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UP Chief Minister Recognises Galgotias University's Rise in Global Rankings and Innovation
In a landmark moment reflecting Uttar Pradesh’s growing prominence on the global education map, Galgotias University received high praise from the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Yogi Adityanath ji, during a special interaction. Commending the University’s impressive performance in the QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education (THE), the Chief Minister described Galgotias University as a leading example for higher education institutions across the state and a matter of pride for Uttar Pradesh. He further encouraged the University to continue its upward trajectory and blessed it to achieve even greater heights in global rankings in the years ahead. Hon’ble CM Shri Yogi Adityanath ji with Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO, Galgotias University, appreciating the University’s global academic progress During the interaction, the Hon’ble Chief Minister emphasised the pivotal role of educational excellence, innovation-driven learning, and global collaborations in positioning Uttar Pradesh as an emerging knowledge hub. He noted that the progressive governance and development model of Uttar Pradesh is increasingly becoming a benchmark for other states across the country, particularly in advancing education, infrastructure, and global engagement. In this context, he appreciated Galgotias University’s consistent efforts to build a world-class academic ecosystem and observed that institutions like Galgotias inspire others across the state to aspire to international benchmarks and global recognition. A key highlight of the interaction was the Chief Minister’s appreciation of Galgotias University’s pioneering student-centric education philosophy - G-SCALE (Galgotias Student-Centred Active Learning Ecosystem). Recognised as a future-ready academic model, G-SCALE ensures immersive, personalised, and experiential learning aligned with global best practices. The University’s learning framework is further strengthened through academic inspiration drawn from the InsPIRE model at Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore, reinforcing its commitment to internationally benchmarked education. The Hon’ble Chief Minister expressed particular satisfaction on learning about Galgotias University’s focused initiatives in emerging and strategic technology domains such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Semiconductor education and research, and Drone technology. He noted that such forward-looking programmes play a crucial role in preparing students for next-generation industries while contributing to India’s vision of technological self-reliance and innovation-led growth. The Chief Minister also acknowledged the strategic advantage of Greater Noida’s rapidly evolving global infrastructure, including the upcoming Noida International Airport, which significantly enhances international connectivity, global faculty engagement, and student mobility. Galgotias University’s expanding network of global faculty, visiting professors, and international research collaborations was highlighted as a key contributor to its rising global academic stature. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO of Galgotias University, said, “We are deeply honoured by the encouraging words and blessings of Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath ji. His recognition of Galgotias University’s achievements in the QS and THE rankings is a strong validation of our efforts. Through our G-SCALE learning ecosystem, academic inspiration from the InsPIRE model at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, and focused initiatives in AI, Semiconductor, and Drone technologies, supported by active global faculty engagement, we are building a truly future-ready academic environment. Our mission is to contribute meaningfully to Uttar Pradesh’s vision of becoming a global destination for quality education while nurturing leaders who will drive India’s growth story.” This recognition further energises Galgotias University’s mission to deliver globally benchmarked education rooted in innovation, research, and industry relevance. As the University continues to strengthen international partnerships, global faculty engagement, and future-focused academic initiatives, it remains steadfast in preparing students for opportunities in a rapidly transforming world. The milestone reinforces Galgotias University’s standing as one of India’s most progressive and future-ready institutions. About Galgotias University Galgotias University Among the World’s Leading Universities in QS and THE Rankings. Galgotias University has made a significant global impact by securing a position in the 1201-1400 band of the QS World University Rankings 2026 by Quacquarelli Symonds. The University is ranked 15th among top private universities in India and 43rd among all Indian universities (public and private combined) - a testament to its academic excellence, global relevance, and innovation-driven approach. In the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025, Galgotias University is ranked 45th among Indian universities and placed in the 1001–1200 global band, further strengthening its international academic stature. These achievements reflect the University’s sustained progress in global benchmarks and its role as a model institution for higher education in Uttar Pradesh and beyond.
The 74.3 km Ganga-Yamuna Link Expressway in Greater Noida is moving faster, with land acquisition set to begin in January. Built for Rs 4,000 crore, it will improve connectivity to Noida Airport, Delhi, Agra, Meerut and major expressways across Uttar Pradesh.
