Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh passed away on Thursday night, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi, informed PTI. Singh, 92, was brought to the emergency department in the evening in a critical condition after "sudden loss of consciousness", AIIMS said. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and his predecessors Sonia and Rahul Gandhi rushed to AIIMS after learning about his condition. Congress lawmaker Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also reached AIIMS on Thursday evening. Rahul Gandhi and Kharge were to attend a rally in Karnataka, which was later cancelled. Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) President JP Nadda was also among those who reached AIIMS after learning about the former Prime Minister's death. Following news of his death, many leaders took to social media to pay their tributes to Singh. Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote, "India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. Rising from humble origins, he rose to become a respected economist. He served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on our economic policy over the years. His interventions in Parliament were also insightful. As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives." India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. Rising from humble origins, he rose to become a respected economist. He served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on our economic… pic.twitter.com/clW00Yv6oP — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 26, 2024 Singh's most significant contribution to India was the economic changes he pushed in 1991 as Finance Minister in PV Narasimha Rao's cabinet. At the time, India was experiencing a serious economic crisis, with foreign reserves decreasing, inflation surging, and the country on the verge of defaulting on its loans. In 2004, Singh became India's Prime Minister, when he led the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) coalition administration. His tenure as Prime Minister is remembered for the stability and economic progress it brought to the nation. Under his leadership, India's GDP increased at an annual rate of approximately 7-8%, pulling millions of people out of poverty. (With PTI inputs)
26 December,2024 11:08 PM IST | Delhi | mid-day online correspondentFormer Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was admitted to All Indian Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, on Thursday evening after his health deteriorated, sources said. Ninety-two-year-old Singh was brought to the emergency department of the hospital, they said, adding that his condition is critical, news agency PTI reported. The reason for his hospitalisation was not immediately known. More details are awaited. Singh, one of India's most renowned and prominent politicians, was born in 1932. He is largely recognised as the architect of India's economic reform and development. He was India's 13th Prime Minister and served from 2004 to 2014. During his regime, he implemented a number of economic measures that helped transform the country into one of the world's fastest-growing economies. His most significant contribution to India was the economic changes he pushed in 1991 as Finance Minister in PV Narasimha Rao's cabinet. At the time, India was experiencing a serious economic crisis, with foreign reserves decreasing, inflation surging, and the country on the verge of defaulting on its loans. In reaction to the crisis, Singh implemented a number of radical economic changes that liberalised the Indian economy. His programs aimed to dismantle the Licence Raj, reduce government control over businesses, promote foreign investment, and spur private sector growth. These reforms signalled the start of India's transition from a closed, socialist economy to an open, market-based one. Some of the key steps he took included: - De-licensing of industries: Ending the system where businesses needed government approval for most operations, fostering entrepreneurship and competition. - Trade liberalisation: India’s markets were opened to international trade and investment by lowering tariffs and encouraging exports. - Financial reforms: Strengthening the banking sector, reducing public debt, and making the economy more resilient. Manmohan Singh became India's Prime Minister in 2004, when he led the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) coalition administration. His tenure as Prime Minister is remembered for the stability and economic progress it brought to the nation. Under his leadership, India's GDP increased at an annual rate of approximately 7-8%, pulling millions of people out of poverty. (With PTI inputs)
