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Srinagar: The Srinagar Smart City project has been hit by accusations of corruption worth crores of rupees. The Anti-Corruption Bureau has booked two employees associated with the project for disproportionate assets. The Anti-Corruption Bureau J&amp;K is now looking at the other works under the project and has started an investigation.
The Anti-Corruption Bureau J&amp;K registered enquiries related to misappropriation of Devri Stones and use of substandard material in the Srinagar Smart City Project. The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has registered a Preliminary Enquiry (PE) at Police Station Anti-Corruption Bureau Srinagar following reliable inputs indicating the misappropriation of funds for materials, including Devari Stones, Path Tiles, Iron Grilles, etc. in Srinagar City. The material for the revamp and beautification under the Srinagar Smart City project is suspected to have been either unaccounted for or allegedly sold in the open market for personal gains.
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The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) also registered 2nd Preliminary Enquiry (PE) No. 02/2025 in Police Station Anti-Corruption Bureau Srinagar with regard to use of substandard material in ongoing development work at Foreshore Road Nishat in Srinagar City for cycle track, footpath facing Dal Lake, viewing decks, etc. from Nishat up to Naseem Bagh PHC (Public Health Centre). The officers of Srinagar Smart City, in connivance with the beneficiary contractor, also deliberately avoided the mandatory procedures, thereby compromising the quality of work.
&ldquo;I think it&rsquo;s very unfortunate and should not have happened. We already had doubts regarding the same, as the work was done with such pace and hurry and the many norms were flouted. I had addressed a presser on the same, which was criticised by the opponents. I had said that it&rsquo;s not a smart city but a small city, they made the city look shabby, and it was all done in a shady way. You look at it as the construction is already in a bad state; the stones are coming out. We have to take everyone on board and consult before making anything. They ruined the Polo View Market,&rdquo; said Salman Sagar, MLA Hazratbal, National Conference.
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The Srinagar Smart City Project is part of the Ministry of Urban Development (MoUD) project of the Government of India. The project for Srinagar was approved in April 2017 with a budget of over Rs 3535 crore for area-based development and other urban solutions, including road and transport.
&ldquo;The smart city project was working very well as they renovated parts of the city, including the Clock Tower, which has become the main attraction, but now the corruption cases being exposed have shocked everyone. In today&rsquo;s digital age, these officers who do bungling should be taken to task. It&rsquo;s our tax money that is being used for these projects, and these officers even do corruption in these cases. If these officers had some fear, they would never have done this. The LG administration should look into this. Strict action should be taken against these officers,&rdquo; said Muneer, a local resident.
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 The cases were registered following a secret inquiry by the ACB into the allegations against the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Executive Engineer. The CFO has been booked under Section 13(1)(b) read with 13(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, for possessing assets disproportionate to his known sources of income.&nbsp; The Executive Engineer has also been found to be involved in committing an offence under Section 13(1)(b) read with 13(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, for possessing assets disproportionate to his known sources of income.
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The Smart City Mission was launched by the Ministry of Urban Development (MOUD) Government of India, in which 100 cities were selected for urban renewal and retrofitting.

India News: The Smart City Project for Srinagar was approved in April 2017 with a budget of over Rs 3535 crore for area-based development and other urban solutions, including road and transport.

Srinagar: The Srinagar Smart City project has been hit by accusations of corruption worth crores of rupees. The Anti-Corruption Bureau has booked two employees associated with the project for disproportionate assets. The Anti-Corruption Bureau J&K is now looking at the other works under the project and has started an investigation. The Anti-Corruption Bureau J&K registered enquiries related to misappropriation of Devri Stones and use of substandard material in the Srinagar Smart City Project. The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has registered a Preliminary Enquiry (PE) at Police Station Anti-Corruption Bureau Srinagar following reliable inputs indicating the misappropriation of funds for materials, including Devari Stones, Path Tiles, Iron Grilles, etc. in Srinagar City. The material for the revamp and beautification under the Srinagar Smart City project is suspected to have been either unaccounted for or allegedly sold in the open market for personal gains. Also Read | ISRO's SpaDeX Mission successful: India becomes 4th nation to accomplish space docking The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) also registered 2nd Preliminary Enquiry (PE) No. 02/2025 in Police Station Anti-Corruption Bureau Srinagar with regard to use of substandard material in ongoing development work at Foreshore Road Nishat in Srinagar City for cycle track, footpath facing Dal Lake, viewing decks, etc. from Nishat up to Naseem Bagh PHC (Public Health Centre). The officers of Srinagar Smart City, in connivance with the beneficiary contractor, also deliberately avoided the mandatory procedures, thereby compromising the quality of work. “I think it’s very unfortunate and should not have happened. We already had doubts regarding the same, as the work was done with such pace and hurry and the many norms were flouted. I had addressed a presser on the same, which was criticised by the opponents. I had said that it’s not a smart city but a small city, they made the city look shabby, and it was all done in a shady way. You look at it as the construction is already in a bad state; the stones are coming out. We have to take everyone on board and consult before making anything. They ruined the Polo View Market,” said Salman Sagar, MLA Hazratbal, National Conference. Also Read | Trump is not the first US president to think about buying Greenland. A look at the geopolitics of the Arctic The Srinagar Smart City Project is part of the Ministry of Urban Development (MoUD) project of the Government of India. The project for Srinagar was approved in April 2017 with a budget of over Rs 3535 crore for area-based development and other urban solutions, including road and transport. “The smart city project was working very well as they renovated parts of the city, including the Clock Tower, which has become the main attraction, but now the corruption cases being exposed have shocked everyone. In today’s digital age, these officers who do bungling should be taken to task. It’s our tax money that is being used for these projects, and these officers even do corruption in these cases. If these officers had some fear, they would never have done this. The LG administration should look into this. Strict action should be taken against these officers,” said Muneer, a local resident. Also Read | Gaza ceasefire: Biden and Trump - two presidents, one truce, who gets the credit? The cases were registered following a secret inquiry by the ACB into the allegations against the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Executive Engineer. The CFO has been booked under Section 13(1)(b) read with 13(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, for possessing assets disproportionate to his known sources of income. The Executive Engineer has also been found to be involved in committing an offence under Section 13(1)(b) read with 13(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, for possessing assets disproportionate to his known sources of income. Also read | Watch: Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin makes debut launch of New Glenn rocket The Smart City Mission was launched by the Ministry of Urban Development (MOUD) Government of India, in which 100 cities were selected for urban renewal and retrofitting.

Srinagar Smart City Project hit by corruption, bungling worth crores reported

The Indian Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (January 15) approved the establishment of the Third Launch Pad (TLP) at ISRO&rsquo;s spaceport Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The Indian Government envisages the construction of the TLP and related facilities at a cost of Rs. 3985 crore (approx. $460 million) within a span of four years.
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At present, the Indian spaceport at Sriharikota is equipped with two launchpads. The first launchpad is meant for smaller rockets such as the PSLV and SSLV, and the GSLV Mk2, while the second launchpad is capable of launching all rockets right from the smallest SSLV to the largest LVM3. However, the first launchpad has served for more than 30 years, whereas the second launchpad has served for more than 20 years.
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The Third Launch Pad project is meant to enable the launch of Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLV) of ISRO and also to support as a standby launch pad for the Second Launch Pad at Sriharikota. This will also enhance the launch capacity for future Indian human spaceflight missions.&nbsp;
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The TLP will support the more capable semi-cryogenic engine variant of the LVM3 rocket and also the scaled-up version of India&rsquo;s proposed NGLV rocket. The new launch pad will be built with maximum industry participation, fully utilising ISRO&rsquo;s experience in establishing the earlier launch pads and maximally sharing the existing launch complex facilities.
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The TLP project will boost the Indian Space ecosystem by enabling higher launch frequencies and the national capacity to undertake human spaceflight and space exploration missions such as regular missions to the proposed Indian space station and manned missions to the moon.
&nbsp;

India News | Science & Tech | Trending: The TLP will boost the Indian Space ecosystem by enabling more launches and to undertake human spaceflight and space exploration missions

The Indian Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (January 15) approved the establishment of the Third Launch Pad (TLP) at ISRO’s spaceport Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The Indian Government envisages the construction of the TLP and related facilities at a cost of Rs. 3985 crore (approx. $460 million) within a span of four years. Also Read | ISRO's SpaDeX Mission successful: India becomes 4th nation to accomplish space docking At present, the Indian spaceport at Sriharikota is equipped with two launchpads. The first launchpad is meant for smaller rockets such as the PSLV and SSLV, and the GSLV Mk2, while the second launchpad is capable of launching all rockets right from the smallest SSLV to the largest LVM3. However, the first launchpad has served for more than 30 years, whereas the second launchpad has served for more than 20 years. Also Read | Donald Trump inauguration: Key events, performers, and security details. All you need to know The Third Launch Pad project is meant to enable the launch of Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLV) of ISRO and also to support as a standby launch pad for the Second Launch Pad at Sriharikota. This will also enhance the launch capacity for future Indian human spaceflight missions. Also Read | Trump is not the first US president to think about buying Greenland. A look at the geopolitics of the Arctic The TLP will support the more capable semi-cryogenic engine variant of the LVM3 rocket and also the scaled-up version of India’s proposed NGLV rocket. The new launch pad will be built with maximum industry participation, fully utilising ISRO’s experience in establishing the earlier launch pads and maximally sharing the existing launch complex facilities. Also Read | Gaza ceasefire: Biden and Trump - two presidents, one truce, who gets the credit? The TLP project will boost the Indian Space ecosystem by enabling higher launch frequencies and the national capacity to undertake human spaceflight and space exploration missions such as regular missions to the proposed Indian space station and manned missions to the moon.

India to build 3rd rocket launchpad at Sriharikota at cost of $460mn

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on Thursday that the prime minister has approved the formation of the 8th Pay Commission for central government employees.
The decision was shared by the minister during a press briefing in Delhi to announce cabinet decisions.
The minister highlighted that since India's independence in 1947, there have been seven pay commissions to revise the salaries and benefits of central government employees.
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He said, "For your awareness, our Prime Minister has approved the establishment of the 8th Central Pay Commission for all central government employees."
He also emphasised the commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to maintain a regular schedule for the establishment of pay commissions. The last such commission, the 7th Central Pay Commission, was initiated in 2016 and is set to complete its term in 2026.
He said, "Following the commitment made by the Prime Minister to establish pay commissions in a regular rhythm, the 7th Pay Commission started in 2016, and its term will be completed in 2026."
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Vaishnaw stated that setting up the 8th <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/adani-bribery-case-arrest-warrants-issued-against-indian-billionaire-nephew-in-us-778014">Central Pay Commission</a> well before 2025 will ensure sufficient time to review and finalize its recommendations. This proactive approach will enable the government to implement the proposed changes effectively before the 7th Pay Commission's tenure ends.
The pay commission plays a crucial role in determining salary structures, allowances, and other benefits for government employees, and its recommendations significantly impact millions of workers and pensioners across the country.
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The announcement of the 8th Pay Commission highlights that the government is committed to addressing the financial and professional needs of its workforce.
This announcement brings hope to central government employees who rely on pay commissions to ensure fair and timely revisions of their compensation.
With the 8th Pay Commission set to begin its work soon, employees can expect a thorough review of their pay scales and benefits in line with evolving economic conditions and government priorities.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India News, Business & Economy: The pay commission plays a crucial role in determining salary structures, allowances, and other benefits for government employees, and its recommendations significantly impact millions of workers and pensioners.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on Thursday that the prime minister has approved the formation of the 8th Pay Commission for central government employees. The decision was shared by the minister during a press briefing in Delhi to announce cabinet decisions. The minister highlighted that since India's independence in 1947, there have been seven pay commissions to revise the salaries and benefits of central government employees. Also read: India's automakers gear up for EV boom in 2025 amid global slowdown He said, "For your awareness, our Prime Minister has approved the establishment of the 8th Central Pay Commission for all central government employees." He also emphasised the commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to maintain a regular schedule for the establishment of pay commissions. The last such commission, the 7th Central Pay Commission, was initiated in 2016 and is set to complete its term in 2026. He said, "Following the commitment made by the Prime Minister to establish pay commissions in a regular rhythm, the 7th Pay Commission started in 2016, and its term will be completed in 2026." Also read: L&T Chairman SN Subrahmanyan's pay in FY24 was 535 times median employee salary Vaishnaw stated that setting up the 8th Central Pay Commission well before 2025 will ensure sufficient time to review and finalize its recommendations. This proactive approach will enable the government to implement the proposed changes effectively before the 7th Pay Commission's tenure ends. The pay commission plays a crucial role in determining salary structures, allowances, and other benefits for government employees, and its recommendations significantly impact millions of workers and pensioners across the country. Also read: Hindenburg Research, the US based short-seller that accused Gautam Adani of fraud, shuts down The announcement of the 8th Pay Commission highlights that the government is committed to addressing the financial and professional needs of its workforce. This announcement brings hope to central government employees who rely on pay commissions to ensure fair and timely revisions of their compensation. With the 8th Pay Commission set to begin its work soon, employees can expect a thorough review of their pay scales and benefits in line with evolving economic conditions and government priorities. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

PM Modi approves formation of 8th Pay Commission for central government employees

The Supreme Court of India on Wednesday (Jan 15), in a landmark ruling towards gender equality directed all state governments and Union territories (UTs) to ensure that clean and accessible toilets are available for men, women, persons with disabilities (PwDs), and transgender individuals in every court and tribunal across the country.&nbsp;
<h2>Upholding basic rights and dignity</h2>
Issuing directions on a PIL filed by a lawyer, a bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and R Mahadevan stressed that public health is a top priority and that safe, hygienic toilet facilities are essential for protecting privacy and dignity.
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"The High Courts shall oversee and ensure that these facilities are clearly identifiable and accessible to judges, advocates, litigants, and court staff.
"For the aforesaid purpose, a committee shall be constituted in each of the High Courts under the chairmanship of a Judge nominated by the Chief Justice and members comprising the Registrar General/Registrar of the High Court, the Chief Secretary, the PWD Secretary and the Finance Secretary of the State, a representative of the Bar Association and any other officers as they deem it fit, within a period of six weeks," it added.
The court underlined that safe and clean toilets are paramount to the safety of women and transgender individuals.&nbsp;
"Without such access to the three genders, the States/UTs can no longer claim to be welfare State," the bench declared.
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<h2>High Courts tasked with oversight</h2>
To enforce this directive, the Supreme Court ordered every High Court to form a special committee within six weeks. The chairman of the committee will be a judge appointed by the Chief Justice. Other members will include: &nbsp;The Registrar General/Registrar of the High Court; The Chief Secretary; the State Public Works Secretary; State Finance Secretary; A Bar Association representative and; other relevant officers as deemed fit.
These committees will develop a detailed plan to build and maintain separate, hygienic toilets based on the daily average number of visitors.
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<h2>Funding and maintenance</h2>
The bench instructed state governments and UTs to allocate enough funds for constructing and maintaining these facilities and said regular reviews are to be conducted in consultation with the High Court committees. A status report on progress must be submitted within four months.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-biden-and-trump-two-presidents-one-truce-who-gets-the-credit-8625582" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Gaza ceasefire: Biden and Trump - two presidents, one truce, who gets the credit?</a>
<h2>Sanitation: A fundamental right</h2>
The Supreme Court said that access to "proper sanitation is recognised as a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty".&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | The Supreme Court of India has mandated clean and accessible toilets for men, women, PwDs, and transgender individuals in courts nationwide, promoting gender equality.

