The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu today called upon schools and parents to encourage children to learn any art form of their choice as part of the efforts to preserve and promote India’s rich cultural heritage. Stressing the need to go back to our roots, he called for a cultural renaissance in Indian society.

VP confers Sangeet Natak Akademi and Lalit Kala Akademi Fellowships & Awards	

New Delhi: Reconstruction of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple is not simply a high point in India's cultural history, it will also herald a new phase in the economy and development of the ancient city of Ayodhya and nearby areas, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu said on Friday.Naidu's statement came after he along with his spouse Usha Naidu visited the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple site in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya. They were accompanied by the Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Anandiben Patel and Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya."Spiritual tourism is a major employment generator in India and Ayodhya, one of the most ancient cities of the world, which is fast emerging as a preferred destination for national as well as international devotees," Naidu further said."I am pleased to note that to meet the increasing requirements of surging tourist inflows, the Central and State governments have started many infrastructural works."A new International Airport is being constructed and redevelopment of Ayodhya Railway Station is also underway, said the Vice President."The private sector is also investing in hotels, medical sector and food chains. All in all, this sacred region is witnessing an unprecedented scale of development and Ram Nagari is on course to regain its ancient glory.""My visit to Ayodhya and Darshan of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi today was the fulfilment of a long-cherished dream, one which, I am sure I share with millions of my countrymen," Naidu said."The rebuilding of Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya symbolises India's cultural renaissance and our renewed commitment to the principles of Ram Rajya - a vision of democratic and righteous governance which ensures peace, justice and equality for all," he added.The Vice President said the message of the Ramayana has universal significance and transcends geographical boundaries, and that different adaptations of this timeless epic are hugely popular across various South East Asian countries like Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos.With Prime Minister, Narendra Modi laying the foundation stone on August 5, 2020, Naidu said the reconstruction work of the temple is proceeding apace at the Ram Janmabhoomi site."It was gladdening to know that experts from various institutions including IITs, Central Building Research Institute, L&amp;T Constructions and Tata Consultancy Engineering Limited are working together as a large team overseeing this historic mission."&nbsp;—ANI

Reconstruction of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple is not simply a high point in India's cultural history, it will also herald a new phase in the economy and development of the ancient city of Ayodhya and nearby areas, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu said on Friday.

Reconstruction Of Ram Janmabhoomi Temple Will Herald New Phase For Ayodhya: Vice President

Ayodhya&nbsp;(The Hawk): The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu along with his spouse Smt. Usha Naidu visited the historic city of Ayodhya today where he peformed puja at Ram Janmabhoomi Sthal and famous Hanuman Garhi temple.Shri Naidu who arrived in the city by a special train in the morning was welcomed by the Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Smt. Anandiben Patel, Deputy Chief Minister, Shri Keshav Prasad Maurya and other dignitaries at Ayodhya Railway Station.Soon after, the Vice President and his wife visited Ram Janmabhoomi Sthal where the members of Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Trust made a detailed presentation&nbsp;through a short film showcasing the 3-D model of the upcoming Ram temple . Subsequently, Shri Naidu performed puja at the Garbha Griha site of the under construction Ram Temple, and also offered prayers to the Ram Lalla. In the visitors book at Ram Janmabhoomi, he wrote -"Blessed to have visited Ram Janmabhoomi today. Lord Rama is a symbol of our culture, our values and our glorious history. The life of Maryada Purushottam has always inspired the people of India and shown them the righteous path. The reconstruction of the grand Ram temple in Ayodhya is a moment of spiritual renaissance in India. I am sure that this Temple will continue to inspire the coming generations to respect our rich cultural heritage and show them the path of truth, justice and brotherhood."Later, Shri Naidu and his spouse offered prayers at the famous Hanuman Garhi temple in the city. It is believed that Lord Hanuman guarded the city of Ayodhya from this place after Shri Rama's return from Lanka.The Vice President and his spouse, accompanied by other dignitaries, later proceeded to the holy Sarayu river and offered prayers to the ancient river which is closely associated with Lord Rama's life.In the evening today, Shri Naidu and his spouse will also take part in Ganga Aarti in Varanasi.

: The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu along with his spouse Smt. Usha Naidu visited the historic city of Ayodhya today where he peformed puja at Ram Janmabhoomi Sthal and famous Hanuman Garhi temple.

VP Visits Ram Nagari Ayodhya, Calls It 'The Fulfillment Of A Long Cherished Dream'

New Delhi (The Hawk): Vice President of India Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu will declare the second Khelo India University Games 2021 open at the Sree Kanteerava Indoor Stadium, Bengluru on Sunday. Governor of Karnataka Shri Thaawar Chand Gehlot, Minister of Home Affairs Shri Amit Shah, Chief Minister Shri Basavaraj Bommai, Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitaraman, Union Minister Of Youth Affairs and Sports Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, Minister of State, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports Shri Nisith Pramanik will be the Guests of Honours.A star-studded line-up of past and present athletes who have brought glory to the nation will grace the opening ceremony of the Games.Karnataka Minister of Youth Empowerment and Sports Shri Narayana Gowda, will be among the guests of honour. Karnataka MLC Shri Basavaraj Horatti, Minister of Higher Education; IT &amp; BT, Science &amp; Technology, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship &amp; Livelihood Dr Ashwathnarayan CN. Shivaji Nagar MLC Rizwan Arshad will also grace the occasion.Over 2,500 attendees including delegates from across the country will assemble in the Stadium to witness a cultural programme designed to reflect the essence of Karnataka’s rich cultural tradition while a laser show promises to leave audience mesmerised and showcase the State as one in which technology has flourished.The Khelo India University Games 2021, hosted by Jain University with unparalleled support ftom the Karnataka State Government and the Sports Authority of India will be India’s biggest sporting event and first mass participative competition post the Pandemic that spread almost as soon as the curtain came down on the inaugural edition in Bhubaneshwar.Through the Khelo India University Games 2021, the Karnataka Government is also focusing on a pressing issue - environmental sustainability. Everything used in the Games outside the field of play will be made of reusable material; Electric vehicles will be used to transport athletes and all waste will be segregated as wet and dry at the source in every venue. KIUG 2021 will be a Green Games.About 3879 competitors from 200-plus universities will be in action across 20 different disciplines including indigenous sports like Mallakhamba and Yogasana. The Kanteerava Stadium Complex will host Athletics and Basketball while Shooting will be held in the SAI Campus and Hockey competitions at the Cariappa Stadium. All others events will be in the Jain educational institution premises.Over 8000 participants, coaches and officials taking part in the KIUG 2021 have access to first-of-its-kind mobile app for any information related to the competition. The one-stop app will have information about accommodation, food, transport service, emergency contacts, maps to reach various venues and important notifications about the Games among other details.Speaking about the opening ceremony, Shri KC Narayan Gowda, Minister of Youth Empowerment and Sports, Government of Karnataka, said: “All preparations are in place for the Opening Ceremony on Sunday. This morning&nbsp;the Vice President Shri Venkaiah Naidu ji has arrived in Bengaluru.”“Apart from all the ministers from Union Government and the state, we will have several top athletes including Prakash Padukone, Pankaj Advani, Anju Bobby George, Ashwini Nachappa, Reet Abraham among many others who have brought laurels for Karnataka and India at the international level attend the ceremony.”The Government of Karnataka has made special arrangements for the participants of the Khelo India University Games 2021, allowing the athletes to carry their sporting equipment on the Bengaluru metro when they travel from their accommodation to their respective competition venues.The State Government has also made tremendous efforts to make the entire Bengaluru city a part of the Khelo India University Games 2021 through hoardings in landmark locations of the city. The participants will enter the KIUG environment right from the time they step out of the railway and bus stations as the Khelo India University Games 2021 advertisement boards will be waiting to welcome them.

