest and tree covers are MP, Karnataka, Nagaland, Bihar and Tripura. The latest 18th biennial assessment ISFR of Indias forests by the Forest Survey of India was delayed by over a year. It was supposed to be released by last year. The report estimates of growing stock, the extent of trees outside forests, mangrove cover, bamboo resources, and assessment of forest carbon stock. According to the ISFR 2021 report recorded forest cover and tree cover was 24.62 per cent. The total forest cover was 7,13,789 sq km which is 21.71 per cent of the geographical area of the country. Tree cover is 2.91 per cent of the geographical area of the country.

Indias forest, tree cover increased to 25.17 per cent in 2023

NEW DELHI: India's total forest and tree cover has increased to 25.17% in 2023 from 24.62% as per the latest India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023. The forest cover has minimally increased compared to tree cover in the country. Meanwhile, first-time trees grown under agroforestry have also been covered. The ISFR 2023 report recorded forest cover and tree cover was 25.17%. The total forest cover was 7,15,342.61 sq km which is 21.76% of the geographical area of the country and the tree cover is 3.41% of the geographical area of the country. With these two, total forest and tree covers are 8,27,356.95 sq km. The scrub area covers 43,622 sq km (1.33%) and the non-forest area covers 24,16,489 sq. km (73.50%). States which added forests and tree covers are Chhattisgarh, UP, Odisha, Rajasthan and Jharkhand and states which reduced their forest and tree covers are MP, Karnataka, Nagaland, Bihar and Tripura. The latest 18th biennial assessment ISFR of Indias forests by the Forest Survey of India was delayed by over a year. It was supposed to be released by last year. The report estimates growing stock, the extent of trees outside forests, mangrove cover, bamboo resources, and assessment of forest carbon stock. According to the ISFR 2021 report recorded forest cover and tree cover was 24.62%. The total forest cover was 7,13,789 sq km which is 21.71% of the geographical area of the country. The Tree cover is 2.91% of the geographical area of the country.

GRPF busted trafficking of minor girls for employment

Visakhapatnam: A human trafficking ring was uncovered at Visakhapatnam railway station, resulting in the rescue of 11 individuals, including nine minors. The operation was conducted by the Government Railway Police (GRP) during a routine check on the Visakhapatnam Kirandul Express, where they intercepted young girls. The primary suspect, Ravi Bisoy, the contractor of Handloom Company, was arrested and is alleged to have trafficked over 100 girls using fake Aadhaar cards to place them in employment at a private company. The rescued individuals were identified as coming from Navrangpur, Odisha, with others originating from various villages in Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Nepal. According to GRP Circle Inspector (CI), the minor girls were reportedly en route to Tirupur to work in a handloom factory. These girls came from impoverished families, highlighting the vulnerability of such communities to trafficking schemes. Following their rescue, the minor girls were sent home, and authorities obtained an undertaking letter from Ravi Bisoy. The case has since been transferred to Navrangpur for further investigation.

All set for Bhavani Deeksha Viramana at Durga Temple

VIJAYAWADA: All is set for the five-day Bhavani Deeksha Viramana (relinquishment) from Saturday to Wednesday, December 25, at the Sri Durga Malleswara Swamy Varla Devasthanam Temple atop the Indrakeeladri in Vijayawada. Temple authorities, in collaboration with city police, Vijayawada Municipal Corporation (VMC) and other departments, have made foolproof arrangements to avoid any inconvenience to Bhavani devotees visiting the temple for giving up their deeksha. Durga Temple executive officer K.S. Rama Rao said free darshan will be provided to all devotees during the five days. There will be no inconvenience for them, as all arjitha sevas have been cancelled during the deeksha relinquishment. The EO said devotees will be allowed to have darshan of the Goddess starting from 6:30 a.m. on Saturday. On the remaining days, devotees can have darshan from 3 a.m. to 11 p.m. Over half a million devotees from various parts of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh are expected to visit the temple during the next five days for the Deeksha Viramana. Queue lines have been erected starting from the Vinayaka Swamy Temple, along with Irumudi stands. Elaborate arrangements have been made at Padmavathi, Bhavani and other ghats, along with installation of bath showers and changing rooms for men and women. Additionally, Keshakandana Shalas for Bhavani devotees have been set up at Seetamma Vari Padalu. About 20 lakh laddus will be made available to devotees at the prasadam counters. Police department has deployed 4,600 personnel to ensure security during the five-days.

Constitutionally bound: Couple marries by taking oath on Preamble, circling Ambedkar's photo

RAIPUR: JUSTICE, social, economic and political; LIBERTY of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship; EQUALITY of status and of opportunity; and to promote among them all FRATERNITY assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the Nation. The preamble of our Constitution does set lofty standards indeed. And now a couple in Chhattisgarh's Jashpur district have sealed their allegiance with an oath on this very preamble. The unique marriage ceremony held at Kapu village in Jashpur, 350 km north-east of Raipur, even avoided the traditional Hindu marriage rituals like 7 pheres (around the sacred fire), no spiritual symbol mangal-sutra or vermilion powder on a bride's forehead and also without any band-baja. The couple belonging to the Satnami (scheduled caste) community chose the auspicious day of birth anniversary of Guru Ghasidas (founder of Satnam sect) on 18 November to solemnise their marriage. During the ceremony, the couple, both graduates, exchanged varmalas but there were no mantras chanted by a priest. Instead, they circled the image of Baba Saheb Bhim Rao Ambedkar, the chief architect of the Constitution, and took their vows while reciting the Preamble, holding a copy of the Constitution in their hands. Such an exceptional marriage has led to talks and uplifting views in the region since the move is seen as a guiding light for others on avoiding to incur needless expenses on wedding rituals. We have made up our mind on organising such a marriage and taking oath on the Constitution. Not just our families, relatives but the community members too are happy with our decision as they attended the occasion extending their blessings. Our motive was also intended to avoid unnecessary expenditure, said Yaman Lahre and Pratima, the newly-wed couple. Such marriage is quite inspiring to those who are planning simple marriage without exorbitant expenses on ceremony or rituals. The couple underlined the notion, which Congress leader Rahul Gandhi often is seen advocating on the Constitution as a book of love containing thoughts and philosophies that work as uniting factors in the country, said Ramesh Sharma, a journalist from Pathalgaon in Jashpur, who attended the marriage. Initially, the couple was uncertain about how things would unfold, but they were later seen delighted as the wedding turned into a memorable occasion for their families and friends.

Visakhapatnam range DIG cautions ASR district police on possible infiltration of Maoists from Chhattisgarh and Telangana

Gopinath Jatti directs them to gather advance intelligence to prevent any untoward incidents, enhance the police information system to strengthen internal communication and raise public awareness regarding Maoist threats and preventive measures

SSB played key role in securing borders and combating Naxalism: Amit Shah

SILIGURI: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday lauded the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) for its pivotal role in securing the country's borders with friendly nations such as Nepal and Bhutan and its contribution to combating Naxalism in Bihar and Jharkhand. Addressing the 61st Raising Day celebrations of the SSB in West Bengal's Siliguri, Shah said, The Sashastra Seema Bal has played a key role in securing our borders with friendly nations such as Nepal and Bhutan. Its alertness and presence have ensured a sense of security in the Siliguri Corridor and the Eastern region. Referring to the SSB's efforts in tackling left-wing extremism, the Home Minister noted, The SSB has played an important role in ending the menace of Naxalism in Bihar and Jharkhand. Their proactive approach along with other security agencies and local police has significantly weakened naxalism activities in Chhattisgarh. On the occasion, Shah urged the force to curb the activities of anti-national elements during border movements and ensure that they are handed over to law enforcement agencies. The 61st Foundation Day of the SSB is a day to reaffirm our commitment to national security. The soldiers of the SSB have done a wonderful job in prioritising national interests and preventing illegal activities, he said. Shah also commended the SSB for its unique initiatives in fostering cultural integration. The SSB has done a commendable job by connecting the culture, language and heritage of border villages of India with the mainstream of the country. This initiative strengthens the bond between the nation and its border communities, he added. J&K review meeting: Amit Shah vows complete dominance over terrorism, deliberates security roadmap for 2025

Ideology remains same: Jogis wife writes to Congress, proposes merger of party

RAIPUR: The regional outfit Janta Congress Chhattisgarh-J (JCC-J), floated by the first chief minister late Ajit Jogi in June 2016, owing to the declining political footprint across the state, has approached the Congress seeking a merger with the latter. JCC-J national president Dr Renu Jogi (wife of Ajit Jogi) has sent a proposal to state Congress president Deepak Baij expressing that the ideology of her party remains the same as that of the Congress and the core committee has unanimously taken a decision on merger. The proposal stated that all office-bearers of JCC-J are willing to join Congress unconditionally. We have received a proposal letter related to merging of JCC-J with Congress. There is a meeting of the Chhattisgarh PCC scheduled after December 25 and the discussions with senior party leaders will decide on it. The PCC has also received several applications by others seeking a return to the Congress party, said Baij. JCC-J that contested the 2018 Assembly polls with much fanfare and enthusiasm after forging an alliance with the BSP, had then won five seats with the BSP securing two. The party also then got its symbol allotted by the Election Commission of India. But in the 2023 Assembly elections, the party could not win a single seat. The challenging situation for JCC-J is not improving. Renu Jogi and son Amit couldnt fill the vacuum left by the former CM. The party leadership failed to keep its cadres together. Many senior leaders have already deserted the party before 2023 polls, according to a political observer.

