NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a special session of the Guyanese Parliament on Thursday, the 14th such instance of him speaking in parliaments of foreign nations.

Officials said Modi holds the distinction of addressing the highest number of foreign Parliaments as prime minister.

His 14 addresses are double the number of similar such speeches delivered by his predecessor Manmohan Singh, they said, adding that Indira Gandhi had addressed foreign legislatures four times while Jawaharlal Nehru did it three times.
 

IMPHAL [Maha Media]: Amid an escalation in violence in Manipur, eight companies of the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) have reached the state capital Imphal, and these forces will be deployed in sensitive and fringe areas, an official said.

These forces arrived in Imphal on Wednesday, a day after another batch of 11 companies of CAPF reached the state.

"Four companies each of CRPF and BSF will be deployed in sensitive and fringe areas of the state," the official said.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: As the mercury dips in Madhya Pradesh, the air quality in Bhopal and surrounding areas has been worsening continuously for the last ten days as the AQI crossed the 300 mark, putting it in the ‘very poor’ category.

Winter is making its presence felt in Madhya Pradesh with night temperatures in several parts dipping below 10 degree Celsius.

The minimum temperature in the capital city Bhopal was 11 degrees Celsius, three degrees below the normal mark on Wednesday.

As always, the state's only hill station, Pachmarhi recorded the lowest temperature at 7.8 degree Celsius on Wednesday.

Temperatures in Shajapur, Shivpuri and Rajgarh were also recorded between 8.7 degree Celsius and 9.6 degree Celsius.

The meteorological department predicted a clear sky on Thursday morning and suggested that dry weather would prevail in the state and the temperatures may dip further.

The Met department has issued warnings of shallow to moderate fog in isolated places in the Gwalior-Chambal regions.

The chill in Bhopal is being felt due to wind speeds of 12.6 km and above on Thursday morning.

Along with the dipping temperatures, the air quality in Bhopal is worsening continuously as for the last ten days, the AQI has been above the 300 mark.

Experts have suggested that increase in bonfires, and other local factors like burning plastics and leaves, in the coming days will result in increasing levels of air pollution.

The meteorological department also predicted that winds from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, Punjab and Delhi blowing over the state may increase air pollution by up to 20 per cent in days to come.
 

MALKANGIRI [Maha Media]: A Maoist was killed and a policeman was injured during a gunfight between security forces and red rebels in Jineliguda forest near the Odisha-Chhattisgarh border, police said on Thursday.

The exchange of fire took place on Wednesday night as the police personnel launched an operation to stop the inflow of Maoists to Odisha through the forest in Malkangiri district, a senior officer said.

Two Maoists were also arrested during the operation, he said.
 

HAZARIBAG [Maha Media]: At least seven people were killed and several others injured on Thursday after a Patna-bound bus with passengers on board overturned in Jharkhand's Hazaribag district, police said.

The accident occurred near Gorhar Police Station area, around 50 km away from district headquarters, when the bus overturned while it was taking a turn, a senior officer said.

"Seven deaths have been confirmed so far. Some more people may be trapped in the bus," Hazaribag SP Arvind Kumar Singh told PTI.
 

BENGALURU [Maha Media]: The Karnataka Lokayukta on Thursday conducted simultaneous raids on the properties of four government officials in the state, official sources said.

The raids are underway in Bengaluru, Mandya, and Chikkaballapura, they said.

Searches are on at many locations linked to these officials, as part of investigations into disproportionate assets cases.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: The Patiala House Court in Delhi has issued a warrant for attaching Bikaner House, a property owned by the Nagar Palika Nokha of Rajasthan. This decisive action comes in an execution matter concerning an arbitral award granted to M/s Infra Engineers Private Limited.

District Judge Vidya Prakash ordered the attachment due to non-compliance with directives. The judgment debtor, Nagar Palika Nokha, failed to provide an affidavit of assets despite numerous opportunities. The Court, aligning with the decree holder's arguments, deemed it appropriate to issue attachment warrants for the judgment debtor's immovable property, specifically Bikaner House in New Delhi.

The Court stated that Nagar Palika Nokha must not transfer or charge the specified property until further court orders. This decision follows their failure to satisfy a January 2020 arbitral award for Rs. 50,31,512, favoring M/s Enviro Infra Engineers. The judgment debtor is also scheduled to appear for a subsequent hearing on November 29.
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: The Madhya Pradesh Cabinet has approved the formation of the 'Shri Krishna Patheya Trust', to develop places dedicated to Lord Krishna as pilgrimage sites in the state, officials said.

The trust constituted under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Mohan Yadav will have a total of 28 members, including five nominated renowned scholars.

The term of non-official trustee members will be a maximum of three years.

The trust would be allowed to receive grants and donations from the government or other sources for the project.

"For the operation of the trust and to achieve its objectives, expert committees can be formed as per requirements for research, survey, and development work," the state government said on Wednesday in a statement.

It will also be empowered to implement activities such as the management of temples and structures of Lord Krishna from social, economic and tourism importance.

These religious pilgrimage sites will be publicised at the national and international levels.

Along with this, consultation, suggestions, and other actions will be taken for the establishment of Sandipani Gurukul for the systematic education of 64 arts and 14 sciences in Ujjain.

Along with developing pilgrimage sites, community centres and dharamshalas will also be opened under the project.

Additionally, libraries, museums and information centres will be established for the information of tourists and researchers.

"To fulfil the objectives of Sri Krishna Pathey Trust, financial and other activities will be implemented by establishing coordination with the Centre and state government as well as national and international level bodies and individuals," It added.

Chief Minister Yadav had earlier directed officials to conduct research to identify places where Lord Krishna visited in Madhya Pradesh.

Following the Chief Minister's order, several places, including pilgrimage sites -- Narayana and Sandipani Ashram located in Ujjain were identified.

Two other sites were identified in the Indore and Dhar districts where pilgrimage sites will also be developed.
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: The MP assembly will go paperless by the next monsoon session, which was decided at a meeting of National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA) Project on Wednesday. Speaker Narendra Singh Tomar presided over the meeting. Twenty-five state Houses of 23 states signed the accord for implementing e-Vidhan project, and 14 of them have already carried it out.