Vice President of India Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu will declare the second Khelo India University Games 2021 open at the Sree Kanteerava Indoor Stadium, Bengluru on Sunday. Governor of Karnataka Shri Thaawar Chand Gehlot, Minister of Home Affairs Shri Amit Shah, Chief Minister Shri Basavaraj Bommai, Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitaraman, Union Minister Of Youth Affairs and Sports Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, Minister of State, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports Shri Nisith Pramanik will be the Guests of Honours.A star-studded line-up of past and present athletes who have brought glory to the nation will grace the opening ceremony of the Games.

VP To Declare Khelo India University Games 2021 Open April 24

Vice President of India Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu will declare the second Khelo India University Games 2021 open at the Sree Kanteerava Indoor Stadium, Bengluru on Sunday. Governor of Karnataka Shri Thaawar Chand Gehlot, Minister of Home Affairs Shri Amit Shah, Chief Minister Shri Basavaraj Bommai, Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitaraman, Union Minister Of Youth Affairs and Sports Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, Minister of State, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports Shri Nisith Pramanik will be the Guests of Honours.A star-studded line-up of past and present athletes who have brought glory to the nation will grace the opening ceremony of the Games.





New Dehli (The Hawk): The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu today stressed that a strong and vibrant democracy cannot survive without a free, unfettered and fearless press. Suggesting that India needs a robust, independent and vibrant media to strengthen the roots of democracy, Shri Naidu cautioned against the erosion of values in the media. Calling for unbiased and objective reporting, ‘News should not be mixed with views’, he stressed.Addressing a gathering at the Press Club of Bangalore to mark the Club’s 50th anniversary year, the Vice President observed that a free and fair Press complements an independent judiciary when it comes to strengthening the constitutional rule of law.Noting that in the past, journalism was considered a mission in which news was sacrosanct, Shri Naidu underscored the fact that good journalism hinges on unbiased and truthful coverage of events and in their credible transmission to the people.Referring to several legendary news editors of yesteryears like Khasa Subba Rau, Frank Moraes and Nikhil Chakravarty, the Vice President said they never coloured news with their opinion and always respected the Lakshman Rekha between news and opinion. He suggested that news professionals today should take inspiration from journalism stalwarts who contributed immensely during the freedom struggle and during the Emergency. Stressing that news must not be tempered with views, he advised media persons never to compromise on facts and to always present them without fear or favour.Expressing concern over the steep decline in journalistic standards over the years, Shri Naidu said that the recent rise of social media has only muddied the waters further. “Today, we find news constantly fused with opinion. So much so that sometimes one tends to feel that neither newspapers nor television channels give an accurate picture of some events,” he added. He suggested that the Parliament and the government look into the matter of fake news on social media and come up with an effective and reliable way to deal with fake news.Drawing attention to biased news presentation and agenda-driven coverage of events, the Vice President said that the practitioners of such journalism are doing a grave disservice to their profession because authenticity and credibility form the cornerstone of journalism.Expressing his concern over falling standards of public discourse, Shri Naidu wanted political parties to self-regulate themselves by adopting&nbsp;a code of conduct for their members in legislatures and in public life. He advised public representatives to refrain from making personal attacks on their political adversaries. He also called for a relook at Anti-Defection Law to address any shortcomings.Stressing that members should debate, discuss and decide in a meaningful way in the legislatures, the Vice President said the media should highlight constructive speeches in Parliament and legislatures instead of disruptions. He cautioned against sensationalising news and giving undue attention to disruptors in the Parliament and legislatures.Shri P.C. Mohan, Member of Parliament, Shri K. Sadashiv Shenoy, President, Press Club of Bangalore, Shri H.V. Kiran, General Secretary, Press Club of Bangalore, Shri Shyamprasad S, Vice President, Press Club of Bangalore, media professionals and other dignitaries were present.&nbsp;

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu today stressed that a strong and vibrant democracy cannot survive without a free, unfettered and fearless press. Suggesting that India needs a robust, independent and vibrant media to strengthen the roots of democracy, Shri Naidu cautioned against the erosion of values in the media. Calling for unbiased and objective reporting, ‘News should not be mixed with views’, he stressed.

A strong and vibrant democracy cannot survive without a free and fearless Press ;VP

A strong and vibrant democracy cannot survive without a free and fearless Press:  VP

Paris:&nbsp;Voting was underway on Sunday in the French presidential run-off in which people will make a choice between incumbent President Emmanuel Macron and his far-right challenger Marine Le Pen as their new leader.Voting began at 8 a.m. and is scheduled to end at 8 p.m., reports Xinhua news agency.Eligible voters on French overseas territories have already cast their ballots on Saturday.According to the results of the first round voting on April 10 published by France's Constitutional Council, Macron won 9,783,058 votes, or 27.85 per cent of valid ballots, while Le Pen garnered 8,133,828 ballots, or 23.15 per cent.During the first round, 35,923,707 voters cast their ballots.Campaigning for the run-off ended on Friday night and on Sunday evening, regardless of the result, Macron will address the nation from a stage at the foot of the Eiffel Tower.In order to win, Macron and Le Pen, who also contested the presidential run-off in the 2017 election, will need to attract voters who backed other candidates in the first round on April 10, says a BBC report."But these are two polarising figures in France, and no votes are guaranteed," the report said.What remains unclear in these elections is how many voters will refuse to back either candidate, whether by casting a blank ballot or not turning out at all.Much of France is on holiday and turnout could be historically low, the report noted.According to opinion polls, voter turnout could be the lowest since 1969.A Harris/Challenges poll conducted between April 15-18 have projected Macron to win 54.0 per cent votes and Le Pen 46.0 per cent in the run-off.

Voting was underway on Sunday in the French presidential run-off in which people will make a choice between incumbent President Emmanuel Macron and his far-right challenger Marine Le Pen as their new leader.