Home Minister Amit Shah's Bastar Visit Shows 'Mission 2026' To End Naxalism In Chhattisgarh On Track

However, the real challenge is to wean Bastariyas away from the ideology of Naxalism and co-opt them into India's growth story

Cgarh: In a First, Wild Animal Killed in Naxal IED Blast in Dantewada Jungle; Bear Dies in Explosion, Cubs Starve

Raipur: A female wild bear was killed in an improvised explosive device (IED) explosion detonated by Maoists in a jungle in Dantewada district of south Bastar, Chhattisgarh, police said on Thursday. Her two cubs survived the explosion but starved to death after the death of their mother. The incident occurred on December 17 in the forest near Kosalnar, under the Barsur police station limits in Dantewada district, according to police reports. Local tribals discovered the dead bear, her two cubs, and IED splinters near their bodies. Photographs showing the cubs lying on their dead mother were later circulated on social media. We learned about the incident through social media on Wednesday, said Dantewada district Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) R. K. Burman. A police investigation revealed that the IED had been planted by Maoists along a jungle route to target security personnel during search operations. The female wild bear stepped on the IED planted by the Maoists, triggering the explosion, Bastar Range Inspector General of Police P. Sunderraj told this newspaper on Thursday. He added that incidents involving cattle and dogs being killed by Maoist IEDs in the Bastar jungles have been reported previously. However, this is the first recorded instance of a wild animal being killed in an IED explosion in Bastar.

Cgarh: Ajit Jogi-founded JCC (J) offers to join Congress, Pilot constitutes committee to review case

Raipur: The Janata Congress Chhattisgarh (JCC)(J), founded by former chief minister late Ajit Jogi, has offered to merge with the Congress. JCC(J) national president and Jogi widow Renu Jogi wrote a letter to the Chhattisgarh unit Congress president Deepak Baij urging him to consider her partys offer to merge with the Congress. The letter dated December 18 said that the partys core committee has unanimously decided to merge with the Congress since both the parties have similar ideologies. The letter signed by Ms Jogi, a former MLA, and her son and state party president Amit Jogi, also a former MLA, was also marked to AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge, AICC general secretary in-charge of Chhattisgarh affairs Sachin Pilot and Congress Legislature Party (CLP) leader Charan Das Mahant. Mr Pilot has constituted a committee to consider the application by the JCC (J), a senior Congress leader said on Thursday. Mr Pilot has constituted a seven-member committee to review the matter, veteran Congress leader and former deputy chief minister T S Singh Deo told this newspaper. He however refused to comment on the issue, saying that I have not been consulted on the matter so far. Hence, I cannot give my view on the issue. Former chief minister Mr Jogi had formed JCC (J) on June 21, 2016 by snapping his nearly four decade-old ties with the Congress. The move to float the region party followed the expulsion of Junior Jogi from Congress in the wake of allegation that the father-son duo was involved in the withdrawal of Congress nominee in Antagarh Assembly by-elections in Chhattisgarh in 2014, leading to victory of the BJP candidate. JCC (J) had entered into alliance with Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) in the 2018 Assembly polls and won seven seats. The party had however decided to stay away from the November, 2023 Assembly elections in Chhattisgarh.

Bomb Planted By Maoists Kills Bear, 2 Cubs In Chhattisgarh

A female bear and its two cubs were killed when an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) planted by Naxalites went off in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district, a forest official said on Thursday.

Jogis political heirs seek reunion with Congress, propose merger of JCC(J)

In a letter to Chhattisgarh Congress president Deepak Baij, the JCC(J) has said that both parties share the same ideology; Ajit Jogi had a strained relationship with fellow Congress leaders in the State, especially after the partys loss in the 2003 Assembly polls; a decision on the merger is likely by the end of the month

CBSE Conducts Surprise Inspection At 29 Schools, Finds 'Dummy' Students

Eighteen of the violating schools are in the national capital, while there are three in Varanasi, two each in Bengaluru, Patna, Ahmedabad, Bilaspur, and Chhattisgarh.

Anti-Maoist operations: former Chhattisgarh CM Baghel questions unreasonable deadlines

Mr. Baghel attacked the BJP government in the State questioning how the children were hurt and questioned the partys record as far as alleged fake encounters under its tenure were concerned.

Speeding car rams five near Denkanikottai in Krishnagiri, two killed

KRISHNAGIRI: Two guest workers died and three others were injured after an unidentified car rammed into them near Denkanikottai on Wednesday evening. The deceased were identified as M Chanda Barmate (22) and U Jayashree Yadav (22) from Chhattisgarh. The injured are R Smitha Kumari (24) from Bihar, and B Madhuri (30) and R Karan Sidar (21) from Chhattisgarh. Police said the victims were working in an automobile components manufacturing company at B Chettipalli near Denkanikottai. On Wednesday evening, they were returning to their hostels when a car veered off the road and hit them. In the impact, Chanda and Jayashree died on the spot. Smitha Kumari faced a head injury while Madhuri injured her leg. Both are receiving treatment at a private hospitals in Hosur. Karan suffered a leg injury and has been admitted to the Hosur government hospital. Krishnagiri SP P Thangadurai visited the spot where the accident took place.

CG Home Guard result 2024 announced for PET exam: Direct link to check here

The Chhattisgarh Fire and Emergency Services Department has released the Home Guard Physical Test 2024 results, conducted in September and October. Candidates can check their results on firenoc.cg.gov.in using their login credentials. Successful applicants will advance to the written examination, part of the recruitment process for 2,215 Home Guard posts. Check the direct link to download the Chhattisgarh Home Guard result here.

Medusa Beverages targets 1,200 crore revenue by 2029 with expansion plans

Medusas beers are currently sold across seven States including Delhi, Punjab, Himachal, Chandigarh, UP, Uttarakhand, and Chhattisgarh.

Nita Ambani embraces Indian craftsmanship in handwoven Kosa silk saree, see pics

The saree, sourced from Swadesh, was crafted in the Chandrapur-Raigarh cluster of Chhattisgarh, renowned for its intricate handloom techniques.

Chhattisgarh man swallows live chick, here's what happened next

Family members reported that Anand had felt dizzy and fainted shortly after returning from a bath.

Gujarat trails lesser developed states like Bihar & Chhattisgarh in smart-meter installation

Assam leads all the states with the highest number of smart meter installations in the country. The state has installed 22.89 lakh smart meters which is 36 percent of the total sanctioned installations

PDS rice smuggling: Seizure of ship not possible, hints Collector

KAKINADA: Seizing the controversial Stella L Panama cargo ship exporting rice may not be possible due to procedural and legal issues. The 10-member multidisciplinary committee constituted after Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan inspected the ship on November 28, collected random samples from the third hatch, and submitted its report. District Collector Shan Mohan Sagili hinted that it may not be possible to seize the ship, while speaking to media on Tuesday, along with SP Vikrant Patil and Joint Collector Rahul Meena. The cargo ship arrived from Haldia port on November 11 on way to reach Cotonou Port, Benin by December 15. The ship has 52,000 metric tonnes capacity with five hatches. On credible information, the Collector inspected the ship on November 27, and said 640 metric tonnes of PDS rice was loaded, but it was released with bank guarantees. Pawan Kalyan visited the port the next day, and directed the officials to seize the ship. The Collector said the identified PDS rice stock of 1,320 metric tonnes on the shop would be downloaded, and it would take 48 hours. The cargo belongs to Satyam Balajee Rice Industries, and the process of acquiring the stock is being investigated further. Later, the remaining loading works onto the ship would be taken up, he said. At anchorage port, a barge was already seized with 1,054 metric tonnes of PDS rice after all inspections. Records of rice exporters under verification The rice belongs to Lavana International and Sai Teja Exporters. Records of both the companies are being verified. Other companies involved are also being probed. In connection with the 13 PDS rice pending cases, 137 rice mills were identified and inspected for the past few days, SP said. While 89 mills are in Andhra Pradesh, the remaining are located in Telangana, Chhattisgarh and other States. After all verifications, further action would be initiated. There would be no impact on the shipping activity, the SP said as 12 ships are awaiting the loading of raw rice, boiled and broken rice at the Kakinada port.