The Supreme Court of India on Wednesday (Jan 15), in a landmark ruling towards gender equality directed all state governments and Union territories (UTs) to ensure that clean and accessible toilets are available for men, women, persons with disabilities (PwDs), and transgender individuals in every court and tribunal across the country. Upholding basic rights and dignity Issuing directions on a PIL filed by a lawyer, a bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and R Mahadevan stressed that public health is a top priority and that safe, hygienic toilet facilities are essential for protecting privacy and dignity. Also read | US President-elect Donald Trump's portrait unveiled days before inauguration "The High Courts shall oversee and ensure that these facilities are clearly identifiable and accessible to judges, advocates, litigants, and court staff. "For the aforesaid purpose, a committee shall be constituted in each of the High Courts under the chairmanship of a Judge nominated by the Chief Justice and members comprising the Registrar General/Registrar of the High Court, the Chief Secretary, the PWD Secretary and the Finance Secretary of the State, a representative of the Bar Association and any other officers as they deem it fit, within a period of six weeks," it added. The court underlined that safe and clean toilets are paramount to the safety of women and transgender individuals. "Without such access to the three genders, the States/UTs can no longer claim to be welfare State," the bench declared. Also read | Biden farewell speech: Sounds alarm on oligarchy, takes subtle swipe at Trump's billionaire-rich cabinet High Courts tasked with oversight To enforce this directive, the Supreme Court ordered every High Court to form a special committee within six weeks. The chairman of the committee will be a judge appointed by the Chief Justice. Other members will include: The Registrar General/Registrar of the High Court; The Chief Secretary; the State Public Works Secretary; State Finance Secretary; A Bar Association representative and; other relevant officers as deemed fit. These committees will develop a detailed plan to build and maintain separate, hygienic toilets based on the daily average number of visitors. Also read | Global leaders welcome Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal, urge quick action Funding and maintenance The bench instructed state governments and UTs to allocate enough funds for constructing and maintaining these facilities and said regular reviews are to be conducted in consultation with the High Court committees. A status report on progress must be submitted within four months. Also read | Gaza ceasefire: Biden and Trump - two presidents, one truce, who gets the credit? Sanitation: A fundamental right The Supreme Court said that access to "proper sanitation is recognised as a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty". (With inputs from agencies)

India SC mandates clean, accessible toilets for men, women, PwDs, and transgenders in courts nationwide

Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan was wounded and admitted to the hospital after a robber stormed into his residence in Bandra (west) and allegedly stabbed him. Watch in for more details!

Saif Ali Khan stabbed during robbery bid; actor undergoing surgery at Lilavati Hospital

As the world&rsquo;s largest religious festival, the Maha Kumbh, is happening at Sangam in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, various devotees are taking part in the rituals. The spiritual event also includes Naga Babas and religious leaders, among whom some are quite unusual and catch attention. One such Baba is &lsquo;Kaante Wale Baba,&rsquo; also known as Ramesh Kumar Manjhi, who stunned the crowd at the Maha Kumbh celebrations.&nbsp;
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In the video, Baba can be seen lying on thorns and covering himself with another layer of thorns. He claims that this benefits his body and never hurts him.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prayagraj, UP | Ramesh Kumar Manjhi alias Kaante Wale Baba lays down on thorns at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MahaKumbh2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MahaKumbh2025</a> in Prayagraj. <a href="https://t.co/4emU9LwZv9">pic.twitter.com/4emU9LwZv9</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1879565984480301157?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&ldquo;I serve the guru. Guru gave us knowledge and gave us full strength. It is all god&rsquo;s glory that helps me do this (lay on thorns). I have been doing this every year for the last 40-50 years. I do it because it benefits my body. It never hurts me. I donate half of the &lsquo;dakshina&rsquo; I get and use the rest to meet my expenses,&rdquo; &lsquo;Kaante Wale Baba&rsquo; told ANI.
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<h2>Day 4 of Maha Kumbh Mela 2025</h2>
As the fourth day of the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj begins, envoys from 10 nations arrive at Arail Tent City on Wednesday (Jan 16). The foreign delegations include representatives from Fiji, Finland, Guyana, Malaysia, Mauritius, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Trinidad and Tobago, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
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The participation of international delegations in the largest Hindu spiritual gathering in the world highlights global participation in India&rsquo;s rich culture and heritage.
<h2>Maha Kumbh Mela 2025</h2>
The Maha Kumbh Mela began on Monday (Jan 13) with millions of devotees gathering at Prayagraj to take a holy dip.
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Pilgrims from across India and abroad are witnessing the largest spiritual gathering in the world, immersing themselves in the sacred tradition at the Triveni Sangam, where the holy Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers meet.&nbsp;
The festival is held every 12 years in one of the four locations, Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik and Ujjain, where the nectar of immortality from mythological Samudra Manthan is believed to have fallen.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | Trending | The Maha Kumbh Mela is celebrated every 12 years in one of the four locations, Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik and Ujjain

As the world’s largest religious festival, the Maha Kumbh, is happening at Sangam in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, various devotees are taking part in the rituals. The spiritual event also includes Naga Babas and religious leaders, among whom some are quite unusual and catch attention. One such Baba is ‘Kaante Wale Baba,’ also known as Ramesh Kumar Manjhi, who stunned the crowd at the Maha Kumbh celebrations. Also read | Meet IITian Baba at Maha Kumbh who left aerospace engineering in pursuit of spirituality In the video, Baba can be seen lying on thorns and covering himself with another layer of thorns. He claims that this benefits his body and never hurts him. #WATCH | Prayagraj, UP | Ramesh Kumar Manjhi alias Kaante Wale Baba lays down on thorns at #MahaKumbh2025 in Prayagraj. pic.twitter.com/4emU9LwZv9 — ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2025 “I serve the guru. Guru gave us knowledge and gave us full strength. It is all god’s glory that helps me do this (lay on thorns). I have been doing this every year for the last 40-50 years. I do it because it benefits my body. It never hurts me. I donate half of the ‘dakshina’ I get and use the rest to meet my expenses,” ‘Kaante Wale Baba’ told ANI. Also read | Meet 'Chai Wale Baba' at Maha Kumbh, who offers free IAS coaching without uttering a word Day 4 of Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 As the fourth day of the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj begins, envoys from 10 nations arrive at Arail Tent City on Wednesday (Jan 16). The foreign delegations include representatives from Fiji, Finland, Guyana, Malaysia, Mauritius, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Trinidad and Tobago, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Also read | Maha Kumbh 2025: Envoys from 10 nations holy dip at Triveni Sangam The participation of international delegations in the largest Hindu spiritual gathering in the world highlights global participation in India’s rich culture and heritage. Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 The Maha Kumbh Mela began on Monday (Jan 13) with millions of devotees gathering at Prayagraj to take a holy dip. Also read | Kumbh Mela 2025: Skydiver unfurls Maha Kumbh flag 13,000 ft over Bangkok - Watch Pilgrims from across India and abroad are witnessing the largest spiritual gathering in the world, immersing themselves in the sacred tradition at the Triveni Sangam, where the holy Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers meet. The festival is held every 12 years in one of the four locations, Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik and Ujjain, where the nectar of immortality from mythological Samudra Manthan is believed to have fallen. (With inputs from agencies)

Maha Kumbh 2025: 'Kaante Wale Baba' stuns crowd after laying on thorns – Watch

As the ongoing Maha Kumbh captures global attention, a 21-member delegation from 10 countries invited by the Centre will take a sacred dip at the Sangam on Thursday (Jan 16), the Uttar Pradesh government said on Wednesday.
The international delegation includes representatives from Fiji, Finland, Guyana, Malaysia, Mauritius, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Trinidad and Tobago, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
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The delegation has been invited by the External Publicity and Public Diplomacy Division of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India. Arrangements for the delegation's stay have been made at the Tent City in Arail, developed by the Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation, it said.
"On Wednesday, the delegation will tour the Maha Kumbh Mela area. A heritage walk, scheduled from 5 pm to 6:30 pm, will allow members to explore the cultural and historical heritage of Prayagraj. In the evening, dinner and rest arrangements will be provided at the Tent City," the government said in a statement.
The international delegation will take a holy dip at Triveni Sangam at 8 am on Thursday.&nbsp;They will enjoy an aerial view of the Maha Kumbh area via helicopter after breakfast at 9.30 am. The tour will end at 1:30 pm after which the delegation will head to the airport, it added.
The Maha Kumbh is held once every 12 years at the Triveni Sangam -- the confluence of the rivers Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati -- in Prayagraj.
One of the largest spiritual gatherings in the world, the Maha Kumbh began on January 13 and will continue till February 16 with the state government estimating a footfall of 40 to 45 crore pilgrims during the period.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Discover the Maha Kumbh as envoys from nations, including Fiji and UAE, take a sacred dip at Triveni Sangam, highlighting international participation in this spiritual event.

As the ongoing Maha Kumbh captures global attention, a 21-member delegation from 10 countries invited by the Centre will take a sacred dip at the Sangam on Thursday (Jan 16), the Uttar Pradesh government said on Wednesday. The international delegation includes representatives from Fiji, Finland, Guyana, Malaysia, Mauritius, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Trinidad and Tobago, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Also read | Maha Kumbh 2025: Sadhvi Bhagawati performs hawan, recalls first 'Amrit Snan' The delegation has been invited by the External Publicity and Public Diplomacy Division of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India. Arrangements for the delegation's stay have been made at the Tent City in Arail, developed by the Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation, it said. "On Wednesday, the delegation will tour the Maha Kumbh Mela area. A heritage walk, scheduled from 5 pm to 6:30 pm, will allow members to explore the cultural and historical heritage of Prayagraj. In the evening, dinner and rest arrangements will be provided at the Tent City," the government said in a statement. The international delegation will take a holy dip at Triveni Sangam at 8 am on Thursday. They will enjoy an aerial view of the Maha Kumbh area via helicopter after breakfast at 9.30 am. The tour will end at 1:30 pm after which the delegation will head to the airport, it added. The Maha Kumbh is held once every 12 years at the Triveni Sangam -- the confluence of the rivers Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati -- in Prayagraj. One of the largest spiritual gatherings in the world, the Maha Kumbh began on January 13 and will continue till February 16 with the state government estimating a footfall of 40 to 45 crore pilgrims during the period. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Maha Kumbh 2025: Envoys from 10 nations to take holy dip at Triveni Sangam

The Supreme Court on Wednesday (Jan 15) deliberated over making hologram-based colour-coded stickers for vehicles mandatory across the country and stressed the effective implementation of the pollution under control (PUC) certificate norms.
A bench of Justices Abhay S Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan also asked about the applicability of the stringent GRAP-4 curbs amid a rising trend in the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi.
Asking senior advocate Aparajita Singh, who is assisting the court as an amicus curiae in the matter, to prepare a note, the bench said it would issue directions to the Centre to amend the Motor Vehicles (High-Security Registration Plates) Order, 2018.
"Prepare a note and in terms of that, we will issue directions to the Government of India to amend that order of 2018," it said.
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The bench asked Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, who represented the Centre&nbsp;in the matter, whether GRAP-4 (Graded Response Action Plan) was in place as the AQI was approaching 480.
"Look at the level of pollution. It is almost approaching 480-490," the bench said.
Bhati said she would get a response on the issue.
The bench then proceeded to deal with the issue concerning hologram-based colour-coded stickers for vehicles.
The amicus said even in the National Capital Region (NCR) states, all the older vehicles have not been provided the third registration mark and the progress in this regard is very slow.
"These rules are applicable from April 1, 2019. What happens to the earlier period?" the bench asked.
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One of the lawyers said even for vehicles registered prior to&nbsp;April 1, 2019, the third registration mark has to be affixed.
"Let us be very clear. This requirement comes for the first time on April 1, 2019... How do we direct that owners of vehicles, which are registered before April 1, 2019, should get this hologram affixed?" the bench asked.
The amicus flagged the issue of non-compliance with the PUC certificate norms.
The bench asked the amicus to also deal with the PUC aspect in her note so that the norms could be implemented more effectively.
"This also is very crucial. If that rule is not complied with, then there are so many polluting vehicles on the roads," it said.
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The court added that&nbsp;public sector undertakings and government agencies can be asked to purchase electric vehicles as far as possible.
The bench, which deliberated over the schedule for hearing various aspects related to pollution, including stubble burning, said the matter relating to hologram-based colour-coded stickers for vehicles would be considered on January 27.
Earlier this month, the top court had stressed the need for hologram-based colour-coded stickers for vehicles to tackle air pollution, saying it was considering making the stickers mandatory in states and Union territories beyond the NCR.
In 2018, the court accepted a proposal of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), which envisaged that hologram-based light blue stickers would be used in vehicles using petrol and CNG in the NCR, whereas diesel-run vehicles would have orange stickers.
These stickers, which facilitate in identifying vehicles based on the fuel used, were also supposed to include the dates of registration of the vehicles.
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Following the court's order, the Centre amended Rule 50 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989 and the High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP) order of 2001 to give legal recognition to the scheme of hologram-based stickers.
The bench had said it might extend the 2018 direction to other states and Union territories by exercising its plenary powers under Article 142 of the Constitution.
The top court had earlier observed that its December 13, 2023 direction to strictly enforce the scheme was not complied with.
The issue of colour-coded stickers for vehicles cropped up when the court was hearing a matter relating to air pollution in Delhi-NCR.
The NCR states include Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana.
The colour-coded sticker scheme was initially suggested by the amicus curiae to enable the identification of vehicles and restrict the movement of vehicles using bad-quality fuel during "poor category" pollution days.
On August 13, 2018, the top court, a first, gave its nod to the Centre's proposal of hologram-based colour-coded stickers for vehicles, indicating the nature of fuel they were using.
It had suggested to the MoRTH to consider having green-coloured number plates or green stickers for electric and hybrid vehicles.
<div class="post-content">
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
</div>

India News | The bench addressed the need for hologram-based color-coded stickers to enhance vehicle identification, aiming to improve traffic management and pollution control measures.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday (Jan 15) deliberated over making hologram-based colour-coded stickers for vehicles mandatory across the country and stressed the effective implementation of the pollution under control (PUC) certificate norms. A bench of Justices Abhay S Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan also asked about the applicability of the stringent GRAP-4 curbs amid a rising trend in the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi. Asking senior advocate Aparajita Singh, who is assisting the court as an amicus curiae in the matter, to prepare a note, the bench said it would issue directions to the Centre to amend the Motor Vehicles (High-Security Registration Plates) Order, 2018. "Prepare a note and in terms of that, we will issue directions to the Government of India to amend that order of 2018," it said. Also read | Italy minister faces call for stepping down over rail delays The bench asked Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, who represented the Centre in the matter, whether GRAP-4 (Graded Response Action Plan) was in place as the AQI was approaching 480. "Look at the level of pollution. It is almost approaching 480-490," the bench said. Bhati said she would get a response on the issue. The bench then proceeded to deal with the issue concerning hologram-based colour-coded stickers for vehicles. The amicus said even in the National Capital Region (NCR) states, all the older vehicles have not been provided the third registration mark and the progress in this regard is very slow. "These rules are applicable from April 1, 2019. What happens to the earlier period?" the bench asked. Also read | US bans the use of red dye No. 3 from food and drinks One of the lawyers said even for vehicles registered prior to April 1, 2019, the third registration mark has to be affixed. "Let us be very clear. This requirement comes for the first time on April 1, 2019... How do we direct that owners of vehicles, which are registered before April 1, 2019, should get this hologram affixed?" the bench asked. The amicus flagged the issue of non-compliance with the PUC certificate norms. The bench asked the amicus to also deal with the PUC aspect in her note so that the norms could be implemented more effectively. "This also is very crucial. If that rule is not complied with, then there are so many polluting vehicles on the roads," it said. Also read | Lakshadweep: Indian Coast Guard rescues 54 passengers from stranded vessel The court added that public sector undertakings and government agencies can be asked to purchase electric vehicles as far as possible. The bench, which deliberated over the schedule for hearing various aspects related to pollution, including stubble burning, said the matter relating to hologram-based colour-coded stickers for vehicles would be considered on January 27. Earlier this month, the top court had stressed the need for hologram-based colour-coded stickers for vehicles to tackle air pollution, saying it was considering making the stickers mandatory in states and Union territories beyond the NCR. In 2018, the court accepted a proposal of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), which envisaged that hologram-based light blue stickers would be used in vehicles using petrol and CNG in the NCR, whereas diesel-run vehicles would have orange stickers. These stickers, which facilitate in identifying vehicles based on the fuel used, were also supposed to include the dates of registration of the vehicles. Also read | India: Locals, Business community disappointed over no direct train to Kashmir Following the court's order, the Centre amended Rule 50 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989 and the High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP) order of 2001 to give legal recognition to the scheme of hologram-based stickers. The bench had said it might extend the 2018 direction to other states and Union territories by exercising its plenary powers under Article 142 of the Constitution. The top court had earlier observed that its December 13, 2023 direction to strictly enforce the scheme was not complied with. The issue of colour-coded stickers for vehicles cropped up when the court was hearing a matter relating to air pollution in Delhi-NCR. The NCR states include Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana. The colour-coded sticker scheme was initially suggested by the amicus curiae to enable the identification of vehicles and restrict the movement of vehicles using bad-quality fuel during "poor category" pollution days. On August 13, 2018, the top court, a first, gave its nod to the Centre's proposal of hologram-based colour-coded stickers for vehicles, indicating the nature of fuel they were using. It had suggested to the MoRTH to consider having green-coloured number plates or green stickers for electric and hybrid vehicles. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Indian apex court  deliberates on making colour-coded stickers mandatory for vehicles