Voting underway for French presidential run-off

Lucknow: Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati on Thursday junked Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav's remark suggesting that the Bharatiya Janata Party could make her the country's President, signalling that she would prefer to become the prime minister someday to realise her goals for the downtrodden.Reacting to Yadav's dig at her on Wednesday, Mayawati said she has never aspired to become the President and the Samajwadi Party leader was dreaming about it to clear his path to become the Uttar Pradesh chief minister. "I can only dream of becoming the chief minister of UP and prime minister of the country in the days to come but can never dream of becoming the president," she told reporters."I have not spent my life in comfort and have struggled to work on the path shown by Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar and Kanshi Ram to ensure that their followers and the downtrodden stand on their feet. All know that this work can be done not by becoming the president but by becoming the CM of UP and PM of the country," she said. If Dalits, Adivasis, backwards, Muslims and the poor from the upper castes join forces with the BSP, then not only can they make its leader the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh again but also the prime minister in the time to come, she added.The SP dreaming of making her the president for its 'selfish political motives' is futile, said the former chief minister whose party bagged only one seat in the recent state assembly polls."The reality is that the SP is dreaming of making me the president in order to clear the path (for Akhilesh Yadav) to become the CM of UP, which is not possible," Mayawati said."Despite striking alliances with different parties, the SP has not been able to form the government," she said.Media reports had suggested that the BSP's votes were transferred to the BJP in the February-March state Assembly polls. A report sent by the Uttar Pradesh BJP to the central party leadership on the election also highlighted the shift of the BSP's votes to the saffron party which helped it win with a comfortable margin. Even during the elections, Yadav had pointed towards a 'nexus' between the BJP and the BSP as part of the deal to appoint Mayawati to a higher constitutional post.Mayawati claimed Yadav has realised that the SP will not return to power in Uttar Pradesh in future and is looking to 'flee to a foreign country' where he has already made all the arrangements. This is being openly discussed, she said.She further alleged the SP and the BJP worked together to give the recent elections 'Hindu-Muslim colour' and this brought the saffron party back in power."The weaker sections and especially Muslims are facing continued atrocities and the SP chief is responsible for this. He is still not desisting from spreading rumours. He should give up his childish and disgusting politics," she added.Interestingly, the BSP and the SP had contested the 2019 Lok Sabha elections as alliance partners but parted ways later and have been regularly attacking each other. The SP won 111 seats in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls this year.—PTI

: Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati on Thursday junked Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav's remark suggesting that the Bharatiya Janata Party could make her the country's President, signalling that she would prefer to become the prime minister someday to realise her goals for the downtrodden. Reacting to Yadav's dig at her on Wednesday, Mayawati said she has never aspired to become the President and the Samajwadi Party leader was dreaming about it to clear his path to become the Uttar Pradesh chief minister. 

Mayawati Tells Akhilesh She Wants To Be PM, Not Prez

 Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati on Thursday junked Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav's remark suggesting that the Bharatiya Janata Party could make her the country's President, signalling that she would prefer to become the prime minister someday to realise her goals for the downtrodden.
Reacting to Yadav's dig at her on Wednesday, Mayawati said she has never aspired to become the President and the Samajwadi Party leader was dreaming about it to clear his path to become the Uttar Pradesh chief minister. 


New Delhi (The Hawk): The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu today called for further simplifying the tax system to promote voluntary compliance and reduce litigation.Appreciating the government’s efforts to do away with complex and tedious processes, he called for intensifying the efforts toward creating a stable, user friendly and transparent tax regime in the country.&nbsp;Addressing the Valediction Ceremony of the 74th Batch of Indian Revenue Service (Income Tax) at National Academy of Direct Taxes (NADT) at Nagpur today, the Vice President observed that technology can be a great enabler in our endeavour toward creating a transparent and taxpayer-friendly administration. “Leveraging digital technology is crucial for financial inclusion, ease of service delivery and plugging leakages from various welfare schemes,” he added.Observing that the country expects a high order of efficiency and integrity from all civil servants, the Vice President asked the officers to set a high benchmark, improve the system to make a positive difference in the lives of people. “We are not content with the status quo. We want to convert our Swaraj into Suraj or good governance,” he stressed.Recognising the important role of Indian Revenue service in nation building through tax collections, Shri Naidu wanted them to demystify the tax laws and procedures so that tax compliance becomes the norm and citizens pay taxes on time, willingly and effortlessly. Citing an analogy from Mahabharata, he said that a ruler should extract taxes from the people in the same way as honey bee extracts nectar from the flowers without harming the flower itself.Terming effective tax administration as the bedrock of national development and one of the pillars of good governance, the Vice President underlined that tax collection needs to increase but it should be done in a transparent and user-friendly way, not in an arbitrary manner. Stressing the need to minimise the adverse impact of taxation on taxpayers, he said, “if taxpayers continue to grow in their respective productive activities, both the national GDP and the revenue collections will continue to grow.”Referring to several tax reforms in recent years such as focus on litigation management to avoid repetitive appeals, Faceless Regime and adoption of the Taxpayers’ Charter, the Vice President complimented CBDT for ushering in these far-reaching policy measures. “I firmly believe that interaction between taxpayers and taxmen should be characterized by a spirit of trust, transparency and mutual respect,” he said.Shri Naidu called taxes not just a source of revenue for the government but also an effective instrument for achieving desired socio-economic objectives. Referring to the Prime Minister’s vision for India@100, he appealed to everyone to work for making India a developed, prosperous and happy society in the coming years. Exhorting the young officers to not get overwhelmed by the challenges and difficulties faced in discharge of their duties, he wanted them to be adept at seeking solutions through consultation and learning from best practices across the world. “You must be receptive to new ideas and willing to listen and absorb,” he stressed. Referring to 75th independence year celebrations, the Vice President lauded the remarkable role played by the civil servants not only in maintaining the unity, integrity and security of our nation but also in enhancing its dignity in the comity of nations and fostering national development in different domains. He hoped that the passing out officers will keep that same spirit of service and dedication to constitutional values in their individual career. “This is vital for enhancing your efficiency and enriching the quality of lives of people you will serve,” he added.The Vice President complimented the officers and faculty of the NADT for training the officers as per contemporary and futuristic needs of tax administration. On this occasion, he also congratulated the Central Board of Direct Taxes for their success in ensuring highest ever income tax collections this year, and also for all their efforts in implementing the Faceless Assessment Scheme of the Government of India. “Changes are never easy, but you have managed this radical citizen friendly initiative very well so far, and with time, I am sure it will all become even better,” he said.Governor of Maharashtra, Shri Bhagat Singh Koshyari, Energy Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Nitin Raut, Chairman CBDT, Shri&nbsp;J.B. Mohapatra, Pr. DG, NADT, Shri Praveen Kumar, ADG (Induction), NADT, Shri B. Venkateshwar Rao, ADG (Planning &amp; Research), Dr Vinay Kumar Singh, Course Director, Shri&nbsp;Rishi Bishen, officers of the 74th batch of IRS and others were present on the occasion.

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu today called for further simplifying the tax system to promote voluntary compliance and reduce litigation.Appreciating the government’s efforts to do away with complex and tedious processes, he called for intensifying the efforts toward creating a stable, user friendly and transparent tax regime in the country. 

