All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) on Wednesday finally clinched an alliance with late actor Vijayakanth's Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) for the April 19 Lok Sabha polls by allotting five seats. Watch to know more.

India Elections 2024: AIADMK announces second and final candidates list

It won't be wrong to say that the startup sector has been the flag-bearer of India's growth story. From around 350 in 2014, the number of startups has risen to over 100,000. This also reflects the growing clout of the sector, which is expected to employ millions in the next decade. This report tells you about the rise of startups in India's economy.

The rise of India's startups: India has third-largest startup ecosystem

Residents in the Indian city of Budaun are shocked and worried after local barber hacked two boys to death and critically wounded a third. He was gunned down in an encounter hours later. Watch in for more details!

India: 2 children brutally murdered in UP's Budaun, police guns down key accused

The ruling BJP party of Uttar Pradesh has already revealed the names of 51 out of the 80 Lok Sabha seats in the state in its first list. However, the remaining 24 seats, including Pilibhit and Sultanpur, have yet to be declared.

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In a disturbing incident that has shaken the community, two young brothers, aged 11 and 6, were brutally murdered on Tuesday evening (March 19) in Baba Colony&nbsp;of Badaun town in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh.

The harrowing crime was reportedly perpetrated by a man identified as Sajid, who was subsequently killed in a confrontation with the police.

According to reports, the children, named Ayush and Honey, were playing on the terrace of their home when Sajid arrived and waited for an opportune moment before carrying out the brutal attack.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sadhguru-jaggi-vasudev-of-isha-foundation-undergoes-critical-brain-surgery-at-delhi-hospital-702313">Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev of Isha Foundation undergoes critical brain surgery at Delhi hospital</a>

Rakesh Kumar, the Bareilly Inspector-General of Police, explained that Sajid killed the children and attempted to escape from the scene.

"The police arrived at the location, and the suspect attempted to flee. We chased him and he opened fire at the police, resulting in a shootout during which he was fatally wounded," Kumar stated.

<h2>Here's what we currently know:</h2>

- Two young brothers, aged 11 and 6, were viciously murdered on Tuesday evening in Baba Colony, Badaun, Uttar Pradesh. 
- The accused, identified as Sajid, allegedly committed the crime while the children were playing on the terrace of their home. 
-The man, who was a barber by profession, came into the house of one of his acquaintances with whom he reportedly had a dispute earlier and killed his two male children.&nbsp; 
- After the killings, Sajid tried to escape but was pursued by the police and killed in a shootout when he fired at them. 
- Badaun SSP, Alok Priyadarshi, reported that Sajid entered the house around 7:30 pm and attacked the children on the terrace.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/viral-video-woman-alleges-assault-in-bengaluru-man-asks-for-mercy-702268">VIRAL VIDEO | Bengaluru woman alleges man groped her and tried to flee</a>

- The murder weapon and the revolver used by Sajid have been recovered by the police. 
- The family of the victims has named Sajid's brother, Javed, in the FIR, and efforts are underway to locate and apprehend him. 
- While the motive remains unclear, there are indications of a possible dispute over money leading to the incident. 
- The double murder incited outrage among locals, resulting in protests and disturbances in Baba Colony. 
- The police presence has been enhanced in the area to maintain order, and authorities have urged the public to remain calm.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/badaun-double-murder-horror-barber-brutally-kills-two-children-in-indias-up-dies-in-police-encounter-702083">UP double murder horror: Barber brutally kills two children in Budaun, dies in police encounter</a>

- Badaun District Magistrate, Manoj Kumar, has assured a comprehensive investigation to uncover the motive and bring any accomplices to justice. 
- Police have detained Sajid's father and uncle for questioning. Further details are awaited.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a disturbing incident that has shaken the community, two young brothers, aged 11 and 6, were brutally murdered on Tuesday evening (March 19) in Baba Colony of Badaun town in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh.