Government will never compromise with Odishas rights: Minister

BHUBANESWAR: Law minister Prithiviraj Harichandan on Tuesday asserted that the territorial and water rights of Odisha will never be compromised. Addressing media persons here, the minister said the state government will pursue all options including legal recourse for getting justice for Odisha in the Mahanadi river water dispute with Chhattisgarh and the Polavaram dam project which is being implemented by the Andhra Pradesh government. The minister said that the chairman of the Mahanadi River Water Disputes Tribunal has been appointed recently and the state government will place Odishas side before it soon. The legal team of the state government is fully prepared to protect the interest of Odisha, he said. Criticising the previous BJD government, the minister said that it failed to address these issues during its long tenure. He assured that such lapses would not occur under the BJP government. The minister also criticised the BJD for not addressing the dispute over Kotia villages with Andhra Pradesh in a proper manner.

Man dies after attempting to swallow live chick in superstitious ritual in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR: In what is believed to have been driven by strong superstitions, a 35-year-old man in Chhattisgarh attempted to swallow a live chick as a way of expressing his gratitude after his wish of becoming a father was fulfilled. Anand Yadav, a resident of Chhindakalo village in Ambikapur district, died after the chick got stuck blocking the trachea (the windpipe), according to the doctor who carried out an autopsy. A 20-centimetre-long chick became stuck in a U-shape after possibly fluttering its wings, blocking not only the windpipe but also obstructing the oesophagus, the food pipe that connects the throat to the stomach, explained Dr Santu Bagh, Head of the Forensic Department at the Medical College Hospital in Ambikapur, approximately 350 km north of Raipur. The dead chick retrieved after the post-mortem will be handed over to the police. According to the deceased's family, Yadav had been longing for a child after 15 years of marriage. In an attempt to fulfil his wish, he sought the help of a woman who practised occult rituals and spells. He regularly visited her every Monday. Yadav reportedly was convinced that his wish to have fathered a son was owing to the superstitious beliefs he had been nurturing. He firmly claimed that owing to Jhar-phoonk (spell of sorcery) he became a father, said one of his relatives. A couple of days after the ceremonial Mundan (tonsuring for the first time as part of a ritual) of his son, he purchased a black chick for Rs 200. He swallowed the bird that got stuck making him badly strive with a gasp of pain as he struggled to breathe at his home. He fell unconscious and was rushed to the medical hospital where the doctors after examining declared him dead. Even the doctors were baffled by how deeply superstitious beliefs can influence the psyche of individuals who firmly adhere to unfounded convictions. One should never rely on and support irrational groundless beliefs. The people should turn to hospital or health professionals instead of seeking refuge from babas or witchcraft to cure diseases, said Dr Dinesh Mishra, ophthalmologist and anti-superstition activist. We have registered a case. Prima facie it appears to be a case of some superstitious belief and the man died after he swallowed a live chick leading to severe congestion. The police will investigate and track down those who mislead the people, Yogesh Patel, Ambikapur district police chief told TNIE .

Chhattisgarh High Court orders action against substandard pulses at Anganwadi centres

The Chhattisgarh High Court recently heard a suo motu public interest litigation (PIL) regarding the welfare of special children in Anganwadi centres. The court had taken cognizance of the issue and observed that there was no mechanism in place to identify special children and provide them with requisite assistance. In compliance with the courts order, [] The post Chhattisgarh High Court orders action against substandard pulses at Anganwadi centres appeared first on India Legal .

Chhattisgarh Man Dies After Swallowing Live Chick, Doctors And Villagers Stunned

Locals speculated that the victim may have swallowed the chick under the influence of occult practices.

Chhattisgarh HC Allows Termination of Minor Rape Survivor's Pregnancy

Raipur: The Chhattisgarh High Court has granted permission for the medical termination of a 20-week-old pregnancy of a 17-year-old rape survivor who is also a sickle cell anemia patient. The decision was delivered by Justice Naresh Kumar Chandravanshi, who noted that forcing the minor to continue the pregnancy could have severe physical, mental, and psychological consequences for both the victim and the fetus. The case pertains to the sexual exploitation of the minor by the accused, who is now under arrest. The survivor had approached the court seeking termination of her pregnancy, citing concerns for her health and well-being. The court directed the Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) of Balodabazar-Bhatapara to assess the feasibility of the procedure. The CMHO's medical report indicated that the survivor was over 20 weeks pregnant and severely anemic due to sickle cell disease. The report recommended termination of the pregnancy following treatment for anemia. In its judgment, the court highlighted the survivor's young age, the trauma of sexual assault, and her socio-economic challenges. Justice Chandravanshi emphasized that denying her the option to terminate the pregnancy would violate her liberty and bodily autonomy. The court's ruling underscores the significance of protecting the rights and well-being of survivors in such cases.

Amit Shah asks security forces to coordinate to eliminate Naxalism by March 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah reviewed the Left Wing Extremism (LWE) situation in Chhattisgarh, urging joint efforts to eliminate it by March 2026. He lauded the coordinated efforts of security forces, emphasizing the NIA's crucial role.

Modi govt has taken concrete steps to promote organic farming: Shah

RAIPUR, Dec 16: Union Minister Amit Shah on Monday said the Narendra Modi government has taken concrete steps to promote organic farming as organic products are not only beneficial for health but also favourable for the environment and fertility of land. The Union Home and Cooperation minister was speaking at the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) between National Cooperatives Organic Ltd (NCOL), the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) and Chhattisgarh government here. The Chhattisgarh government signed an MoU with [] The post Modi govt has taken concrete steps to promote organic farming: Shah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

3-Pronged Strategy Adopted To Root Out Naxals: Home Minister

Jagdalpur (Chhattisgarh): A comprehensive three-pronged strategy is being adopted by the government to free all Naxal-affected areas in the country from the menace, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Monday. Paying tributes here to all those who laid down their lives fighting Naxalism, Shah said as part of this strategy, first, those who are []

Texmaco Rail & Engineering Gets Rs 187-Crore Order From Chhattisgarh

The project involves building nine 132-kilowatt transmission lines on a turnkey basis of nearly 291 kilometres in Chhattisgarh.

Seven Killed, Six Injured In SUV-Truck Collision In Chhattisgarh's Balod District

CM Vishnu Deo Sai has expressed grief over the incident and instructed the district administration to provide the best medical assistance to the injured

Home Minister Amit Shah pays tributes to the martyrs at the Shaheed Smarak in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh

New Delhi, Dec 16: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah today paid tributes to the martyrs who have laid down their lives fighting Naxalism, in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh. He also met the families of the martyred soldiers and the families of the victims of Naxal violence. Many dignitaries including Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri [] The post Home Minister Amit Shah pays tributes to the martyrs at the Shaheed Smarak in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .

Three-Pronged Strategy Adopted To Root Out Naxals: Amit Shah

JAGDALPUR (CHHATTISGARH), Dec 16: A comprehensive three-pronged strategy is being adopted by the government to free all Naxal-affected areas in the country from the menace, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Monday. Click Here To Join Daily Excelsior on WhatsApp And Get Latest News Paying tributes here to all those who laid down their lives fighting Naxalism, Shah said as part of this strategy, first, those who are willing to renounce violence and ready to return to the mainstream [] The post Three-Pronged Strategy Adopted To Root Out Naxals: Amit Shah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Amit Shah's Assurance To Families Of Jawans Killed In Anti-Maoist Ops

Union Home Minister Amit Shah today met families of jawans who died in the line of duty in Maoist attacks and also civilians affected by violence on the second day of his visit to Chhattisgarh's Bastar.