The United States on Wednesday (Jan 15) removed three major Indian organisations from its restricted list as part of its efforts to enhance civil <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-to-remove-indian-nuclear-entities-from-restricted-list-8596262">nuclear cooperation</a> between India&rsquo;s top nuclear institutions and American companies. 
<h2>Which three major Indian entities were removed from the restricted list?</h2>
The entities removed from the list include Indian Rare Earths, the Indira Gandhi Atomic Research Centre (IGCAR), and the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC).
<h2>Why is it important?</h2>
According to the US Department of Commerce&rsquo;s Bureau of Industry and Security, this decision aims to "support US foreign policy objectives by reducing barriers to advanced energy cooperation, including joint research and development and science and technology cooperation, towards shared energy security needs and goals."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/grap-4-restrictions-back-in-delhi-amid-soaring-aqi-check-whats-allowed-and-prohibited-8624847">GRAP-4 restrictions back in Delhi amid soaring AQI: Check what&rsquo;s allowed and prohibited</a>
In a statement, the department stressed the mutual benefits of US-India collaboration in peaceful nuclear research and development, adding, "The United States and India share a commitment to advancing peaceful nuclear cooperation and associated research and development activities, with strengthened science and technology cooperation over the past several years that has benefitted both countries and their partner countries around the world."
The announcement comes after comments made earlier this month by outgoing US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan during his visit to India. Speaking at a press conference in New Delhi, Sullivan stressed Washington&rsquo;s determination to remove longstanding restrictions on civil nuclear cooperation.
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"Although former president Bush and former PM Dr Manmohan Singh laid out a vision of civil nuclear cooperation nearly 20 years ago, we have yet to fully realise it," Sullivan said. 
He added that the Biden administration has determined that it is past time to take the next major step in cementing the US-India partnership.
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Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Export Administration Matthew Borman said that the removal of these entities would enable stronger collaboration between the two nations. He said that the removal of the Indian entities would enable closer cooperation between the two nations and enable them to "secure more resilient critical minerals and clean energy supply chains."
Meanwhile, the US Department of Commerce has added 11 Chinese organisations to its Entity List, citing activities that are "contrary to US national security and foreign policy interests."
(With inputs from agencies)

India news, World: According to the US Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security, this decision aims to "support US foreign policy objectives by reducing barriers to advanced energy cooperation."

The United States on Wednesday (Jan 15) removed three major Indian organisations from its restricted list as part of its efforts to enhance civil nuclear cooperation between India’s top nuclear institutions and American companies. Which three major Indian entities were removed from the restricted list? The entities removed from the list include Indian Rare Earths, the Indira Gandhi Atomic Research Centre (IGCAR), and the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC). Why is it important? According to the US Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security, this decision aims to "support US foreign policy objectives by reducing barriers to advanced energy cooperation, including joint research and development and science and technology cooperation, towards shared energy security needs and goals." Also read: GRAP-4 restrictions back in Delhi amid soaring AQI: Check what’s allowed and prohibited In a statement, the department stressed the mutual benefits of US-India collaboration in peaceful nuclear research and development, adding, "The United States and India share a commitment to advancing peaceful nuclear cooperation and associated research and development activities, with strengthened science and technology cooperation over the past several years that has benefitted both countries and their partner countries around the world." The announcement comes after comments made earlier this month by outgoing US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan during his visit to India. Speaking at a press conference in New Delhi, Sullivan stressed Washington’s determination to remove longstanding restrictions on civil nuclear cooperation. Also read: 'I was guilty': US Capitol rioter says ‘will refuse a pardon from felon Trump' "Although former president Bush and former PM Dr Manmohan Singh laid out a vision of civil nuclear cooperation nearly 20 years ago, we have yet to fully realise it," Sullivan said. He added that the Biden administration has determined that it is past time to take the next major step in cementing the US-India partnership. Also read: Death toll in South Africa abandoned gold mine disaster climbs to 60, rescue ops continue Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Export Administration Matthew Borman said that the removal of these entities would enable stronger collaboration between the two nations. He said that the removal of the Indian entities would enable closer cooperation between the two nations and enable them to "secure more resilient critical minerals and clean energy supply chains." Meanwhile, the US Department of Commerce has added 11 Chinese organisations to its Entity List, citing activities that are "contrary to US national security and foreign policy interests." (With inputs from agencies)

US lifts ban on Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, two other Indian entities - Why is it important?

Authorities in the Indian national capital re-imposed stricter pollution curbs Wednesday (Jan 15) as air quality index hovered dangerously close to the 'severe' category. Union government&rsquo;s Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) introduced restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)- stage 4. Earlier, GRAP-stage 3 restrictions were imposed on Sunday (Jan 12).
The AQI rose sharply on Wednesday to 386 from 275 a day earlier as dense fog enveloped the city, leading to &ldquo;extremely low mixing height and ventilation coefficient for dispersion of pollutants,&rdquo; said the CAQM. The panel added that the AQI was expected to breach the 400-mark during the day.
"Accordingly, in an effort to prevent further deterioration of the air quality and in pursuance of the Hon'ble Supreme Court's directives, the Sub Committee on GRAP hereby decides to straightway invoke ALL actions under Stage-III ('Severe' Air Quality of Delhi) &amp; also Stage-IV ('Severe+' Air Quality of Delhi) of extant Schedule of GRAP, with immediate effect in right earnest by all the agencies concerned in Delhi-NCR, in addition to the Stage-I and II actions already in force," said the panel in its report.
The Supreme Court of India earlier ordered the stage 4 restrictions must be invoked if the AQI reaches the 400 mark.
<h2>What is not allowed in GRAP-IV?</h2>
Construction activities are banned in Delhi-NCR.
Schools in Delhi-NCR are to conduct classes in online mode. Workplaces are advised to operate with 50 per cent of their staff working from home.
Trucks carrying non-essential goods will be banned from entering Delhi, except those running on LNG, CNG, or electricity.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fog-disrupts-flight-train-services-in-delhi-8612438">Fog disrupts flight, train services in Delhi</a>
Non-essential diesel-operated medium and heavy goods vehicles with BS-IV or older standards are banned in Delhi.
Non-essential light commercial vehicles that are registered outside Delhi are not allowed to enter Delhi, except those running on EV, CNG or BS-VI diesel.
<h2>What is allowed under GRAP-IV?</h2>
Small personal constructions are allowed.
Vehicles carrying essential goods are allowed to enter Delhi.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/rain-lashes-delhi-ncr-imd-predicts-dense-fog-check-weekly-weather-forecast-here-8611090">Rain lashes Delhi-NCR; IMD predicts dense fog | Check weekly weather forecast here</a>
Trucks operating on LNG, CNG, or electric energy are allowed in Delhi.
Trucks and commercial vehicles adhering to BS-VI diesel emissions standards are allowed in Delhi.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | The AQI rose sharply on Wednesday to 386 from 275 a day earlier as dense fog enveloped the city, leading to “extremely low mixing height and ventilation coefficient.”

Authorities in the Indian national capital re-imposed stricter pollution curbs Wednesday (Jan 15) as air quality index hovered dangerously close to the 'severe' category. Union government’s Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) introduced restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)- stage 4. Earlier, GRAP-stage 3 restrictions were imposed on Sunday (Jan 12). The AQI rose sharply on Wednesday to 386 from 275 a day earlier as dense fog enveloped the city, leading to “extremely low mixing height and ventilation coefficient for dispersion of pollutants,” said the CAQM. The panel added that the AQI was expected to breach the 400-mark during the day. "Accordingly, in an effort to prevent further deterioration of the air quality and in pursuance of the Hon'ble Supreme Court's directives, the Sub Committee on GRAP hereby decides to straightway invoke ALL actions under Stage-III ('Severe' Air Quality of Delhi) & also Stage-IV ('Severe+' Air Quality of Delhi) of extant Schedule of GRAP, with immediate effect in right earnest by all the agencies concerned in Delhi-NCR, in addition to the Stage-I and II actions already in force," said the panel in its report. The Supreme Court of India earlier ordered the stage 4 restrictions must be invoked if the AQI reaches the 400 mark. What is not allowed in GRAP-IV? Construction activities are banned in Delhi-NCR. Schools in Delhi-NCR are to conduct classes in online mode. Workplaces are advised to operate with 50 per cent of their staff working from home. Trucks carrying non-essential goods will be banned from entering Delhi, except those running on LNG, CNG, or electricity. Also read: Fog disrupts flight, train services in Delhi Non-essential diesel-operated medium and heavy goods vehicles with BS-IV or older standards are banned in Delhi. Non-essential light commercial vehicles that are registered outside Delhi are not allowed to enter Delhi, except those running on EV, CNG or BS-VI diesel. What is allowed under GRAP-IV? Small personal constructions are allowed. Vehicles carrying essential goods are allowed to enter Delhi. Also read: Rain lashes Delhi-NCR; IMD predicts dense fog | Check weekly weather forecast here Trucks operating on LNG, CNG, or electric energy are allowed in Delhi. Trucks and commercial vehicles adhering to BS-VI diesel emissions standards are allowed in Delhi. (With inputs from agencies)

GRAP-4 restrictions back in Delhi amid soaring AQI: Check what’s allowed and prohibited

In the morning hours of Wednesday, January 15 Indian Coast Guard rescued 54 persons (22 women, 20 children, 9 men, 3 infants) from a passenger vessel that was stranded mid-sea due to an engine failure, in the Lakshadweep archipelago, off India's West Coast.&nbsp;
The said passenger vessel had departed Kavaratti at 12:15AM on Tuesday, 14th January, &nbsp;for Suhelipar Island and was expected to reach by 9AM. With the boat not having arrived well after the expected time of arrival, the Lakshadweep Administration sent a distress alert to the Indian Coast Guard Headquarters No. 12 (Lakshadweep), Kavaratti, on Tuesday afternoon.&nbsp;
Upon receiving this information, the Indian Coast Guard launched a Search and Rescue (SAR) mission for the overdue vessel through the Remote Operating Station (ROS) at Kavaratti and located it. It was ascertained that the vessel had suffered engine failure and was stranded mid-sea. Communication was successfully established with the stranded boat and the details were relayed to Indian Coast Guard ship, which was diverted to the boat's position at maximum speed to assess the situation and provide assistance.&nbsp;
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At approximately 4:30PM on Tuesday, ICG ship reached the adrift boat, located about four nautical miles off Suhelipar Island. The ship's boarding team assessed the situation and safely embarked all 54 passengers onboard for further transfer to Kavaratti Island. The passengers were reassured and were provided with emergency care. At around 9AM on 15thJanuary 2025, the passengers were safely handed over to the Lakshadweep Administration authorities at Kavaratti Island. &nbsp;
The ICG District Headquarters at Kavaratti emphasized to Lakshadweep Administration that Search and Rescue (SAR) operations at sea can be significantly more effective if boats adhere to safety protocols, primarily refraining from overloading beyond rated capacity and carriage of life saving equipment.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

India News | The Indian Coast Guard launched a Search and Rescue (SAR) mission for the overdue vessel through the Remote Operating Station (ROS) at Kavaratti and located it.

In the morning hours of Wednesday, January 15 Indian Coast Guard rescued 54 persons (22 women, 20 children, 9 men, 3 infants) from a passenger vessel that was stranded mid-sea due to an engine failure, in the Lakshadweep archipelago, off India's West Coast. The said passenger vessel had departed Kavaratti at 12:15AM on Tuesday, 14th January, for Suhelipar Island and was expected to reach by 9AM. With the boat not having arrived well after the expected time of arrival, the Lakshadweep Administration sent a distress alert to the Indian Coast Guard Headquarters No. 12 (Lakshadweep), Kavaratti, on Tuesday afternoon. Upon receiving this information, the Indian Coast Guard launched a Search and Rescue (SAR) mission for the overdue vessel through the Remote Operating Station (ROS) at Kavaratti and located it. It was ascertained that the vessel had suffered engine failure and was stranded mid-sea. Communication was successfully established with the stranded boat and the details were relayed to Indian Coast Guard ship, which was diverted to the boat's position at maximum speed to assess the situation and provide assistance. Also Read: PM Modi inaugurates three ‘Made in India’ Naval combatants: 'India is becoming a major maritime power' At approximately 4:30PM on Tuesday, ICG ship reached the adrift boat, located about four nautical miles off Suhelipar Island. The ship's boarding team assessed the situation and safely embarked all 54 passengers onboard for further transfer to Kavaratti Island. The passengers were reassured and were provided with emergency care. At around 9AM on 15thJanuary 2025, the passengers were safely handed over to the Lakshadweep Administration authorities at Kavaratti Island. The ICG District Headquarters at Kavaratti emphasized to Lakshadweep Administration that Search and Rescue (SAR) operations at sea can be significantly more effective if boats adhere to safety protocols, primarily refraining from overloading beyond rated capacity and carriage of life saving equipment.

Lakshadweep: Indian Coast Guard rescues 54 passengers from stranded vessel

A panel of the Indian government, which was set up in November 2023 has recommended legal action against an individual with earlier criminal links.
On receipt of information from US authorities over the activities of some organised criminal groups, terrorist organisations, and others who undermined the interests of both Washington and New Delhi, the Indian government panel was set up.
<h2>The action taken by the panel&nbsp;</h2>
In a statement, the Union home ministry said on Wednesday (Jan 15) that the panel carried out its own investigations and pursued leads provided by the US.
"After a long enquiry, the Committee has submitted its report to the Government and recommended legal action against an individual, whose earlier criminal links and antecedents also came to notice during the enquiry," the statement said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-uapa-tribunal-upholds-ban-on-khalistani-terrorist-pannuns-sikhs-for-justice-8591013" rel="dofollow">India: UAPA Tribunal upholds ban on Khalistani terrorist Pannun's Sikhs For Justice</a>
"The Enquiry Committee has recommended that the legal action must be completed expeditiously," the statement added.&nbsp;
The panel further recommended functional improvements in systems and procedures as well as the initiation of steps that could strengthen India's response capability, ensure systematic controls, and coordinate action in dealing with matters like this.
<h2>Alleged Pannun murder plot in the spotlight</h2>
Though not explicitly mentioned in the home ministry statement, media reports suggested that the ministry's remarks would be about an alleged plot to murder Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.&nbsp;
<a href="https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2093056" rel="dofollow">Click here to read the full statement of the Union home ministry</a>
The panel had been set up to examine inputs provided by the US on the plot to kill Pannun. The statement has not identified the individual.
However, media reports suggested that the individual (mentioned in the statement) is Vikash Yadav.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vikash-yadav-accused-in-pannun-murder-plot-claims-risk-to-life-gets-exemption-from-attending-hearing-776809" rel="dofollow">Vikash Yadav, accused in Pannun murder plot, claims risk to life; gets exemption from attending hearing</a>
In late October 2024,&nbsp;an unsealed indictment showed that the US had charged Yadav, described as a former officer in India's Research and Analysis Wing spy service, with directing the plot "against a Sikh separatist in New York City."
The indictment alleged that beginning in May 2023, Yadav, described as an employee of the Indian government at the time, worked with others in India and abroad to direct a plot against Pannun.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;
&nbsp;

The Indian government panel was set up in 2023 upon receipt of information from US authorities over the activities of some organised criminal groups, and terrorist organisations.