In a disturbing incident that has shaken the community, two young brothers, aged 11 and 6, were brutally murdered on Tuesday evening (March 19) in Baba Colony of Badaun town in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh. The harrowing crime was reportedly perpetrated by a man identified as Sajid, who was subsequently killed in a confrontation with the police. According to reports, the children, named Ayush and Honey, were playing on the terrace of their home when Sajid arrived and waited for an opportune moment before carrying out the brutal attack. Also read: Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev of Isha Foundation undergoes critical brain surgery at Delhi hospital Rakesh Kumar, the Bareilly Inspector-General of Police, explained that Sajid killed the children and attempted to escape from the scene. "The police arrived at the location, and the suspect attempted to flee. We chased him and he opened fire at the police, resulting in a shootout during which he was fatally wounded," Kumar stated. Here's what we currently know: - Two young brothers, aged 11 and 6, were viciously murdered on Tuesday evening in Baba Colony, Badaun, Uttar Pradesh. - The accused, identified as Sajid, allegedly committed the crime while the children were playing on the terrace of their home. -The man, who was a barber by profession, came into the house of one of his acquaintances with whom he reportedly had a dispute earlier and killed his two male children. - After the killings, Sajid tried to escape but was pursued by the police and killed in a shootout when he fired at them. - Badaun SSP, Alok Priyadarshi, reported that Sajid entered the house around 7:30 pm and attacked the children on the terrace. Also read: VIRAL VIDEO | Bengaluru woman alleges man groped her and tried to flee - The murder weapon and the revolver used by Sajid have been recovered by the police. - The family of the victims has named Sajid's brother, Javed, in the FIR, and efforts are underway to locate and apprehend him. - While the motive remains unclear, there are indications of a possible dispute over money leading to the incident. - The double murder incited outrage among locals, resulting in protests and disturbances in Baba Colony. - The police presence has been enhanced in the area to maintain order, and authorities have urged the public to remain calm. Also read: UP double murder horror: Barber brutally kills two children in Budaun, dies in police encounter - Badaun District Magistrate, Manoj Kumar, has assured a comprehensive investigation to uncover the motive and bring any accomplices to justice. - Police have detained Sajid's father and uncle for questioning. Further details are awaited. (With inputs from agencies)

Badaun double murder case: Key updates and what we know so far

Be it the state or the General Elections in India, polling season brings in a wave of freebies not that political parties employ as a last ditch effort to ensure their vote bank.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed entrepreneurs and various stakeholders during the 'Startup Mahakumbh' held on Wednesday, (March 20). During his address at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, PM highlighted India's remarkable progress in the realm of startups over the past few years.

During the 'Startup Mahakumbh', Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised the significance of the event, stating, "As India charts its course towards a developed nation by 2047, this Startup Mahakumbh holds immense importance. Over the past decade, we have witnessed India's significant contributions to the IT and software sectors. Now, we observe a burgeoning trend of innovation and startup culture in the country, indicating a continuous and promising growth trajectory. Therefore, the presence of all esteemed members of the startup community at this Mahakumbh is highly meaningful."

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Speaking at Startup Mahakumbh. Powered by the innovative spirit of our Yuva Shakti, India's Startup ecosystem is flourishing at an unprecedented pace.<a href="https://t.co/IP4NymH1h8">https://t.co/IP4NymH1h8</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1770326270061985954?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi further remarked, "Many launch startups and indeed, in politics too, frequent launches are common. However, the key distinction lies in your experimental approach. If one launch doesn't succeed, you swiftly move on to the next."

He also expressed optimism, saying, "Today, the atmosphere is vibrant and energetic. As I strolled through the stalls and witnessed your innovations, I couldn't help but sense that India's future is poised to witness numerous Unicorns and Decacorns. India's timely decisions in nurturing startups have been instrumental in fostering this optimistic outlook. If India has emerged as a beacon of hope and strength in the global startup arena, it is a testament to our well-considered vision and timely actions."