At the meeting, it was decided that process for tender for e-Vidhan should be speeded up. Tomar said that the members of the House should be imparted training before carrying out the project. Once the project is implemented, there will be no paper work in the House. Computer LEDs will be installed in front of the seats of Speaker and other members. Every month the committee will be informed about the progress of the project, Tomar said.

Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Kailash Vijayvargiya said the members of the legislators’ committee, formed to look after the project should visit the states where it had already been implemented. Special attention should be paid to cyber security of e-Vidhan, Vijayvargiya said. Principal Secretary of Vidhan Sabha Awdhesh Pratap Singh said the Centre would pay 60% of the cost of the project, and the state government would bear 40% of it.

The Central Government has already approved Rs 19.36 crore for the project, he said. To facilitate the legislators, the NIC centres will be called Nodal Training Agency so that they can make the best use of its services, Singh said. Deputy Chief Minister Jagdish Devda and many legislators were present at the meeting.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: A layer of smog blanketed Delhi on Thursday morning, as the air quality index (AQI) was at 389 at 7.15 a.m., falling into the "very poor" category. However, some areas continued to have severe air pollution levels.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, in 12 areas of Delhi, the AQI level remained between 400 and 500. It was 408 in Alipur, 405 in Anand Vihar, 414 in Ashok Vihar, 418 in Bawana, 401 in Dwarka Sector 8, 435 in Jahangirpuri, 413 in Mundka, 411 in Nehru Nagar, 407 in Punjabi Bagh, 407 in Rohini, 412 in Shadipur, and Wazirpur remains at 436 level.

Whereas in 26 areas of the national capital, the AQI level remained above 300 and between 400. It was 369 in Aya Nagar, 339 in Chandni Chowk, 343 in Mathura Road, 368 in Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range, 360 in DTU, 370 in IGI Airport, 341 in Dilshad Garden, 365 in ITO, 354 in Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

At Lodhi Road the air pollution level was 335, Major Dhyanchand Stadium 372 and Mahendra Marg 365. The levels were 366 in Najafgarh, 395 in Narela, 356 in North Campus DU, 365 in NSIT Dwarka, 389 in Okhla Phase 2, 381 in Patparganj, 365 in Pusha, 389 in RK Puram, 373 in Siri Fort, and 394 in Sonia Vihar.

An AQI is considered "poor" between '200 and 300', "very poor" at '301 and 400', "severe" at '401-450," and 450 and above is "severe plus."
 

JAMMU [Maha Media]: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Thursday carried out raids at several locations across Jammu region in connection with terrorist infiltration cases, official sources said.

The raids are underway at nine different places in the division, they said.

The searches are being conducted following registration of cases involving the infiltration of Pakistani terrorists into J-K, they said.
 

PALGHAR [Maha Media]: A massive fire broke out on Thursday morning in a warehouse where carpets were kept in Maharashtra's Palghar district, a fire official said.

So far, no person was reported to be injured, he said, adding that goods stored in the godown were destroyed in the fire.
 

SURAT [Maha Media]: Seven persons received burn injuries after a gas cylinder caught fire in a building in Gujarat's Surat city on Wednesday morning, officials said.

The incident took place on the second floor of the Krishna Complex building located in Katargam locality at around 6 am, a fire department official said.

MUMBAI [Maha Media]: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat were among the early voters to exercise their franchise as polling was underway on Wednesday for the state assembly elections.

NCP leader Ajit Pawar and his wife Sunetra Pawar cast their vote at Katewadi in Baramati area of Pune district.

Maharashtra recorded a voter turnout of 45.53 per cent was recorded till 3 pm as polling was underway in all 288 assembly constituencies of the state, election officials said.

 Gadchiroli district recorded 30 per cent turnout in the first four hours of voting. Aheri in the district saw 30.6 per cent voting, while Armori assembly registered 30.75 per cent polling.

 Mumbai city district recorded 15.78 per cent voting, while that of Mumbai suburban district was 17.99 per cent. The Colaba assembly segment in the megapolis registered 13.03 per cent polling, Mahim 19.66 per cent and Worli 14.59 per cent.

In Mumbai suburban, Bhandup polled 23.42 per cent votes. In Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's Kopri-Pachpakhadi constituency in Thane, the voter turnout was 18.22 per cent.

The Nagpur South-West constituency, from where Deputy Chief Minister and senior BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis is in the fray, the voter turnout was 19.91 per cent till 11 am, the officials said.

In Baramati in Pune district, from where Deputy Chief Minister and NCP chief Ajit Pawar is fighting against his nephew Yugendra Pawar, the poll percentage was 18.81 per cent, they added.

"I am confident that the people of Baramati will stand behind me and I will win the seat with a big lead," Ajit Pawar said.

Yugendra Pawar also cast his vote along with his parents in Baramati.

The BJP, an ally of Ajit Pawar's NCP, on Tuesday played purported voice notes of Maharashtra Congress president Nana Patole and NCP (SP) leader Supriya Sule to allege attempts to encash Bitcoins to influence the state elections, claiming it poses a serious question on the conduct of polls in a free and fair manner.

Asked about it, Ajit Pawar said an investigation should be done to verify the truth in the allegations.

"I was watching the news. I have known Patole for many years. He was the speaker and MLA and I can recognise his voice. Still I cannot correctly say about the voice as there are people who can imitate others' voice," he said.

"But as far as the voice in the present audio notes is concerned, it is Supriya Sule and Nana Patole's voice," the deputy CM further said, adding there will be an inquiry and truth will be known.

Lok Sabha member Sule and her daughter also cast their votes in Baramati.

Speaking to reporters, Sule refuted the BJP's allegations against her.

"Yesterday, the BJP posed five questions too. My answer is 'No' to their allegations. It is not my voice in that audio clip. Anyone can check. I am not at all linked to this matter," she said.

Sule said she is ready to reply to all the allegations of the BJP.

Yugendra Pawar also termed the allegations against his aunt Sule as "baseless and false".

"I am sure I will have the support and blessings of Baramati's people," he said.

RSS head Bhagwat exercised his franchise at a polling booth in Nagpur's Mahal area soon after the voting began at 7 am.