Comprehensive rehab plan for surrendered extremists, victims of militancy: Amit shah

Raipur: Union home minister Amit Shah on Monday indicated that the Centre is coming up with a comprehensive rehabilitation plan for the surrendered Maoists and the families of victims of extremism. The Union ministries of home, tribal affairs, and rural development are working in unison to provide comprehensive assistance to these families, reaffirming the government's commitment to their rehabilitation and progress, he said while addressing the families of jawans, slain in encounters with Maoists, and kin of the victims of Naxal violence in Jagdalpur in Bastar in the state. Mr Shah earlier on Sunday addressed the former rebels hailing from the states of Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, and Assam in Jagdalpur, headquarters of Bastar in Chhattisgarh. He said that over 9,000 militants in the North East region have laid down their arms and joined the mainstream from 2019 to 2024. He further said that many Maoists have given up arms and joined the mainstream. The Union home minister on Monday paid tributes to the jawans, martyred in encounters with Maoists, at the Shaheed Smarak in Jagdalpur. He vowed to root out Naxalism in Chhattisgarh and declared that After March 31, 2026, not a single drop of blood will be shed in the name of Naxalism in the sacred land of Maa Danteswari (referring to Bastar). The Chhattisgarh government is focused on three key fronts to make the state Naxal free: welcoming those who surrender, apprehend those who persist in violence, and punishing the Naxals who are determined to harm innocent lives, he said. Lauding the Chhattisgarh government for effectively dealing with the Maoist menace, he said that The achievements of the past year in combating Naxalism in Chhattisgarh are unprecedented. Never before has such a vast area been liberated from Naxal influence in a single year, nor have such significant numbers of Maoists been neutralized, arrested, or surrendered. As many as 287 Naxals were neutralized, approximately 1,000 were arrested, and 837 surrendered in Chhattisgarh in the past one year. He commended the Vishnu Deo Sai government for executing a highly effective and well-coordinated strategy in this effort. He said that the campaign for a Naxal-free India, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is gaining significant support from the affected families.

NBCC gets Rs 490-cr work orders in Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan

NBCC (India) Ltd has secured contracts totaling nearly Rs 490 crore for construction projects in Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan. The company will build Eklavya Model residential schools in Chhattisgarh for Rs 459.6 crore and a permanent building for a Composite Regional Centre in Jaipur for Rs 30 crore.

IIM Raipur launches free programmes to support entrepreneurs and MSMEs

IIM Raipur, in collaboration with the Ministry of MSME, announces two free advanced programmes aimed at aspiring entrepreneurs and MSMEs. The Advanced E-SDP for New Venture Creation and Advanced MDP for Business Scale-Up for MSMEs will take place in February 2025. These programmes, designed to enhance business skills and foster innovation, are open to individuals from across India, with a special focus on Chhattisgarh and underrepresented communities. The last date to apply is January 12, 2025.

Six killed, seven injured in SUV-truck collision in Chhattisgarh

BALOD: Six persons were killed and seven others injured when a sports utility vehicle (SUV) they were travelling in collided with a truck in Chhattisgarh's Balod district, police said on Monday. The accident took place under Daundi police station area late Sunday night when the victims, natives of the Gunderdehi area in the district were returning from a family function, they said. The vehicle collided head-on with the truck. Of the 13 occupants of the SUV, six died on the spot, while seven others suffered serious injuries, a police official here said. The deceased have been identified as Durpat Prajapati (30), four women - Sumitra Bai Kumbhkar (50), Manisha Kumbhkar (35), Sagun Bai Kumbhkar (50) and Imla Bai (55) - and minor boy Jignesh Kumbhkar (7), he said. The seven injured persons, including five women and a child, were shifted to a local community health centre from where they were referred to Rajnandgaon district hospital for further medication, the official said. An accidental death report has been registered and further investigation is underway, he added.

Human rights violations in Bastar require extensive reporting: Malini Subramaniam

ANANTAPUR: Award-winning journalist Malini Subramaniam highlighted the widespread human rights violations in Bastar, which have been normalised by both the media and society. Subramaniam, who has been reporting from Chhattisgarh for over a decade, emphasised the complete suspension of law and rights in the region affected by the Maoist movement. She described how Aadivasis, dependent on forests for their livelihood, face restrictions on their freedom of movement, as the police curb their activities under the pretext of combating Maoists. Subramaniam expressed concern that brutal incidents of violence, illegal detentions, and extrajudicial killings of Aadivasis are rarely reported in the media. Local journalists are pressured to remain silent. To the outside world, Chhattisgarh seems fine due to developmental projects, but the real question is: Who benefits from them?, she remarked, urging for greater attention to the plight of indigenous people. SN Sahu, Officer on Special Duty to former President KR Narayanan, discussed the pervasive caste discrimination that even reaches the highest levels of government. He pointed out that even the former President Narayanan, faced caste-based discrimination. Caste is a disease. A caste census is essential to measure the extent of its spread. If we conduct censuses for animals, is it too much to ask for one to understand the marginalisation of certain groups? he questioned. Kopparthi Venkata Ramana Murthy, a retired history professor and writer, also spoke on the impact of NEP 2020, warning that it is steering towards the corporatisation of education, which could make it inaccessible for marginalised communities. The conference, chaired by S Jeevan Kumar of the HRF, attracted more than 300 people.

6 persons killed, 7 injured in SUV-truck collision in Chhattisgarh's Balod

Six people were killed and seven injured in a head-on collision between an SUV and a truck in Chhattisgarh's Balod district late Sunday night. The SUV occupants, returning from a family function, included four women and a seven-year-old boy among the deceased. The injured were taken to a local health center and later referred to a district hospital.

ECoR bifurcation sparks political uproar over Odishas revenue loss; demands for compensation

BHUBANESWAR: Nearly six years after the announcement of new South Coast Railway (SCoR), the build-up on its expeditious operationalisation has begun to fuel fear, concern and political outcry in Odisha over the bifurcation of East Coast Railway (ECoR), particularly the substantial revenue loss for the profit-making zone. While the SCoR zone headquartered at Visakhapatnam and its operational area are yet to be formally notified, a tender worth Rs 149 crore has recently been floated for construction of the zonal office building. The SCoR will have three divisions - Vijayawada, Guntur and Guntakal spanning the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana (except Kurnool of Hyderabad division and Jaggaiahpet of Secunderabad division). As per the detailed project report (DPR) accepted by the Ministry of Railways, apart from the three divisions, SCoR will have a major portion of Waltair division, which is now entirely under ECoR. Waltair division will split into two and one part will merge with Vijayawada division. The other will be converted into a new division with headquarters at Rayagada under ECoR. Before the 2019 general elections, the Centre had given a go-ahead to the bifurcation plan for addressing administrative and operational challenges. It was seen as a bid to appease Andhra and now it is making the most of it. As the neighbouring state is eyeing all railway lines that fall within its boundary, Odisha may end up being on the losing side in the bifurcation of Waltair division. The division generates around Rs 10,250 crore annually, primarily from freight traffic linked to the mining and steel industries, and contributing significantly to ECoRs revenue. Bone of contention The DPR reveals that of 1,106 km of railway route coming under Waltair, 450 km will be merged with Vijayawada division while of the rest 656 km, 541 km will be under Rayagada and 115 km under Khurda Road divisions. The ECoR has three divisions - Khurda Road, Sambalpur and Waltair. After bifurcation, SCoR will have rail routes measuring 3,496 km but ECoR will have to be satisfied with 2,321 km in changed circumstances. The new zone could actually have more railway lines if Palasa-Nuapada and Nuapada-Gunupur lines are retained in SCoR as proposed. The bone of contention, however, is the lucrative Kothavalasa-Kirandul Line (popularly known as KK Line) that comes under Waltair division. The 446-km KK Line runs through the mineral-rich regions of Odisha and Chhattisgarh. If a major portion of KK Line is transferred to SCoR, the ECoR will face significant revenue loss. Sources said the ECoR earns about Rs 29,000 crore annually and is expected to lose nearly Rs 6,000 crore if the freight corridor is handed over to SCoR. The major source of revenue is Visakhapatnam area where Vizag steel and port are located apart from Gangavaram port. It will be delinked from ECoR and the revenue is expected to come down by more than 20 per cent. ECoR will also lose its dominance of being the number one income-generating zone of the Indian Railways, pointed out Nirakar Das, a former railway employee. It has been proposed to split KK Line at Araku station and retain the 106 km Kothavalasa-Araku line with Vijayawada division while the rest 340-km Araku (excluding)-Kirandul will come under Rayagada division. According to the DPR, all track routes of Waltair division running within AP, barring a small part from Nuapada to Ichchapuram, will be in SCoR, but Rayagada will not have a direct approach from ECoR until the proposed Therubali-Gunupur new line is completed. The Centre has recently sanctioned the 73.62-km Gunupur-Therubali new line at a cost of Rs 1,326 crore and the project is expected to be completed by 2030-31. Odishas demands As the final SCoR notification is expected anytime soon, people in Odisha have demanded that the Waltair division be retained with ECoR and if it is not possible due to operational reasons then the railway sections that are now with South Eastern Railway (SER) and South East Central Railway (SECR) must be merged with ECoR to recompense the revenue loss. If the KK Line, along with Vizag Steel, Visakhapatnam and Gangavaram ports, is included in SCoR, then lines such as Jareikela-Bondamunda-Rourkela-Jharsuguda, Ib-Belpahar-Brajarajnagar, Bansapani-Barbil and Ranital-Rupsa-Bangiriposi should come under ECoR. A railway official said the loss of ECoR can be minimised only if the revenue generated from the mining belts of Odisha and Rourkela steel plant which are now under SER and SECR, are brought in. Moreover, Rayagada, being a new division, should have direct link with ECoR. When Vijayawada division already has 964 km of railway line, what is the logic of adding 450 km more? If Vizianagaram can be added in Rayagada division, it will have a direct link with ECoR. The railway should also prepare a separate DPR for Rayagada and appoint a divisional manager to look after the issues, said Das. However, the unresolved issue has fuelled public discontentment in the state. Opposing the Centres move to merge Waltair with SCoR, former Union minister Srikant Jena has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take steps to fortify the ECoR, instead of dismantling its structure. The BJD has also raised the issue in the recently-concluded winter session of the Assembly. Senior BJD MLA and former minister Ranendra Pratap Swain demanded the Centre must clarify on its move to compensate the loss to be faced by Odisha. The proposal was mooted in 2019 for reorganisation of the zones. We were then told that the proposed bifurcation plan would be properly examined and the states interest will be protected. Nothing was finalised then. The bifurcation is now being done surreptitiously without taking Odisha into confidence, Swain told TNIE on Sunday. The senior BJD MLA said any attempt to bifurcate ECoR by dismantling Waltair division is a loss to Odisha. ECoR is the pride of the state. The Railway earns Rs 100 from ECoR by spending Rs 47 while they spend Rs 107 to earn Rs 100 from other zones, he said. The Railway minister also represents the state. How can he do injustice to us? If they are doing it for political exigencies to appease Andhra Pradesh, why dont they bifurcate the SER and merge the railway portions of Odisha in ECoR to compensate the loss? They must bring in the states railway lines from SER and SECR zones to form a new division at Rourkela. We would oppose the ECoR bifurcation move to protect the states interest, Swain added. In response, deputy chief minister KV Singh Deo said BJP MPs have already met Railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and he had assured that railway lines in Odisha under ECoR will not go into the newly-created zone. A tender worth Rs 107 crore for the new divisional headquarter at Rayagada has also been floated, Singh Deo informed.