<h2>Key highlights from PM Modi's speech:</h2>

- India has democratised technology, rendering the 'haves and have-nots' theory ineffective. 
- Women are leading over 45 per cent of Indian startups. 
- India boasts more than 125,000 startups, including 110 unicorns.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/trending/national-startup-day-2024-history-significance-and-all-you-need-to-know-680387" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/trending/national-startup-day-2024-history-significance-and-all-you-need-to-know-680387&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiS4Jz43YKFAxWBXGwGHfZKCkUQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3LIixZEUx2FCvylUxCutS7&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/national-startup-day-2024-history-significance-and-all-you-need-to-know-680387" target="_blank">National&nbsp;Startup&nbsp;Day 2024: History, significance</a>

- The youth of India are increasingly opting to become job creators rather than job seekers, showcasing a shift in mindset within the startup ecosystem. 
- The Startup India initiative has provided a platform for innovative ideas and facilitated their connection to funding. 
- The interim budget announced a Rs 1 lakh crore fund for research and innovation, which will bolster sunrise sectors.

<h2> 
What is Startup Mahakhumbh 2024</h2>

The Startup Mahakhumbh 2024 commenced at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on March 18th. According to the Ministry of Electronics and IT, under the resounding theme of 'Bharat Innovates,' the event aims to act as a catalyst for fostering innovation, networking, and providing growth opportunities across various sectors.

The convergence of stakeholders and experts is expected to contribute to further developing emerging sectors such as DeepTech, AgriTech, BioTech, MedTech, AI, Gaming, among others, as stated by the Commerce Ministry on Tuesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/science/rewind-2023-india-has-204-space-startups-sector-received-123mn-investments-675353" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/science/rewind-2023-india-has-204-space-startups-sector-received-123mn-investments-675353&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiS4Jz43YKFAxWBXGwGHfZKCkUQFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3dIR-ugLQgCaS6adomL8o8&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/science/rewind-2023-india-has-204-space-startups-sector-received-123mn-investments-675353&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiS4Jz43YKFAxWBXGwGHfZKCkUQFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3dIR-ugLQgCaS6adomL8o8&amp;arm=e" target="_blank">India has 204 space&nbsp;startups, sector received $123mn investments</a>

"The event, geared towards nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship across India, has seen an unprecedented level of participation from leading investors, innovators, and aspiring entrepreneurs. With over 2000 startups, 1000+ investors, 100+ unicorns, 300+ incubators &amp; accelerators, 3,000+ conference delegates, 10+ country delegations, 3000+ future entrepreneurs, and 50,000+ business visitors from across the country, the event has facilitated vibrant discussions on the way forward and enabled networking among all stakeholders," the ministry said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed entrepreneurs and various stakeholders during the 'Startup Mahakumbh' held on Wednesday, (March 20). During his address at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, PM highlighted India's remarkable progress in the realm of startups over the past few years.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed entrepreneurs and various stakeholders during the 'Startup Mahakumbh' held on Wednesday, (March 20). During his address at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, PM highlighted India's remarkable progress in the realm of startups over the past few years. During the 'Startup Mahakumbh', Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised the significance of the event, stating, "As India charts its course towards a developed nation by 2047, this Startup Mahakumbh holds immense importance. Over the past decade, we have witnessed India's significant contributions to the IT and software sectors. Now, we observe a burgeoning trend of innovation and startup culture in the country, indicating a continuous and promising growth trajectory. Therefore, the presence of all esteemed members of the startup community at this Mahakumbh is highly meaningful." Speaking at Startup Mahakumbh. Powered by the innovative spirit of our Yuva Shakti, India's Startup ecosystem is flourishing at an unprecedented pace.https://t.co/IP4NymH1h8 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 20, 2024 × PM Modi further remarked, "Many launch startups and indeed, in politics too, frequent launches are common. However, the key distinction lies in your experimental approach. If one launch doesn't succeed, you swiftly move on to the next." He also expressed optimism, saying, "Today, the atmosphere is vibrant and energetic. As I strolled through the stalls and witnessed your innovations, I couldn't help but sense that India's future is poised to witness numerous Unicorns and Decacorns. India's timely decisions in nurturing startups have been instrumental in fostering this optimistic outlook. If India has emerged as a beacon of hope and strength in the global startup arena, it is a testament to our well-considered vision and timely actions." Key highlights from PM Modi's speech: - India has democratised technology, rendering the 'haves and have-nots' theory ineffective. - Women are leading over 45 per cent of Indian startups. - India boasts more than 125,000 startups, including 110 unicorns. Also read: National Startup Day 2024: History, significance - The youth of India are increasingly opting to become job creators rather than job seekers, showcasing a shift in mindset within the startup ecosystem. - The Startup India initiative has provided a platform for innovative ideas and facilitated their connection to funding. - The interim budget announced a Rs 1 lakh crore fund for research and innovation, which will bolster sunrise sectors. What is Startup Mahakhumbh 2024 The Startup Mahakhumbh 2024 commenced at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on March 18th. According to the Ministry of Electronics and IT, under the resounding theme of 'Bharat Innovates,' the event aims to act as a catalyst for fostering innovation, networking, and providing growth opportunities across various sectors. The convergence of stakeholders and experts is expected to contribute to further developing emerging sectors such as DeepTech, AgriTech, BioTech, MedTech, AI, Gaming, among others, as stated by the Commerce Ministry on Tuesday. Also read: India has 204 space startups, sector received $123mn investments "The event, geared towards nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship across India, has seen an unprecedented level of participation from leading investors, innovators, and aspiring entrepreneurs. With over 2000 startups, 1000+ investors, 100+ unicorns, 300+ incubators & accelerators, 3,000+ conference delegates, 10+ country delegations, 3000+ future entrepreneurs, and 50,000+ business visitors from across the country, the event has facilitated vibrant discussions on the way forward and enabled networking among all stakeholders," the ministry said. (With inputs from agencies)