Speaking to reporters after casting his vote, the RSS chief said in a democracy, voting is the responsibility of every citizen and appealed to the electors to vote on issues and ensure 100 per cent turnout.

"Whenever there is election, I first cast my vote early in the day and then do other works," he said.

Bhagwat said he was in Uttaranchal (Uttarakhand), but cut short his programme and came to Nagpur on Tuesday to vote. "I will leave today," he added.

"Voting is a duty which the electors should perform," he said.

In Mumbai, city BJP chief Ashish Shelar and former Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik were among the early voters.

Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan cast his vote at the Raj Bhavan club polling centre in Mumbai.

Congress leader Amit Deshmukh voted in Latur.

Many voters queued up at the polling booths in several constituencies of Mumbai since 6.30 am.
 

RANCHI [Maha Media]: In the first eight hours of the second and final phase of polling in Jharkhand, 61.47 pc of around 1.23 crore voters exercised their franchise on Wednesday in 38 assembly constituencies, officials said.

Polling began at 7 AM in 14,218 booths across 12 districts and will continue till 5 PM.

However, polling in 31 booths will end at 4 PM though people standing in the queue at that time will be able to exercise their franchise, the officials said.

The ruling JMM-led INDIA bloc is seeking to retain power riding on its welfare schemes, while the BJP-headed National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is trying to wrest it.

"A voter turnout of 47.92 per cent was recorded till 1 PM. Voting has been peaceful," an Election Commission official said.

The highest voting turnout of 53.83 per cent was reported from Pakur, followed by 52.21 per cent from Jamtara, 51.26 per cent from Ramgarh and 50.28 per cent from Dumka district.

In the first six hours of polling, Godda recorded a turnout of 50.27 per cent, Deoghar 49.83 per cent, Hazaribag 48.62 per cent, Giridih 48.01 per cent, Sahebganj 47.51 per cent and Dhanbad 43.16 per cent.

The lowest turnout was recorded in Bokaro at 42.52 per cent till 1 PM.

A total of 1.23 crore voters, including 60.79 lakh women and 147 third-gender electors, are eligible to exercise their franchise on Wednesday, another official said.

Altogether 528 candidates, including Chief Minister and JMM leader Hemant Soren, his wife Kalpana Soren and Leader of Opposition Amar Kumar Bauri of the BJP, are trying their luck in the second phase of the elections.

Taking to X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "Today is the second and last phase of the great festival of democracy in Jharkhand. I urge all voters to participate in it enthusiastically and create a new record of voting. On this occasion, I especially congratulate all my young friends who are going to vote for the first time. Your every vote is the strength of the state."

The CM also said the second phase of polling would "play an important role in the creation of golden Jharkhand".

"To save Jharkhand from breaking up, we have to unite and vote in large numbers. Today again, voters have to exercise their franchise with the same enthusiasm and zeal," he wrote on X.

"Today the second and final phase of the great festival of democracy is being organised in Jharkhand. Today voting is being held in 38 assembly seats...In the first phase of voting, people of 43 assembly constituencies exercised their franchise with enthusiasm. All sections voted for their rights and a strong Jharkhand. Those who were conspiring against Jharkhand were given a befitting reply," Soren said on the microblogging site.

Urging people to vote, he said, "On this important occasion, an appeal is made to all of you to reach your booth centres in large numbers and exercise your right to vote and inspire everyone else too. Many best wishes and greetings to all the voters, polling officials, and soldiers of the JMM and INDIA alliance who are participating in the voting today."

Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi also urged voters to come out for a better future.

Rahul Gandhi posted on X: "I appeal to my voter brothers and sisters of Jharkhand to vote in large numbers today to protect their interests and for a better future. Your every vote for INDIA will protect your water, forest and land and will make your life prosperous with 7 guarantees like Maiyan Samman Yojana."

Priyanka Gandhi also urged electors to make INDIA bloc candidates victorious.

"Dear brothers and sisters of Jharkhand, Vote in maximum numbers for yourself, for the strong future of your children, for protection of 'Jal, Jungle, Jameen', for democracy, constitution and social justice and for the better future of Jharkhand. Use your power given by the Constitution to elect a government that works only for you and takes you forward. Make INDIA victorious with a huge majority," she said on the microblogging site.

Eighteen of the 38 constituencies are in the Santhal Pargana region comprising six districts - Godda, Deoghar, Dumka, Jamtara, Sahibganj and Pakur.

The remaining 18 seats are in the North Chotanagpur division and two in South Chotanagpur.

Of the total 14,218 polling stations, the responsibility of the entire voting process at 239 is in the hands of women and 22 are manned by persons with disabilities (PwDs), Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) K Ravi Kumar said.

The ruling JMM-led INDIA bloc is seeking to retain power riding on its welfare schemes, while the BJP-headed National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is trying to wrest it.

The first phase of elections was held on November 13, and the counting of votes will take place on November 23.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: After attending the G-20 Summit in Rio- de- Janeiro, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reached Guyana on a three day visit. The visit is a first by an Indian Prime Minister since 1968. Mr Modi will hold discussions with President of Guyana, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali at Georgetown. The Prime Minister will also participate in the Second CARICOM-India Summit and hold meetings with leaders of CARICOM member countries to further enhance India’s long-standing friendship with the region.
       
Prime Minister will also address the Parliament of Guyana and will address a gathering of the Indian diaspora, during the visit.

Earlier, upon his arrival in the nation, PM Modi was greeted warmly by Guyana President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Prime Minister Mark Anthony Phillips, and senior cabinet ministers.

President Ali extended a personal welcome with a warm hug, symbolising the strong cultural and historic ties between the two nations.

PM Modi expressed his appreciation on X, stating, "Landed in Guyana a short while ago. Gratitude to President Dr. Irfaan Ali, PM Mark Anthony Phillips, senior ministers and other dignitaries for coming to receive me at the airport. I am confident this visit will deepen the friendship between our nations."

"A special welcome! PM Narendra Modi lands in Georgetown on a State visit to Guyana. In a special gesture, the PM was warmly received by Guyana President Mohamed Irfaan Ali and PM Mark Anthony Phillips and was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the airport," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a post.