A panel of the Indian government, which was set up in November 2023 has recommended legal action against an individual with earlier criminal links. On receipt of information from US authorities over the activities of some organised criminal groups, terrorist organisations, and others who undermined the interests of both Washington and New Delhi, the Indian government panel was set up. The action taken by the panel In a statement, the Union home ministry said on Wednesday (Jan 15) that the panel carried out its own investigations and pursued leads provided by the US. "After a long enquiry, the Committee has submitted its report to the Government and recommended legal action against an individual, whose earlier criminal links and antecedents also came to notice during the enquiry," the statement said. Also read | India: UAPA Tribunal upholds ban on Khalistani terrorist Pannun's Sikhs For Justice "The Enquiry Committee has recommended that the legal action must be completed expeditiously," the statement added. The panel further recommended functional improvements in systems and procedures as well as the initiation of steps that could strengthen India's response capability, ensure systematic controls, and coordinate action in dealing with matters like this. Alleged Pannun murder plot in the spotlight Though not explicitly mentioned in the home ministry statement, media reports suggested that the ministry's remarks would be about an alleged plot to murder Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Click here to read the full statement of the Union home ministry The panel had been set up to examine inputs provided by the US on the plot to kill Pannun. The statement has not identified the individual. However, media reports suggested that the individual (mentioned in the statement) is Vikash Yadav. Also read | Vikash Yadav, accused in Pannun murder plot, claims risk to life; gets exemption from attending hearing In late October 2024, an unsealed indictment showed that the US had charged Yadav, described as a former officer in India's Research and Analysis Wing spy service, with directing the plot "against a Sikh separatist in New York City." The indictment alleged that beginning in May 2023, Yadav, described as an employee of the Indian government at the time, worked with others in India and abroad to direct a plot against Pannun. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian govt panel recommends action against individual with 'earlier criminal links'

Rising costs, stubborn inflation, and soaring taxes—India's middle class is feeling the pinch like never before. As Budget 2025 looms, the nation’s backbone demands an overhaul to ease their financial burdens. Here's our comprehensive report on their wishlist. Watch in for more details!

India Budget 2025: Middle class pins hopes on budget 2025

Rahul Gandhi, leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, caused a stir on Wednesday (Jan 15) with his statement that the Congress Party is not only battling the BJP and RSS, but also "the Indian State."
Speaking at the inauguration of the new Congress headquarters, Gandhi launched an attack on the BJP and RSS, accusing them of dominating all major institutions in the country.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-palestine-protesters-disrupt-antony-blinkens-farewell-speech-call-him-secretary-of-genocide-8624214">Pro-Palestine protesters disrupt Antony Blinken's farewell speech, call him 'Secretary of genocide'</a>
"Do not think that we are fighting a fair fight. There is no fairness in this. If you believe that we are fighting a political organisation called the BJP or RSS, you have not understood what is going on. The BJP and the RSS have captured every single institution of our country. We are now fighting the BJP, the RSS and the Indian State itself," Gandhi said.
In his address, Gandhi also criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging that he is silencing the voices of Dalits, minorities, backward castes, and tribals. According to Gandhi, the Prime Minister seeks to "crush the voice" of the nation.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-home-ministry-okays-ed-to-prosecute-aap-chief-arvind-kejriwal-in-delhi-liquor-policy-scam-8622508">India: Home Ministry okays ED to prosecute AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi liquor policy scam</a>
<h2>Congress inaugurates new headquarters</h2>
During the event, the Congress announced the naming of its new headquarters in the national capital as "Indira Bhawan," with a library dedicated to former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. After more than 45 years at 24 Akbar Road, the party is relocating to Indira Gandhi Bhawan at Kotla Marg. The building, inaugurated by Sonia Gandhi in the presence of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and other senior leaders, is designed with modern facilities.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indias-intelligence-agencies-alert-kejriwal-over-potential-threat-from-pro-khalistani-elements-8623339">India's intelligence agencies alert Kejriwal over potential threat from pro-Khalistani elements</a>
Gandhi's comments quickly drew sharp criticism from the BJP. Union Minister and BJP President JP Nadda accused him of revealing the "ugly truth" about the Congress.
"Hidden no more, Congress's ugly truth now stands exposed by their own leader. I 'compliment' Rahul Gandhi for saying clearly what the nation knows - that he is fighting the Indian state! His repeated actions have also strengthened this belief. Everything he has done or said has been in the direction of breaking India and dividing our society," Nadda said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/andra-pradesh-four-dead-several-injured-in-stampede-at-tirupati-during-token-distribution-8603024">Andhra Pradesh: Six dead, several injured in stampede at Tirupati during token distribution</a>
BJP IT Cell chief Amit Malviya also condemned Gandhi&rsquo;s comments, saying, "Rahul Gandhi has now declared open war against the Indian State itself. This is straight out of George Soros&rsquo;s playbook," referring to the American-Hungarian billionaire.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: Speaking at the inauguration of the new Congress headquarters, Gandhi launched an attack on the BJP and RSS, accusing them of dominating all major institutions in the country.

Rahul Gandhi, leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, caused a stir on Wednesday (Jan 15) with his statement that the Congress Party is not only battling the BJP and RSS, but also "the Indian State." Speaking at the inauguration of the new Congress headquarters, Gandhi launched an attack on the BJP and RSS, accusing them of dominating all major institutions in the country. Also read: Pro-Palestine protesters disrupt Antony Blinken's farewell speech, call him 'Secretary of genocide' "Do not think that we are fighting a fair fight. There is no fairness in this. If you believe that we are fighting a political organisation called the BJP or RSS, you have not understood what is going on. The BJP and the RSS have captured every single institution of our country. We are now fighting the BJP, the RSS and the Indian State itself," Gandhi said. In his address, Gandhi also criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging that he is silencing the voices of Dalits, minorities, backward castes, and tribals. According to Gandhi, the Prime Minister seeks to "crush the voice" of the nation. Also read: India: Home Ministry okays ED to prosecute AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi liquor policy scam Congress inaugurates new headquarters During the event, the Congress announced the naming of its new headquarters in the national capital as "Indira Bhawan," with a library dedicated to former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. After more than 45 years at 24 Akbar Road, the party is relocating to Indira Gandhi Bhawan at Kotla Marg. The building, inaugurated by Sonia Gandhi in the presence of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and other senior leaders, is designed with modern facilities. Also read: India's intelligence agencies alert Kejriwal over potential threat from pro-Khalistani elements Gandhi's comments quickly drew sharp criticism from the BJP. Union Minister and BJP President JP Nadda accused him of revealing the "ugly truth" about the Congress. "Hidden no more, Congress's ugly truth now stands exposed by their own leader. I 'compliment' Rahul Gandhi for saying clearly what the nation knows - that he is fighting the Indian state! His repeated actions have also strengthened this belief. Everything he has done or said has been in the direction of breaking India and dividing our society," Nadda said. Also read: Andhra Pradesh: Six dead, several injured in stampede at Tirupati during token distribution BJP IT Cell chief Amit Malviya also condemned Gandhi’s comments, saying, "Rahul Gandhi has now declared open war against the Indian State itself. This is straight out of George Soros’s playbook," referring to the American-Hungarian billionaire. (With inputs from agencies)

Rahul Gandhi stirs controversy with 'fighting Indian state' remark during Congress headquarters inauguration

After waiting for decades, the dreams of the people living in the Kashmir Valley have shattered after knowing that there would be no direct train to the Valley from New Delhi. Be it the locals, the business community or the Politicians, everyone wants the government to reconsider the decision.
The railway authorities recently came out with a schedule that dose not show any direct train to the Kashmir Valley. All passengers travelling to the Valley will have to deboard at Katra station and catch a new train. This has dampened the excitement seen after the completion of the rail network in the Valley.
The Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah had also expressed dissatisfaction.
''Just to remove any chance of any misunderstanding, while we understand the need to secure the train &amp; the passengers who will travel using it, making passengers change trains will defeat the very purpose of the line and render the thousands of crores of investment pointless. Check the train/passengers in Katra or Jammu sure but NO change of train will be supported by us. That said there is no concrete proposal &amp; when there is we will give our inputs/suggestions,'' said Omar Abdullah.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-psychologist-in-nagpur-arrested-for-raping-50-girls-over-15-years-under-the-pretense-of-counselling-8623940" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">India: Psychologist in Nagpur arrested for rape of 50 girls over 15 years under the pretense of counseling</a>
The National Conference Spokesperson Imran Nabi also echoed similar sentiments and said, ''There is a lot of concern among the passengers and public that they will have to deboard at Katra. This is something I am sure the railway ministry will look into; Our CM has already spoken on the issue and I am sure it will be addressed. We will have direct trains between Srinagar and Delhi, ''
The Business community which had earlier shown a lot of excitement over the start of the railways in the Valley is also disappointed. They say it will impact the Horticulture and the tourism sector badly if there are no trains directly to the Kashmir Valley. They have requested the central government to reconsider the decision.
'' We were hoping that there will be a direct train from Delhi to Srinagar and now it's Katra. We are very hopeful in the coming days there will be a direct train to Srinagar. All the tourists and locals coming will be benefited. It will also be helpful for the local business and students and sick people. The tourists who couldn't afford airfares, it would be possible via this train and our sincere request to Prime Minister Modiji and LG and CM is that there should at least be one train from Delhi to Srinagar, '' said Manzoor Pakhtoon, President Houseboat Association.
It's not only the Politicians and the business community which are disappointed by the move but the locals, who had great expectations with railways coming to the Kashmir Valley are also disheartened. &nbsp;
''The government had promised that it would be a direct train from Delhi to Srinagar and in a very surprising move they have changed that. We feel that they have broken the promise. There is a lot of tension among the people, everyone had thought that there will be respite to them as they won't have to pay the high airfares. It's mostly the business people and sick people who have urgency and they would have benefitted by the direct train. The train stopping at Katra has changed and disappointed the locals. The government needs to rethink the decision. The local government also needs to push for it so that there is a direct train from Kashmir to Delhi, '' said Haya Javaid, a local.
The train service in the valley is expected to start from January 26 and is to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

India News | Be it the locals or the business community everyone wants the government to reconsider the decision to not start a direct train from New Delhi to the Kashmir Valley.

After waiting for decades, the dreams of the people living in the Kashmir Valley have shattered after knowing that there would be no direct train to the Valley from New Delhi. Be it the locals, the business community or the Politicians, everyone wants the government to reconsider the decision. The railway authorities recently came out with a schedule that dose not show any direct train to the Kashmir Valley. All passengers travelling to the Valley will have to deboard at Katra station and catch a new train. This has dampened the excitement seen after the completion of the rail network in the Valley. The Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah had also expressed dissatisfaction. ''Just to remove any chance of any misunderstanding, while we understand the need to secure the train & the passengers who will travel using it, making passengers change trains will defeat the very purpose of the line and render the thousands of crores of investment pointless. Check the train/passengers in Katra or Jammu sure but NO change of train will be supported by us. That said there is no concrete proposal & when there is we will give our inputs/suggestions,'' said Omar Abdullah. Also Read: India: Psychologist in Nagpur arrested for rape of 50 girls over 15 years under the pretense of counseling The National Conference Spokesperson Imran Nabi also echoed similar sentiments and said, ''There is a lot of concern among the passengers and public that they will have to deboard at Katra. This is something I am sure the railway ministry will look into; Our CM has already spoken on the issue and I am sure it will be addressed. We will have direct trains between Srinagar and Delhi, '' The Business community which had earlier shown a lot of excitement over the start of the railways in the Valley is also disappointed. They say it will impact the Horticulture and the tourism sector badly if there are no trains directly to the Kashmir Valley. They have requested the central government to reconsider the decision. '' We were hoping that there will be a direct train from Delhi to Srinagar and now it's Katra. We are very hopeful in the coming days there will be a direct train to Srinagar. All the tourists and locals coming will be benefited. It will also be helpful for the local business and students and sick people. The tourists who couldn't afford airfares, it would be possible via this train and our sincere request to Prime Minister Modiji and LG and CM is that there should at least be one train from Delhi to Srinagar, '' said Manzoor Pakhtoon, President Houseboat Association. It's not only the Politicians and the business community which are disappointed by the move but the locals, who had great expectations with railways coming to the Kashmir Valley are also disheartened. ''The government had promised that it would be a direct train from Delhi to Srinagar and in a very surprising move they have changed that. We feel that they have broken the promise. There is a lot of tension among the people, everyone had thought that there will be respite to them as they won't have to pay the high airfares. It's mostly the business people and sick people who have urgency and they would have benefitted by the direct train. The train stopping at Katra has changed and disappointed the locals. The government needs to rethink the decision. The local government also needs to push for it so that there is a direct train from Kashmir to Delhi, '' said Haya Javaid, a local. The train service in the valley is expected to start from January 26 and is to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

India: Locals, Business community disappointed over no direct train to Kashmir

A psychologist has been arrested by Nagpur (a city in the state of Maharashtra) police on Monday (Jan 13) for allegedly blackmailing and sexually exploiting at least 50 students over the past 15 years.&nbsp;
The accused is 47 years old and is unnamed for legal and social reasons; he is a father of two. He deceived young girls from rural areas into coming to residential camps by pretending to offer counseling.&nbsp;
<h2 dir="ltr">SIT: Probe the case</h2>
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed by Nagpur police commissioner Ravinder Singal to investigate the case. Rashmitha Rao, deputy commissioner, is leading the team along with members of the child welfare committee and district child protection officers to offer technical and legal assistance.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/woman-with-mental-illness-found-roaming-semi-naked-in-indore-man-held-for-raping-her-770450" rel="dofollow">Woman with mental illness found roaming semi-naked in Indore, man arrested for raping her</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Modus operandi of the accused</h2>
The accused operated a private clinic and conducted residential programmes in East Nagpur, as stated by the Hudkeshwar police. He is alleged to trick young girls, pretending to offer counselling to them and offering training in personal development.
Three cases have been registered against him under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
Also read: <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=india%3A+Three+men+arrested+in+Delhi+for+gang+raping+Odisha-based+woman&amp;rlz=1C1UEAD_enIN1139IN1139&amp;oq=india%3A+Three+men+arrested+in+Delhi+for+gang+raping+Odisha-based+woman&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIGCAEQRRg6MgYIAhBFGDzSAQgxNjAwajBqNKgCALACAA&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8" rel="dofollow">India: Three men arrested in Delhi for gang-raping Odisha-based woman</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">How did the accused get caught?&nbsp;</h2>
The case came to light when a 27-year-old woman, one of his former students, approached the Hudkeshwar police last week to report that the psychologist was blackmailing her with explicit photographs from her time at his institution. Her husband supported her complaint, which exposed the long history of abuse.
The police traced other survivors following the complaint and persuaded them to come ahead and share their stories, but most of them resisted speaking up, anxious about the repercussions they might have to face due to social stigma and family.&nbsp;
He is alleged to have continued threatening to "expose" the victims even after they were married. Explicit photographs and videos were later recovered from his phone, strengthening the case against him.
Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nurse-brutally-gang-raped-in-indias-up-accused-inserted-chilli-powder-in-genitals-779988" rel="dofollow"> Nurse brutally 'gang-raped' in India&rsquo;s UP; accused put chilli powder in genitals</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Accused lured students from rural areas</h2>
Investigations revealed that the accused targeted female students participating in personal development camps in rural areas like Bhandara and Gondia. During the camps, he would allegedly consume alcohol, sexually assault the girls, and film them. He would later use the pictures to blackmail the victims, threatening to taint their reputations and harm their careers if they reported his actions.
The psychologist is also alleged to have convinced parents to enroll their children in his programmes, promising to help them develop interpersonal, academic, and professional skills. Many parents entrusted their wards to him as their "local guardian," which allowed him to further exert control over them.
<h2 dir="ltr">Police take initiative&nbsp;</h2>
 Three survivors have come forward to make statements against the accused psychologist. We hope more victims will also come up with complaints," said Rashmitha Rao. "The accused exploited his position of trust and used fear and coercion to silence his victims. We are working to build a strong case to ensure justice," she added.
Police have launched a manhunt for two women accused of assisting the psychologist in recruiting students for his programmes with one of them being a former student who later married the accused and played an active role in the operations, according to a few reports.&nbsp;
The case has led to outrage and proactive calls for stricter steps to be taken to protect children and young adults from exploitation by individuals in positions of power.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;
&nbsp;

India news: A 27-year-old woman approached the Hudkeshwar police to report that the psychologist was blackmailing her with explicit photographs from her time at his institution.