287 killed, 1,000 held, 837 surrendered in last one year: Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah reported 287 Maoists killed, 1,000 arrested, and 837 surrendered in Chhattisgarh over the past year. Civilian and security personnel deaths from Maoist violence dropped below 100 for the first time in four decades. Shah also highlighted significant drug seizures and arrests, and presented the President's Colour to the Chhattisgarh Police.

Andhras Tribal Youth Turn to Skills, Tourism for New Livelihoods

All the AP students who scaled Mount Everest this year are from poor families. Most of them are tribals studying in social and tribal welfare residential hostels. (Representational image) All the AP students who scaled Mount Everest this year are from poor families. Most of them are tribals studying in social and tribal welfare residential hostels. (Representational image) Visakhapatnam: Two decades ago, a ZP High School in Sarabhannapalem in Koyyuru was shut down for a couple of days after several students walked out into forests under the guidance of outlawed Maoists. Later, the Girijan Sangham made efforts to reopen the school. That was at the peak of Maoist activities in Andhra Pradesh. After their activities were controlled and the red extremists driven out -- they went and set up camps in Chhattisgarh and Odisha -- the youngsters turned to ganja-smuggling. This provided them the livelihood. The government now has a serious task at hand, weaning them away from both activities. Maoists have gone. These youngsters are now dreaming about a world that is outside their agency tracts, so as to lead quality life, said V Abhishek, project officer of ITDA, Paderu, in ASR District. Talking to Deccan Chronicle on Sunday, Abhishek said the ITDA has introduced several schemes for their uplift, which included skill development, entrepreneurship, coaching for service commission jobs and training the school students for professional courses. Among them, a skill development scheme, Saral, sponsored by ILO and ITDA was launched recently to train the youths to take up jobs in the hospitality sector. Similarly, civil services coaching started last year. Over 40 students cleared the preliminary and are preparing for the main examination. In order to prepare school students for getting admitted into professional courses, the ITDA has started a Super 50 Kids programme under which students, after qualifying a test, would be admitted into Colleges of Excellence located in Marikavalasa, Visakhapatnam, Vissannapeta in Guntur and Jogampeta in Vizianagaram district. These colleges, run by the tribal welfare department, offer integrated courses for those who appear for NEET and JEE. A career education programme has been launched for the tenth and Inter students, for which two master trainees were selected from among the teachers of Ashram schools, the PO said. In addition, job melas were being organised and over 2,000 youngsters were registering every year. He said 120 youngsters were selected under the Koushal Vikas Yojana, the Pradhan Mantri Deendayal Upadhyaya and the Grameen Koushal Vikas Yojana for training in the hospitality industry. The training resulted in 30 Adivasi youths getting jobs in hotels in Tirupati and Vijayawada. Under the Pradhan Mantri Employment Guarantee Scheme, about 250 Adivasis got loans for setting up restaurants and other tourism activities, the PO said. Ganja brought a bad image for Araku. We want Araku to be made popular for tourism and coffee, the project officer said. However, more needs to be done. Adivasi JAC convener, Ramarao Dora, said thousands of Adivasi youth are struggling without jobs. The government is supporting them till graduation. After that they have to look for teacher training and nursing courses with their own money, to get jobs. Many of these youths are involved in ganja smuggling to raise money for these training programmes and other needs, Dora said.

Home Minister Amit Shah presents Presidents Colour to the Chhattisgarh Police in Raipur

New Delhi, December 15: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah presented the prestigious Presidents Colour to the Chhattisgarh Police in Raipur today, marking the first day of his visit to the state. The ceremony was graced by several prominent dignitaries, including Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai and Deputy Chief Minister [] The post Home Minister Amit Shah presents Presidents Colour to the Chhattisgarh Police in Raipur appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .

Chhattisgarh: Amit Shah Reiterates to End Naxalism by March 2026

Raipur: Union home minister Amit Shah on Sunday reiterated his assertion that Naxalism would be wiped out in the country by the end of March 2026. Addressing the closing ceremony of Bastar Olympics 2024, the first of its kind sports event organized in the Naxal-infested region, in Jagdalpur, headquarters of Bastar, in Chhattisgarh, Mr Shah said that both the state government and the Centre were committed to eradicating Maoist menace in the country by March 2026. If Chhattisgarh is free of Naxals, then the country will also be free of Naxals. There is no doubt that Chhattisgarh will eradicate Maoist menace completely (by March 2026), Mr Shah, who arrived here on Saturday night on a three-day visit to the state, said. Mr Shah is scheduled to spend two days in Bastar to take stock of Leftwing extremism situation in the region, besides interacting with the security forces engaged in counterinsurgency. He described the successful conduct of the sports event, the Bastar Olympics 2024, in which tribal women, children, youth, elderly persons and even the surrendered Maoists had participated in large numbers as the beginning of the process of the normalization in the region. The successful conduct of Bastar Olympics 2024 has signaled that Bastar is changing. I will declare that Bastar has already changed when I inaugurate Bastar Olympics 2026, he asserted. Mr Shah said that the counterinsurgency measures being undertaken in Bastar in the last one year had dealt severe blow to the Leftwing extremism in the region. As many as 287 Maoists were killed, 992 Naxals arrested and 833 ultras have surrendered in Bastar in the last one year. Maoists have now two options left with them, either to surrender or be dealt with severely by security forces, he said. Exhorting the ultras to lay down their arms and join the mainstream, he said that I assure the Maoists that their rehabilitation in society is our responsibility when they surrender. The closing ceremony of the Bastar Olympics 2024 was marked by the wheelchair race by the victims of the Naxal violence which rendered them incapacitated. Earlier in the morning, Mr Shah presented the prestigious Presidents Colour to the Chhattisgarh police here. In his address on the occasion, Mr Shah lauded the Chhattisgarh police as one of the finest forces in the country. Receiving the Presidents Colour during its silver jubilee year (Chhattisgarh was formed on November one, 2,000) is a testament to the forces relentless hard work, commitment, bravery, and deep connection with the public, Mr Shah said. Chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai was present on both the occasions.