The primary focus of PM Modi's visit is the India-CARICOM Summit, where he will co-chair discussions with 14 participating nations alongside Guyana's President Ali and Grenada's Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell. The summit highlights India's leadership as a voice for the Global South and its support for the Caribbean region's political and economic aspirations.

CARICOM, the Caribbean Community, is a regional group of nations. The first India-CARICOM summit, held in 2019 during the UN General Assembly, saw India offering a $150 million credit line for climate change and renewable energy initiatives. This second summit seeks to deepen partnerships in trade, climate action, energy, and cultural exchange.

"India is an important global actor. Our Member States are keen to meet Prime Minister Modi and develop deeper technical relationships, deepen advocacy for small states in the international arena, and strengthen people-to-people ties," said CARICOM Assistant Secretary-General Elizabeth Solomon.

Guyana, an emerging energy powerhouse with oil reserves estimated at over 11 billion barrels, is a key player in India's quest to diversify its energy sources. PM Modi is expected to discuss energy partnerships while highlighting the longstanding cultural and historic ties between the two nations.

Guyana's Indo-Guyanese population, making up 39.8 per cent of the country's citizens, forms the largest ethnic group. Many are descendants of Indian indentured labourers brought over by the British Raj in 1838. To honour this heritage, PM Modi will visit the Indian Arrival Monument, commemorating the arrival of the first ship carrying Indian labourers.

During his visit, PM Modi will address Guyana's Parliament, meet the Indian diaspora, and pay respects to one of the world's oldest Indian communities outside India.

India has been a longstanding development partner for Guyana, providing assistance for several projects, including the $25 million National Cricket Stadium and the establishment of a Centre of Excellence in Information Technology (CEIT).

Trade between the two countries stood at $223.36 million in 2021-22, with energy products constituting a significant portion of Guyana's exports to India.

The visit underscores PM Modi's commitment to strengthening India's ties with Guyana and the broader Caribbean region while addressing global challenges such as energy security, climate change, and economic development.
 

SRINAGAR [Maha Media]: Srinagar and some other places in Kashmir on Wednesday experienced the coldest night of the season as the minimum plummeted below the freezing point in most places of the valley, officials said.

Srinagar city recorded a low of minus 0.7 degree Celsius.

The officials said many other places in the valley also experienced the coldest night of the season as most places of the valley registered sub-zero minimum temperature.
 

HYDERABAD  [Maha Media]: Over 19 kg of gold ornaments worth Rs 13.6 crore were stolen from a public sector bank in Warangal district of Telangana, police said on Wednesday.

The burglars broke into the bank's branch at Rayaparthy mandal by cutting open the window with gas cutters and decamped with gold jewellery weighing about 19.5 kg from the main chest, they said.

The bank staff noticed the heist on Tuesday and lodged a complaint with the police, following which a case was registered.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: The 55th edition of the International Film Festival of India IFFI will begin in Goa today. The grand event will continue till 28th of this month. The grand opening ceremony of the event will take place at Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium at around five in the evening. The festivities will commence with the Red-Carpet Premiere of the Opening Film – ‘Better Man’, directed by Australian filmmaker Michael Gracy. Our correspondent reports that the Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Ashwini Vaishnaw and Minister of State, Dr L. Murugan along with the production team of the ‘Better Man’ will be in attendance at the premiere.
                                                 
IFFI 2024 is set to commence in a grand manner with the opening ceremony taking place this evening in the presence of cinematic legends.It will celebrate India’s rich culture with stunning performances. A ’90s Rewind’ will bring Bollywood nostalgia, and “Timeless Souls” will honour legends like Raj Kapoor and Mohammed Rafi through visuals, poetry amd music. The ceremony will showcase the journey of Indian cinema, from the silent era to modern masterpieces, ending with a high-energy medley by Sunny Kaushal and Sanya Malhotra in the Grand Finale: The Cinematic Symphony. 

The evening will feature a large number of film personalities, setting the tone for the festival. Notable creators and filmmakers such as Subhash Ghai, Dinesh Vijan, Amar Kaushik, NM Suresh, RK Selvamani, Ishari Ganeshan, and Ravi Kotarakara will be in attendance. Renowned actors including Nagarjuna, Boman Irani, Rajkummar Rao, Abhishek Banerjee, Jaideep Ahlawat, Randeep Hooda, Jayam Ravi, Jacky Bhagnani, Mukta Barve and Radhakrishnan Parthiban, along with lyricist Prasoon Joshi, will also be present on the occasion. With over 180 films from 81 countries, IFFI 2024 promises to be the grandest edition yet, featuring more participants and more  screening venues. This year’s Festival will  include the largest Film Bazaar to date, the “Creative Minds of Tomorrow” program, which will provide 100 young filmmakers with a unique platform, the inaugural IFFiesta, masterclasses, competitions, award ceremonies, and a vibrant carnival parade. This year’s IFFI is poised to be a spectacular celebration of cinema.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Indian diaspora in Guyana for their spirited welcome as he arrived in Georgetown for the final leg of his three-nation visit.

Taking to X, PM Modi said, "A heartfelt thank you to the Indian community in Guyana for their warm and spirited welcome. They have shown that distance is never a barrier to staying connected to one's roots. Glad to see the community making a mark here across different sectors."

Along with this, leaders from several nations also welcomed the Prime Minister on his arrival at the hotel, where he was handed a 'Key to the City of Georgetown' as a symbol of close bilateral relations.

Sharing details, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated, "On his arrival at the hotel, PM Narendra Modi received a special welcome by President Mohamed Irfaan of Guyana, PM Dickon Mitchell of Grenada, PM Mia Amor Mottley of Barbados & several Cabinet Ministers of Guyana. PM was handed over the 'Key to the City of Georgetown' by the Mayor of Georgetown, as a testament to the close India-Guyana ties."

This historic visit marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister to the South American nation in 56 years, following the trip by Indira Gandhi in 1968.

The significance of PM Modi's visit is profound for the Indian-origin citizens in Guyana. During his stay, the Prime Minister will co-lead the second India-CARICOM Summit alongside Grenada's Prime Minister, currently the Chairman of CARICOM, engaging with key CARICOM leaders.