A psychologist has been arrested by Nagpur (a city in the state of Maharashtra) police on Monday (Jan 13) for allegedly blackmailing and sexually exploiting at least 50 students over the past 15 years. The accused is 47 years old and is unnamed for legal and social reasons; he is a father of two. He deceived young girls from rural areas into coming to residential camps by pretending to offer counseling. SIT: Probe the case A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed by Nagpur police commissioner Ravinder Singal to investigate the case. Rashmitha Rao, deputy commissioner, is leading the team along with members of the child welfare committee and district child protection officers to offer technical and legal assistance. Also Read: Woman with mental illness found roaming semi-naked in Indore, man arrested for raping her Modus operandi of the accused The accused operated a private clinic and conducted residential programmes in East Nagpur, as stated by the Hudkeshwar police. He is alleged to trick young girls, pretending to offer counselling to them and offering training in personal development. Three cases have been registered against him under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. Also read: India: Three men arrested in Delhi for gang-raping Odisha-based woman How did the accused get caught? The case came to light when a 27-year-old woman, one of his former students, approached the Hudkeshwar police last week to report that the psychologist was blackmailing her with explicit photographs from her time at his institution. Her husband supported her complaint, which exposed the long history of abuse. The police traced other survivors following the complaint and persuaded them to come ahead and share their stories, but most of them resisted speaking up, anxious about the repercussions they might have to face due to social stigma and family. He is alleged to have continued threatening to "expose" the victims even after they were married. Explicit photographs and videos were later recovered from his phone, strengthening the case against him. Also Read: Nurse brutally 'gang-raped' in India’s UP; accused put chilli powder in genitals Accused lured students from rural areas Investigations revealed that the accused targeted female students participating in personal development camps in rural areas like Bhandara and Gondia. During the camps, he would allegedly consume alcohol, sexually assault the girls, and film them. He would later use the pictures to blackmail the victims, threatening to taint their reputations and harm their careers if they reported his actions. The psychologist is also alleged to have convinced parents to enroll their children in his programmes, promising to help them develop interpersonal, academic, and professional skills. Many parents entrusted their wards to him as their "local guardian," which allowed him to further exert control over them. Police take initiative Three survivors have come forward to make statements against the accused psychologist. We hope more victims will also come up with complaints," said Rashmitha Rao. "The accused exploited his position of trust and used fear and coercion to silence his victims. We are working to build a strong case to ensure justice," she added. Police have launched a manhunt for two women accused of assisting the psychologist in recruiting students for his programmes with one of them being a former student who later married the accused and played an active role in the operations, according to a few reports. The case has led to outrage and proactive calls for stricter steps to be taken to protect children and young adults from exploitation by individuals in positions of power. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Psychologist in Nagpur arrested for rape of 50 girls over 15 years under the pretense of counseling

AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday filed his nomination from New Delhi constituency for the upcoming<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/assembly-election-2024" rel="dofollow"> assembly elections</a> and urged people to vote based on work and not "abuses".
Before filing his nomination papers, Kejriwal, accompanied by his wife Sunita, offered prayers at Hanuman and Valmiki temples. He then led a 'padyatra' from the AAP office to the New Delhi district magistrate's office, where he filed his nomination.
Hundreds of AAP workers, carrying party flags, walked with the former chief minister.
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After filing his nomination, Kejriwal exuded confidence that the AAP would return to power in Delhi.
"AAP will form the government with full majority," he told reporters."I want to request the people of Delhi to vote based on work and not abuses," he said.
Attacking the BJP, Kejriwal said the party has no vision, no chief ministerial face and no narrative.
"They are not telling what work they will do in the next five years. People of Delhi cannot be bought with a pair of shoes, people are seeing what the BJP is doing," he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-home-ministry-okays-ed-to-prosecute-aap-chief-arvind-kejriwal-in-delhi-liquor-policy-scam-8622508" rel="dofollow">India: Home Ministry okays ED to prosecute AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi liquor policy scam</a>
On reports about a threat to his life from a pro-Khalistani outfit, the AAP leader said God was with him.
"Those protected by God cannot be killed by anyone (Jako rakhe saiyan maar sake na koye). God is with me. One lives as long as their lifeline. The day one's lifeline ends, God calls them," he told reporters after offering prayers at the Prachin Hanuman temple.
Sunita Kejriwal said the people of Delhi know who will provide better governance.
"People know who can provide leadership. So, people will decide," she said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-aap-slams-bjp-for-politicising-delhi-school-bomb-threats-8622497" rel="dofollow">India: AAP slams BJP for 'politicising' Delhi school bomb threats</a>
Kejriwal has held the New Delhi seat since 2013. He is pitted against BJP's Parvesh Verma and Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit this time.
Voting for the 70-member Delhi Assembly is scheduled to be held on February 5. The counting of votes will be taken up on February 8.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India news: "AAP will form the government with full majority," he told reporters."I want to request the people of Delhi to vote based on work and not abuses," he said.

AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday filed his nomination from New Delhi constituency for the upcoming assembly elections and urged people to vote based on work and not "abuses". Before filing his nomination papers, Kejriwal, accompanied by his wife Sunita, offered prayers at Hanuman and Valmiki temples. He then led a 'padyatra' from the AAP office to the New Delhi district magistrate's office, where he filed his nomination. Hundreds of AAP workers, carrying party flags, walked with the former chief minister. Also read: India: Parvesh Verma files his nomination for BJP in Delhi assembly polls After filing his nomination, Kejriwal exuded confidence that the AAP would return to power in Delhi. "AAP will form the government with full majority," he told reporters."I want to request the people of Delhi to vote based on work and not abuses," he said. Attacking the BJP, Kejriwal said the party has no vision, no chief ministerial face and no narrative. "They are not telling what work they will do in the next five years. People of Delhi cannot be bought with a pair of shoes, people are seeing what the BJP is doing," he said. Also read: India: Home Ministry okays ED to prosecute AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi liquor policy scam On reports about a threat to his life from a pro-Khalistani outfit, the AAP leader said God was with him. "Those protected by God cannot be killed by anyone (Jako rakhe saiyan maar sake na koye). God is with me. One lives as long as their lifeline. The day one's lifeline ends, God calls them," he told reporters after offering prayers at the Prachin Hanuman temple. Sunita Kejriwal said the people of Delhi know who will provide better governance. "People know who can provide leadership. So, people will decide," she said. Also read: India: AAP slams BJP for 'politicising' Delhi school bomb threats Kejriwal has held the New Delhi seat since 2013. He is pitted against BJP's Parvesh Verma and Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit this time. Voting for the 70-member Delhi Assembly is scheduled to be held on February 5. The counting of votes will be taken up on February 8. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Assembly elections: Arvind Kejriwal files nomination from New Delhi constituency

Spiritual head of the Rishikesh-based Parmarth Niketan Ashram, Swami Chidanand Saraswati and Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati, along with other devotees, performed 'havan' at the Paramarth Niketan Kumbh Mela Camp in Prayagraj on Wednesday. Speaking to ANI, Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati shared her experience of her first 'Amrit Snan' on Tuesday at the Triveni Sangam and said it must have been her good deeds of past lives that she got this opportunity and called the Snan a "divine event."
<figure class="image"><img alt="Swami Chidanand Saraswati and Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati performing 'hawan' at the Paramarth Niketan Kumbh Mela Camp in Prayagraj" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/15/3ldOx5NVG18wDVojn5K9.jpg" style="width: 1280px;"><canvas class="qb-highlighter__canvas" width="24" height="18" style="display: none; top: 2px !important; left: 1000px !important;"></canvas>
<figcaption data-qb-tmp-id="lt-704223" spellcheck="false" data-gramm="false">Swami Chidanand Saraswati and Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati performing 'havan' at the Paramarth Niketan Kumbh Mela Camp in Prayagraj Photograph: (ANI)</figcaption>
</figure>
&nbsp;
"Yesterday's Amrit Snan was a divine event. I was thinking about what good deeds I did in my past life when I got this opportunity to attend this event. This is not only the Sangam of Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati, but it signifies the whole world as one family when people of many countries and races take the holy dip together..."&nbsp;
Further, she also extended her gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and said, "This is the power of India and Sanatana Dharma. It shows that the whole world is a family, Vasudhaiv Kutumbkam...It is not only an event but a message to the world about how the world comes together in the name of peace, faith, and devotion at the time of conflict and war. This is a 'Shanti Sangam.'
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5xqktht-l3cccs97-ms361c6s">
Arrived yesterday in the Maha Kumbha Mela! Such a blessing to be here joining the tens of millions of people who had a sacred bath, on the full moon, and will have one on the sacred day of Makar Sankranti. <a href="https://t.co/FFBf4OCpQg">pic.twitter.com/FFBf4OCpQg</a>
&mdash; Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati (@SadhviBhagawati) <a href="https://twitter.com/SadhviBhagawati/status/1879340224297250876?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
I extend my gratitude to PM Narendra Modi and UP CM Yogi Adityanath..."Notably, Tuesday's Amrit Snan' concluded with 35 million devotees performing the sacred Snan at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj on the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-brave-skydiver-grabs-the-internets-attention-for-unfurling-maha-kumbh-flag-13000-ft-over-bangkok-8622589" rel="dofollow">Kumbh Mela 2025: Skydiver unfurls Maha Kumbh flag 13,000 ft over Bangkok - Watch</a>
On this occasion of Makar Sankranti, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended his heartfelt wishes to those taking a holy dip in the Ganga during Mahakumbh 2025. Through a heartfelt post on his social media handle X, he congratulated the revered saints, Kalpvasis, and devotees participating in this grand convergence of faith, equality, and unity.
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-mela-2025-1st-amrit-snan-makar-sankranti-worlds-largest-gathering-8622242" rel="dofollow"> Maha Kumbh 2025: From 1st Amrit Snan to 30 million devotees, everything on Day 2 of world's largest gathering</a>
CM Yogi described Mahakumbh as a symbol of the immense power and faith of Sanatan Dharma. He wrote, "On the first Amrit Snan day, more than 3.5 crore revered saints and devotees earned the merit of bathing in the eternal and pure Triveni Sangam."Maha Kumbh, which began on January 13, will continue until February 26. The next key bathing dates include January 29 (Mauni Amavasya&mdash;Second Shahi Snan), February 3 (Basant Panchami&mdash;Third Shahi Snan), February 12 (Maghi Purnima), and February 26 (Maha Shivaratri).&nbsp;
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.
&nbsp;

India news | Trending: Amrit Snan was a divine event. I was thinking about what good deeds I did in my past life when I got this opportunity to attend this event, Bhagawati said. 

Spiritual head of the Rishikesh-based Parmarth Niketan Ashram, Swami Chidanand Saraswati and Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati, along with other devotees, performed 'havan' at the Paramarth Niketan Kumbh Mela Camp in Prayagraj on Wednesday. Speaking to ANI, Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati shared her experience of her first 'Amrit Snan' on Tuesday at the Triveni Sangam and said it must have been her good deeds of past lives that she got this opportunity and called the Snan a "divine event." Swami Chidanand Saraswati and Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati performing 'havan' at the Paramarth Niketan Kumbh Mela Camp in Prayagraj Photograph: (ANI) "Yesterday's Amrit Snan was a divine event. I was thinking about what good deeds I did in my past life when I got this opportunity to attend this event. This is not only the Sangam of Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati, but it signifies the whole world as one family when people of many countries and races take the holy dip together..." Further, she also extended her gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and said, "This is the power of India and Sanatana Dharma. It shows that the whole world is a family, Vasudhaiv Kutumbkam...It is not only an event but a message to the world about how the world comes together in the name of peace, faith, and devotion at the time of conflict and war. This is a 'Shanti Sangam.' Arrived yesterday in the Maha Kumbha Mela! Such a blessing to be here joining the tens of millions of people who had a sacred bath, on the full moon, and will have one on the sacred day of Makar Sankranti. pic.twitter.com/FFBf4OCpQg — Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati (@SadhviBhagawati) January 15, 2025 I extend my gratitude to PM Narendra Modi and UP CM Yogi Adityanath..."Notably, Tuesday's Amrit Snan' concluded with 35 million devotees performing the sacred Snan at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj on the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti. Also Read: Kumbh Mela 2025: Skydiver unfurls Maha Kumbh flag 13,000 ft over Bangkok - Watch On this occasion of Makar Sankranti, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended his heartfelt wishes to those taking a holy dip in the Ganga during Mahakumbh 2025. Through a heartfelt post on his social media handle X, he congratulated the revered saints, Kalpvasis, and devotees participating in this grand convergence of faith, equality, and unity. Also read: Maha Kumbh 2025: From 1st Amrit Snan to 30 million devotees, everything on Day 2 of world's largest gathering CM Yogi described Mahakumbh as a symbol of the immense power and faith of Sanatan Dharma. He wrote, "On the first Amrit Snan day, more than 3.5 crore revered saints and devotees earned the merit of bathing in the eternal and pure Triveni Sangam."Maha Kumbh, which began on January 13, will continue until February 26. The next key bathing dates include January 29 (Mauni Amavasya—Second Shahi Snan), February 3 (Basant Panchami—Third Shahi Snan), February 12 (Maghi Purnima), and February 26 (Maha Shivaratri). Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Maha Kumbh 2025: Sadhvi Bhagawati performs hawan, recalls first 'Amrit Snan'

In its fight against online financial fraud, Indian government initiatives have helped prevent losses of $208 million in just 90 days since the launch of an online &lsquo;suspect registry.&rsquo; The registry is part of the nationwide effort to tackle cybercrime, averting more than 600,000 fraudulent transactions. The initiative is an important step in enhancing India&rsquo;s cyber defences and protecting its financial systems.
<h2 dir="ltr">How India's 'suspect registry' works&nbsp;</h2>
The suspect registry was launched by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on 10 September 2024 and created by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C). It is accessible to both state and central agencies holding data on 1.4 million cybercriminals linked to financial fraud and other cybercrimes.
It has been integrated with the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP) and works in close collaboration with banks and financial institutions to identify and prevent fraud.
The registry helps financial institutions spot potential threats and prevent cybercrimes in real time by bringing together the data on cybercrime suspects in one central database. Reports citing Home Ministry sources&nbsp;said that around $7,054 fraudulent transactions were declined, which has resulted in saving around $208 million until December 1.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5xh05vf-iz059g82-vi8lb83p">
VIDEO | "If states establish cyber suspect registries, it will have its limitations, but there is no limit to the reach of cyber criminals. Therefore, there is a need for a national-level suspect registry that includes all states. This will help in preventing crimes in the&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/1oRJxdagFt">pic.twitter.com/1oRJxdagFt</a>
&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1833402907229573246?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-haryana-has-saved-312-million-from-cyber-criminals-what-you-need-to-know-8606872" rel="dofollow">This state in India has saved $31.2 million from cyber criminals</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Key achievements:&nbsp;</h2>
&gt; Banks have frozen 867,000 'mule accounts', blocked 700,000 SIM cards, and disabled 140,000 mobile phones used in cyber frauds.
&gt; The Cyber Fraud Mitigation Centre (CFMC) has brought together representatives from major banks, telecom companies and law enforcement agencies.&nbsp; &gt; The CFMC aims to enhance cooperation in addressing online financial crimes, representing a model of "Cooperative Federalism."
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-police-bust-07-million-fake-call-centre-scam-in-noida-8611618" rel="dofollow">Indian police bust $0.7 million fake call centre scam in UP's Noida</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">RBI&rsquo;s role</h2>
To make the country&rsquo;s financial defences strong, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has instructed all banks to join this initiative and integrate the suspect registry into their systems. 
This will help banks manage fraud risks more effectively and prevent financial losses.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-technology/you-are-under-digital-arrest-the-2024-cyber-scam-that-shook-india-8581607" rel="dofollow">'You are under digital arrest': The cyber scam that shook India in 2024</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">A national effort</h2>
The Citizen Financial Cyber Frauds Reporting and Management System, launched in 2021, has also contributed to the fight against cybercrime. 
By 1 Dec 2024, it had received over 1.5 million complaints and helped prevent transactions amounting to $445 million.
Under the powers granted by the Information Technology Act 2000, the Indian government has also blocked 1,03,151 pieces of suspicious online content, further enhancing its cyber defences.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;
&nbsp;

India News: To make the country’s financial defences strong, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has instructed all banks to join this initiative. 