Over 60,000 children living in care homes in India; highest in TN

NEW DELHI: Over 60,000 children are living in institutional care in India, with Tamil Nadu continuing to take the lead with as many as 10,000 children living in these care homes, according to government data. Though the number of children living in these institutional care under the Mission Vatsalya scheme declined this year, the childcare institutions network further spread across the country. Minister of State for Women and Child Development Savitri Thakur in the Lok Sabha said the ministry is administering the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 (JJ Act, 2015), which is the primary legislation for ensuring safety, security, dignity and well-being of Children in Need of Care and Protection (CNCP) and Children in Conflict with Law (CCL) by catering to their basic needs through care, protection, development, treatment, rehabilitation and social reintegration. Tamil Nadu housed the highest number of orphan children in their institutional care homes for the third year in a row. In 2023-24, the figure was 10,118, the minister said while sharing the data. The southern states saw 13,877 orphan children being housed in these care homes in 2021-22, the number dipped to 7,785 in 2022-23. The other states that housed highest number of children in 2023-24 are West Bengal (4744), Maharashtra (3495), Uttar Pradesh (3226), Gujarat (3195), Karnataka (3110), Rajasthan (2733), Madhya Pradesh (2597), Telangana (2243), Bihar (2227), Andhra Pradesh (1546), Assam (1241), Jharkhand (1238), Delhi (1216), Mizoram (1172), Jammu and Kashmir (1104), and Meghalaya (1031). The minister said the number of care homes have gone up in the last three years. While there were 2,245 institutional care homes in 2021-22, the number went up to 2,305 in 2022-23. In 2023-24, there were 2,450 care homes, in 2024-25, the number went up to 3,010. In 2024-25, the figure was 318. In 2021, it was225, the next year it was 221. In 2023-24, the number of children living in these care homes was 320. Tamil Nadu was followed by Uttar Pradesh with 24 care homes. The other states with a high number of such institutions are West Bengal (216), Karnataka (212), Rajasthan (182), Odisha (143), Madhya Pradesh (131), Maharashtra (126), Chhattisgarh (110), Bihar (107), Andhra Pradesh (98) and Telangana (92). The ministry is implementing the centrally-sponsored scheme Mission Vatsalya through the state/ Union Territory (UT) governments on a pre-defined cost-sharing basis between the central and the state governments to deliver various services for CNCP and CCL categories which includes both institutional care and non-institutional care services. The scheme provides services to children in need of care and protection and children in conflict with law for their rehabilitation and social reintegration into the mainstream of society. The Child Care Institutions established under the scheme support age-appropriate education, access to vocational training, recreation, health care, counselling etc. Support under non-institutional care is provided by way of sponsorship, foster care and aftercare to children in need of care and protection, the minister added.

Article 370s Abrogation Completed Sardar Patels Mission: Amit Shah

SRINAGAR: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah on Sunday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi completed Sardar Sahabs unfinished work, and by abrogating Article 370, unified Kashmir with India forever. Shah said this while presenting the prestigious Presidents Colour to the Chhattisgarh Police in Raipur today, marking the first day of his [] The post Article 370s Abrogation Completed Sardar Patels Mission: Amit Shah appeared first on Kashmir Life .

TORCH calls for ASI recognition of Telanganas neglected heritage

Telangana has only eight ASI protected monuments, while neighbouring A.P. has over 130 and Chhattisgarh has more than 200 sites, this imbalance undermines Telanganas rich cultural and historical heritage, Union Minister was told

Bi-State HRF conference concludes in Anantapur

Award-winning independent journalist Malini Subramaniam called for extensive reportage on human rights violations at Bastarin Chhattisgarh

Give up arms or face strong action: Amit Shah to Naxals

Union Home Minister Amit Shah urged Naxals in Chhattisgarh to surrender and embrace mainstream life, promising rehabilitation support. He warned of strong action by security forces if they refuse, aiming for a Naxal-free India by 2026. Shah highlighted the success of anti-Naxal operations under the BJP government and the potential for Bastar's tourism growth.

Centre, Chattisgarh committed to end Naxalism by March 2026: Shah

Raipur, Dec 15: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said the Centre and the Chhattisgarh government were committed to eradicate the menace of Naxalism from the state before March 31, 2026. When Chhattisgarh becomes free of Naxalism, the entire country will get rid of the menace, Shah said addressing the Presidents Police Colour Award [] The post Centre, Chattisgarh committed to end Naxalism by March 2026: Shah appeared first on Northlines .

Government committed to end Naxalism in Chhattisgarh by March 2026: Amit Shah

When Chhattisgarh becomes free of Naxalism, the entire country will get rid of the menace, Amit Shah said addressing the President's Police Colour Award function at the Police Parade Ground in Raipur.

Chhattisgarh will be Maoist-free by Mar 2026: Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has declared that Chhattisgarh will be free from the menace of Naxalism by March 31, 2026. He stated that the Centre and the state government are committed to eradicating Naxalism, highlighting the significant achievements of the Chhattisgarh police in the last year. Shah also appealed to Naxalites to surrender and join the mainstream, emphasizing the government's rehabilitation policy. He further praised the Chhattisgarh police's efforts in curbing organized crime and narcotics.

Govt Committed To End Naxalism In Chhattisgarh By March 2026: Amit Shah

Raipur, Dec 15: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said the Centre and the Chhattisgarh government were committed to eradicate the menace of Naxalism from the state before March 31, 2026. When Chhattisgarh becomes free of Naxalism, the entire country will get rid of the menace, Shah said addressing the Presidents Police Colour Award function at the Police Parade Ground in Raipur. The Chhattisgarh police have made a significant achievement in the fight against Naxalism in the last one [] The post Govt Committed To End Naxalism In Chhattisgarh By March 2026: Amit Shah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Will end Naxalism in Chhattisgarh by March 2026: Amit Shah

Raipur: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday reiterated the governments resolve to rid Chhattisgarh of Maoism by March 31, 2026, and hailed the state polices efforts in curbing Left-wing extremism over the past year. Speaking at an event here to mark the Presidents Colour Award to Chhattisgarh Police, Shah appealed to Maoists to join 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 .

'Give up violence, join mainstream': Amit Shah's appeal to Maoists in Chhattisgarh

Union Home Minister Amit Shah urged Naxalites to surrender and embrace mainstream life during a ceremony honoring the Chhattisgarh police. He praised their bravery in combating Naxalism and expressed confidence in eradicating the menace by 2026. Shah highlighted the significant decline in Naxal-related deaths and the surrender of numerous Naxalites.

Centre, Chhattisgarh committed to end Naxalism in state by March 2026: Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced a joint commitment with the Chhattisgarh government to eradicate Naxalism from the state by March 31, 2026. He praised the Chhattisgarh police for significant achievements against Naxalism in the past year, including neutralizing 287 Naxalites and facilitating the surrender of 837. Shah urged remaining Naxalites to surrender and join the mainstream.

BSF jawan injured in IED explosion in Chhattisgarh

Kanker: A jawan of the Border Security Force was injured when an improvised explosive device (IED) planted by Naxalites exploded while his team was trying to defuse it in Chhattisgarhs Kanker district on Sunday, police said. The blast occurred around 9.30 am on the Hetarkasa village road near Panidobir camp, where a team of security 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 .