Moreover, PM Modi will conduct delegation-level discussions with President Irfaan Ali, addressing the National Assembly of Guyana to explore innovative pathways for collaboration, in efforts to reinforce India-Guyana relations and regional partnerships.

PM Modi's arrival in Guyana follows his earlier participation in the G20 summit in Brazil, where he highlighted India's pivotal role in addressing global issues such as hunger and poverty and engaged in bilateral talks with Australia.
 

LUCKNOW  [Maha Media]: Nearly 10 per cent of the voters exercised their franchise in the first two hours of polling across nine assembly seats of Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday.

Voting started at 7 am in Katehari, Karhal, Mirapur, Ghaziabad, Majhawan, Sisamau, Khair, Phulpur and Kundarki seats and will end at 5 pm.

According to the Election Commission's update at 9 am, the average voting across the seats stood at 9.67 per cent.
 

DEHRADUN  [Maha Media]: The Kedarnath assembly constituency of Uttarakhand recorded a turnout of 4.30 per cent in the first hour of polling on Wednesday.

Polling began at 8 am and will go on till 6 pm, he said.

The assembly seat in Rudraprayag district fell vacant after the death of BJP MLA Shaila Rani Rawat in July this year.
 

PALAKKAD [Maha Media]: Brisk polling was witnessed in the Palakkad assembly by-poll on Wednesday with a turnout of 20.50 per cent at 10.30 am, more than three hours after voting commenced.

The initial hour of polling saw a low turnout of only 1.11 per cent at 8 am which climbed to 6.76 per cent by 8.30 am and reached 13.63 per cent by around 9.30 am, according to figures released by the Election Commission.

People started arriving early in the morning at the 184 polling booths across the constituency, which has over 1.9 lakh voters who will cast their votes to elect a representative from among 10 candidates.

Among the 10, the key contenders are Rahul Mamkootathil (Congress-led UDF), C. Krishnakumar (BJP-led NDA), and P. Sarin (CPI(M)-led LDF).
 

CHANDIGARH [Maha Media]: A voter turnout of over 20 percent was recorded till 11 am in the bypolls to four assembly segments in Punjab on Wednesday, officials said.

Polling began at 7 am and would continue till 6 pm.

Bypolls to the Gidderbaha, Dera Baba Nanak, Chabbewal (SC) and Barnala assembly segments were necessitated after the incumbent lawmakers were elected to the Lok Sabha.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: The Delhi High Court has intervened in the Aircel-Maxis case, temporarily halting proceedings against senior Congress leader P Chidambaram. The action follows Chidambaram's petition against the trial court's cognizance of a chargesheet filed by the Enforcement Directorate, which accuses him of money laundering.

Justice Manoj Kumar Ohri, while listing the case for further hearing on January 22, emphasized that proceedings would be stayed until the next hearing. Chidambaram contends that as a public servant, the alleged actions required a prosecution sanction, which is currently absent.

Chidambaram's defense asserts a lack of necessary prosecution permissions under Section 197(1) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, citing failures by the ED in adhering to legal protocols. The case, involving charges of corruption and alleged financial misconduct during Chidambaram's tenure as Union finance minister, awaits further evaluation.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will meet his Chinese counterpart Dong Jun on Wednesday in Vientiane, Laos.

The two will meet on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus). This will be their first meeting after the disengagement at the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

The last meeting between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Chinese counterpart was in April 2023 in India. Then Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu travelled to Delhi for the SCO Defence Ministers meeting.

The Laos meeting comes a month after India and China reached the disengagement agreement along the LAC.

Since then the situation in key flashpoints -- Demchok and Depsang Plains -- has shown improvement. The armies of both countries have dismantled temporary structures in these areas and the patrolling has also resumed. The steps are being taken to restore the status quo as of April 2020.

The relations between the two countries became strained following the clashes in the Galwan Valley in 2020. However, the LAC agreement now seeks to address the tension and maintain the pre-2020 status.

The meeting between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Chinese counterpart is expected to build on this progress.

This interaction signals a potential step towards further easing the strained relations between the two neighbours.

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that the leaders at the G20 Summit “deepened global collaboration” for a better future.

He said this before leaving the Brazilian city for Guyana on Tuesday.

“We had engaging conversations and deepened global collaboration in areas like sustainable development, growth, fighting poverty, and harnessing technology for a better future”, he said before his departure.

At the summit, he presented India’s progress in overcoming poverty and fighting climate change and offered to share the country's expertise.

With India emerging as the voice of the Global South, he reiterated strongly the calls for reforming global institutions and finding a fair and just way to share the burdens of fighting climate change.

During his two-day visit to Guyana, he will co-chair the India-CARICOM summit that will bring together the leaders of 14 Caribbean countries, and work on strengthening ties with the nation with a large diaspora that is emerging as a major global energy source.

Summing up PM Modi’s participation in the G20 Summit, India’s G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant said the New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration adopted under PM Modi’s leadership at the summit last year found a place in the Rio Declaration.

Briefing the media, he said, "The Prime Minister spoke in two sessions, one on hunger and poverty and the other on sustainable development and energy transition. In both of them, he highlighted the huge impact which India had made”.

In addition, PM Modi also held several formal bilateral meetings with leaders from around the world and spoke with many informally.

India also organised a side event on Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), Artificial Intelligence(AI), and Data for Governance (DfG).

Among PM Modi’s many bilateral meetings, two stand out.

He and Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer agreed to restart the negotiations for a free trade agreement.

At the Second India-Australia Annual Summit, he and Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese launched the India-Australia Renewable Energy Partnership and also agreed to increase strategic cooperation as members of the Quad, the Indo-Pacific group that includes Japan and the US.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Delhi witnessed yet another dawn with a blanket of toxic air on Wednesday, as the capital recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 426 in the "severe" category, which followed the coldest night of the season in the city so far.

The city's minimum temperature dropped to 11.1 degrees Celsius Tuesday night, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The drop in temperature combined with dense fog has blanketed the city, reducing visibility to 500 metres as of 8.30 am. The IMD has forecast dense fog to persist throughout the day.
 