Vice President Calls For Further Simplifying The Tax System

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu today called for further simplifying the tax system to promote voluntary compliance and reduce litigation.Appreciating the government’s efforts to do away with complex and tedious processes, he called for intensifying the efforts toward creating a stable, user friendly and transparent tax regime in the country. 





New Delhi (The Hawk) : The Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu today underlined the importance of organic farming for sustainable and stable development.&nbsp;He said that natural resources such as soil and water are not unlimited and the future of mankind depends on their conservation. Addressing a gathering after releasing the book titled ‘Bhumi Suposhan’ (meaning - soil nutrition) published by Akshay Krishi Parivar at Upa-Rashtrapati Nivas today, the Vice President expressed his concern over the degradation of soil due to the overuse of pesticides and fertilizers and stressed the need for creating awareness on this important issue. He also said that unchecked extraction of ground water is fast depleting our groundwater table leading to a reduction in moisture content in the soil, thus turning fertile land into barren land.Listing out various benefits of organic farming, the Vice President opined that it not only improves soil health but also reduces farmers’ input costs. Locally available resources such as cow dung and waste organic matter can be used to prepare low-cost organic manure, thus increasing farmers’ income, he added. Acknowledging Green Revolution’s role in ensuring the country’s food security, Shri Naidu highlighted some of its unintended consequences such as the uncontrolled use of pesticides. Appreciating various governmental and individual efforts for soil conservation, he said the network of laboratories for soil testing is being strengthened and natural farming is being promoted in ecologically sensitive areas such as villages adjacent to the river Ganga. Mentioning that around six lakh farmers are practicing organic farming on approximately 38 lakh hectares of land in India, the Vice President expressed his happiness over the fact that many hilly states successfully adopted organic farming. He said that the smaller states have shown that organic farming is particularly beneficial to our small and marginal farmers. He said that there is a growing awareness among the masses about the harmful effects of chemical farming and they are willing to pay for organic products. Shri Naidu also stressed the need for the popularization of traditional farming practices. He wanted agricultural universities to focus more on organic and natural farming and promote innovation and agri-entrepreneurship among the youth. The Vice President said agriculture is not just farmers’ concern, rather all of us are equal stakeholders in its development as food is a basic necessity for everyone. He urged parliamentarians, political parties and policy makers to give priority to agriculture. Shri Naidu urged people, particularly youngsters, to consume traditional foods that are nutritious and suitable to Indian conditions.&nbsp;&nbsp; Praising Akshya Krishi Parivar for bringing out ‘Bhumi Suposhan’ – a commemorative publication of the Nationwide Bhumi Suposhan and Samrakshan Abhiyan, the Vice President wanted this book to be translated into Indian languages so that it could reach the maximum number of farmers. He also asked scientists and researchers to translate their works in people’s languages for the larger benefit of the public. Shri Naidu also stressed that early education should be in the child's mother tongue. Similarly, local language should be used in administration and courts. Narendra Singh Tomar, Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shree Kadsiddheshwar Swamiji, Kaneri Math, Maharashtra, Shri Bhagaiah, Member of the National Executive and Ex Sah-Sarkaryawah, Rashriya Swayamsevak Sangh, Shri Manoj Solanki, President, Akshay Krishi Parivar, Dr GR Chintala Govindarajulu, NABARD Chairman, Scientists, Agriculturists and other dignitaries were present.

The Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu today underlined the importance of organic farming for sustainable and stable development. He said that natural resources such as soil and water are not unlimited and the future of mankind depends on their conservation.

Soil health needs our urgent attention, organic farming is the way forward, says VP

New Dehi : In their talks on Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron are likely to discuss mitigating the global economic consequences of the Ukraine conflict as well as ways to ensure cessation of hostilities in that country, diplomatic sources said.Modi, currently on a visit to Denmark, will have a brief stopover in Paris on his return journey where he will hold extensive talks with President Macron, who was re-elected to the top post over a week back.The sources said discussions will also focus how France can continue to be India's "partner of choice" in its quest for becoming self-reliant in the field of defence manufacturing.The talks will also explore ways to boost cooperation in areas of technology, space and energy, they said.The two leaders will discuss how to ensure cessation of hostilities in Ukraine and mitigate the global economic consequences of this conflict, the sources said.They said another focus area of the talks would be to unitedly deal with the challenges in the Indo-Pacific.Modi and Macron are expected to explore ways to speeding up "positive agenda of solutions" in the region, the sources said."The fact that this visit takes place so soon after President Macron's re-election is seen as an exceptional gesture of trust and friendship," said a diplomatic source.The sources said Modi's meeting with Macron days after his election victory is highly symbolic.It sends a powerful signal that the two leaders want to make the Indo-French partnership a guiding principle of their foreign policy for the years to come, the sources said."It's also a demonstration of the level of personal chemistry between the two leaders, which gives impetus to our joint actions across all fields of cooperation," the source said—PTI

In their talks on Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron are likely to discuss mitigating the global economic consequences of the Ukraine conflict as well as ways to ensure cessation of hostilities in that country, diplomatic sources said.

Modi-Macron talks to figure host of key issues

New Delhi (The Hawk) :The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind graced the 61st&nbsp;annual conference of Bodo Sahitya Sabha at Tamulpur, Assam today.Speaking on the occasion, the President said that the atmosphere of harmony and peace in the region is becoming stronger with the joint efforts of Union Government and State Governments of the North-Eastern region. He noted that developmental works have an important role in this change. He appreciated Central Government, State Governments and residents of the region for this change.The President noted that the month of May is very important for the Bodo people as they remember Bodofa Upendra Nath Brahma on May 1 which is his death anniversary. He said that Bodofa had spread the message of "live and let live". His message of maintaining harmony with all communities while conscious of Bodo self-pride will be forever relevant.&nbsp;The President appreciated Bodo Sahitya Sabha for making invaluable contribution for past 70 years in strengthening the Bodo language, literature and culture. He said that the Founder-President of the Bodo Sahitya Sabha, Joy Bhadra Hagzer and General Secretary Sonaram Thosen had made commendable efforts in recognition of Bodo language. This Sabha has also played important role in use of Bodo language as the medium of school education and place in the higher education.&nbsp;The President noted that so far 17 writers have been awarded Sahitya Akademi Awards for their works in Bodo language. And out of that 10 have been awarded for poetry work. This shows the natural inclination towards poetry among Bodo writers. He was happy to note that many women are writing in different genres of Bodo literature. But it has also been observed that only two women are among senior writers who have received the Sahitya Akademi Award for original works, he said. He urged 'Bodo Sahitya Sabha' to encourage women writers. He said that to keep any literature alive and relevant, the participation of the younger generation is very important. Therefore, special encouragement should also be given to young writers by Bodo Sahitya Sabha.&nbsp;The President was happy to note that the works of other languages&nbsp;are being translated into Bodo language with great enthusiasm. He said that it is the characteristic of any vibrant literary community. He expressed confidence that such translated literature would give an opportunity to the readers of Bodo language to get acquainted with other Indian languages&nbsp;as well as world literature.&nbsp;The President said that the conservation and promotion of local languages&nbsp;is the responsibility of the society and the government. He appealed the Government of Assam to make efforts to promote Bodo language.