Startup Mahakumbh 2024: PM Modi affirms India boasts more than 125,000 startups

A seat-sharing deal is not yet on the table in the state of Maharashtra - both ruling Mahayuti alliance and the Opposition MNS have not reached a consensus as of yet.

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Seeking a straight third term, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a campaign blitz in Southern states - back to back rallies, mega road shows, fierce attacks on Opposition - the PM is leading BJP's attack for 129 seats in Southern India.

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More than four years after it was passed by Parliament The contentious Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), 2019 has been enforced. There has been plenty of questions such as will the non citizens be thrown out of the country and where do the Muslims stand…

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Ahead of the Lok Sabha election schedule announcement, the government implemented a Rs 2 per litre reduction in petrol and diesel prices on Thursday (March 14).

Speculation had been circulating following recent cuts in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and compressed natural gas (CNG) prices, suggesting that a decrease in petrol and diesel prices might be on the horizon due to the impending Lok Sabha polls.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-narendra-modi-announces-reduction-in-lpg-cylinder-price-on-the-occasion-of-womens-day-697975" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-narendra-modi-announces-reduction-in-lpg-cylinder-price-on-the-occasion-of-womens-day-697975&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiBs_Gfk_SEAxUBZmwGHdxdCbYQFnoECAMQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3lcg9rjYvfohKrZCDTxlT5&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-narendra-modi-announces-reduction-in-lpg-cylinder-price-on-the-occasion-of-womens-day-697975" target="_blank">PM Narendra Modi announces reduction in&nbsp;LPG&nbsp;cylinder price</a>

In a statement on X, Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri remarked, "With the Rs 2 reduction in petrol and diesel prices, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reaffirmed his commitment to the well-being and convenience of millions of Indian citizens."

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पेट्रोल और डीज़ल के दाम ₹2 रुपये कम करके देश के यशस्वी प्रधानमंत्री श्री <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> जी ने एक बार फिर साबित कर दिया कि करोड़ों भारतीयों के अपने परिवार का हित और सुविधा सदैव उनका लक्ष्य है। 
 
वसुधा का नेता कौन हुआ? 
भूखण्ड-विजेता कौन हुआ? 
अतुलित यश क्रेता कौन हुआ? 
नव-धर्म… <a href="https://t.co/WFqoTFnntd">https://t.co/WFqoTFnntd</a> <a href="https://t.co/vOh9QcY26C">pic.twitter.com/vOh9QcY26C</a>
— Hardeep Singh Puri (मोदी का परिवार) (@HardeepSPuri) <a href="https://twitter.com/HardeepSPuri/status/1768304332112601299?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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On an average, the minister reported that the average price of petrol stood at Rs 94 per litre, while diesel was priced at Rs 87 per litre.