26 December,2024 09:48 PM IST | New Delhi | PTIOn the occasion of Veer Bal Diwas, Chief Minister (CM) Devendra Fadnavis paid heartfelt floral tributes to the Sahibzades of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Guru of the Sikhs, at his official residence in Mumbai today, as per ANI. 🌸 Offered my humble floral tributes to the Sahibzades of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Guru of the Sikhs, on Veer Bal Diwas at my official residence in Mumbai today.🌸 शिखांचे दहावे गुरु, गुरु गोविंद सिंहजी यांच्या साहिबजाद्यांना वीर बाल दिनी, आज मुंबई येथील माझ्या शासकीय… pic.twitter.com/4Bue3Uklfz — Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) December 26, 2024 The CM's tribute marks a significant moment in commemorating the courage and sacrifice of the four sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, who gave their lives for their faith and principles. The floral tributes were a mark of respect for the valiant young martyrs, especially Sahibzade Baba Zorawar Singh and Baba Fateh Singh, who were martyred at a tender age. The tributes serve as a reminder of the unmatched bravery and sacrifice these young warriors displayed in the face of oppression. "We will always remember the martyrdom of Guru Gobind Singh ji's two sons: Zorawar Singh ji and Fateh Singh ji," Fadnavis said, adding, "It is our responsibility to take the story of their martyrdom to our future generations. On this Shaheed Veer Bal Diwas, I bow to these two Sahibzadas and to the revered Guru Gobind Singh ji and his entire family." Meanwhile, a special programme was organiwed at the Gurudwara in Goregaon. Legislator Surendra Shourie, Former lawmaker Maheshwar Singh, HPMC Vice President Ram Singh, State BJP Vice President Dhaneshwari Thakur, Nagar Parishad Chairman Gopal Mahant, APMC Chairman Amar Thakur, and District Mahila Morcha President Manisha Sood were present in the function. As per ANI reports, in Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also marked the occasion of Veer Bal Diwas by bringing a copy of Shri Guru Granth Sahib to his government residence, a gesture that further underscores the importance of the day and the reverence for the sacrifices made by the Sahibzades. CM Adityanath’s tribute highlights the significance of Guru Gobind Singh Ji's teachings and the values upheld by his sons. श्री गुरु नानक देव जी महाराज से लेकर गुरु श्री गोबिन्द सिंह जी महाराज तक, जो आदर्श सिख गुरुजन ने स्थापित किए, हम सभी के लिए प्रेरणा हैं। उस प्रेरणा से जब हम आगे बढ़ेंगे, तब 'काबुल' और 'बांग्लादेश' होने से बच पाएंगे।देश और धर्म के लिए शहादत की एक नई कहानी लिखने वाले गुरु श्री… pic.twitter.com/LAmxCUd3N2 — Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) December 26, 2024 In Uttarakhand, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami took to social media to emphasise the immortal sacrifice of Baba Zorawar Singh Ji and Baba Fateh Singh. In a post on X, Dhami expressed, "On Veer Bal Diwas, dedicated to the immortal sacrifice of Baba Zorawar Singh Ji and Baba Fateh Singh Ji, we pay our heartfelt tribute to their bravery, indomitable courage, and unmatched sacrifice." He further remarked, "Your sacrifice for the protection of religion and the honour of the motherland is a priceless heritage of humanity. Your glorious story will continue to teach the coming generations the lessons of truth, fearlessness, and devotion to duty." बाबा जोरावर सिंह जी और बाबा फतेह सिंह जी के अमर बलिदान को समर्पित "वीर बाल दिवस" पर उनकी वीरता, अदम्य साहस और अप्रतिम त्याग को कोटिशः नमन।धर्म की रक्षा और मातृभूमि के सम्मान के लिए दिया गया आपका बलिदान मानवता की अमूल्य धरोहर है। आपकी गौरवमयी गाथा आने वाली पीढ़ियों को सच्चाई,… pic.twitter.com/bTmEZv5nCS — Pushkar Singh Dhami (@pushkardhami) December 26, 2024 Prime Minister Narendra Modi also joined in paying tribute to the Sahibzades on this significant day. In a social media post on X, PM Modi expressed, "Today, on Veer Baal Diwas, we remember the unparalleled bravery and sacrifice of the Sahibzades. At a young age, they stood firm in their faith and principles, inspiring generations with their courage. Their sacrifice is a shining example of valour and a commitment to one's values." The Prime Minister also honoured the bravery of Mata Gujri Ji and Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, who played pivotal roles in shaping Sikh history. Today, on Veer Baal Diwas, we remember the unparalleled bravery and sacrifice of the Sahibzades. At a young age, they stood firm in their faith and principles, inspiring generations with their courage. Their sacrifice is a shining example of valour and a commitment to one’s… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 26, 2024 The Prime Minister also announced the launch of the Suposhit Gram Panchayat Abhiyan on the same day, which aims to improve nutritional outcomes and overall well-being by strengthening the implementation of nutrition-related services and ensuring active community participation. This initiative, as stated by the PMO, will be part of a nationwide effort to engage young minds, promote awareness about the significance of Veer Bal Diwas, and foster a culture of courage and dedication to the nation.