Four killed, 66 injured as buses catch fire after fog-induced pile-up on Yamuna expressway in UP
At least four people were killed and 66 others were injured in a major multi-vehicle collision on the Yamuna Expressway in Mathura district early on Tuesday, police said. The accident occurred around 4 am on the AgraNoida stretch of the expressway amid extremely low visibility caused by dense fog. At least seven buses and three cars were involved in the collision, which triggered a fire. Fire and emergency services rushed to the spot, deploying 11 fire tenders to control the blaze and rescue trapped passengers. According to District Magistrate Chandra Prakash Singh, the accident occurred near milestone 127 under the Baldev police station limits. Senior officials, including the DM and SSP, supervised rescue operations carried out by teams from the police, fire services, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). Traffic on the expressway was diverted as the road remained blocked. Stranded passengers were later sent to their destinations in government vehicles. Eyewitnesses said the collision was followed by loud explosions, and local villagers rushed to assist in rescue efforts. A passenger travelling from Lucknow to Delhi said the bus he was in came to a sudden halt after crossing Agra, after which passengers forced open jammed doors to help women and children escape. The incident comes amid widespread dense fog across Uttar Pradesh and other parts of northern India. On Tuesday morning, several cities, including Agra, Prayagraj, Bareilly and Moradabad, recorded near-zero visibility. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed condolences to the families of the victims and directed officials to ensure proper treatment of the injured. The State has reported a series of fog-related road accidents in recent days. On Monday, six accidents involving 31 vehicles were reported. On Sunday, 29 vehicles were involved in six accidents, killing seven people, while eight accidents on Saturday involving 40 vehicles claimed four lives. - Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) December 16, 2025
Four killed, 25 injured as buses catch fire after fog-induced pile-up on Yamuna expressway in UP
At least four people were killed and 25 others injured after a major collision involving multiple vehicles triggered a fire on the Yamuna Expressway in Mathura district early on Tuesday, police said. The accident occurred around 4 am on the Agra-Noida expressway amid extremely low visibility caused by dense fog. At least seven buses and several smaller vehicles collided with each other in the dense fog around 4.30 am, the police said. Four people died, and 25 were injured in the accident. The vehicles collided due to low visibility on the Agra-to-Noida side of the Yamuna Expressway. Some vehicles also caught fire. All injured have been sent to the hospital, SSP Mathura Shlok Kumar said. He said that the vehicles were engulfed in flames soon after the collision. Fire and emergency services rushed to the spot, deploying 11 fire tenders to control the blaze and rescue trapped passengers. Visuals from the spot revealed charred remains of buses that caught fire. Craned were called in to remove them from the road. The passengers were sent to their destinations in government vehicles, the officer said. Since the road is blocked, diversions are made, he added. The incident comes amid widespread dense fog across Northern India. which has significantly reduced visibility on roads. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed condolences to the families of those who diedin the accident. In a post on X, he said, The loss of lives in the road accident on the Yamuna Expressway in Mathura district is extremely tragic and heart-wrenching. My condolences are with the bereaved families. Instructions have been given to the district administration officials for proper treatment of the injured. I pray to Lord Shri Ram that the departed souls attain a place at His divine feet and the injured recover swiftly. - Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) December 16, 2025 (With inputs from PTI, ANI)
Even gods need rest: SC on special puja issue
NEW DELHI: Expressing unhappiness over allowing paid special pujas in temples, disrupting the resting time of the deity, the Supreme Court on Monday sought a response from the authorities on a plea challenging changes in darshan timings and temple practices at Bankey Bihari Ji temple in Vrindavan. Issuing a notice to the SC-appointed temple management committee and the Uttar Pradesh government, the three-judge bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant, Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pamcholi, listed the matter for further consideration in the first week of January, 2026. The SC also took into record the submissions of senior advocate Shyam Divan and lawyer Tanvi Dubey on the same . The dispute arose against the backdrop of the Uttar Pradesh Shri Bankey Bihari Ji Temple Trust Ordinance, 2025, which triggered a debate over governmental involvement in religious institutions, and their impact.
The investment proposals include a mix of large and small-scale industries, such as flour mills, rice mills, saw mills, filling stations, oil mills, warehousing, and food processing units.
Uttar Pradesh fast-tracks logistics push, clears four projects worth 1,100 crore
Planned across Varanasi, Moradabad, Lucknow and other locations, the projects are expected to strengthen the states modern storage and distribution network while generating significant employment.