The Ministry announced that the new prices would come into effect from 6 a.m. local time on Friday, emphasising that the reduced prices would aid in curbing inflation and boosting consumer confidence and spending.

"The reduction in petrol and diesel prices will stimulate consumer spending and reduce operating expenses for over 5.8 million heavy goods vehicles fueled by diesel, as well as for 60 million cars and 270 million two-wheelers," stated the ministry.

The magnitude of price reductions will vary across cities due to local taxes.

In February, India witnessed a faster-than-expected increase in annual retail inflation primarily due to elevated food prices.

Although annual retail inflation dipped slightly to 5.09 per cent&nbsp;in February from 5.10 per cent&nbsp;in January, it exceeded the 5.02 per cent&nbsp;forecast by a Reuters poll of 42 economists.

Earlier this month, India announced a 100 rupee reduction in the cost of a cooking gas cylinder, a move perceived as targeting female voters.

Earlier on International Women’s Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;announced a reduction of Rs 100 in&nbsp;cooking gas prices, benefiting nearly 33 crore households reliant on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).

Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri had previously stated that any reduction in retail prices of petrol and diesel would require careful consideration by public sector oil marketing companies (OMCs) due to global energy market volatility, geopolitical challenges, and the financial condition of these companies.

Opinion polls indicate a comfortable victory for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's&nbsp;Bharatiya Janata Party and its allies in the upcoming lower house parliamentary elections.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of the Lok Sabha election schedule announcement, the government implemented a Rs 2 per litre reduction in petrol and diesel prices on Thursday (March 14). Speculation had been circulating following recent cuts in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and compressed natural gas (CNG) prices, suggesting that a decrease in petrol and diesel prices might be on the horizon due to the impending Lok Sabha polls.

Ahead of the Lok Sabha election schedule announcement, the government implemented a Rs 2 per litre reduction in petrol and diesel prices on Thursday (March 14). Speculation had been circulating following recent cuts in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and compressed natural gas (CNG) prices, suggesting that a decrease in petrol and diesel prices might be on the horizon due to the impending Lok Sabha polls. Also read: PM Narendra Modi announces reduction in LPG cylinder price In a statement on X, Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri remarked, "With the Rs 2 reduction in petrol and diesel prices, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reaffirmed his commitment to the well-being and convenience of millions of Indian citizens." पेट्रोल और डीज़ल के दाम ₹2 रुपये कम करके देश के यशस्वी प्रधानमंत्री श्री @narendramodi जी ने एक बार फिर साबित कर दिया कि करोड़ों भारतीयों के अपने परिवार का हित और सुविधा सदैव उनका लक्ष्य है। वसुधा का नेता कौन हुआ? भूखण्ड-विजेता कौन हुआ? अतुलित यश क्रेता कौन हुआ? नव-धर्म… https://t.co/WFqoTFnntd pic.twitter.com/vOh9QcY26C — Hardeep Singh Puri (मोदी का परिवार) (@HardeepSPuri) March 14, 2024 × On an average, the minister reported that the average price of petrol stood at Rs 94 per litre, while diesel was priced at Rs 87 per litre. The Ministry announced that the new prices would come into effect from 6 a.m. local time on Friday, emphasising that the reduced prices would aid in curbing inflation and boosting consumer confidence and spending. "The reduction in petrol and diesel prices will stimulate consumer spending and reduce operating expenses for over 5.8 million heavy goods vehicles fueled by diesel, as well as for 60 million cars and 270 million two-wheelers," stated the ministry. The magnitude of price reductions will vary across cities due to local taxes. In February, India witnessed a faster-than-expected increase in annual retail inflation primarily due to elevated food prices. Although annual retail inflation dipped slightly to 5.09 per cent in February from 5.10 per cent in January, it exceeded the 5.02 per cent forecast by a Reuters poll of 42 economists. Earlier this month, India announced a 100 rupee reduction in the cost of a cooking gas cylinder, a move perceived as targeting female voters. Earlier on International Women’s Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a reduction of Rs 100 in cooking gas prices, benefiting nearly 33 crore households reliant on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri had previously stated that any reduction in retail prices of petrol and diesel would require careful consideration by public sector oil marketing companies (OMCs) due to global energy market volatility, geopolitical challenges, and the financial condition of these companies. Opinion polls indicate a comfortable victory for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party and its allies in the upcoming lower house parliamentary elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian government slashes petrol, diesel prices by Rs 2 per litre