In its fight against online financial fraud, Indian government initiatives have helped prevent losses of $208 million in just 90 days since the launch of an online ‘suspect registry.’ The registry is part of the nationwide effort to tackle cybercrime, averting more than 600,000 fraudulent transactions. The initiative is an important step in enhancing India’s cyber defences and protecting its financial systems. How India's 'suspect registry' works The suspect registry was launched by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on 10 September 2024 and created by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C). It is accessible to both state and central agencies holding data on 1.4 million cybercriminals linked to financial fraud and other cybercrimes. It has been integrated with the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP) and works in close collaboration with banks and financial institutions to identify and prevent fraud. The registry helps financial institutions spot potential threats and prevent cybercrimes in real time by bringing together the data on cybercrime suspects in one central database. Reports citing Home Ministry sources said that around $7,054 fraudulent transactions were declined, which has resulted in saving around $208 million until December 1. VIDEO | "If states establish cyber suspect registries, it will have its limitations, but there is no limit to the reach of cyber criminals. Therefore, there is a need for a national-level suspect registry that includes all states. This will help in preventing crimes in the… pic.twitter.com/1oRJxdagFt — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 10, 2024 Also Read: This state in India has saved $31.2 million from cyber criminals Key achievements: > Banks have frozen 867,000 'mule accounts', blocked 700,000 SIM cards, and disabled 140,000 mobile phones used in cyber frauds. > The Cyber Fraud Mitigation Centre (CFMC) has brought together representatives from major banks, telecom companies and law enforcement agencies. > The CFMC aims to enhance cooperation in addressing online financial crimes, representing a model of "Cooperative Federalism." Also Read: Indian police bust $0.7 million fake call centre scam in UP's Noida RBI’s role To make the country’s financial defences strong, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has instructed all banks to join this initiative and integrate the suspect registry into their systems. This will help banks manage fraud risks more effectively and prevent financial losses. Also Read: 'You are under digital arrest': The cyber scam that shook India in 2024 A national effort The Citizen Financial Cyber Frauds Reporting and Management System, launched in 2021, has also contributed to the fight against cybercrime. By 1 Dec 2024, it had received over 1.5 million complaints and helped prevent transactions amounting to $445 million. Under the powers granted by the Information Technology Act 2000, the Indian government has also blocked 1,03,151 pieces of suspicious online content, further enhancing its cyber defences. (With inputs from agencies)

India fights cyber crime:  Suspect registry prevents $208 million in online fraud in 90 days

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said India is becoming a major maritime power and is being recognised as a reliable and responsible partner in the world.
Speaking after the commissioning of three naval warships here, Modi said India has always supported an open, secure, inclusive and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.
A destroyer, a frigate, and a submarine were commissioned together for the first time on Wednesday, he noted, adding that all the three are 'Made in India'.
The 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative has made the country strong and self-reliant, the prime minister said.
"We should become a global partner in securing the sea from drugs, weapons and terrorism and make it safe and prosperous. India is becoming a major maritime power and is being recognised as a reliable and responsible partner," he said.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The commissioning of three frontline naval combatants underscores India's unwavering commitment to building a robust and self-reliant defence sector. Watch LIVE from Mumbai. <a href="https://t.co/d1fy14qcrT">https://t.co/d1fy14qcrT</a>
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1879408088672866519?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In the Indian Ocean region, India has emerged as the "first responder", the prime minister noted.
Modi said India is going to play a major role in giving a direction to the global security, economy and geopolitical dynamics.
'It is important to protect the territorial waters, freedom of navigation, and secure trade supply lines and sea routes,' he said. Modi further said India is working for development, and not expansionism.
He said 33 ships and seven submarines have been inducted into the Navy in the last 10 years.
India's defence production has crossed Rs 1.25 lakh crore and defence equipment have been exported to more than 100 countries, he added.
Earlier in the morning, Indian Navy warships INS Surat, INS Nilgiri and INS Vaghsheer were commissioned at the Naval Dockyard here in the presence of PM Modi.
INS Nilgiri, the lead ship of the Project 17A stealth frigate class, represents a significant advancement over the Shivalik-class frigates.
Designed by the Indian Navy's Warship Design Bureau and built at the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), it incorporates advanced features for enhanced survivability, seakeeping and stealth, reflecting the next generation of indigenous frigates.
It features advanced stealth technology and reduced radar signatures. It is equipped with modern aviation facilities and can operate multiple helicopter types, including the newly inducted MH-60R.
INS Surat, the fourth and final vessel of the Project 15B stealth destroyer class, is a follow-on to the Kolkata-class destroyers. It incorporates improvements in design and capability, making it a critical addition to the Navy's surface fleet.
Like INS Nilgiri, it has also been designed by the Warship Design Bureau and constructed at the MDL.
INS Vaghsheer is the sixth and final submarine under the Scorpene-class Project 75. It is a diesel-electric submarine designed for multiple roles, including anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and intelligence gathering.
It features modular construction, enabling future upgrades such as air independent propulsion technology.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said India is becoming a major maritime power and is being recognised as a reliable and responsible partner in the world.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said India is becoming a major maritime power and is being recognised as a reliable and responsible partner in the world. Speaking after the commissioning of three naval warships here, Modi said India has always supported an open, secure, inclusive and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. A destroyer, a frigate, and a submarine were commissioned together for the first time on Wednesday, he noted, adding that all the three are 'Made in India'. The 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative has made the country strong and self-reliant, the prime minister said. "We should become a global partner in securing the sea from drugs, weapons and terrorism and make it safe and prosperous. India is becoming a major maritime power and is being recognised as a reliable and responsible partner," he said. The commissioning of three frontline naval combatants underscores India's unwavering commitment to building a robust and self-reliant defence sector. Watch LIVE from Mumbai. https://t.co/d1fy14qcrT — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 15, 2025 In the Indian Ocean region, India has emerged as the "first responder", the prime minister noted. Modi said India is going to play a major role in giving a direction to the global security, economy and geopolitical dynamics. 'It is important to protect the territorial waters, freedom of navigation, and secure trade supply lines and sea routes,' he said. Modi further said India is working for development, and not expansionism. He said 33 ships and seven submarines have been inducted into the Navy in the last 10 years. India's defence production has crossed Rs 1.25 lakh crore and defence equipment have been exported to more than 100 countries, he added. Earlier in the morning, Indian Navy warships INS Surat, INS Nilgiri and INS Vaghsheer were commissioned at the Naval Dockyard here in the presence of PM Modi. INS Nilgiri, the lead ship of the Project 17A stealth frigate class, represents a significant advancement over the Shivalik-class frigates. Designed by the Indian Navy's Warship Design Bureau and built at the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), it incorporates advanced features for enhanced survivability, seakeeping and stealth, reflecting the next generation of indigenous frigates. It features advanced stealth technology and reduced radar signatures. It is equipped with modern aviation facilities and can operate multiple helicopter types, including the newly inducted MH-60R. INS Surat, the fourth and final vessel of the Project 15B stealth destroyer class, is a follow-on to the Kolkata-class destroyers. It incorporates improvements in design and capability, making it a critical addition to the Navy's surface fleet. Like INS Nilgiri, it has also been designed by the Warship Design Bureau and constructed at the MDL. INS Vaghsheer is the sixth and final submarine under the Scorpene-class Project 75. It is a diesel-electric submarine designed for multiple roles, including anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and intelligence gathering. It features modular construction, enabling future upgrades such as air independent propulsion technology. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

PM Modi inaugurates three ‘Made in India’ Naval combatants: 'India is becoming a major maritime power'

BJP leader Parvesh Verma on Wednesday filed his nomination from the New Delhi assembly constituency for the assembly polls scheduled in the national capital for February 5. Verma is in the electoral fray against Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal and Congress' Sandeep Dikshit. Exuding confidence, Verma said that this nomination has been filed for development and the BJP will certainly win from the New Delhi seat.
"This nomination has been filed for development. BJP will certainly win from the New Delhi seat..." Verma told ANI. The Delhi assembly polls are scheduled to be held in a single phase on February 5, and the counting of votes will take place on February 8. Verma went with hundreds of his supporters to the district magistrate's office to file his nomination. BJP leader Parvesh Verma is the son of former Delhi Chief Minister Sahib Singh Verma.&nbsp;
<figure class="image"><img alt="BJP New Delhi candidate Parvesh Verma files his nomination" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/15/2Bn6GaBsbrg2e12VPaKv.jpg" style="width: 1280px;">
<figcaption>BJP New Delhi candidate Parvesh Verma files his nomination Photograph: (ANI)</figcaption>
</figure>
His political career began when he contested the Mehrauli Vidhan Sabha constituency in the 2013 assembly election, which he won by defeating the incumbent MLA Yoganand Shastri. He then went on to win the West Delhi Lok Sabha constituency in the 2014 general elections.&nbsp;
In 2019, Verma won a second term as MP from West Delhi. Meanwhile, his contender, former Delhi Chief Minister, and AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal, is also set to file his nomination today from the same seat. As the polling date nears, AAP and BJP have started targeting each other.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-polls-bjp-aap-intensify-poster-video-war-ahead-of-elections-8619072" rel="dofollow">Delhi polls: BJP, AAP intensify poster-video war ahead of elections</a>
After the Centre granted the ED the nod to prosecute him and Manish Sisodia in an alleged liquor scam case, Kejriwal said that this is how they (BJP) are contesting the Delhi Assembly Polls. On being asked by the reporters outside the party office when he was enrooted to file his nomination, Kejriwal said, "Woh uss tarah see chunav lad rahe hain, hum is tarah see chunav lad rahe hain."The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has authorized the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to initiate prosecution against former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and former Deputy CM Manish Sisodia under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) for their alleged involvement in money laundering linked to the liquor scam case.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-polls-atishi-launches-crowdfunding-initiative-aims-to-raise-over-4624-8612402" rel="dofollow">Delhi assembly polls: Atishi launches crowdfunding initiative, aims to raise over $4,624</a>
On Tuesday (Jan 14), Aam Aadmi Party Chief Arvind Kejriwal claimed that the upcoming Assembly polls would uncover the long-standing alliance between Congress and BJP, describing it as a "jugalbandi."Meanwhile, Verma also criticised the Congress party for naming its new headquarters 'Indira Bhawan,' saying that there are many other buildings named after Indira Gandhi, and if they had named this new Bhawan after Dr Manmohan Singh, their party workers would have liked it.
"We know that this is a party belonging to just one family. Today, they have forgotten Sardar Manmohan Singh. There are many other buildings named after Indira Gandhi. If they had named this new Bhawan after Dr Manmohan Singh, their party workers would have liked it," Verma said.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India news: His political career began when he contested the Mehrauli Vidhan Sabha constituency in the 2013 assembly election, which he won by defeating MLA Yoganand Shastri. 

BJP leader Parvesh Verma on Wednesday filed his nomination from the New Delhi assembly constituency for the assembly polls scheduled in the national capital for February 5. Verma is in the electoral fray against Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal and Congress' Sandeep Dikshit. Exuding confidence, Verma said that this nomination has been filed for development and the BJP will certainly win from the New Delhi seat. "This nomination has been filed for development. BJP will certainly win from the New Delhi seat..." Verma told ANI. The Delhi assembly polls are scheduled to be held in a single phase on February 5, and the counting of votes will take place on February 8. Verma went with hundreds of his supporters to the district magistrate's office to file his nomination. BJP leader Parvesh Verma is the son of former Delhi Chief Minister Sahib Singh Verma. BJP New Delhi candidate Parvesh Verma files his nomination Photograph: (ANI) His political career began when he contested the Mehrauli Vidhan Sabha constituency in the 2013 assembly election, which he won by defeating the incumbent MLA Yoganand Shastri. He then went on to win the West Delhi Lok Sabha constituency in the 2014 general elections. In 2019, Verma won a second term as MP from West Delhi. Meanwhile, his contender, former Delhi Chief Minister, and AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal, is also set to file his nomination today from the same seat. As the polling date nears, AAP and BJP have started targeting each other. Also Read: Delhi polls: BJP, AAP intensify poster-video war ahead of elections After the Centre granted the ED the nod to prosecute him and Manish Sisodia in an alleged liquor scam case, Kejriwal said that this is how they (BJP) are contesting the Delhi Assembly Polls. On being asked by the reporters outside the party office when he was enrooted to file his nomination, Kejriwal said, "Woh uss tarah see chunav lad rahe hain, hum is tarah see chunav lad rahe hain."The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has authorized the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to initiate prosecution against former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and former Deputy CM Manish Sisodia under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) for their alleged involvement in money laundering linked to the liquor scam case. Also Read: Delhi assembly polls: Atishi launches crowdfunding initiative, aims to raise over $4,624 On Tuesday (Jan 14), Aam Aadmi Party Chief Arvind Kejriwal claimed that the upcoming Assembly polls would uncover the long-standing alliance between Congress and BJP, describing it as a "jugalbandi."Meanwhile, Verma also criticised the Congress party for naming its new headquarters 'Indira Bhawan,' saying that there are many other buildings named after Indira Gandhi, and if they had named this new Bhawan after Dr Manmohan Singh, their party workers would have liked it. "We know that this is a party belonging to just one family. Today, they have forgotten Sardar Manmohan Singh. There are many other buildings named after Indira Gandhi. If they had named this new Bhawan after Dr Manmohan Singh, their party workers would have liked it," Verma said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India: Parvesh Verma files his nomination for BJP in Delhi assembly polls