Why Naushad Dubeys Bahubhoj became talk of the town in Jaunpur
Vedanti, a key figure in Ayodhya movement, passes away
Tata Sons chief, CM discuss AI City, investment plans
New chief in, organisational revamp likely soon for UP BJP
13 UP players eye IPL berth at mini auction today
Yogi calls high-level meet today to review devpt schemes, works
Rewa boy who emerged as one of most recognizable faces of temple movement
Two arrested for murder of madrassa teacher
Speeding vehicle rams car in Barabanki dist, 2 killed
Next phase of police reforms should now focus on citizen satisfaction
Hapur gets investment proposals worth Rs 1,300 crore
Political backwardness assessment to precede panchayat polls in state
Yogi: Serving every needy is govts foremost objective
UPERC proposes single-fee system for new electricity connections
Hotels, nursing homes licence fees set to rise
Airport set to get modern navigation facility
Samarth Portal glitches halt law exam formalities
Teen killed while foiling theft in Chandauli dist
Gyanvapi case: Court denies giving order on seal cloth
Grand procession marks Parshvanath Jayanti in Kashi
Three killed in two fog-related accidents in UP
Wanted in UP, Bihar for 13 yrs, CPI-Maoist leader arrested by UP ATS in Varanasi
India witnessing phase of cultural resurgence under Modi: MP CM
NorthSouth cultural harmony put on display at Namo Ghat
Scholars, artists explore Divine Connection at BHU
Over 2k benefit from CM Health Fair in Kashi
BHU faculty nominated AIU observer for Youth Fest in Chennai
NLCIL receives nod to build 110 MW solar power project in Uttar Pradesh
Dont Roam Without Guardian: UP Cops 'Advice' To Girl Sparks Row
A station house officer in eastern Uttar Pradesh has been transferred after she allegedly stopped a girl and her brother at a temple park in Mau district and advised her not to venture out in public places without a guardian, officials said
2 More Accused Sentenced to Imprisonment by NIA Court in Visakhapatnam Spying Case
The two accused convicted today are Somnath Sanjay Ikade of Ahmednagar district in Maharashtra, and Sonu Kumar of Hathras district in Uttar Pradesh. They were arrested in December 2019 from Karwar (Karnataka) and Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh) respectively
IPL 2026 Auction: Meet The Uncapped Indian Players Set To Attract Attention Of The Franchises
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction now a day away, all eyes will be on the uncapped domestic players expected to land big paydays and instant recognition from the cricketing world. Once the IPL 2025 season was over, coaches and scouts of all ten teams were busy criss-crossing the country to see various state T20 league games and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy matches to identify the gems who can be of great value to their teams. With limited purses and multiple slots to fill, uncapped Indian cricketers are expected to be in huge demand. IANS looks at five players who could attract significant interest when auction bidding begins in Abu Dhabi. Prashant Veer Base price of Rs 30 lakh The slow left-arm spin bowling all-rounder from Amethi, Uttar Pradesh, has been talked highly of for his skills, which have earned him comparison with Ravindra Jadeja. In the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Veer scored 112 runs at a strike rate of 169.69 and claimed nine wickets at an economy of 6.76, highlighted by a 3-20 and an unbeaten 40. His exploits in the UP T20 League for Noida Super Kings further underlined his batting prowess amassing 320 runs along with taking eight wickets across 10 matches. Having already attended IPL trials, including those of five-time champions Chennai Super Kings, eyeing to fill a Jadeja-sized void, the 23-year-old allrounder is expected to be firmly on the radar of all teams. Auqib Nabi Dar - Base price of Rs 30 lakh The seam-bowling all-rounder from Jammu & Kashmir has emerged as one of Indias most consistent performers in domestic cricket. In the first half of the Ranji Trophy, Nabi has taken 29 wickets in five matches at an average of 13.27, including a best haul of 7-24. Nabis white-ball form has been equally impressive. In the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he claimed 15 wickets in seven matches at an economy of 7.41. attributes that have drawn the attention of franchise scouts. He would be hoping this time he gets an IPL deal after having two net bowling stints before in the tournament. Ashok Sharma - Base price of Rs 30 lakh The fast bowler has been on top of the wicket-taking chart in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy picking 20 wickets in nine matches, including best figures of 4-16, and consistently clocking speeds above 140 kmph. Sharma was a net bowler with the Rajasthan Royals and was part of their squad in IPL 2025, but didnt get a game. He didnt get a game with the Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2023. But his consistent performance in the SMAT and attending trials with multiple franchises means he will attract aggressive bidding from teams looking to bolster their fast-bowling stocks. Kartik Sharma - Base price of Rs 30 lakh There were curious eyes when he was signed up by JSW, which manages cricketers like Axar Patel, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Shafali Verma. But his reputation as a clean striker and lower-order finisher with a penchant to hit big sixes all of this at just 19 has already excited many onlookers. Such was the effect that he was spotted at CSK trials ahead of the auction. He was Rajasthan's highest run-getter in the previous edition of the Vijay Hazare Trophy with 445 runs in eight innings, coming at a strike rate of 118.03. Kartik scored 133 runs in five games at a strike rate of over 160 in Rajasthans group stage campaign in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, before a finger injury ruled him out of the Super League phase. Tejasvi Singh Dahiya - Base price of Rs 30 lakh The wicketkeeper-batter from New Delhi is on the radar of franchises after a superlative showing in the past few months, earning him spots in trials of various franchises. He was one of the standout performers in the 2025 Delhi Premier League (DPL), scoring 339 runs in 10 innings at a strike rate of 190.45, and that paved his way into selection to the Delhi team for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Tejasvi Singh Dahiya - Base price of Rs 30 lakh Also Read: Live Cricket Score Other uncapped players on the radar of franchises are Tushar Raheja, Ravi Singh, Krains Fuletra, Sairaj Patil, Arpit Rana, Yash Dhull, Sarthak Ranjan, Abhishek Pathak, Mangesh Yadav, Naman Tiwari, Salman Nizar, Yash Raj Punja, Raj Limbani, Sunny Sandhu, Salil Arora, Money Grewal, Sushant Mishra, and Ravi Kumar. Article Source: IANS
Uttar Pradesh Man Beheads Live-in Partner, Returns Home To Marry Another Woman
The accused was subsequently arrested and, during interrogation, led police to the location where Umas severed head had been hidden.