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The dates for the Lok Sabha elections are likely to be announced by Friday this week, citing sources. The Election Commission's observers' briefing meeting for the general election is currently underway in Delhi. The day-long briefing is aimed at streamlining strategy to ensure the implementation of the model code of conduct for the general elections likely to be held in April-May.

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The Election Commission of India (ECI) published data regarding political donations through electoral bonds on its website late Thursday (Mar 14). The data, furnished after an order by India’s Supreme Court, revealed the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was the biggest beneficiary of the now-banned scheme having received INR 6,000 crore ($732 million) over the last five years.

The ECI sourced the data from the State Bank of India (SBI), encompassing bonds totalling INR 16,518 crore ($1.9 billion).

Prominent Indian industrialists and companies, like steel tycoon Lakshmi Mittal, Airtel's Sunil Bharti Mittal, Vedanta, ITC, and Mahindra and Mahindra featured on the list of buyers of the electoral bonds.

The apex court last month struck down the opaque political funding regime, calling it ‘illegal and unconstitutional.’ The BJP introduced the scheme&nbsp;in 2017, terming it a crucial milestone in the fight against ‘black money’ in Indian elections.

<h2>Top beneficiaries of the scheme</h2>

According to the ECI data, the BJP emerged as the top beneficiary, followed by All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), which received INR 1,609.50 crore ($192 million) via electoral bonds. India’s main opposition Congress party occupied the third spot, with funding totalling INR 1421 crore ($171 million).

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjypMSit_WEAxUP6jgGHV-sAgIQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/election-commission-publishes-electoral-bonds-data-on-its-website-following-sc-order-700154" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/election-commission-publishes-electoral-bonds-data-on-its-website-following-sc-order-700154&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjypMSit_WEAxUP6jgGHV-sAgIQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">India: Election Commission publishes electoral bonds data on its website following Supreme Court order</a>

The Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), Biju Janata Dal (BJD), and Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) also encashed electoral bonds worth more than INR 500 crore each ($60 million) during the specified period. Other parties that redeemed electoral bonds include AIADMK, Shiv Sena, TDP, YSR Congress, JDS, NCP, JDU, RJD, AAP, and the Samajwadi Party, according to the data.

<h2>Top buyers of electoral bonds</h2>

Here is the list of top buyers of the electoral bonds.

Future Gaming and Hotel Services - Rs 1,368 crore

Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Ltd - Rs 966 crore

Qwik Supply Chain Private Ltd - Rs 410 crore

Vedanta Ltd - Rs 400 crore

Haldia Energy Ltd - Rs 377 crore

Bharati Group - Rs 247 crore

Essel Mining and Industries Ltd - Rs 224 crore

Western UP Power Transmission - Rs 220 crore

Keventer Foodpark Infra Ltd - Rs 194 crore

Madanlal Ltd - Rs 185 crore

DLF Group - Rs 170 crore

Yashoda Super Speciality Hospital - Rs 162 crore

Utkal Alumina International - Rs 145.3 crore

Jindal Steel and Power Ltd - Rs 123 crore

Birla Carbon India - Rs 105 crore

Rungta Sons - Rs 100 crore

Dr Reddy's - Rs 80 crore

Piramal Enterprises Group - Rs 60 crore

Navyuga Engineering - Rs 55 crore

Shirdi Sai Electricals - Rs 40 crore

Edelweiss Group - Rs 40 crore

Cipla Ltd - Rs 39.2 crore

Lakshmi Niwas Mittal - Rs 35 crore

Grasim Industries -Rs 33 crore

Jindal Stainless - Rs 30 crore

Bajaj Auto -Rs 25 crore

Sun Pharma Laboratories - Rs 25 crore

Mankind Pharma - Rs 24 crore

Bajaj Finance - Rs 20 crore

Maruti Suzuki India - Rs 20 crore

Ultratech - Rs 15 crore

TVS Motors - Rs 10 crore.