Rayalaseema tomato farmers in distress as prices slump

CHITTOOR/KURNOOL: Farmers in Rayalaseema, especially in the Pathikonda constituency, are in deep distress as tomato prices have plummeted dramatically. At the Pathikonda market, one of the regions largest wholesale hubs, farmers reported selling tomatoes for as low as Rs 1 per kg, despite official records showing a minimum price of Rs 8 per kg. Farmers allege rampant price manipulation by traders, accusing them of underreporting prices to pocket the difference while paying negligible amounts. Alleged collusion between traders and officials has further fuelled their despair. However, Pathikonda market yard secretary Karnalise refuted the allegations, claiming prices ranged from Rs 8 to Rs 18 per kg based on quality. Officials, including Pathikonda RDO Bharath Naik and Marketing Assistant Director Satyanarayana, visited the market following complaints. Joint Collector B Navya assured farmers of action, stating the Agricultural Marketing Department had procured 13 tonnes of tomatoes for distribution in Machilipatnam, Guntur, and Kurnool. She warned traders against violations and set a minimum price of Rs 4 per kg. Meanwhile, farmers in Punganur are grappling with similar challenges. Recent rains and crop diseases have damaged harvests, triggering steep price drops. On December 2, top-grade tomatoes fetched Rs 66.70 per kg, but by Monday, prices fell to Rs 17.40 per kg. Farmers lament that cultivating an acre of tomatoes costs over Rs 1.5 lakh, but current returns barely cover labour and transport expenses. A 15-kg box that sold for Rs 1,000 last week now fetches only Rs 100 to Rs 260. They attribute the crash to a surplus from Chhattisgarh and other regions flooding local markets. Traders are reportedly favouring tomatoes from Kadiri and Anantapur, sidelining local farmers. Poor infrastructure in markets like Palamaner adds to their woes, while traders selling directly to consumers at reduced rates, such as Rs 45 for 2.5 kg, exacerbate losses. Many farmers had hoped for better prices this season due to crop diseases in Tamil Nadu, anticipating Rs 1,000 per 15-kg box in the New Year. However, oversupply has dashed those hopes, leaving them trapped in a cycle of high input costs and dwindling returns.

At Bastar Olympics, ex-Maoists to send out message of peace & hope

Union home minister Amit Shah will conclude the Bastar Olympics in Chhattisgarh, a region grappling with left-wing extremism. Hundreds of rehabilitated Maoists from various states will attend, signifying a return to peace. Shah will also attend the Para-Olympics for IED blast victims and meet with surrendered Naxalites and security forces.

BJD, BJP blame each other for delay in resolving Mahanadi water dispute

Bhubaneswar: Senior BJD leader and MLA Prasanna Acharya Saturday warned that Odisha is heading for a crisis if the Mahanadi water dispute with Chhattisgarh is not resolved quickly. He raised the concern after Justice Bela M. Trivedi was appointed as the new chairperson of the Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal, warning that the river may become []

Maoist Leader Among Seven Killed in Chhattisgarh Encounter

Raipur: Maoists west bureau secretary P Mohan Rao alias Ramchandra who carried a bounty of Rs 25 lakh was among seven ultras who were gunned down in an encounter with the security forces in south Abujhmad under Narayanpur district in south Bastar in Chhattisgarh on December 12, police said on Saturday. All the seven slain Naxals who included two women have been identified, Bastar police said on Saturday. One of the deceased ultra has been identified as Maoists west bureau secretary P Mohan Rao who was also member of Odisha state committee of outlawed CPI (Maoist), Bastar police said. He had a BTech degree, according to the Bastar police. The other six slain Naxals have been identified as Raini alias Romila Madkam who carried a reward of Rs five lakh on her head and militia members Somari Ayam, Gudsa Kuchha, Rainu Poyam, Kamlesh and Motu who carried a bounty of Rs two lakh each. Eight weapons including two Barrel Grenade Launchers (BGLs), two numbers of 303 rifles, two numbers of 12 bore rifles and two numbers of country made rifles had been recovered at the encounter site. The massive anti-Naxal operation involving around 1,000 security personnel was launched in Kolhaja-Dondarbeda jungle in south Abujhmad on December 12 following intelligence inputs on the presence of senior Maoist leaders of Bastar, Maharashtra and Odisha in the area, police said. Meanwhile, Bastar range inspector general of police P Sunderraj on Saturday announced that two of the seven districts in Bastar division have witnessed no Naxal incidents in the last one year indicating that they have become free of Maoist influence. Two districts in Bastar division, Bastar and Kondagaon, have not witnessed any Naxal incident in the last one year. They have become free of Maoist influence, Mr Sunderraj told this newspaper. Significantly, Chandameta in Bastar district was once considered a Maoist stronghold. The other five districts in Bastar division are Dantewada, Sukma, Narayanpur, Kanker and Bijapur.

Shah to Visit Chhattisgarh for Counterinsurgency Review

Raipur: Union home minister Amit Shah is scheduled to arrive here late on Saturday night on a 3-day visit to Chhattisgarh to review counterinsurgency strategy. Mr Shah is scheduled to spend two days in Leftwing extremism-hit Bastar where he is scheduled to interact with the surrendered Naxals. and visit There are talks going on in the security circle that Mr Shah is most likely to visit the Maoist hotbed during his stay in Bastar. His visit to the Naxal stronghold has however not been officially confirmed. Minute-to-minute programme (of Mr Shah in Bastar) is yet to be received (by us), Bastar range inspector general of police P Sunderraj said on Saturday. The Union minister is scheduled to land at Raipur airport at 11 pm on Saturday and spend the night in a private resort here amid tight security, official sources said. Mr Shah is scheduled to leave for Bastar on Sunday afternoon. He would attend the closing ceremony of the ongoing Bastar Olympics in which the local tribes including the surrendered Naxals took part. He would take stock of the Leftwing insurgency situation in Bastar and the counterinsurgency measures being undertaken by the security personnel and is also scheduled to interact with the surrendered Naxals and jawans during his stay in Bastar. On the second day of his visit to Bastar on Monday, Mr Shah is scheduled to meet the families of jawans martyred in the Maoist attack in Bastar. He is scheduled to review anti-Naxal strategy at a high-level official meeting in Raipur before winding up his Chhattisgarh tour on Monday evening.

Mourning and Forgiveness for Manipur Events Held Nationwide

Hyderabad: In solidarity and hope for peace in Manipur, Mourning and Forgiveness for Manipur events were organised in the city and several other places across the country. People conducted multi-faith prayers and meditation sessions, sang peace songs, exhibited paintings and appealed for normalcy in the violence-ridden state. According to a statement, in Imphal, the capital of Manipur, over a hundred people representing Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Jainism and spiritual groups like Iskcon, Sanamahi, Divine Life Society and Brahmakumaris gathered to pray for the people who lost their lives in the conflict in Manipur and expressed concern for the pain and sufferings of the survivors. The interfaith gathering launched the Manipur Peace Fund, with one rupee a day donation, dedicated to educating the younger generation in peacebuilding and conflict resolution. Similar events were organised in Madurai (Tamil Nadu), Raipur (Chhattisgarh), Ranipur, Sheopur, Sihora and Gwalior (Madhya Pradesh), Khordha (Odisha), Tinsukia and Dhubri (Assam), Bahraich (Uttar Pradesh), New Delhi and elsewhere.

Bastar village tunes in to TV for first time

Puvarti, a Maoist-affected village in Chhattisgarhs Sukma district, received TV sets under a Chhattisgarh government initiative to promote development and extend benefits of welfare schemes to remotest villages

First time after independance solar power lights up lives of tribals in Maoist-affected villages of Bastar

RAIPUR: The tribal habitats tucked deep inside the remote areas cited as Maoist strongholds in Bastar, south Chhattisgarh, the villagers have a reason to cheer as their region saw lights reaching their place for the first time through solar power after independence. Amid the ongoing aggressive anti-Maoist operations with the renewed strategy targeting the rebels, the Chhattisgarh State Renewable Energy Development Agency (CREDA) simultaneously lights up the lives of tribals in several non-electrified gram panchayats for the first time in 78 years of independence across the Maoist hotbed in districts of Bastar where they never had access to electricity. Remaining deprived of basic infrastructure like power supply lines and distribution transformer, the remote inhabited tribal villages are now powered through off-grid system like solar power in the Maoist epicentre ushered in a new ray of hope for the local communities. Many villages are getting freedom from darkness. CREDA is providing solar-powered appliances such as lights, fans, high mast lighting pole, for drinking and irrigation purposes. Its a transformational step towards development in the remote Bastar region, asserted Vishnu Deo Sai, chief minister. Solar television is the new intervention in these tribal villages where for the first time people saw various programmes on national broadcaster Doordarshan. Children from the worst affected Puvarti, the native village of top Maoist leader Hidma, Tekalgudiyum, and Silger have watched educator programmes and cartoons. Our primary focus remains to cover those villages that are in and around the 5 km radius of the newly established security camps in the worst affected Bastar region. The surveys have initially found 95 such villages and many of these panchayats are not connected with grid electricity. They have not seen electricity at all. So, we are providing solar home lights, solar high mast lighting, solar television, solar irrigation pumps besides community lighting facility. Over 80 percent of these panchayats have been covered by solar power and we are gradually moving forward, Rajesh Singh Rana, chief executive officer, CREDA, told this newspaper. Studying at night for students is now very much convenient with the help of solar lights. The educational programmes on Doordarshan are valuable to the youths, said Nuppo Hadma in Puvarti The villagers said they never thought of having TVs in their villages. It now brings a feeling of being connected to the world, they expressed with delight. CREDA is successfully carrying out its welfare mission in the worst Maoist-affected districts like Sukma, Narayanpur, Bijapur and Dantewada, Rana added. The initiative is a part of the state government's Niyad Nellanar (meaning Your Own Village) yojana of the Chhattisgarh government to promote development and extend the benefits of welfare schemes to the remotest villages.