cough-syrup-trafficking-racket-in-up-had-700-fake-firms-generating-billions-of-rupees-ed-says
The Enforcement Directorate raided more than 25 locations in UP, Gujarat, and Jharkhand over 40 hours, over a large illicit money laundering cough syrup racket. Officials found that over 700 fake firms were set up in the name of 220 operators. The firms were found to be generating billions of rupees. In the Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR), 67 people were named as accused in the case. It was found to be the states largest codeine-based cough syrup diversion and trafficking racket. Factories, warehouses, and residences linked to the accused were raided. The firms existed only on paper, and many of their authorised individuals were also only found on documents. ED sources said that more of the key links in the firms were being exposed, which will lead to more evidence. The body is also moving to seize assets from the masterminds behind the racket, Subham Jaiswal, Alok singh, another man who is a close associate of a former MP, and Amit Tata managed to get away last year eve after the STF conducted an investigation. ED sources said that large cash transactions were found in the bank accounts of Subham Jaiswal and the other two names. Subhams father, Bhola Prasad Jaiswal, is also a person of interest in the case. Some of the firms involved in the transactions were in Ranchi and Ahmedabad. In Uttar Pradesh, locations in Lucknow, Saharanpur, Varanasi, and Ghaziabad. The EDs ECIR enables the agency to summon suspects, freeze bank accounts, seize evidence, and attack properties acquired through illicit proceeds. The report was based on 24 FIRs registered over the past year by UP police, STF and FSDA across districts. Subham Jaiswal, who is the alleged mastermind behind the racket, was issued a notice to appear before the ED on December 8. More summons are expected as the financial probe expands.
Ram Janmabhoomi movement leader Dr Ramvilas Vedanti passes away at 67
LUCKNOW: Former BJP MP and senior saint Dr Ram Vilas Das Vedanti (67), a prominent figure of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, passed away while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Madhya Pradeshs Rewa district early on Monday. Dr Vedanti had been admitted to Rewas Super Speciality Hospital for the past two days. On Sunday, Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla had planned to airlift him to AIIMS, Bhopal, for advanced treatment, but the air ambulance could not be deployed due to adverse weather conditions. His health deteriorated subsequently, and he passed away at 12.20 am on Monday. Earlier, Dr Vedanti had travelled from Ayodhya to Delhi on December 7 and attended a meeting of the VHPs Central Margdarshak Mandal on December 10. From Delhi, he reached Rewa, where a Ramkatha discourse by him was underway at Bhatwa village near Lalgaon. The programme had been scheduled to continue till December 17. His successor, Mahant Raghavesh Das Vedanti, said the mortal remains were being taken to Ayodhya, where the last rites would be performed with full religious rituals. Born on October 7, 1958, Dr Ramvilas Das Vedanti was a disciple of Mahant Abhiram Das of Hanumangarhi. He resided at Hindu Dham, Naya Ghat, in Ayodhya, and also headed an ashram known as Vashishth Bhawan. For several decades, he recited Ramkatha before Ramlala and at Hanumangarhi, and was widely regarded as a distinguished Sanskrit scholar and a leading saint associated with Ayodhya. Dr Vedanti played a significant role in the Ram temple movement. He was a member of the Ram Janmabhoomi Nyas and later served as its Executive President. He was also a two-time Member of Parliament on a BJP ticket, having represented Machhlishahr in Jaunpur district in 1996 and Pratapgarh in the 12th Lok Sabha. In the 1998 Lok Sabha elections, he won the Pratapgarh seat by a large margin, defeating Congress candidate Ratna Singh. A native of Gudhwa village in Rewa district, Dr Vedanti lost his mother at the age of two. His father, Ram Suman Tripathi, was a priest and guru of former Union Minister Arjun Singh. Dr Vedanti arrived in Ayodhya at the age of 12 and devoted his life to religious and social service. His role in the demolition of the disputed structure on December 6, 1992, remained controversial, as he had publicly admitted to ordering the demolition and was named as an accused in the Babri Masjid demolition case. However, his statement was widely seen as an attempt to shield senior BJP leaders. In 2020, a special CBI court acquitted him, ruling that there was no conspiracy behind the demolition. , . ! , Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) December 15, 2025 Condoling his death, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath wrote on X: The passing of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Andolan's key pillar, former MP, and revered saint of Vashishtha Ashram at Shri Ayodhya Dham, Dr Ramvilas Vedanti Ji Maharaj, to Goloka is an irreparable loss to the spiritual world and Sanatan culture. Humble tribute to him! His departure marks the end of an era. His life of sacrifice, dedicated to the service of religion, society, and nation, is an inspiration to us all. We pray to Lord Shri Ram to grant the departed soul a place at His divine feet and bestow strength upon the grief-stricken disciples and followers to bear this immense sorrow. Om Shanti! he added. According to his disciples, Dr Vedanti regarded the consecration of the Ram temple by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the fulfilment of two major resolutions of his life. Political observers note that he significantly altered the political landscape of Pratapgarh district, becoming the first BJP leader to win the seat by mobilising support around the Ram temple movement.