Meta India on Wednesday (Jan 15) issued an apology over CEO Mark Zuckerberg's remark on the 2024 Indian general elections, where he claimed that the incumbent governments in all countries, including India, lost polls last year.
Calling the remark an 'inadvertent error', Meta India's vice-president (public policy) Shivanand Thukral released a statement, responding to Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw's post on X.
"Dear Honourable Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Mark's observation that many incumbent parties were not re-elected in 2024 elections holds true for several countries, BUT not India. We would like to apologise for this inadvertent error. India remains an incredibly important country for Meta and we look forward to being at the heart of its innovative future," Thukral said.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5xnmti8-t4suhria-t1s3d05z">
Dear Honourable Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/AshwiniVaishnaw?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AshwiniVaishnaw</a> , Mark's observation that many incumbent parties were not re-elected in 2024 elections holds true for several countries, BUT not India. We would like to apologise for this inadvertent error. India remains an incredibly important country&hellip;
&mdash; Shivnath Thukral (@shivithukral) <a href="https://twitter.com/shivithukral/status/1879226796941750731?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
This comes after BJP MP Nishikant Dubey said he would send summons to Meta and would also call upon the tech company to apologise to India&rsquo;s Parliament.
&ldquo;My committee will call Meta for this wrong information," Dubey wrote.
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मेरी कमिटि इस ग़लत जानकारी के लिए <a href="https://twitter.com/Meta?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Meta</a> को बुलाएगी । किसी भी लोकतांत्रिक देश की ग़लत जानकारी देश की छवि को धूमिल करती है । इस गलती के लिए भारतीय संसद से तथा यहाँ की जनता से उस संस्था को माफ़ी माँगनी पड़ेगी <a href="https://t.co/HulRl1LF4z">https://t.co/HulRl1LF4z</a>
&mdash; Dr Nishikant Dubey (@nishikant_dubey) <a href="https://twitter.com/nishikant_dubey/status/1879070170486026564?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
&ldquo;Wrong information in any democratic country tarnishes the image of the country. That organization will have to apologize to the Indian Parliament and the people here for this mistake," the MP added.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-parliamentary-committee-to-summon-meta-over-zuckerbergs-factually-incorrect-claim-about-2024-election-results-8620807">Also read: India to summon Meta over Zuckerberg's 'factually incorrect' claim about 2024 election results</a>
<h2>What did Zuckerberg say?</h2>
Zuckerberg had said in a podcast with Joe Rogan that the incumbent governments in all countries, including India, lost elections in 2024.&nbsp;
The tech mogul said: "2024 was a big election year around the world. All these countries, like India, had elections. The incumbents basically lost every single one. There is some sort of a global phenomenon &ndash; whether it was because of inflation or the economic policies to deal with Covid or just how the governments dealt with Covid - seems to have had this global effect...There was a broad decrease in trust in incumbents and may be in these sorts of democratic institutions overall."
In reality, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won India&rsquo;s 2024 general election, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi securing a historic third consecutive term in office. However, Zuckerberg seemed to suggest during the podcast that this was not the case.
<h2>India's minister calls out Zuckerberg&nbsp;</h2>
In response, Vaishnaw said, "As the world&rsquo;s largest democracy, India conducted the 2024 elections with over 640 million voters. The people of India reaffirmed their trust in the NDA led by PM Narendra Modi's leadership. Mr. Zuckerberg&rsquo;s claim that most incumbent governments, including India in the 2024 elections, lost post-COVID is factually incorrect."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5xno1dr-ukycx31m-8vy663wf">
As the world&rsquo;s largest democracy, India conducted the 2024 elections with over 640 million voters. People of India reaffirmed their trust in NDA led by PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> Ji&rsquo;s leadership. Mr. Zuckerberg&rsquo;s claim that most incumbent governments, including India in 2024 elections,&hellip;
&mdash; Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) <a href="https://twitter.com/AshwiniVaishnaw/status/1878773353726759106?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
"From free food for 800 million, 2.2 billion free vaccines, and aid to nations worldwide during COVID, to leading India as the fastest-growing major economy, PM Modi&rsquo;s decisive 3rd-term victory is a testament to good governance and public trust. @Meta, it&rsquo;s disappointing to see misinformation from Mr. Zuckerberg himself. Let&rsquo;s uphold facts and credibility," Vaishnaw wrote on X.
(With inputs from agencies)

Meta India on Wednesday (Jan 15) issued an apology over CEO Mark Zuckerberg's remark that the incumbent government in India lost power in the 2024 elections. 

Meta India on Wednesday (Jan 15) issued an apology over CEO Mark Zuckerberg's remark on the 2024 Indian general elections, where he claimed that the incumbent governments in all countries, including India, lost polls last year. Calling the remark an 'inadvertent error', Meta India's vice-president (public policy) Shivanand Thukral released a statement, responding to Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw's post on X. "Dear Honourable Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Mark's observation that many incumbent parties were not re-elected in 2024 elections holds true for several countries, BUT not India. We would like to apologise for this inadvertent error. India remains an incredibly important country for Meta and we look forward to being at the heart of its innovative future," Thukral said. Dear Honourable Minister @AshwiniVaishnaw , Mark's observation that many incumbent parties were not re-elected in 2024 elections holds true for several countries, BUT not India. We would like to apologise for this inadvertent error. India remains an incredibly important country… — Shivnath Thukral (@shivithukral) January 14, 2025 This comes after BJP MP Nishikant Dubey said he would send summons to Meta and would also call upon the tech company to apologise to India’s Parliament. “My committee will call Meta for this wrong information," Dubey wrote. मेरी कमिटि इस ग़लत जानकारी के लिए @Meta को बुलाएगी । किसी भी लोकतांत्रिक देश की ग़लत जानकारी देश की छवि को धूमिल करती है । इस गलती के लिए भारतीय संसद से तथा यहाँ की जनता से उस संस्था को माफ़ी माँगनी पड़ेगी https://t.co/HulRl1LF4z — Dr Nishikant Dubey (@nishikant_dubey) January 14, 2025 “Wrong information in any democratic country tarnishes the image of the country. That organization will have to apologize to the Indian Parliament and the people here for this mistake," the MP added. Also read: India to summon Meta over Zuckerberg's 'factually incorrect' claim about 2024 election results What did Zuckerberg say? Zuckerberg had said in a podcast with Joe Rogan that the incumbent governments in all countries, including India, lost elections in 2024. The tech mogul said: "2024 was a big election year around the world. All these countries, like India, had elections. The incumbents basically lost every single one. There is some sort of a global phenomenon – whether it was because of inflation or the economic policies to deal with Covid or just how the governments dealt with Covid - seems to have had this global effect...There was a broad decrease in trust in incumbents and may be in these sorts of democratic institutions overall." In reality, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won India’s 2024 general election, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi securing a historic third consecutive term in office. However, Zuckerberg seemed to suggest during the podcast that this was not the case. India's minister calls out Zuckerberg In response, Vaishnaw said, "As the world’s largest democracy, India conducted the 2024 elections with over 640 million voters. The people of India reaffirmed their trust in the NDA led by PM Narendra Modi's leadership. Mr. Zuckerberg’s claim that most incumbent governments, including India in the 2024 elections, lost post-COVID is factually incorrect." As the world’s largest democracy, India conducted the 2024 elections with over 640 million voters. People of India reaffirmed their trust in NDA led by PM @narendramodi Ji’s leadership. Mr. Zuckerberg’s claim that most incumbent governments, including India in 2024 elections,… — Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) January 13, 2025 "From free food for 800 million, 2.2 billion free vaccines, and aid to nations worldwide during COVID, to leading India as the fastest-growing major economy, PM Modi’s decisive 3rd-term victory is a testament to good governance and public trust. @Meta, it’s disappointing to see misinformation from Mr. Zuckerberg himself. Let’s uphold facts and credibility," Vaishnaw wrote on X. (With inputs from agencies)

Meta apologises over Zuckerberg's remark on 2024 India elections; 'inadvertent error'

Police in the southern Indian state of Kerala have arrested 49 men on suspicion of raping an 18-year-old girl over five years. The victim, a sportswoman, had earlier told police that she was sexually abused by 62 people since she was 13 years old. Four of the alleged rapists are minors, according to media reports.
<h2>44 arrested, 30 FIRs registered</h2>
Police officials have identified 58 of the 62 accused. Some of the accused are minors, and two are absconding and have moved abroad.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-kerala-teenager-sexually-abused-by-62-men-since-age-of-13-five-arrested-mass-rape-8609819">India: Kerala teenager sexually abused by 62 men since age of 13; five arrested</a>
"Forty-nine people have been taken into custody," Pathanamthitta district Deputy Superintendent of Police Nandakumar S told AFP news agency.
"We have identified the remaining 14 and they would be arrested soon," said Nandakuma.
Meanwhile, DIG S Ajeetha Begum, who is overseeing the investigation said that 30 FIRs or first information reports have already been registered in connection to the case, reported the PTI news agency.&nbsp;
The FIRs have been filed under India's POCSO Act (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act).
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/robotic-dogs-steal-the-show-in-77th-army-day-parade-in-pune-8623125">Robotic dogs steal the show in 77th Army Day parade in Pune</a>
"Two of the accused are absconding. They are abroad at present. We are considering issuing Look out Circulars for them. We are also planning to issue a Red Corner notice for them through Interpol," the DIG told media, adding that 13 more are to be arrested.
"We are searching for their locations. They will be arrested soon. A foolproof and scientific investigation will be carried out by the SIT. We will not spare any of the accused. There will be no compromise. We will bring all of them before the law," she said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-jallikattu-festival-begins-in-tamil-nadu-tragic-death-of-young-bull-tamer-and-75-injured-8623077">India: Jallikattu kicks off in Tamil Nadu amid row over risks, animal welfare. What is the issue?</a>
<h2>Horrifying details emerge</h2>
The case came to light during a gender awareness counselling session conducted by the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) in Pathanamthitta district where the victim's teachers mentioned changes in her behaviour. During the session, the girl, as per reports, narrated the story of one of the gangrapes she had endured, revealing the gory details.
In a preliminary statement to the police, the Kerala teen, named 40 people who assaulted her, according to reports. The girl, who didn't have a mobile phone of her own, had saved their numbers on her father's cellphone.
She revealed that the abuse began after a neighbour allegedly raped her at the age of 13, and her assaulters included friends, coaches and senior sportsmen.
A special investigation team or SIT has been formed to conduct a comprehensive probe into the incident.
(With inputs from agencies)

Kerala police arrest men for allegedly raping a teen sportswoman over five years; horrifying details emerge as FIRs are filed under the POCSO Act.

Police in the southern Indian state of Kerala have arrested 49 men on suspicion of raping an 18-year-old girl over five years. The victim, a sportswoman, had earlier told police that she was sexually abused by 62 people since she was 13 years old. Four of the alleged rapists are minors, according to media reports. 44 arrested, 30 FIRs registered Police officials have identified 58 of the 62 accused. Some of the accused are minors, and two are absconding and have moved abroad. Also read | India: Kerala teenager sexually abused by 62 men since age of 13; five arrested "Forty-nine people have been taken into custody," Pathanamthitta district Deputy Superintendent of Police Nandakumar S told AFP news agency. "We have identified the remaining 14 and they would be arrested soon," said Nandakuma. Meanwhile, DIG S Ajeetha Begum, who is overseeing the investigation said that 30 FIRs or first information reports have already been registered in connection to the case, reported the PTI news agency. The FIRs have been filed under India's POCSO Act (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act). Also read | Robotic dogs steal the show in 77th Army Day parade in Pune "Two of the accused are absconding. They are abroad at present. We are considering issuing Look out Circulars for them. We are also planning to issue a Red Corner notice for them through Interpol," the DIG told media, adding that 13 more are to be arrested. "We are searching for their locations. They will be arrested soon. A foolproof and scientific investigation will be carried out by the SIT. We will not spare any of the accused. There will be no compromise. We will bring all of them before the law," she said. Also read | India: Jallikattu kicks off in Tamil Nadu amid row over risks, animal welfare. What is the issue? Horrifying details emerge The case came to light during a gender awareness counselling session conducted by the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) in Pathanamthitta district where the victim's teachers mentioned changes in her behaviour. During the session, the girl, as per reports, narrated the story of one of the gangrapes she had endured, revealing the gory details. In a preliminary statement to the police, the Kerala teen, named 40 people who assaulted her, according to reports. The girl, who didn't have a mobile phone of her own, had saved their numbers on her father's cellphone. She revealed that the abuse began after a neighbour allegedly raped her at the age of 13, and her assaulters included friends, coaches and senior sportsmen. A special investigation team or SIT has been formed to conduct a comprehensive probe into the incident. (With inputs from agencies)

Kerala mass rape: Four of 62 who allegedly raped teen sportswoman are minors; 49 arrested - Reports

'Jallikattu festival', the famous centuries-old bull-taming tradition commenced on Tuesday (Jan 14) in Avaniyapuram, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, marking the start of the south Indian state&rsquo;s Pongal celebrations.
The world-renowned event sees the participation of 1,100 bulls and 900 bull-tamers in the contest where participants attempt to subdue bulls by grabbing their humps.&nbsp;
This year, a tragic incident was witnessed where a young bull-tamer lost his life. Despite safety measures, the event has raised concerns about the welfare of both participants and the bulls.
<h2 dir="ltr">What is &ldquo;Jalikattu&rdquo;? How is it celebrated?&nbsp;</h2>
Jallikattu originated in ancient times, and is an integral part of Tamil Nadu&rsquo;s cultural heritage. Jallikattu is combination of Tamil words "jali" (coins) and "kattu" (tie), as the sport is about tying of coins to the bulls' horns.
This special event is celebrated on the third day of the Pongal festival, called "Mattu Pongal", celebrating collective journeys to witness the fury and the bravery of bulls and participants. 
The sport is known for its festivitity as well as criticism.
It&nbsp;is also highly controversial due to concerns over animal cruelty and participant safety.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5xkpyu7-3n658l3f-wrsw5lnj">
VIDEO | Visuals of bull taming sport 'Jallikattu' in Palamedu, Tamil Nadu. <a href="https://t.co/SOaNNupKws">pic.twitter.com/SOaNNupKws</a>
&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1747155594962944009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
A bull is let loose among the people, who try to hold on to the hump of the running animal. Qualifying bulls should be of breeds like 'Pulikulam' and 'Kangayam'. 
Those bulls that do the most bullfighting are handed over to eager bull owners as part of the celebration.&nbsp; 
The best bull and bull tamer are awarded.
<h2 dir="ltr">Tragic incident amidst celebrations</h2>
The event took a dreadful turn when a 22-year-old bull tamer, B Naveen Kumar, was fatally gored by a bull, an officer said on Tuesday. 
At least 75 others were injured, out of which 30 sustained grievous injuries, reported ANI news agency.&nbsp;
1,100 bulls and 800 bull tamers were registered in Avaniyapuram for the event.&nbsp;
<figure class="image"><img alt="Visuals of Jallikattu competition being held in Suriyur, Trichy district, with 775 bulls participating" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/15/lol9R9iTLmAsyeteP0kN.jpg" style="width: 1280px;"><qb-highlighter contenteditable="false" style="display: none;"><qb-div spellcheck="false" class="qb-highlighter__wrapper" style="width: 1280px !important; height: 22.3889px !important; transform: none !important; transform-origin: 640px 11.1944px !important; zoom: 1 !important; margin-top: 730.389px !important;"><qb-div class="qb-highlighter__scroll-element" style="top: 0px !important; left: 0px !important; width: 1280px !important; height: 22px !important;"></qb-div></qb-div></qb-highlighter>
<figcaption data-qb-tmp-id="lt-212055" spellcheck="false" data-gramm="false">Visuals of the Jallikattu competition being held in Suriyur, Trichy district, with 775 bulls participating Photograph: (PTI)</figcaption>
</figure>
&nbsp;According to Madurai district collector MS Sangeetha, "The bull punctured his lungs, and he succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.&rdquo;
<figure class="image"><img alt="Madurai District Collector Sangeetha" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/15/pRSUSdrgtq4rsQPAzkTU.jpg" style="width: 1280px;">
<figcaption>Madurai District Collector Sangeetha Photograph: (ANI)</figcaption>
</figure>
Following this, 75 people were injured during the event, although their conditions were reported as stable. The authorities assured that all necessary precautions were in place, including 2,000 police personnel, drones, and medical teams. 
However, such incidents continue to fuel the debate over the sport&rsquo;s safety.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5xkr8r7-3jutrv2c-q22igx9k">
Jallikattu event in Tamil Nadu's Madurai begins; 1,100 bulls, 900 tamers in fray Read <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ANI</a> Story | <a href="https://t.co/HRHP3mDYwf">https://t.co/HRHP3mDYwf</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jallikattu2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jallikattu2025</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pongal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pongal</a> <a href="https://t.co/Z6JvAuT0dY">pic.twitter.com/Z6JvAuT0dY</a>
&mdash; ANI Digital (@ani_digital) <a href="https://twitter.com/ani_digital/status/1879035763872210961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2 dir="ltr">Celebrated tradition or animal cruelty?</h2>
Jallikattu has a historical heritage of recognition mixed with the strength and bravery values among citizens of Tamil Nadu. But animal rights groups have taken a serious view of the festival. They argue that the sport subjects the bulls to unnecessary stress and harm.
In places like Chennai, people mistreat bulls by rubbing chillies into their eyes and hurting their noses so that they become enraged and people can enjoy watching them in fights. 
The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) had banned Jallikattu.
This happened in 2006 after a Jallikuttu spectator was killed and welfare associations raised lawsuits against Jallikuttu. 
In 2014, the Supreme Court banned the tradition, and all over Tamil Nadu, protests broke out. The ban was lifted once the Tamil Nadu Regulation of the Jallikattu Act was sanctioned.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jallikattu-2023-date-check-history-significance-important-facts-bulls-their-owners-all-you-need-to-know-551998" rel="dofollow">Jallikattu 2023 Date: Check history, significance, important facts, bulls &amp; their owners; all you need to know</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Legal and political battle</h2>
The legal controversy surrounding Jallikattu intensified when the Supreme Court ruled against state-sponsored Jallikattu regulation in Tamil Nadu in 2014.
In January 2016, the ban was lifted through a notification from the Union Ministry of Environment, which was then opposed by animal protection groups such as AWBI and PETA. 
No specific decision has been made, though the litigation is still on in courts while the state continues to defend Jallikattu as an important part of Tamil life, culture and identity. (With inputs from agencies)
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India news | Trending: The event is celebrated on the third day of the Pongal festival, called "Mattu Pongal, where you can witness the bravery of bulls and participants.