26 December,2024 08:30 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentIn a move aimed at bolstering its ranks ahead of the forthcoming Delhi Assembly elections, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) inducted several sportspersons, including wrestlers and bodybuilders, in the presence of its leader Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday. According to PTI, Kejriwal welcomed notable names from the sports and fitness community, including Tilakraj, Rohit Dalal, and Akshay Dilawari, at the party’s headquarters. During the induction ceremony, the AAP chief presented the newcomers with party scarves and caps, symbolising their formal entry into the party fold. The former Delhi Chief Minister highlighted the significance of this development, stating that around 70-80 wrestlers and bodybuilders had joined AAP. He noted that this influx would not only strengthen the party’s base but also enhance its engagement with health and fitness-related issues, which he assured would remain a priority. Kejriwal further pledged to address the challenges faced by sportspersons, should the AAP retain power in Delhi. PTI reports that Kejriwal also announced that many more gymnasium owners and sports professionals were likely to join the party in the coming weeks, signalling a focused strategy to appeal to fitness enthusiasts and the sporting community. Speaker of the outgoing Delhi Assembly, Ram Niwas Goel, remarked that the individuals who joined on Thursday held significant sway in the city’s gymnasiums and were eager to contribute to the AAP’s mission. He emphasised the positive impact their involvement could have on the party’s objectives. Among the new inductees, Rohit Dalal praised the party’s initiatives, such as free yoga classes and measures supporting sports development, stating that these efforts inspired him to align with AAP. “The work done for sportspersons and gyms is commendable. I want to contribute to this mission,” Dalal said, as per PTI. Tilakraj expressed optimism about the increasing involvement of sportspersons in politics. He hinted at more players from Delhi planning to join the party in the near future, reinforcing the sporting fraternity’s commitment to strengthening AAP’s vision. AAP is gearing up for its third consecutive term in the Delhi Assembly and hopes this outreach to sports and fitness professionals will resonate with voters across the capital. (With inputs from PTI)
26 December,2024 01:24 PM IST | New DelhiAhead of the Congress Working Committee meeting (CWC), Congress leader Sachin Pilot who arrived at the Belagavi airport on Thursday said that Congress was doing a good job in the government but the working committee meeting would set the pace and agenda for the next few months and years, reported news agency ANI. "This centenary is special, Congress is doing a very good job in the government but this Congress Working Committee meeting will set the pace and agenda for the next few months and years. This CWC meeting will be historic in many ways...we are all proud to be here...INDIA alliance is strong and Congress leadership will give directions on how to move forward and take on political opponents..." Pilot said while speaking to ANI. Congress MP Manish Tiwari said that they have come to strengthen the slogan of Jai Bapu, Jai Bheem, Jai Constitution. "We are here to strengthen the slogan of Jai Bapu, Jai Bheem, Jai Constitution. We will decide in this meeting on how to change the dictatorial government in this country. We will work to remove the ideology of the BJP and RSS. Strategies will be developed on how to demolish RSS and BJP's ideologies which is their hatred for Babasaheb Ambedkar. We will expose the RSS," said Tiwari while speaking to ANI. The Congress is all set to celebrate the centenary of the 1924 session of the party presided over by Mahatma Gandhi. Party leader Salman Khurshid who arrived at the Belagavi airport said "This is historical; history was made here 100 years ago. We need new inspiration and country. We need to take the country in the right direction and fight for the Constitution." Congress leader Sowmya Reddy said that the occasion is a proud feeling for all of them. "It is a proud feeling for all of us from Mahila Congress to be here. The Congress party has always prioritized women. We are the ones who gave women reservations at the gram panchayat level. When Sonia Gandhi madam was president she said that they would give 33% reservation to women. The only PM was from Congress. It is a privilege to be a part of this historic event," she said. (With inputs from ANI)
26 December,2024 01:22 PM IST | Belagavi | mid-day online correspondentLow visibility procedures are currently being implemented at Delhi Airport, but all flights are operating as scheduled, according to an official advisory issued on Thursday, reported news agency ANI. In a post on social media platform X, Delhi Airport stated, "Low Visibility Procedures are in progress at Delhi Airport. All flight operations are presently normal." The authorities further advised passengers to stay informed about flight updates by contacting their respective airlines. "Passengers are requested to contact the airline concerned for updated flight information," the post added. India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported a minimum temperature of 7 degrees Celsius in Delhi ton Thursday, along with a forecast of dense fog. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in the national capital remained in the 'very poor' category, with a thin layer of fog blanketing parts of the city and affecting visibility, reported ANI. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI was recorded at 372 at 8 am on Thursday. On Wednesday, Delhi's AQI was at 360. Specific areas of the city also reported 'very poor' air quality, with Anand Vihar recording an AQI of 372, Ashok Vihar at 362, and Bawana at 376. For reference, an AQI between 301 and 400 is categorized as 'very poor,' while levels between 401 and 500 are considered 'severe.' As temperatures dropped, several residents of the national capital sought shelter in night homes across the city. Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Delhi Airport authorities issued an advisory cautioning that flights not equipped with CAT III compliance could experience disruptions due to low visibility. In another post on X, the authorities said, "While landings and take-offs continue at Delhi Airport, flights that are not CAT III compliant may be affected." They reiterated their request for passengers to contact the concerned airline for updated flight information. "Passengers are requested to contact the airlines for updated flight information. Any inconvenience caused is deeply regretted," the post read. The CAT III, or Category III, approach system enables flights to land safely during poor visibility conditions, ensuring operational functionality for compliant aircraft. (With inputs from ANI)
26 December,2024 11:19 AM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentThe air quality in Delhi was recorded in the "very poor" category on Thursday, with an AQI reading of 340 at 9 am, according to the Central Pollution Control Board's (CPCB) data. Of the 38 monitoring stations that recorded air quality data in the national capital, 32 reported the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the "very poor" category, according to the CPCB. An AQI between zero and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe". The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a thunderstorm accompanied by rain on Friday and Saturday, and issued a "yellow alert", predicting very dense fog, on Sunday. The minimum temperature was recorded at 8.2 degrees Celsius, a notch above normal, the IMD said. The maximum temperature is likely to hover around 23 degrees Celsius, it added. Low visibility procedures in place, flights remain on schedule: Delhi airport issues advisory Low visibility procedures are currently being implemented at Delhi Airport, but all flights are operating as scheduled, according to an official advisory issued on Thursday. In a post on social media platform X, Delhi Airport stated, "Low Visibility Procedures are in progress at Delhi Airport. All flight operations are presently normal." The authorities further advised passengers to stay informed about flight updates by contacting their respective airlines. "Passengers are requested to contact the airline concerned for updated flight information," the post added. (With inputs from Agencies)
26 December,2024 10:50 AM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentIn an effort to provide relief to commuters in East and North East Delhi, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi inaugurated a new flyover between Anand Vihar and Apsara Border on Wednesday. The flyover is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion, benefiting lakhs of commuters daily. Speaking to the media, Atishi highlighted the convenience the flyover would bring to residents and travellers in the area, stating that it would allow vehicles to bypass three traffic signals, resulting in faster commutes that would save both time and money. "Today, the flyover between Anand Vihar and Apsara Border has been inaugurated. This area is one of the most traffic-congested in East and North East Delhi. During peak traffic hours, it used to take hours to cross through here, causing constant problems for people living and working here," she said. "This flyover will solve the traffic congestion problem in the entire area. This will save time for the people, reduce fuel consumption, and cut down on carbon dioxide emissions that contribute to air pollution in our city," she added. Atishi also spoke about the allegations regarding notices issued in newspapers about welfare schemes announced by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) ahead of the 2025 assembly elections. She labelled the notices as "false" and accused the BJP of pressuring Delhi government officials to publish them. The Delhi Chief Minister assured that action will be taken against the officials involved in issuing the notice. She said that the cabinet's decision regarding the Mahila Samman Yojana was already in the public domain. "The notices issued in newspapers today are incorrect. The BJP, by putting pressure on a few officers, got this notice published. Administrative and Police action will be taken against these officers. The information that the Mahila Samman Yojana has been notified by the Delhi Cabinet is in the public domain....", Atishi said. "Arvind ji has said we have credible information that to stop free bus service for women in Delhi, an attempt is being made (by BJP) to impose a fake case on me...Even if they arrest me, I have faith in the legal system and the Constitution that despite their false cases on me, I will get bail," she said. This follows the Delhi government's Women and Child Development (WCD) department issuing a clarification regarding the 'Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana' announced by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) ahead of the 2025 assembly elections. The department stated that no such scheme has been officially notified. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