NFCSF urges Centre to revise sugar MSP to 41 per kg, increase ethanol price
NEW DELHI: The National Federation of Cooperative Sugar Factories Ltd. (NFCSF), the apex body of sugar cooperatives, has urged the Central Government to immediately revise the Minimum Selling Price (MSP) of sugar. This demand comes in light of rising production costs, declining ex-mill sugar prices, and the increasing financial stress on sugar mills, which could soon lead to a crisis for sugarcane farmers. Meanwhile, the NFCSF applauded the government's decision to permit the export of 15 lakh metric tons (LMT) of sugar for the Sugar Season 202526, stating that this move will address several issues. However, they highlighted the liquidity crisis faced by cooperative sugar mills, which could adversely affect sugar farmers. Harshvardhan Patil, the President of NFCSF, remarked that cooperative sugar mills are owned by millions of farmers, and sustaining the momentum of the current sugar season requires decisive support from the government at this critical time. Early action from the government will enable mills to meet cane payment commitments, protect farmer incomes, and maintain confidence in the cooperative sugar framework, he said. Patil also urged the government to allow an additional diversion of 5 LMT of sugar towards ethanol production, which could generate nearly Rs 2,000 crore. This would directly strengthen cash flows for the mills and facilitate timely payments to sugarcane farmers. The Sugar Season 202526 has begun on a strong note due to early crushing operations and improved yield. As of December 15, 2025, 479 sugar mills across the country have produced 77.90 LMT of sugar, compared to 60.70 LMT produced by 473 mills during the same period last year, marking an increase of 17.20 LMT (28.34%). Cane crushing has also risen by 183.75 LMT (25.61%), with an improving trend in sugar recovery. State-wise performance indicates that in Uttar Pradesh, 120 sugar factories have commenced crushing and processed 264 LMT of sugarcane, achieving an average recovery rate of 9.50%, resulting in the production of 25.05 LMT of sugar compared to 22.95 LMT last year with a recovery rate of 8.90%. In Maharashtra, 190 factories are operational and have crushed 379 LMT of sugarcane, producing 31.30 LMT of sugar with an average recovery of 8.25%, marking a significant increase from 16.80 LMT produced during the same period last season. In Karnataka, 76 factories have started crushing and produced 15.50 LMT of sugar by processing 186 LMT of cane, compared to 13.50 LMT last year. The NFCSF has therefore urged the Government of India to adopt a proactive and forward-looking policy approach to maintain stability in the sector. The Federation emphasized the urgent need for the revision of the Sugar MSP to Rs 41 per kg, an enhancement of ethanol procurement prices, and an additional diversion of 5 LMT of sugar towards ethanol production. This added ethanol production alone could generate nearly Rs 2,000 crore, thereby directly strengthening mill cash flows and supporting timely payments to sugarcane farmers.
PWD to upgrade 19 black spots to check accidents
Ram Vilas Vedanti Ram Janmabhoomi movement leader and former BJP MP dies in Rewa after heart attack
Vedanti was the executive president of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Trust and had been elected to the Lok Sabha from Pratapgarh and Machhali Shahar in neighbouring Uttar Pradesh earlier
Supreme Court issues notice on plea challenging revision of Banke Bihari Temple darshan timings
The Supreme Court on Monday issued notice to the State of Uttar Pradesh and others on a writ petition that challenged the recent administrative alterations to the darshan timings of the Banke Bihari temple, located in the Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh, on the grounds that the opening and closing hours of the shrine constituted [] The post Supreme Court issues notice on plea challenging revision of Banke Bihari Temple darshan timings appeared first on India Legal .