The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind graced the 61st annual conference of Bodo Sahitya Sabha at Tamulpur, Assam today.

President of India graces the 61st Annual conference of Bodo Sahitya Sabha

The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind graced the 61st annual conference of Bodo Sahitya Sabha at Tamulpur, Assam today 

New Delhi (TThe Hawk) :North-Eastern region is the natural gateway for India to South-East Asia and beyond, said the President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind. He was addressing the&nbsp;valedictory function of North East Festival, organized by the Ministry of DoNER as a part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav,&nbsp;at Guwahati, Assam.The President said that&nbsp;with over 5,300 kilometres of international borders with several neighbouring countries, North-Eastern region has significant strategic value. With the launch of the Look East Policy (LEP), the security-centric approach towards neighbours in the east gave way to a prioritising of economic issues for benefiting from the common potential for economic growth across the region. In 2014, the LEP was upgraded to the Act East Policy (AEP) which brought about a paradigm shift and marked a significant change in the potential role of the North-East region.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The President said that he was happy to attend the&nbsp;valedictory function of North East Festival which is organized as a part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav. He congratulated Union Minister for DoNER, Governors and Chief Ministers of all the North-Eastern states as well as the people of the region for their enthusiastic participation. He said that he was impressed by&nbsp;their spirit of “Hum Kisi Se Kam Nahi”!&nbsp;The President said that&nbsp;when the nation celebrates the freedom movement, citizens recall the valour and patriotism of not only its great leaders but also lesser-known or forgotten participants without whose sacrifice it would not have been a mass movement. We are rightly proud of the fact that such participation was witnessed in every nook and corner of the country. Every Indian yearned to see Mother India freed from the shackles of foreign rule. The North-East region was second to none when it came to joining the struggle for freedom.&nbsp;The President said that when we celebrate the 75 years of Independence, when we recall the magnificent episodes of our freedom movement, when we think of the life and work of our great leaders, we do so in order to gauge where we stand today compared to their dreams. We do so in order to learn more about their vision and be inspired from their struggles to build a better tomorrow.&nbsp;&nbsp;The President said that when our nation won Independence, the North-Eastern region was vastly different from what it is today.&nbsp;Initially, this region had suffered hugely because of Partition of India, as it found itself suddenly cut off from major centres of communications, education and trade and commerce such as Dhaka and Kolkata. The only corridor connecting the North-East and the rest of the country was a narrow strip of land in the north of West Bengal, making it challenging to support developmental initiatives in the region. Yet, we have diligently worked to overcome the challenges of geography. During the last 75 years, the North-East has made significant progress on a variety of parameters.&nbsp;The President stated that the North-Eastern region has immense inherent strengths. What it offers in terms of tourism, horticulture, handloom and sports is often unique. He said that efforts are needed now to place the North-Eastern states on par with the industrially advanced states so that more jobs are created here. Recognising this need, the Government is working with the states to improve their Ease of Doing Business parameters and to facilitate the flow of private investments into the North-East.&nbsp;Pointing to the emergence of climate change as the greatest challenge before humankind, the President said that careful planning and efforts will be needed in the years to come to preserve the rich ecological heritage of the North-East. He said that this region is part of the Himalaya and Indo-Burma bio-diversity hotspots – the two of 25 such hotspots in the world. Development choices for the region must, therefore, integrate relevant strategies for natural resource management, green industrial and infrastructure development as well as sustainable consumption patterns.

North-Eastern region is the natural gateway for India to South-East Asia and beyond, said the President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind. He was addressing the valedictory function of North East Festival, organized by the Ministry of DoNER as a part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, at Guwahati, Assam 

North-Eastern Region is the natural gateway for India to South-East Asia and beyond: President Kovind