IMPHAL [Maha Media]: The Manipur government has closed all schools in six valley districts on Wednesday considering the safety of the students, officials said on Tuesday.

Director of Education (School) L. Nandakumar Singh in an order said that all schools in the valley districts would remain closed on Wednesday keeping in mind the safety of the students and teachers.

After the widespread violence started in the valley districts after the recovery of the bodies of three children and three women in Jiribam on November 15 and 16, the Manipur government closed all educational institutions for two days on November 18 and 19 in the curfew-bound five districts -- Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Thoubal and Kakching.

Meanwhile, students of Manipur University staged a sit-in and burnt effigies of the Manipur Chief Minister and Governor in front of the university’s main gate condemning the heinous torture, rape and murder of three children and three women who were abducted by Kuki militants on November 11 from Borobekra Sub division in Jiribam.

The sit-in was jointly organised by the Manipur University Student Union (MUSU) and Jiribam Students Forum, Imphal.
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Tuesday said his government will provide 2.5 lakh government jobs over the next five years.

The Chief Minister said the directions have been issued to fill vacant posts in the first, second, and third categories through direct recruitment.

He said that a recruitment calendar will be drawn out for the recruitment of the vacant positions. Guidelines for calculating the vacancies have also been issued, Yadav said.

"The state government’s commitment to providing opportunities to the youth in government services under as promised in the 'Sankalp Patra'. All formalities for government recruitment are being completed. The recruitment process will begin soon," the Chief Minister said.

Notably, 'Sankalp Patra' is the BJP's manifesto for the state Assembly elections held in November last year.

He said that all departments of the state government have been asked to complete the necessary formalities related to recruitment so that the year-wise recruitment process can proceed without interruptions.

“The vacancies will first be calculated for each cadre as of April 1, 2024. Positions that are already under process by the Employees Selection Board, MPPSC, or other institutions will not be included in the vacancy calculation,” he said.

The Chief Minister also stated that the recruitment of fourth-class positions in various state offices, will be done through only outsourcing policy, however, in specific cases where direct recruitment for fourth-class positions is essential, will be considered.

The announcement comes weeks before as the BJP government is set to complete one year in the service on December 13.
 

MUMBAI [Maha Media]: The Maharashtra Assembly Elections will be held on November 20, where the ruling BJP-led Mahayuti alliance is trying its best to hold onto power, while the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition is hoping for a strong comeback. The voting will begin from 7 am to 6 pm across all 288 constituencies, and the results will be announced on November 23.

As seen during the intense campaigning phase, prominent leaders like PM Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi have been traveling across Maharashtra to rally support for their parties. The Mahayuti alliance includes the BJP, Shiv Sena (led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde), and NCP (under Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar). The alliance is focusing on its popular schemes, such as the “Majhi Ladki Bahin” program for women, to maintain its stronghold.

However, the BJP’s controversial slogans, including “Batenge toh katenge” and “Ek hai toh safe hai,” have drawn criticism from the opposition, which accuses the Mahayuti of dividing voters along religious lines. Some allies, including Ajit Pawar, distanced themselves from these slogans, while Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis tried to clarify their meaning, causing confusion within the ruling camp.

The MVA alliance, which includes Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and NCP (led by Sharad Pawar), has focussed its campaign on issues such as caste-based census, social justice, and the protection of the Constitution. The opposition on the other hand has tried to attract voters who feel left behind by the government. The BJP countered this with an ad campaign urging people to “Say No to Congress,” where they have referred to incidents like the 26/11 Mumbai attacks and the Palghar lynching.

This year, 4,136 candidates are contesting, which is a 28% increase from the 3,239 candidates in 2019. Among them, 2,086 are independents, and over 150 rebel candidates are competing against their own party’s official nominees. There will be 1,00,186 polling booths, up from 96,654 in 2019, due to an increase in voters. The total number of registered voters is 9.7 crore, including 5 crore men, 4.7 crore women, and 6,101 transgender voters.

Around 6 lakh state government employees will be involved in election duties. Meanwhile, the enforcement authorities have seized goods worth Rs 252.42 crore since the Model Code of Conduct came into effect. This includes cash, liquor, drugs, precious metals, and jewellery.

As the election approaches, the state prepares for a competitive and hard-fought battle between the two major alliances.

RANCHI [Maha Media]: The second phase of polling in 38 assembly constituencies in Jharkhand will begin from 7 am on Wednesday, an Election official said. State Chief Electoral Officer K Ravi Kumar said that polling in these 38 assembly constituencies will be held from 7.00 am to 5.00 pm on November 20, while voting will end at 4.00 pm in 31 polling stations of these constituencies.

A total of 528 candidates including 472 men, 55 women, and one from the third gender are in fray.

Prominent leaders contesting in this phase are Chief Minister Hemant Soren from Berhait, state BJP president and former CM Babulal Marandi from Dhanwar, ex-Deputy CM Sudesh Mahto  (AJSU-P) from Silli, Assembly Speaker Ravindra Nath Mahto (JMM) from Bala. Besides, there are other influential contestants like Kalpana Soren (JMM) from Gandey, JMM chief Shibu Soren's daughter-in-law Sita Soren (BJP) from Jamtara, Louis Marandi (JMM) from Jama and Lobin Hembram (BJP) from Borrio. In the second phase, 585 companies of paramilitary forces and 60 companies of JAP have been deployed to ensure peaceful polling in 38 assembly constituencies. The CEO said that there are 1.23 crore voters in the second phase, of which 62.8 lakh are male, 61 lakh female and 145 voters are third gender. At the same time, 55,000 young voters in the age group of 18 to 19 years will vote. More than 50,000 voters above 85 years of age will exercise their franchise tomorrow. 

Polling for 43 constituencies in the state took place in the first phase on November 13. The votes will be counted alongside those of the Maharashtra Assembly polls on November 23. 
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: On the 1st day of the G20, on the sidelines of the summit, PM Modi met the state heads of Indonesia, Portugal, Italy, England and Norway.

The priority points across all the bilateral were to review the cooperation in various areas of mutual-interest. Bilateral trade and discuss various areas of cooperation. One of the major highlights of these meetings was the announcement of 2 new consulates in the UK.