Medical Education Reform Stays Stalled, says SC-appointed Oversight Secy
Just four states, three in South and Uttar Pradesh, command the largest pie in Indias medical education
Nehru Made Kashmir Issue Controversial, India Got Extremism, Separatism From There: Adityanath
Lucknow, Dec 15: Uttar Pradesh Chief Yogi Adityanath on Monday blamed Jawaharlal Nehru for the extremism and separatism emanating from Kashmir, and alleged that the first prime minister of India made the issue so controversial that it continues to sting the country even now. Addressing an event on the 75th death anniversary of the countrys first home minister, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, he referred to the integration of over 560 princely states into the Union of India and pointed to Junagadh [] The post Nehru Made Kashmir Issue Controversial, India Got Extremism, Separatism From There: Adityanath appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
At 5:30 am, visibility at Palam was around 100 metres since 4:30 am but decreased further to 50 metres due to thick fog, with westerly winds blowing at 5-7 kmph. Both Safdarjung and Palam in Delhi reported visibility of 50 metres, while Hindon in west Uttar Pradesh recorded zero visibility.
Elevation above caste & dynasty politics: BJPs new UP chief takes over
LUCKNOW: Union Minister of State (MoS) for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary was on Sunday appointed as the president of the BJPs Uttar Pradesh unit, ending months of speculation over who would secure the coveted position. Chaudhury extended his gratitude to the party leadership on the occasion, saying, Only in the BJP can an ordinary party worker like me be elevated to role of leadership like this. The decision is guided neither by dynastic politics nor caste politics. The announcement was made in the presence of CM Yogi Adityanath and Deputy CMs Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak. Union Minister Piyush Goyal and party national general secretary Vinod Tawde were also present. A seven-time Lok Sabha MP from Maharajganj, Chaudhary is the fourth Kurmi leader to lead the party in the states history. Chaudhary had filed his nomination papers for the post on Saturday. The 61-year-old is also a prominent OBC leader from Gorakhpur, the stronghold of UP CM Yogi Adityanath in eastern Uttar Pradesh. His name was proposed by the CM himself. The partys decision to name him as the state unit chief seems to have been shaped by the its electoral setback in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, when the OBC voter base drifted away from it. Chaudhurys election was finalised reportedly keeping in mind the partys electoral strategy for the Assembly elections slated for early 2027 as well as the three-tier panchayat polls due in the middle of next year. Chaudhary assured party workers that they are of prime importance for him. I will fight for you and will become adamant for your rights. I will always be available to listen to you as karyakarta (worker), karyakram (events), karyalaya (office) and kosh (treasury) all these four factors are significant for any organisation, he said.
Insider track: PMs engagement style
PMs engagement style Prime Minister Narendra Modis recent dinner for NDA MPs at his former official residence offered a few telling moments about his approach to engagement. One scene that set tongues wagging featured the Prime Minister walking alongside a Cabinet minister, his hand briefly resting on the ministers shoulder. Such gestures from Modi are rare, which is why they rarely go unnoticed. A cautious NDA MP said it hinted at a level of comfort or trust, adding that the ministers visible role in the recent Bihar Assembly elections may have registered. Throughout the evening, Modi worked the room, greeting MPs, asking after families, and exchanging pleasantries. Veterans recalled a similar shoulder-touch moment with Yogi Adityanath during an earlier campaign. With the BJP set to pick a new national president after finalising its Uttar Pradesh state chief, party insiders say the Prime Minister is quietly assessing leadership strengths through understated, personal methods. Rahuls cake walk wins smiles Amid the grind of the ongoing Parliament session, Rahul Gandhi added a warm, personal touch during the birthday celebration of his mother and CPP leader Sonia Gandhi. Rushing to his office in the Old Parliament House for the cake-cutting, Gandhi suddenly made a U-turn and headed towards Makar Dwar instead. Much to the surprise of those watching, he walked straight up to Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, took him by the hand, and escorted him along with Dimple Yadav and other SP MPs to the celebration. Asked later about the cake, Akhilesh smiled and said it was tasty. Moments later, Gandhi was seen taking DMK MP Kanimozhi along for a slice. The gesture did not go unnoticed. Quiet pitch for Chinese tech hands Big players in the solar energy sector are knocking on the governments doors, seeking visa clearances for Chinese technical experts. With approvals moving at a crawl, executives say project timelines are beginning to fray. Industry insiders point out that many specialised engineering skills needed for large-scale solar installations remain concentrated among Chinese professionals, leaving firms with few short-term alternatives. As delays start to translate into higher costs, companies have stepped up their engagement, though carefully and out of the public eye. Sources say representations are being made through established channels, with a sense of urgency but little noise. For now, the file remains open, and the industry is watching closely to see which way the Centre leans. Bengal needs a different playbook Another round of digital brainstorming for West Bengal recently brought BJP IT Cell members to Bengaluru. Though the meeting stayed off the radar, it drew social media managers from across the country. The consensus was clear: what worked in Bihar may not work in Bengal. While issues like Vande Mataram are being pushed politically to counter Mamata Banerjee and the Congress, the social media team is searching for something extra. A Bengal-based manager admitted that the Special Intensive Revision has failed to gain traction. With presentations due before the Prime Minister and Amit Shah by the month-end, pressure is mounting. A strategist close to the PMO quipped that Bengalis, who eat a lot of fish, have sharper minds and are not easily persuaded, while language barriers pose a challenge for BJP leaders from the Hindi-speaking belt. Fever or not, Shah takes the floor A bout of fever failed to keep Amit Shah away from the thick of parliamentary battle during the Lok Sabha discussion on electoral reforms. Despite being unwell, the senior BJP leader chose to take on the Opposition head-on, delivering a forceful response on the SIR issue. NDA MPs later remarked, half-jokingly, that his intervention shifted the mood of the House and preceded the Opposition walkout. Point by point, Shah countered allegations of vote manipulation. Sources said he had been advised to rest but remained determined to speak, with his temperature reportedly rising to 102 degrees. MIB overdrive on govt outreach The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting appears to be firmly in overdrive when it comes to the governments publicity and outreach efforts. Officials say communication plans and event schedules circulated by the MIB are sometimes acted upon even before other ministries are fully looped in. Officers from the ministry are said to be seeking quick inputs and clearances from communication wings elsewhere, often within timelines of 24 hours or less. One information officer summed it up with a wry smile, invoking the phrase Muddai sust, gawaah chust. The suggestion: while principal departments may move at a measured pace, the publicity machinery is already several steps ahead.