26 December,2024 10:41 AM IST | New Delhi | ANIPolice busted a gang for organising gambling in Andhra's Eluru on Wednesday, along with the arrest of 30 people, including organizers, officials said. Acting on credible information, Eluru Rural Police conducted the raid in the SMR area of Tangellamudi, under the jurisdiction of Eluru Rural Police Station, where the accused were caught red-handed gambling with playing cards. The raid took place in the evening at a thatched shed located in Paturi Nilayam, owned by Paturi Trinadh. Eluru Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) D Shravan Kumar stated that the raid was conducted under the orders of Eluru SP Kommi Pratap Shiva Kishore, with supervision from senior officials. The operation was led by Eluru Town Circle Inspector G. Satyanarayana and Eluru Rural Sub-Inspector K. Durga Prasad, along with their teams. SDPO Kumar further mentioned that Rs. 8.10 lakh, 25 mobile phones, and a bike were seized during the operation. Police were verifying the criminal records of the arrested people. Organizer Pilla Venkatesh alias Gutkalu and another accused however managed to escape. The SDOP added that 30 men were apprehended, and a Preventive Detention (PD) case will be filed against the organizers if such activities are repeated. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
26 December,2024 10:40 AM IST | Andhra Pradesh | ANIPatna District Magistrate Chandrashekhar Singh has claimed that the protesting Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) exam candidates are being instigated by individuals and coaching institutes who are not directly related to the examination. He has claimed that many of the protest leaders are non-candidates and are spreading baseless rumours to provoke the actual candidates. "On Wednesday, protesters moved away from the designated protest site in Gardanibagh and gathered near the restricted area close to the BPSC office on Nehru Path. Despite repeated requests from the authorities to return to the designated site, some individuals continued their protest. The police used 'mild force' to disperse the protestors from the restricted area," Singh said. Singh's remarks came after Patna Police initiated cane-charge on the BPSC candidates at Nehru Road and Bailey Road near the BPSC office on Wednesday. The protests were centered on the demand to cancel the BPSC exam held on December 13. Protesters were sitting on Gardanibagh, raising concerns and expressing dissatisfaction with the exam process. The district police are under scrutiny for their handling of the protests, particularly the use of a cane-harge on the demonstrators. The DM, however, defended the police action, suggesting it was necessary to maintain law and order. “We will take strict action against those provoking candidates or creating disturbances. We have names of some specific coaching institutes being involved in these activities,” Singh said. “Certain social media handlers are accused of distorting facts and spreading baseless rumours, which is contributing to the unrest,” Singh said. He also pointed out the incident at Gardanibagh Hospital on December 23 and said some miscreants entered the Gardanibagh Hospital, misbehaved with doctors and staff, and were involved in vandalism. “A case has been filed against individuals who entered restricted areas, created disturbances and law-and-order problems, spread rumors and incited people. Strict action will be taken against the offenders,” he said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
26 December,2024 10:33 AM IST | Patna | IANSPrime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday laid the foundation stone of the Ken-Betwa river linking project in Madhya Pradesh. Speaking at the program at Khajuraho, Modi said that in the 21st century, only the nations with adequate and well-managed water resources can advance. “The major challenge of the 21st century is water security. In the 21st century only those countries who have adequate water resources with proper management will move forward,” he said. The PM on this occasion also inaugurated the Omkareshwar Floating Solar Project in Khandwa district of the state virtually, and laid the foundation stone of the Daudhan Irrigation Project, part of the river-linking project. Union Water Resources Minister C R Patil and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav handed over two kalash (urns) containing water from Betwa and Ken rivers, respectively, to Modi, who poured it over a model of the project to launch the river linking work. The Ken-Betwa river linking will open new doors of prosperity and happiness in the Bundelkhand region, said the PM. The project will provide drinking water to nearly 44 lakh people in 10 districts of MP and 21 lakh people in UP. The estimated cost of the project will be R44,605 crore. Project a threat to Panna Tiger Reserve The Ken-Betwa river linking project poses a serious threat to the biodiversity-rich Panna Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh, said Congress leader Jairam Ramesh. He claimed that the project will submerge over 10 per cent of the core area of the tiger reserve. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
26 December,2024 07:32 AM IST | Khajuraho | AgenciesADVERTISEMENT