'Jallikattu festival', the famous centuries-old bull-taming tradition commenced on Tuesday (Jan 14) in Avaniyapuram, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, marking the start of the south Indian state’s Pongal celebrations. The world-renowned event sees the participation of 1,100 bulls and 900 bull-tamers in the contest where participants attempt to subdue bulls by grabbing their humps. This year, a tragic incident was witnessed where a young bull-tamer lost his life. Despite safety measures, the event has raised concerns about the welfare of both participants and the bulls. What is “Jalikattu”? How is it celebrated? Jallikattu originated in ancient times, and is an integral part of Tamil Nadu’s cultural heritage. Jallikattu is combination of Tamil words "jali" (coins) and "kattu" (tie), as the sport is about tying of coins to the bulls' horns. This special event is celebrated on the third day of the Pongal festival, called "Mattu Pongal", celebrating collective journeys to witness the fury and the bravery of bulls and participants. The sport is known for its festivitity as well as criticism. It is also highly controversial due to concerns over animal cruelty and participant safety. VIDEO | Visuals of bull taming sport 'Jallikattu' in Palamedu, Tamil Nadu. pic.twitter.com/SOaNNupKws — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 16, 2024 A bull is let loose among the people, who try to hold on to the hump of the running animal. Qualifying bulls should be of breeds like 'Pulikulam' and 'Kangayam'. Those bulls that do the most bullfighting are handed over to eager bull owners as part of the celebration. The best bull and bull tamer are awarded. Tragic incident amidst celebrations The event took a dreadful turn when a 22-year-old bull tamer, B Naveen Kumar, was fatally gored by a bull, an officer said on Tuesday. At least 75 others were injured, out of which 30 sustained grievous injuries, reported ANI news agency. 1,100 bulls and 800 bull tamers were registered in Avaniyapuram for the event. Visuals of the Jallikattu competition being held in Suriyur, Trichy district, with 775 bulls participating Photograph: (PTI) According to Madurai district collector MS Sangeetha, "The bull punctured his lungs, and he succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.” Madurai District Collector Sangeetha Photograph: (ANI) Following this, 75 people were injured during the event, although their conditions were reported as stable. The authorities assured that all necessary precautions were in place, including 2,000 police personnel, drones, and medical teams. However, such incidents continue to fuel the debate over the sport’s safety. Jallikattu event in Tamil Nadu's Madurai begins; 1,100 bulls, 900 tamers in fray Read @ANI Story | https://t.co/HRHP3mDYwf#Jallikattu2025 #Pongal pic.twitter.com/Z6JvAuT0dY — ANI Digital (@ani_digital) January 14, 2025 Celebrated tradition or animal cruelty? Jallikattu has a historical heritage of recognition mixed with the strength and bravery values among citizens of Tamil Nadu. But animal rights groups have taken a serious view of the festival. They argue that the sport subjects the bulls to unnecessary stress and harm. In places like Chennai, people mistreat bulls by rubbing chillies into their eyes and hurting their noses so that they become enraged and people can enjoy watching them in fights. The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) had banned Jallikattu. This happened in 2006 after a Jallikuttu spectator was killed and welfare associations raised lawsuits against Jallikuttu. In 2014, the Supreme Court banned the tradition, and all over Tamil Nadu, protests broke out. The ban was lifted once the Tamil Nadu Regulation of the Jallikattu Act was sanctioned. Also Read: Jallikattu 2023 Date: Check history, significance, important facts, bulls & their owners; all you need to know Legal and political battle The legal controversy surrounding Jallikattu intensified when the Supreme Court ruled against state-sponsored Jallikattu regulation in Tamil Nadu in 2014. In January 2016, the ban was lifted through a notification from the Union Ministry of Environment, which was then opposed by animal protection groups such as AWBI and PETA. No specific decision has been made, though the litigation is still on in courts while the state continues to defend Jallikattu as an important part of Tamil life, culture and identity. (With inputs from agencies)

India': Jallikattu kicks off in Tamil Nadu amid row over risks, animal welfare. What is the issue?

Army Day 2025: Robotic dogs were seen marching in the parade during the 77th Army Day celebrations in Pune on Wednesday (Jan 15). The day marks the appointment of General (later Field Marshal) KM Cariappa as the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army in 1949 after independence.
The day recognises the efforts of the Indian Army to protect the nation from any foreign threats and keep the citizens safe as well as stepping in to save lives during a natural disaster or crisis. It also honours the sacrifice of soldiers, who lost their lives for the country.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pune-hosts-indian-army-day-parade-for-the-first-time-with-the-theme-samarth-bharat-saksham-sena-8622525" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Indian Army Day 2025: Pune hosts parade for the first time with the theme 'Samarth Bharat, Saksham Sena'</a>
<h2>Robotic dogs march during Army Day parade</h2>
In a remarkable display of technological advancement in the country, robotic dogs took the stage as they marched at the Bombay Engineering Group (BEG) Centre, Khadki during the celebration of Army Day 2025.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Maharashtra | Visuals of the 77th Army Day Parade in Pune. The Army Day Parade commemorates Field Marshal KM Cariappa&rsquo;s appointment as the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army in 1949, symbolizing India&rsquo;s post-independence military leadership. <a href="https://t.co/JRoDiNwED3">pic.twitter.com/JRoDiNwED3</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1879396133182783952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

A platoon of robotic dogs, called Multi-Utility Legged Equipment (MULEs), were seen during the parade. Designed for enhancing operational capabilities, especially in difficult terrains like high altitudes and deserts, 100 of these robotic dogs were recently added to the arsenal of the Indian Army.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/devotees-brave-biting-cold-to-take-holy-dip-in-sangam-on-day-3-of-maha-kumbh-2025-8622827" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Devotees brave biting cold to take holy dip in Sangam on day 3 of Maha Kumbh 2025</a>
The quadrupedal unmanned ground vehicles are equipped with advanced sensors and are capable of tracking hostile artillery and offer precise counter-fire. They will also enhance reconnaissance and perimeter security.&nbsp;
The robotic dogs also have electro-optical systems and thermal imaging sensors with payload capabilities of up to 12 kilograms. The MULEs can also be used for combat with small arms.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-brave-skydiver-grabs-the-internets-attention-for-unfurling-maha-kumbh-flag-13000-ft-over-bangkok-8622589" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Kumbh Mela 2025: Skydiver unfurls Maha Kumbh flag 13,000 ft over Bangkok - Watch</a>
<h2>Army Day parade 2025</h2>
The theme for the 77th Army Day celebration was &ldquo;Samarth Bharat, Saksham Sena&rdquo; which translates to &ldquo;Strong India, Capable Army.&rdquo; This year&rsquo;s theme signifies building a strong, self-reliant nation through the efforts of the Indian Army.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-zero-visibility-troubles-commuters-in-delhi-ncr-imd-issues-orange-alert-video-8622522" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">India: Zero visibility troubles commuters in Delhi-NCR; IMD issues &lsquo;orange&rsquo; alert | Watch</a>
With the Indian Army&rsquo;s motto of &ldquo;Service Before Self,&rdquo; the day highlights the commitment and dedication of the soldiers, who protect the nation with strong will and valour, while continually advancing and innovating in the defence field.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | Trending | Army Day 2025: In a remarkable display of technological advancement in the country, robotic dogs took the stage as they marched during the celebration of Army Day 2025. 

Army Day 2025: Robotic dogs were seen marching in the parade during the 77th Army Day celebrations in Pune on Wednesday (Jan 15). The day marks the appointment of General (later Field Marshal) KM Cariappa as the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army in 1949 after independence. The day recognises the efforts of the Indian Army to protect the nation from any foreign threats and keep the citizens safe as well as stepping in to save lives during a natural disaster or crisis. It also honours the sacrifice of soldiers, who lost their lives for the country. Also read | Indian Army Day 2025: Pune hosts parade for the first time with the theme 'Samarth Bharat, Saksham Sena' Robotic dogs march during Army Day parade In a remarkable display of technological advancement in the country, robotic dogs took the stage as they marched at the Bombay Engineering Group (BEG) Centre, Khadki during the celebration of Army Day 2025. #WATCH | Maharashtra | Visuals of the 77th Army Day Parade in Pune. The Army Day Parade commemorates Field Marshal KM Cariappa’s appointment as the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army in 1949, symbolizing India’s post-independence military leadership. pic.twitter.com/JRoDiNwED3 — ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2025 A platoon of robotic dogs, called Multi-Utility Legged Equipment (MULEs), were seen during the parade. Designed for enhancing operational capabilities, especially in difficult terrains like high altitudes and deserts, 100 of these robotic dogs were recently added to the arsenal of the Indian Army. Also read | Devotees brave biting cold to take holy dip in Sangam on day 3 of Maha Kumbh 2025 The quadrupedal unmanned ground vehicles are equipped with advanced sensors and are capable of tracking hostile artillery and offer precise counter-fire. They will also enhance reconnaissance and perimeter security. The robotic dogs also have electro-optical systems and thermal imaging sensors with payload capabilities of up to 12 kilograms. The MULEs can also be used for combat with small arms. Also read | Kumbh Mela 2025: Skydiver unfurls Maha Kumbh flag 13,000 ft over Bangkok - Watch Army Day parade 2025 The theme for the 77th Army Day celebration was “Samarth Bharat, Saksham Sena” which translates to “Strong India, Capable Army.” This year’s theme signifies building a strong, self-reliant nation through the efforts of the Indian Army. Also read | India: Zero visibility troubles commuters in Delhi-NCR; IMD issues ‘orange’ alert | Watch With the Indian Army’s motto of “Service Before Self,” the day highlights the commitment and dedication of the soldiers, who protect the nation with strong will and valour, while continually advancing and innovating in the defence field. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Robotic dogs steal the show in 77th Army Day parade in Pune

Braving the biting cold, the devotees brimming with energy and enthusiasm converged at the Triveni Sangam to take a holy dip at the Maha Kumbh on Wednesday.
Chants of 'Har Har Mahadev', 'Jai Shri Ram' and 'Jai Ganga Maiyya' were heard as the devotees took a dip in the bone-chilling water.
"It was for the first time that I took a dip in Sangam. After taking the dip, I really felt refreshed," said Nibar Chaudhary, a resident of Uttar Pradesh's Basti district.
The 62-year-old was escorted by two persons, as he walked towards the Sangam area to take a dip.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-brave-skydiver-grabs-the-internets-attention-for-unfurling-maha-kumbh-flag-13000-ft-over-bangkok-8622589" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Kumbh Mela 2025: Skydiver unfurlings Maha Kumbh flag 13,000 ft over Bangkok - Watch</a>
Shivram Verma, who accompanied Chaudhary, said that his experience was good, adding the administration here has made proper arrangements for the devotees.
Lucknow resident Nancy, who came here for the first time, echoed similar sentiments.
"My experience in the Maha Kumbh has been good so far," she said.
Abhishek, a resident of neighbouring Fatehpur district, said the "overall experience was good" and added that he "did not face any problems".
Vijay Katheria, a resident of Kanpur, lauded the security arrangements made at the Maha Kumbh.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-mela-2025-millions-gather-in-prayagraj-to-take-part-in-first-amrit-snan-8619794" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Millions gather in Prayagraj to take part in first 'Amrit Snan'</a>
"My experience was good. Proper safety arrangements were made for the devotees and adequate police force was maintained from the security point of view," he said.
Earlier on Tuesday, the seers belonging to various 'akharas' took the first 'Amrit Snan' at the Maha Kumbh on the occasion of 'Makar Sankranti'. Around 3.5 crore devotees took a dip at the Triveni Sangam on 'Makar Sankranti'.
Leading most of the akharas were ash-smeared Naga sadhus, who mesmerised the onlookers with their mastery of traditional weapons.
From skilfully wielding spears and swords to energetically playing the 'damru', their demonstrations were a vibrant celebration of age-old traditions, an official statement said.
In addition to the male Naga sadhus, female Naga ascetics were also present in significant numbers.
The present edition of the Kumbh is being held after 12 years, though seers claim the celestial permutations and combinations for the event are taking place after 144 years, making the occasion even more auspicious.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India news | Trending | Earlier on Tuesday, the seers belonging to various 'akharas' took the first 'Amrit Snan' at the Maha Kumbh on the occasion of 'Makar Sankranti'. 

Braving the biting cold, the devotees brimming with energy and enthusiasm converged at the Triveni Sangam to take a holy dip at the Maha Kumbh on Wednesday. Chants of 'Har Har Mahadev', 'Jai Shri Ram' and 'Jai Ganga Maiyya' were heard as the devotees took a dip in the bone-chilling water. "It was for the first time that I took a dip in Sangam. After taking the dip, I really felt refreshed," said Nibar Chaudhary, a resident of Uttar Pradesh's Basti district. The 62-year-old was escorted by two persons, as he walked towards the Sangam area to take a dip. Also read | Kumbh Mela 2025: Skydiver unfurlings Maha Kumbh flag 13,000 ft over Bangkok - Watch Shivram Verma, who accompanied Chaudhary, said that his experience was good, adding the administration here has made proper arrangements for the devotees. Lucknow resident Nancy, who came here for the first time, echoed similar sentiments. "My experience in the Maha Kumbh has been good so far," she said. Abhishek, a resident of neighbouring Fatehpur district, said the "overall experience was good" and added that he "did not face any problems". Vijay Katheria, a resident of Kanpur, lauded the security arrangements made at the Maha Kumbh. Also read | Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Millions gather in Prayagraj to take part in first 'Amrit Snan' "My experience was good. Proper safety arrangements were made for the devotees and adequate police force was maintained from the security point of view," he said. Earlier on Tuesday, the seers belonging to various 'akharas' took the first 'Amrit Snan' at the Maha Kumbh on the occasion of 'Makar Sankranti'. Around 3.5 crore devotees took a dip at the Triveni Sangam on 'Makar Sankranti'. Leading most of the akharas were ash-smeared Naga sadhus, who mesmerised the onlookers with their mastery of traditional weapons. From skilfully wielding spears and swords to energetically playing the 'damru', their demonstrations were a vibrant celebration of age-old traditions, an official statement said. In addition to the male Naga sadhus, female Naga ascetics were also present in significant numbers. The present edition of the Kumbh is being held after 12 years, though seers claim the celestial permutations and combinations for the event are taking place after 144 years, making the occasion even more auspicious. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Devotees brave biting cold to take holy dip in Sangam on day 3 of Maha Kumbh 2025

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