A thick layer of smog engulfed Delhi and its neighbouring areas on Monday, severely reducing visibility. This compounded the city's already critical air quality, with AQI levels in the 'Severe Plus' category. The IMD has warned of very dense fog conditions in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and Haryana in the coming days. In view of the deteriorating weather conditions, Delhi airport issued an advisory on Monday morning informing passengers of possible delays.
The Yamuna International Airport Private Limited has taken a significant step towards addressing this issue by signing contracts with transport corporations. Read here to know details.
ED to quiz all accused in cough syrup racket, probe links between syndicates
Mumbai former top cop shares deep secrets of the underworld
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Karyakarta the real asset of party; here to play role, not rule
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Union minister Pankaj Chaudhary takes over as president of UP BJP
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Two killed, 1 injured as van crashes into tree in Azamgarh
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Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday challenged the BJP to prove its strength by winning a fair election conducted through ballot papers, alleging that the poll process has been deliberately made suspicious to undermine peoples voting rights. Addressing the Congresss Vote Chor, Gaddi Chhod rally at Ramlila Maidan in New Delhi, she claimed the BJP could not win elections without the backing of the Election Commission (EC), accusing the ruling party of benefiting from alleged vote theft. Priyanka Gandhi said the country would not forget the names of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, asserting that they would one day have to answer how they conspired to take away citizens right to vote, regardless of any attempts to shield them. I challenge -- the BJP should contest a fair election on the ballot paper once. They will never be able to win and the BJP also knows this fact, Priyanka Gandhi said. She alleged that the chief election commissioner and the two election commissioners are attacking India's democracy. For the first time in history, the entire opposition is stating that they don't trust the EC and the polls are not being conducted properly. From announcement of polls, voters list, model code of conduct, campaign, polling, counting, EVMs and results, every step has been made suspicious by them (election commissioners), Priyanka Gandhi. She alleged that all constitutional institutions had been forced to bend before the government. Referring to Rahul Gandhis yatra in Bihar, Priyanka Gandhi said it was undertaken to protest alleged attempts by the BJP to cut voters names from electoral rolls to influence the outcome. She claimed a similar exercise was now underway in Uttar Pradesh, alleging that nearly three crore names had been removed. Questioning the role of the Election Commission, she asked how useful it had become for the BJP. Urging supporters not to be disheartened over the partys loss in Bihar, she alleged that the country was increasingly witnessing elections being won by the BJP through chori (theft). Rahul Gandhi showed in press conferences evidence (of vote chori) from Haryana, Maharashtra and Karnataka. In Bihar, 65 lakh votes were cut, and even if you set aside this evidence, during the model code of conduct in Bihar, they sent Rs 10,000 in people's bank accounts with the EC looking the other way. If this is not vote theft, then what is? she said. The BJP has no answer to these questions and is aware that the people are angry with them, Priyanka Gandhi said. Look at them (the BJP), they look rattled. I look at them in Parliament, their self-confidence is down, they are unable to look us in the eye because people have lost faith in their government, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, she said. This government has failed on every front and the Rupee is now 90 against the US dollar, she said. When the rupee used to be 60 against the dollar, then who was crying on the streets? Narendra Modi ji was making comments regularly; what happened now? Exports are going down and imports are getting expensive. Their foreign policy has failed, he (Modi) walks holding hands with US President Donald Trump and presidents of other countries but when the time comes, none stand with our country, she said. Priyanka Gandhi alleged that the policy of the government is to hand over the country's resources o Adani and Ambani. The youth of the country is grappling with price rise, unemployment, paper leaks, and there is no one to help them, she said. Whatever was constructed in 75 years, they are attempting to destroy it, she alleged. Priyanka Gandhi urged the people to focus on protecting their right to vote, claiming that it is being taken away. It is our duty to protect the Constitution and your voting rights.... we will keep fighting and never bow down, she said. Priyanka Gandhi also said that Indians must rise when the country's