New Delhi (The Hawk) :The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu today said that many of our heroes of the freedom struggle did not get the recognition and respect they deserved, in our history books. Therefore, he called for making people aware of the sacrifices made by such great men and women so as to inspire the new generation to walk in their footsteps and work for nation building.&nbsp;Addressing a gathering after releasing the biography of late freedom fighter and political leader, Shri Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna at Upa-Rashtrapati Nivas today, the Vice President said that the history of our freedom struggle is replete with innumerable stories of sacrifice and selfless devotion to the motherland and we should be proud of our glorious past.The book titled, ‘Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna: A Political Crusader’ (English) and ‘Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna: Bhartiya Chetana KeSamwahak’ (Revised edition in Hindi) has been written by Prof. Rita Bahuguna Joshi and Dr. Ram Naresh Tripathi.Calling Shri Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna as a renowned freedom fighter, a principled politician and astute administrator, the Vice President said that he dedicated his entire life to the service of the nation. “When we go through his biography, at the first glance it appears that he was a rebel, but as we read on, it becomes clear that to him the Nation came first,” he added.Observing that Shri Bahuguna was deeply wedded to the concept of liberty, Shri Naidu said that he joined the freedom movement at the young age of seventeen and was imprisoned and tortured by British authorizes for his role in Quit India movement. Praising his selfless love for motherland, the Vice President referred to an incident wherein Shri Bahuguna declined to accept a piece of land offered to him under freedom fighter quota, with a request that it may be allotted to some other needy freedom fighter.Calling Shri Bahuguna a man of principles and Gandhian values, the Vice President lauded him for opposing the imposition of Emergency in the country. Referring to his sensitive and caring nature, he said that since his student days, Shri Bahuguna always took up the cause of poor children at school and tried to help them in various ways. “As Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, the state stood first in India in land distribution to the SC/ST community. Impressed by his contribution Sri Vinoba Bhave gave him the title of Mitti Nandan,” he added.Praising Shri Bahuguna’s concern for the underprivileged sections of the society, the Vice President said that he would often assemble boys and conduct cleanliness drives in the village and help women fetch drinking water from far distances. Complimenting the Government for taking these issues of the common man on priority through various programs such as Swachh Bharat Mission, Shri Naidu appealed to every citizen to become an active partner in the implementation of these programs and work for making India neat, clean and green.The Vice President also mentioned an incident when in 1980, Shri Bahuguna resigned from his political party, and as a matter of principle, resigned simultaneously from the Parliament as well, even though there was no anti-defection law at that time mandating his resignation. He called such principled and high moral standards as a shining light for our parliamentarians today to emulate. “Shri Bahuguna's impatience was not for power but for a positive change in the system,” he added.Complimenting the authors for coming up with this well-researched and insightful biography of one of the foremost figures of Indian politics and freedom struggle, Shri Naidu expressed confidence that the book would send an inspirational message to the youth of this country and will motivate them to follow the path of patriotism and service to the needy.The Union Minister of Defence, Shri Rajnath Singh, Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, Union Minister of State of Law and Justice, Prof. SP Singh Baghel, former Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Shri Vijay Bahuguna, Smt. Rita Bahuguna Joshi and other eminent personalities graced the occasion.Following is the full text of speech –“I am very pleased to be here with you to release the biography of Late Sri Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna authored by his daughter Prof. Rita Bahuguna Joshi alongwith Dr Ram Naresh Tripathi.The Hindi version of this book titled&nbsp;‘Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna: Bhartiya Chetna KeSamwahak’&nbsp;was first released in 1997. I am glad to note that in this English edition and revised Hindi edition, there has been much value addition to the original script providing the readers interesting insights into the life and philosophy of one of the stalwarts of our times, Shri Bahuguna.Shri Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna was a renowned freedom fighter, a principled politician and astute administrator who dedicated his entire life to the service of the nation. Born in a remote village in Pauri Garhwal area of present-day Uttarakhand in 1921, he rose from very humble beginnings to create his own space on the political map of the country.When we go through his biography, at the first glance it appears that he was a rebel, but as we read on, it becomes clear that to him the Nation came first. He was deeply wedded to the concept of liberty that drew him into the freedom movement at the young age of 17. His father, who was a patwari, wanted him to become an ICS officer, but for Shri Bahuguna, love for his motherland came first. As the President of the Allahabad University Student Union, he defied prohibitory orders in 1942 and led student protests for the country's freedom. During these protests, many of Shri Bahuguna’s colleagues fell to police bullets and he himself was arrested and tortured by the British authorities. He was imprisoned for life in Naini and Sultanpur jails in Uttar Pradesh. However, due to fast deteriorating health, he was released after about four years.When the country attained freedom, the Government of India offered land to freedom fighters for their livelihood. Setting an example of selfless love for one’s motherland, Shri Bahuguna returned the land assigned to him with a request that it may be allotted to some other needy freedom fighter.Dear friends,The history of our freedom struggle is replete with innumerable stories of sacrifice and selfless devotion to the motherland. But sadly, many of these heroes did not get the recognition and respect they deserved, in our history books. We should make every effort to make our younger generation aware of the sacrifices of such great men and women. This would inspire them to walk in the footsteps of these great personalities and work for nation building.Shri Bahuguna believed in Gandhian philosophy and worked for the downtrodden and the marginalized throughout his life. A man of principles, he had the courage to oppose the imposition of Emergency and refused to compromise the dignity of his office for selfish gains.Shri Bahuguna’s sensitivity and caring nature could be noticed since his childhood. As a student, he took up the cause of poor children at school in Pauri and tried to help them in various ways including arranging books for them.He was a very bright student and always passed every class with distinction. As a Class 10 student in Government Inter College Allahabad, he organized a day-long students mock Parliament where the problems and challenges of India were discussed.During those days, whenever he went home, he would collect boys and conduct cleanliness drives in the village. Water was scarce and women had to walk long distances to fetch it.Shri Bahuguna would collect pots from homes, tie cloth on the mouth of each pot, and alongwith other boys fill the pitchers for village women folk.I am glad that the Government has taken these issues of the common man on priority. Close to 11 crore toilets have been built in rural India under Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin). On a parallel footing, Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban 2.0 is being implemented to sustain the progress made in sanitation and solid waste management, and to build a “Garbage Free” Urban India. I would urge every citizen to become an active partner in the implementation of these programs and work for making India neat, clean and green.Sisters and brothers,Shri Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna chose to work for the weaker sections of society especially for the scheduled castes, scheduled tribes and minorities. As Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, the state stood first in India in land distribution to the SC/ST community. Impressed by his contribution Sri Vinoba Bhave gave him the title of ‘Mitti Nandan’.Shri Bahuguna had famously said – “Till the time wealth is at the top and sweat at the bottom, the message of Swaraj will not go far and wide. We have to rule not just for the sake of ruling, but for bringing about transformative changes.”These are the ideals that inspire our vision of Antyodaya and Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas, Sab Ka Vishwaas and motivate us to work for the uplift of the poor and marginalized.Imbued with the spirit of the freedom movement, Shri Bahuguna never deviated from the ideology and principles dear to him. He led a life of struggle and his impatience was not for power but for a positive change in the system.Hailing from a small village, Shri Bahuguna’s sojourn in politics during the decades of 1970’s and 1980’s is interesting and engaging. He was extremely committed to the betterment of the working classes. Bahuguna ji may have changed political parties but he never deviated from nationalist, socialist and secular ideology. As a young man he had a vision for the Nation.Walking in the footsteps of Acharya Narendra Dev, Shri Bahuguna set a high benchmark in political life when in 1980, he resigned from the Congress Party and simultaneously from the Parliament as well, even though, there was no anti-defection law at that time mandating his resignation. Such principled and high moral standards are a shining light for our parliamentarians today to emulate.On reading this biography, one comes across Shri Bahuguna as a man who served the nation with deep commitment, who was bold, fearless and incorruptible. Above all, we see him as a leader who did not ever compromise when it came to his self-respect.I compliment the authors for coming up with this well-researched and insightful book on one of the foremost figures of Indian politics and freedom struggle. I am sure Shri Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna’s exemplary life,as recorded in this biography, would send an inspirational message to the youth of this country and will motivate them to follow the path of patriotism and service to the needy.My best wishes.Thank you.Jai Hind.”

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu today said that many of our heroes of the freedom struggle did not get the recognition and respect they deserved, in our history books. Therefore, he called for making people aware of the sacrifices made by such great men and women so as to inspire the new generation to walk in their footsteps and work for nation building. 

Our younger generation should be made aware of the sacrifices made by many less known freedom fighters to inspire them VP

Our younger generation should be made aware of the sacrifices made by many less known freedom fighters to inspire them :VP

New Delhi (The Hawk) : President Shri Ramnath Kovind attended the Valedictory Ceremony along with eminent dignitaries such as&nbsp;Minister for Law &amp; Justice, Shri Kiren Rijiju, Shipping Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, CM of Assam Shri Himanta Biswa Sarma, MoS, MDoNER, Shri B.L. Verma &amp;&nbsp;Governor of Assam &amp; Nagaland, Shri Jagdish MukhiWelcoming all the Chief Ministers and dignitaries to the grand event, Minister for Development of North East Region Shri G. Kishan Reddy&nbsp;said that he was really proud and honoured that President had participated in the event.Calling it as a 'New Beginning and Dawn of Development' Shri Reddy said that such assemblage of thought, vision, expertise &amp; efforts under the visionary leadership of&nbsp;PM Shri Narendra Modi will give further momentum to growth and development in the North Eastern Region.Shri Reddy&nbsp;said that this Amrit Mahotsav Celebrations in North Eastern States is the testimony of the fact that both Central and State are working together with wholehearted cooperation and passionate commitment to the welfare of people.Minister Shri Reddy said that Sports has been very close to the heart of every person in the region. In Sikkim, we organized a Futsal Tournament that is based on the theme of a 'Drug Free Society'. In Manipur, a week long Regional Sports meet has been organized. With activities ranging from football, badminton, archery and boxing, the event has recieved wide popularity especially among the YuvaShakti.President Shri Ramnath Kovind highlighted in ceremony&nbsp;that key areas like Agriculture, employment generation, skill development, connectivity and infrastructure, social services including health and education and Tourism development in the NER along with infrastructural development have gone a significant change.&nbsp;