Tiger moving towards forest area in Manugur, say officials

KHAMMAM: A day after a high alert was issued in Bhadradri Kothagudem district over suspicion of a tiger entering the area, forest officials on Friday observed a change in its route to the Manugur forest area in the district from the Eturunagaram forest area. Manugur divisional forest officer Sd Maqsood said that it is a male tiger and migrates to the forest areas here for mating in December every year. If we examine the last 10 years of the tiger movement, the feline did not kill any person, he added. Stating that the villagers have been alerted and warned not to send cattle into the forest areas, the officer said that the tiger would migrate to Chhattisgarh after the mating. Maqsood further said, We are expecting the tiger might have entered into Bayyaram range in Manugur division and there are high chances that the feline may attack cattle and other animals. Meanwhile, the residents of the Manugur forest area are gripped with fear. They are urging forest officials to ensure that the tiger does not harm them and their cattle. Sources said that the agriculture labourers are refusing to attend the farm works due to the fear of the big tiger.

91 Indian districts at high drought risk, 51 at high flood risk: Report

NEW DELHI: Indias 91 districts face high risks of drought, 51 districts are at high flood risks and 11 face very high risks of both, a new report released by the Department of science and technology says, emphasising the need for immediate interventions to address challenges posed by climate change. The report, titled District-Level Climate Risk Assessment for India: Mapping Flood and Drought Risks Using IPCC Framework, has mapped Indias districts to assess climate vulnerability. The profiling of hazard-specific risks of districts will enable state governments to prepare proactively and allocate resources, staff and design programmes, fostering resilience in districts most affected by floods and droughts, the report says. Besides DST, the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation funded the study to address climate change challenges. The study was carried out by the Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati in collaboration with IIT Mandi and the Centre for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP), Bengaluru. According to the study, about 85% of the districts of Assam, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Gujarat, Odisha, and Jammu and Kashmir are in the very high flood risk category. Fifty-one districts face very high flood risk and 118 come under high risk category. More than 85% of the districts in the very high drought risk category belong to Bihar, Assam, Jharkhand, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh, Kerala, Uttarakhand, and Haryana. Ninety-one districts facing very high drought risk, and 188 districts facing high drought risk predominantly belong to Bihar, Jharkhand, Assam, Odisha and Maharashtra. Eleven districts facing both very high flood and drought risks include Patna (Bihar); Alappuzha (Kerala); Charaideo, Dibrugarh, Sibsagar, South Salmara-Mankachar and Golaghat (Assam); Kendrapara (Odisha); and Murshidabad, Nadia, and Uttar Dinajpur (West Bengal). Now challenge is to translate these findings into on-ground actions as essentials, and insights must reach every stakeholder at national and state levels, said Anita Gupta, head of scientific division, DST.

Congress speaking Soros language, says Nadda

Mr. Nadda was addressing a gathering that has come to attend Janadesh Parab (peoples mandate festival) on the completion of one year of the BJP government in Chhattisgarh

BJP leader says he will demolish illegal churches and build temples in Bastar

Raja Ram Todem, a former MLA, said we will install Bajrangbali (Hanuman) or Budhadev (tribal god worshipped in Chhattisgarh) after bringing down the churches

Telangana govt. to hold Saraswati Pushkaralu in 2025

Hyderabad: The government is embarking on holding another major religious congregation, the Saraswati Pushkaralu at Kaleshwaram, a temple town on the border of Telangana and Maharashtra. The town is popularly known for its ancient Kaleshwara Mukteswara Swamy temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that the river Saraswati flows beneath the Godavari and the Pranahita, and the confluence of these three rivers is called the Triveni Sangamam. The Saraswati Pushkaralu will take place in early 2025, and the date will be finalised by pandits. Endowments minister Konda Surekha has started review meetings with officials from different departments as the pushkaralu, which is celebrated once in 12 years, is expected to attract lakhs of devotees from Maharashtra, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh besides Telangana. During a review meeting on Friday, Surekha directed officials to construct pucca bathing ghats, pandals, changing rooms, rest rooms and provide temporary shelters, camps for accommodation of pilgrims. She also asked the authorities to launch special drives to clean the river and its banks before the event. On the pilgrim management, Surekha asked the law enforcing agencies to make plans for crowd control at designated entry and exit points to avoid overcrowding. She asked the officials to conduct spiritual programmes, cultural events and religious discourses by spiritual leaders on all the 12 days of pushkaralu. Giving emphasis on sanitation, Surekha asked the municipal staff to provide clean drinking water points, clean the environments of the temple and river on a regular basis. She underlined the need for perfect coordination with various departments like tourism, health, police, water resources, municipal and transport to ensure smooth execution. Shailaja Ramayyar, principal secretary (endowments), Prakash Reddy, the managing director of Telangana Tourism Development Corporation, Rahul Sharma, the district collector of Jaishankar Bhoopalapally, Kiran, superintendent of police, Krishnaveni, additional commissioner (endowment), Sunitha, assistant commissioner (endowments), Maruthi, EO of Kaleshwaram Temple and others took part in the review meeting.

Two Naxalites killed in encounter with security personnel in Chhattisgarh

A day after seven Naxalites were killed in Narayanpur , two other Naxalites were shot dead in an encounter with security personnel in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district on Friday, a senior police official said. The gunfight took place in the morning in the forest of Nendra and Punnur villages when a team of security personnel was out on an anti-Naxalite operation, Bijapur Superintendent of Police Jitendra Kumar Yadav told PTI. After the exchange of fire stopped, bodies of two Naxalites, one 12 bore rifle and other Maoist-related materials were recovered from the spot, he said. Further details are awaited as the search operation is still underway in the area, he said. With this incident, bodies of 217 Naxalites have been recovered so far this year following separate encounters in Chhattisgarh's Bastar division comprising seven districts, including Bijapur, police said. On Thursday, seven Naxalites were killed in an encounter with security forces in the south Abujhmad area of Narayanpur district. 10 Naxalites killed in encounter with security personnel in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district

SC bar & bench have a heated exchange over bail application

The Supreme Court questioned the Chhattisgarh government over the prolonged investigation into the liquor scam case, leading to a heated exchange with the state's counsel. While hearing the bail plea of a former excise official, the court expressed concern over the delay in trial, despite multiple chargesheets filed.

On 3-day trip, Amit Shah to chair security meet, go to former Red stronghold

Home Minister Amit Shah embarks on a three-day Chhattisgarh visit to review Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) strategies. He will honor the Chhattisgarh police, meet Naxal violence victims and surrendered Maoists, and encourage Bastar Olympics participants. Shah will also pay tribute to fallen security personnel, inspect development work, and chair a security review meeting focused on eliminating LWE by March 2026.

Two days ahead of Amit Shah's visit to Chhattisgarh, 7 Maoists shot

Security forces in Bastar killed seven Maoists, including a central committee member, just two days before the Union home minister's visit. Over 1,000 troops launched a pre-dawn operation in Abujhmarh based on intelligence, leading to an ongoing encounter. The operation has resulted in the seizure of weapons and ammunition, with the death toll of Maoists reaching 220 this year.

NIA uncovers Maoist arms network in Chintoor division

Visakhapatnam :The National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted extensive searches across Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha on Thursday as part of an ongoing investigation into the supply of weapons and explosives to Maoist groups. The operation targeted the residences of seven individuals accused in the case, with a particular focus on Chintoor in Andhra Pradesh. During the raids, the NIA seized several digital devices and documents. These searches follow the agencys earlier arrests of two suspects linked to the case. The NIA had registered a First Information Report (FIR) in September 2024 after taking over the investigation from local police, who had initially apprehended the suspects with a cache of explosives, including fuse wires and detonators. The inquiry has uncovered a significant network responsible for supplying large quantities of weapons and materials to Maoist factions. Officials indicated evidence pointing to a conspiracy aimed at targeting police forces during election duties. In recent months, the NIA has intensified its crackdown on Maoist activities across multiple states, aligning with the Indian governments goal to eliminate left-wing extremism by March 2026.