institutions are being rampled upon. She said it is important to understand the value of the vote. When the freedom struggle was on, the slogan used to be 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai'. Jawaharlal Nehru ji told the people to tell him 'what is Bharat Mata' and then explained that it is its natural resources, mountains, rivers, farms, but it is also the 'Bharat ki janta' who are all part of Bharat Mata, the Congress leader said. This spirit made the Constitution and gave people the right to vote to elect a government. This thinking and spirit made institutions to strengthen democracy -- the judiciary, media, Parliament, political parties, opposition parties, ruling party members, EC, were all made to protect people's interests, she said. When we see these institutions trampled upon, all Indians should rise. They should realise that the attack on these institutions is an attack on them. Today, the judiciary is under pressure, the media is owned by Adani or Ambani. In the previous elections, chief ministers were put in jail, our bank accounts were shut, and baseless allegations were made. Those who could not bear it, joined them, and their washing machines washed away the charges against them, she said. Referring to the ongoing Winter Session of Parliament, Priyanka Gandhi said when Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi raised the issue of 'vote chori' and SIR, the ruling side got rattled and then sought a debate on Vande Mataram. We kept debating as to 'the national song belongs to whom' and how it came about; and the big issues of unemployment, price rise, paper leak, they could not muster the courage to debate them, she said. (With inputs from PTI)
New Uttar Pradesh BJP chief has internal and external challenges before next Assembly battle
Pankaj Chaudharys affable persona, OBC identity, Poorvanchali location, and general acceptability to both party workers and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath are expected to address several challenges within the partys State unit
UP: 2 killed, 1 injured as van hits tree on AzamgarhGhazipur road
A tragic road accident on the Azamgarh-Ghazipur road claimed two lives and left one youth critically injured when their van collided with a roadside tree. The victims, returning with a blanket consignment for their garment shops, were residents of Ghazipur. The severe impact completely shattered the vehicle, with authorities suspecting overspeeding as the cause.
140+ all day: Faster and fitter Shivam Mavi ready for IPL return | Exclusive
After three injury-hit years away from the IPL, Shivam Mavi feels reborn. Having fixed action-related side-flexion issues, the 27-year-old has played consistently for Uttar Pradesh across formats, clocking 140+ consistently.
Uttar Pradesh: Union MoS Pankaj Chaudhary elected as BJP's state president
In a significant turn of events, Pankaj Chaudhary ascends to the role of the new Uttar Pradesh BJP President, with Union Minister Piyush Goyal officially passing the baton. Goyal commended the partys commitment to democratic values and acknowledged the relentless efforts of grassroots volunteers in driving its growth.
Union Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary named new UP BJP chief
Pankaj Chaudhary is the new president of the Bharatiya Janata Party's Uttar Pradesh unit. Union Minister Piyush Goyal announced the election. Chaudhary, a seven-time Lok Sabha MP, belongs to the OBC category. He is considered close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Party leaders expressed confidence in his leadership for the 2027 assembly polls. The BJP aims for a significant victory.
Seven-Time MP, OBC Leader Pankaj Chaudhary Elected President Of Uttar Pradesh BJP
BJP leader Pankaj Chaudhary was elected unopposed as the president of the party's Uttar Pradesh unit as he was the only one to submit nomination papers within the stipulated time
A BJP worker, Munna Bahadur Singh, received a grand welcome after being released on bail in an alleged assault case involving a Dalit power official. Supporters greeted him enthusiastically following his release granted by the Allahabad High Court. Singh was arrested for allegedly attacking an engineer with shoes.
Gucci Bags, Rado Watches: ED Raid At Lavish Mansion Of Ex-UP Cop In Cough Syrup Case
The Special Task Force of the Uttar Pradesh Police arrested Alok Pratap Singh, who had been dismissed from service for the second time in 2019, on December 2.
FIR against seminary officials in Uttar Pradesh for failing to report stay of foreigner
Mr. Sarip stayed in the seminary from November 30 to December 2. He had reportedly come to visit another Filipino student, Mohammed Yasir, says Hasanganj police station Sub-Inspector
A viral video of a dismissed Uttar Pradesh constable's opulent Lucknow residence has stunned social media users. Alok Pratap Singh, arrested for his alleged role in a codeine-based cough syrup smuggling network, reportedly invested in the illicit trade, earning substantial profits far exceeding his official salary. The lavish home has ignited debate on corruption within law enforcement.