President Shri Ramnath Kovind attended the Valedictory Ceremony along with eminent dignitaries such as Minister for Law & Justice, Shri Kiren Rijiju, Shipping Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, CM of Assam Shri Himanta Biswa Sarma, MoS, MDoNER, Shri B.L. Verma & Governor of Assam & Nagaland, Shri Jagdish Mukhi

North East Festival 2022 Concludes With Great Enthusiasm & Public Participation 

Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin's alleged girlfriend, Alina Kabaeva, is included in the sixth proposed package of European Union sanctions against Russia over its invasion of Ukraine.According to two European diplomatic sources, Kabaeva, who has been romantically linked to Putin was included in proposed EU sanctions list, reported&nbsp;CNN.At this stage, names can be taken off or added at member states' discretion and is expected to be a point of negotiation when any new sanctions package is proposed, an EU Commission source told CNN.The EU has not officially signed off on the draft proposal."Discussions are going on. It's not a piece of cake, but we have to wait and see," one of the diplomatic sources told&nbsp;CNN.Kabaeva, who was born in 1983, was first linked to Putin more than a decade ago, while she was a medal-winning gymnast.Putin, who is divorced, has denied a relationship with her.Kabaeva and Putin reportedly met when she was a young gymnast who won multiple medals domestically at European competitions and at the Olympic Games.She was awarded the gold medal for rhythmic gymnastics at the Athens Games in 2004.Widely known in her home country, she was chosen as one of the torch bearers when Russia hosted the Winter Olympics in Sochi in 2014, an event that took place shortly before Russia illegally annexed Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula, reported&nbsp;CNN.In April, the&nbsp;Wall Street Journal&nbsp;reported that United States officials had been debating whether or not to place sanctions on Kabaeva, with concerns that such a move might increase tensions further because it could be an extreme personal blow to Putin.The head of the Russian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Kirill, is also among the individuals who are included in the proposed sixth round of EU sanctions, according to two sources who have seen the full documents, reported&nbsp;CNN.The proposed sanctions are out of touch with "common sense," Russian Orthodox Church spokesperson Vladimir Legoida said Wednesday, according to Russian state news agency&nbsp;TASS."The more indiscriminate (these) sanctions become, the more they lose touch with common sense and the harder it becomes to reach peace, which is what the Russian Orthodox Church prays for at every service with the blessing of His Holiness the Patriarch," Legoida said in a Telegram post."Only those completely ignorant of the history of our Church can seek to intimidate its clergy and believers by compiling some lists," Legoida said.The EU has been ratcheting up its economic action against Russia since the start of the war in Ukraine.Most recently, the bloc has proposed a ban on Russian oil imports, something that would have a major impact on Russia's economy, though Hungary, an EU member state with close links to Putin, is likely to scupper any such plans—ANI

Russian President Vladimir Putin's alleged girlfriend, Alina Kabaeva, is included in the sixth proposed package of European Union sanctions against Russia over its invasion of Ukraine.

Putin's alleged girlfriend faces EU sanctions: Report

LONDON : Britain said it would provide a further 1.3 billion pounds ($1.60 billion) in military support and aid to Ukraine, making the pledge ahead of a planned video call on Sunday by Group of Seven leaders with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.Prime Minister Johnson has been one of the strongest supporters of Ukraine's efforts to resist Russian forces since Russian President Vladimir Putin launched the invasion on Feb. 24. Johnson's government has sent anti-tank missiles, air defence systems and other weapons to Ukraine.The new pledge almost doubles Britain's previous spending commitments on Ukraine and the government said this is the highest rate of spending on a conflict since the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, although it did not give details of this calculation."Putin's brutal attack is not only causing untold devastation in Ukraine – it is also threatening peace and security across Europe," Johnson said in a statement. Last week he became the first Western leader to address Ukraine's parliament since the start of the invasion.The leaders of the G7 countries - Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States - will hold their virtual meeting with Zelensky on Sunday, the day before Russia marks its Victory Day holiday, which marks the end of World War Two in Europe.Britain said the extra spending on Ukraine will come from a reserve used by the government for emergencies.The government also said Johnson will host a meeting of leading defence companies later this month to discuss increasing production in response to increased demand created by the war in Ukraine.While Britain has provided significant military aid, it has so far accepted relatively few of the more than 5 million Ukrainians who have fled their country. The British government said on Saturday that so far it had issued more than 86,000 visas to Ukrainians, of whom about 27,000 had reached Britain—REUTERS

Britain said it would provide a further 1.3 billion pounds ($1.60 billion) in military support and aid to Ukraine, making the pledge ahead of a planned video call on Sunday by Group of Seven leaders with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

UK to provide 1.3 billion pounds of further military support to Ukraine

Sri Lanka: Sri Lankan student activists on Friday warned to lay a siege to Parliament as trade unions launched a crippling island-wide strike to demand the resignation of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and his government over their inability to tackle the economic meltdown which has caused unprecedented hardships to the public.Thousands of student activists from the Inter University Students Federation blocked the main access road to the parliamentary complex since Thursday and carried on protests for almost 24 hours.The police fired tear gas shells and used a water cannon on the protesters to disperse them.The activists, calling for the resignation of President Rajapaksa and the government for their mishandling of the country's economy, vowed to return on May 17 when the assembly session reconvenes."We will be back on the 17th and we will block all exit points to Parliament then. The Rajapaksas must resign before that," IUSF convenor Wasantha Liyanage said as they dispersed themselves from the protest site.They clashed with a few Opposition legislators as they were not allowed to leave.The Opposition MPs confronted Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeyawardene in his chamber, forcing him to take up the no-trust motion against the government.The day was marked by a crippling one-day strike by trade unions numbering over 2,000 covering all sectors.Sri Lanka's government has been facing a wave of protests around the country with an increasingly furious public demanding its resignation.All trade unions of health, postal, port and other government services have joined the strike. However, several pro-ruling party trade unions have declined to join.Businesses remained shut and roads appeared empty in most usually crowded areas.Mahinda Jayasinghe of the teachers' trade union said school principals and teachers did not attend schools.The privately-owned bus operators said they would anyway find it difficult to run services due to long queues prevailing at fuel stations for diesel."The strike action was a success despite attempts by a few pro-government trade unions to scuttle it," SP Withanage, the railways trade union spokesman said.Niroshan Kodikara of the port trade unions said the first mass protest action since 1953 was successful."The government must resign and we would be back striking from May 11th unless they resigned," he said.The public transport was in a trickle and most businesses remained shut throughout the day.The government said it was holding an urgent meeting of the Cabinet to assess the situation in the country.Since April 9, the protesters have been staying near the presidential secretariat in the 'Gota go home gama' or Gotabaya Go home village and since April 26 the 'Mahinda Go Home Village'.Sri Lanka is currently in the throes of unprecedented economic turmoil since its independence from Britain in 1948. The crisis is caused in part by a lack of foreign currency, which has meant that the country cannot afford to pay for imports of staple foods and fuel, leading to acute shortages and very high prices.Thousands of demonstrators have hit the streets across Sri Lanka since April 9, as the government ran out of money for vital imports; prices of essential commodities have skyrocketed and there are acute shortages in fuel, medicines and electricity supply.Despite mounting pressure, President Rajapaksa and his elder brother and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa have refused to quit.On Thursday, they won a key election in Parliament when their candidate convincingly won the race for the post of deputy speaker—PTI