During the Bilateral talks with Indonesia President Prabowo Subianto, the focus was on cooperation in the fields of trade, tourism, defence, and connectivity. While discussing the global and regional issues, they discussed close collaboration within the G20 and primacy to Global South.

In his bilateral talks with the Prime Minister of Portugal, Luis Montenegro, both leaders highlighted the areas of cooperation in renewable energy and green hydrogen. The emphasis on strong defence relations, people-to-people linkages and other subjects were also discussed. Besides exchanging views on regional development and global issues of mutual interest including India-EU relations, the emerging areas of IT, digital technologies, startups and innovation were also discussed.

In another bilateral meeting, PM met the Norwegian PM Jonas Gahr Store, where they discussed about investment linkages and areas of improvement between the two in areas of renewable energy, green hydrogen and blue economy.

The PM mentioned India’s Arctic Policy as the strengthening point of the bilateral relations. Trade and economic cooperation were also a talking point more so in light of the signing of the Indian-European Free Trade Association Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement.

Prime Minister also met the British PM Sir Keir Starmer. It’s for the first time that two leaders are meeting. Both reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with the focus on economy, trade, new and emerging technologies etc. They underlined the importance of resuming the Free Trade Agreement and negotiations at an early date.

The PM announced the establishment of the 2 new consulate generals in the UK -Belfast and Manchester. Both noted the importance of addressing the issue of economic offenders from India to the UK.

PM meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron was focused on the closely working sectors of space, energy, AI and other futuristic areas. The PM welcomed President Macron to organize the forthcoming AI Action Summit in France.

They reaffirmed their commitment to advance the India-France Strategic Partnership as well as their shared vision for cooperation and international partnership outlined in the Horizon 2047 roadmap. They also reviewed the progress of cooperation on India’s National Museum project

Prime Minister Modi's talks with Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni focused on enhancing the partnership between New Delhi and Rome in several important sectors.

"Glad to have met Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on the sidelines of the Rio de Janeiro G20 Summit. Our talks centred around deepening ties in defence, security, trade and technology. We also talked about how to boost cooperation in culture, education and other such areas. India-Italy friendship can greatly contribute to a better planet," the PM detailed.

PM Modi's talks with the Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store explored common interests of free trade.

"The meeting with Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre was excellent. Our Arctic Policy has led to further cementing of India-Norway bilateral relations. We talked about how investment linkages between our nations can improve, particularly in renewable energy, green hydrogen and the blue economy. Closer cooperation in sectors like innovation and research were also discussed," he said.

Store, while responding to PM Modi's post, highlighted that, with the new EFTA-India Free Trade Agreement, there are new possibilities for cooperation and job creation between both countries.

The two leaders also discussed the war in Ukraine and the current crisis in the Middle East.

Earlier, PM Modi also held meetings with the Portugal PM and the Indonesian President.

"Had a very good meeting with Prime Minister of Portugal, Mr. Luís Montenegro. India cherishes the long-standing ties with Portugal. Our talks focussed on adding more vigour to our economic linkages. Sectors like renewable energy and green hydrogen offer many opportunities for more collaboration. We also talked about strong defence relations, people-to-people linkages and other such subjects," remarked Prime Minister Modi.

The meeting with the Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, he said, focussed on improving ties in commerce, security, healthcare, pharmaceuticals and more.

"This year is special as we are marking 75 years of India-Indonesia diplomatic relations," stated PM Modi.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna on Tuesday said all judges have been asked to allow virtual hearings wherever possible in view of the severe pollution levels in the national capital region.
     
As soon as the bench comprising the CJI and Justice Sanjay Kumar assembled, lawyers, including Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) president Kapil Sibal, referred to the worsening pollution in Delhi and NCR and sought immediate measures to deal with it.
     
“We have told all the judges to allow virtual hearings wherever possible,” the CJI said.
     
“Pollution is getting out of control,” Sibal said.
     
He was supported by various lawyers that also included Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and Gopal Sankaranarayanan
     
“It needs to go down. The message should go to other courts,” Sibal added.
     
The solicitor general said the top court, as a matter of principle, should go virtual.
     
“We have given the message to accommodate everybody. Moreover, online is anyway available," the CJI said.
     
On Monday, the top court took note of the fact that the Air Quality Index (AQI) entered into the 'severe plus' category and directed all Delhi-NCR states to immediately set up teams to strictly enforce anti-pollution GRAP 4 restrictions, making it clear that the curbs will continue till further orders.
     
Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 484 at 8 am on Monday, the worst this season. The AQI in certain areas also breached the 500 mark.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: In a significant diplomatic development, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar convened with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to assess the progress on military disengagement in Demchok and Depsang, Ladakh. This meeting took place on the sidelines of the G20 Summit held in Rio, offering a crucial platform for dialogue between the two countries.

The engagement marked the first high-level interaction since the recent withdrawal of troops from key friction points along the Line of Actual Control. Both ministers exchanged perspectives on the future trajectory of India-China relations, emphasizing the prospects of reinforcing bilateral ties.

The completion of the disengagement exercise has also enabled the resumption of patrol activities in the border areas after a protracted period of more than four years. The dialogue reflects an effort to stabilize border tensions and explore solutions to long-standing issues, with the meeting in Brazil setting a positive tone for the global diplomatic landscape.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully launched its most sophisticated communications satellite GSAT 20 on board SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral in the USA last night.

Speaking during the launch, ISRO Chairman S Somanath said, it was a very successful launch, the satellite is healthy and solar panels have been deployed. The satellite will provide broadband services in remote areas and in-flight Internet in passenger aircraft. It will remain in operation for 14 years. This is for the first time that ISRO has launched a satellite on a SpaceX rocket through its commercial arm New Space India Limited (NSIL).

Weighing 4,700 kg, GSAT-20 is one of India’s heaviest communication satellites. The GSAT-20 is too heavy for India’s own rocket LVM-3, popularly known as ‘Bahubali’ to carry, so SpaceX was chosen for the launch.

India had till now relied on French launch service provider Arianespace for such heavy satellite launches but the company does not have any operational rockets at present and the only reliable option India had was to go with SpaceX. SpaceX’s heavy-lifter Falcon-9 rocket can launch payloads of 8,300 kg or 8.3 tonnes to geostationary transfer orbit.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: The Enforcement Directorate has arrested two persons in a money laundering case linked to alleged illegal mining, official sources said on Tuesday.

The two persons have been identified as Gyanchand and S Dhiman.

They have been taken into custody under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) on Monday night from Himachal Pradesh, the sources said.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: The government has planned an all-party meeting on Sunday as a precursor to the upcoming Winter Session of Parliament.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju highlighted on X that the meeting is slated for November 24, in anticipation of the Winter Session which begins on November 25 and wraps up on December 20.

A special event in the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan, the old Parliament building, will commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Constitution's adoption during this session. The government uses such meetings to brief opposition parties on its legislative agenda and address issues for parliamentary debate.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast dense to very dense fog conditions during night and morning hours over parts of northwest India during next 5 days.

The IMD said that these conditions will continue over parts of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh till tomorrow, and over Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh till Saturday. Dense to moderate fog will likely be present over Delhi and the adjoining National Capital Region today.

The weather agency has also predicted heavy rainfall over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal today. Meanwhile, light to moderate rainfall is expected over Kerala, Mahe and Andaman and Nicobar Islands today. Minimum temperatures over Maharashtra, Gujarat and Central India will gradually fall by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius during the next 4-5 days.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: At least 150 shanties were gutted in a fire that broke out in Bawana in outer Delhi early Tuesday, an official of the Delhi Fire Service said.

No casualties were reported.

A call regarding the fire was received at 1.30 am and 18 fire tenders were pressed into service. The fire was doused at 7.20 am.

A short circuit apparently led to the blaze, the official said, adding a probe is underway. 
 

RAISEN [Maha Media]: A tragic incident unfolded in Madhya Pradesh's Raisen district when a tractor overturned, resulting in the deaths of a minor boy and another individual. The local police provided details of the event on Tuesday.

The accident occurred on Monday night in Padaria village, situated approximately 110 km from the district headquarters, under the jurisdiction of the Silwani police station, according to an official report.

After a driver parked the out-of-fuel tractor in a field, a 19-year-old laborer fetched diesel from the owner's residence and attempted to drive it, losing control in the process, according to Sub Divisional Officer of Police Anil Maurya. Tragically, the vehicle overturned into a drain, resulting in the deaths of Nitesh, 19, and Antram, 15. Police have filed a case and commenced a further investigation.
 

BHARUCH [Maha Media]: Six persons, including three children, were killed and four others injured when a private van they were travelling in rammed into a truck in Gujarat's Bharuch district, police said on Tuesday.

The accident took place on Jambusar-Amod road near Magnad village at around 11 pm on Monday when 10 persons from Vedach village were headed towards Shuklatirth, Jambusar police station inspector AV Panamia said.

"The passenger van rammed into a truck which was parked on the left lane of the road near Magnad village. Following the collision, six passengers died on the spot while four others received injuries. They were referred to a hospital in Jambusar," said Panamia.

The deceased have been identified as Jaydev Gohil (23), Saraswati Gohil (21), Hansa Jadav (35), Sandhya Jadav (11), Vivek Gohil (16) and Kirti Gohil (6).

Following the incident, the Jambusar police registered an FIR against the unidentified driver of the truck under sections 125 (rash or negligent acts that put human life at risk) and 285 (danger or obstruction in public way or line of navigation) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the official said.

The driver was yet to be nabbed, he added.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined a host of leaders in paying homage to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her 107th birth anniversary. Modi shared his tribute on social media platform X, extending honors to Gandhi for her service to the nation.

Leading the Congress's commemoration, party president Mallikarjun Kharge and Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi paid their respects at Shakti Sthal. Kharge's tribute emphasized the inspirational leadership of the 'Iron Lady of India,' as he reflected on her dedication and ultimate sacrifice for India's unity.

The Congress highlighted Indira Gandhi's contributions by calling her an embodiment of strength and resilience. The party celebrated her transformative tenure, marking her as a pivotal figure who significantly shaped India's future through groundbreaking reforms.

Indira Gandhi, born on November 19, 1917, held office as the only female Prime Minister from January 1966 to March 1977 and again from 1980 until her assassination in 1984. Known for initiatives like bank nationalization and the abolition of princely states' privy purses, she remains a prominent figure in Indian history.

Her tragic assassination by her Sikh bodyguards in 1984, following Operation Bluestar at Amritsar's Golden Temple, marked a significant moment in India's history. Her leadership continues to inspire many for her bold and visionary approach to governance.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with several other political figures, paid heartfelt tributes to Rani Lakshmibai, the revered Queen of Jhansi, on her birth anniversary on Tuesday. The Prime Minister highlighted her enduring legacy of bravery and patriotism in a post on the social media platform X, emphasizing that her efforts continue to inspire generations.

Other prominent leaders, including Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge, also expressed their admiration for Laxmibai. Kharge hailed her as an 'epitome of unmatched heroism and valour,' recognizing her decisive role during the First Indian War of Independence in 1857. Similarly, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai joined in saluting Laxmibai's unparalleled courage.

Celebrations of her legacy extended across political lines, with BJP's Rajeev Chandrasekhar and Congress leader Randeep Surjewala acknowledging her impact on future generations. Known as the Queen of Jhansi, Rani Laxmibai was a formidable leader during India's first war of independence, ultimately sacrificing her life in battle against British colonizers in 1858.
 

IMPHAL [Maha Media]: The ruling BJP-led NDA in Manipur has passed a resolution to conduct a 'mass operation' targeting Kuki militants following a brutal attack that claimed the lives of three women and three children. The resolution was adopted at a meeting attended by 27 MLAs.

The NDA coalition has set a seven-day deadline for declaring the Kuki militants as an 'unlawful organization.' It further resolved to hand over the investigation to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for immediate action.

If the measures are not enacted within the timeframe, the NDA MLAs will decide the next steps in consultation with Manipur's citizens. The meeting also condemned attacks on political figures' properties, promising legal actions based on findings from a High Powered Committee.