Sri Lankan student activists on Friday warned to lay a siege to Parliament as trade unions launched a crippling island-wide strike to demand the resignation of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and his government over their inability to tackle the economic meltdown which has caused unprecedented hardships to the public.

Activists warn to lay siege to Lankan Parl amid demand for Gotabaya's ouster

Guwahati : Ram Nath Kovind would be the first President to attend and address the 61st annual conference of the Bodo Sahitya Sabha (BSS), a regional language literary meet, in western Assam’s Tamulpur on Wednesday.The President accompanied by his wife arrived in Guwahati on Tuesday.The President accompanied by Assam Governor Prof. Jagdish Mukhi, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and other dignitaries would attend the mega event of the BSS.On Thursday, he would got to Aizawl to address the 16th Convocation of the Mizoram University.The northeastern region, where tribals and non-tribals reside, preserve over 200 dialects.The three-day conference of BSS began on Monday.The Assam government has sanctioned special casual leave to the state government employees who are participating in the conference being held at Kachubari in Tamulpur in the Bodoland Territorial Region bordering Bhutan and West Bengal.BSS President Toren C. Boro said thousands of delegates attended the conference from different parts of the world so far.Apart from Assam, a large number of people speaking the Bodo language live in Bangladesh, Nepal, Tripura, Nagaland and West Bengal.Inspired by the Assam Sahitya Sabha, the BSS was formed in 1952 for the development of literature, culture, and language. It is playing a leading role in maintaining coordination among different ethnic groups.The Bodos (or Boros) were once a powerful and dominant race in the northeast.The Assam government recognised the Bodo language as an associate official language of the state in 2020 after the signing of the Bodo peace accord between the Centre, Assam government and four Bodo militant outfits in January 2020.According to the Census 2011, there are around 14.16 lakh Bodo speakers in Assam (4.53 per cent) of the total population of the state—IANS

 Ram Nath Kovind would be the first President to attend and address the 61st annual conference of the Bodo Sahitya Sabha (BSS), a regional language literary meet, in western Assam’s Tamulpur on Wednesday.

 Kovind to be first President to address Bodo Sahitya Sabha meet

Delhi: The value of the vote of a Member of Parliament is likely to go down to 700 from 708 in the presidential polls scheduled in July due to the absence of a legislative assembly in Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Saturday.The value of the vote of an MP in a presidential election is based on the number of elected members in legislative assemblies of states and Union Territories, including Delhi, Puducherry and Jammu and Kashmir.The Electoral College for the presidential election comprises the members of Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha and those of the legislative assemblies of states and union territories including Delhi, Puducherry and Jammu and Kashmir.Before it was bifurcated into two union territories of Ladakh, and Jammu &amp; Kashmir in August 2019, the erstwhile state of J&amp;K had 83 assembly seats.According to the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, the Union Territory of J&amp;K will have a legislative assembly, while Ladakh will be governed directly by the Centre.The government had announced that elections to the legislative assembly would be held after the completion of the delimitation of assembly constituencies.Last week, the Delimitation Commission for Jammu and Kashmir notified its final order in which it has recommended a 90-member House for the newly carved out Union Territory. But it may take some time to have an elected House in place in the UT.It is not for the first time that legislators of a state assembly will not be able to participate in the presidential elections.In 1974, the 182-member Gujarat assembly was dissolved in March following the Navnirman Andolan and could not be constituted before the presidential election in which Fakruddin Ali Ahmed was elected.However, Jammu and Kashmir will not go unrepresented in the presidential elections as members of Lok Sabha will be eligible to exercise their franchise to elect the First Citizen of the country.The value of the vote of a Member of Parliament has been fixed at 708 since the 1997 presidential election.The value of vote of a Member of Parliament for the first Presidential election in 1952 was 494. It increased marginally to 496 in the 1957 presidential election, followed by 493 (1962), 576 (1967 and 1969).The presidential elections were held in 1969 due to the death of President Zakir Hussain on May 3, 1969.In the 1974 presidential election, the value of vote of an MP was 723. It has been fixed at 702 for the presidential elections from 1977 to 1992.President Ram Nath Kovind completes his term on July 24, and his successor has to be elected before that.By holding bypolls to the Rajya Sabha and state legislative assemblies, the Election Commission is trying to fill up vacancies to complete the Electoral College which elects the president.—PTI

The value of the vote of a Member of Parliament is likely to go down to 700 from 708 in the presidential polls scheduled in July due to the absence of a legislative assembly in Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Saturday.

Value of MPs' vote likely to go down to 700 in July presidential polls

Paris: French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said it is necessary to maintain a channel of dialogue with Russia on Ukraine, including at the request of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy."It is necessary to maintain a channel of dialogue [with Russian President Vladimir Putin]. This is exactly what President [Emmanuel] Macron is trying to do... including because Zelenskyy asks him to do this. President Putin does not want to talk to Zelenskyy," Le Drian said on BFMTV channel when asked if France should maintain a dialogue with Putin.The French minister also expressed the opinion that the hostilities in Ukraine would be long and difficult, not ruling out that they could last for years.Macron and Putin last had a telephone conversation on May 3. According to French media, it lasted 2 hours and 10 minutes. Russia launched a special military operation in Ukraine on February 24 in response to calls from the Donetsk and Lugansk People's Republics for protection against intensifying attacks by Ukrainian troops.The Russian Defense Ministry said the special operation, which targets Ukrainian military infrastructure, aims to "demilitarize and denazify" Ukraine. Moscow has said it has no plans to occupy Ukraine. Western nations have imposed sanctions on Russia and Belarus—ANI

 French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said it is necessary to maintain a channel of dialogue with Russia on Ukraine, including at the request of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

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VP confers Sangeet Natak Akademi and Lalit Kala Akademi Fellowships & Awards

Sunil Aswal

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VP confers Sangeet Natak Akademi and Lalit Kala Akademi Fellowships & Awards

Sunil Aswal

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