The SBI revealed that a total of 22,217 electoral bonds were bought between April 1, 2019, and February 15, 2024, with most being redeemed by political parties.

<h2>Concerns raised by opposition</h2>

Controversies erupted soon after the ECI made the data public. India's main opposition Congress party alleged a discrepancy in the number of entries in donor and recipient files.

Congress leader Amitabh Dubey on Thursday said, "The donors' file has 18,871 entries, the recipients' file has 20,421 entries. Why the discrepancy."

He also inquired about the missing data between 2017 and 2019. The leader asked why the data shared period from April 2019 even though the scheme was introduced in 2017.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Election Commission of India (ECI) published data regarding political donations through electoral bonds on its website late Thursday (Mar 14). The data, furnished after an order by India’s Supreme Court, revealed the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was the biggest beneficiary of the now-banned scheme having received INR 6,000 crore ($732 million) over the last five years.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) published data regarding political donations through electoral bonds on its website late Thursday (Mar 14). The data, furnished after an order by India’s Supreme Court, revealed the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was the biggest beneficiary of the now-banned scheme having received INR 6,000 crore ($732 million) over the last five years. The ECI sourced the data from the State Bank of India (SBI), encompassing bonds totalling INR 16,518 crore ($1.9 billion). Prominent Indian industrialists and companies, like steel tycoon Lakshmi Mittal, Airtel's Sunil Bharti Mittal, Vedanta, ITC, and Mahindra and Mahindra featured on the list of buyers of the electoral bonds. The apex court last month struck down the opaque political funding regime, calling it ‘illegal and unconstitutional.’ The BJP introduced the scheme in 2017, terming it a crucial milestone in the fight against ‘black money’ in Indian elections. Top beneficiaries of the scheme According to the ECI data, the BJP emerged as the top beneficiary, followed by All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), which received INR 1,609.50 crore ($192 million) via electoral bonds. India’s main opposition Congress party occupied the third spot, with funding totalling INR 1421 crore ($171 million). Also read: India: Election Commission publishes electoral bonds data on its website following Supreme Court order The Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), Biju Janata Dal (BJD), and Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) also encashed electoral bonds worth more than INR 500 crore each ($60 million) during the specified period. Other parties that redeemed electoral bonds include AIADMK, Shiv Sena, TDP, YSR Congress, JDS, NCP, JDU, RJD, AAP, and the Samajwadi Party, according to the data. Top buyers of electoral bonds Here is the list of top buyers of the electoral bonds. Future Gaming and Hotel Services - Rs 1,368 crore Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Ltd - Rs 966 crore Qwik Supply Chain Private Ltd - Rs 410 crore Vedanta Ltd - Rs 400 crore Haldia Energy Ltd - Rs 377 crore Bharati Group - Rs 247 crore Essel Mining and Industries Ltd - Rs 224 crore Western UP Power Transmission - Rs 220 crore Keventer Foodpark Infra Ltd - Rs 194 crore Madanlal Ltd - Rs 185 crore DLF Group - Rs 170 crore Yashoda Super Speciality Hospital - Rs 162 crore Utkal Alumina International - Rs 145.3 crore Jindal Steel and Power Ltd - Rs 123 crore Birla Carbon India - Rs 105 crore Rungta Sons - Rs 100 crore Dr Reddy's - Rs 80 crore Piramal Enterprises Group - Rs 60 crore Navyuga Engineering - Rs 55 crore Shirdi Sai Electricals - Rs 40 crore Edelweiss Group - Rs 40 crore Cipla Ltd - Rs 39.2 crore Lakshmi Niwas Mittal - Rs 35 crore Grasim Industries -Rs 33 crore Jindal Stainless - Rs 30 crore Bajaj Auto -Rs 25 crore Sun Pharma Laboratories - Rs 25 crore Mankind Pharma - Rs 24 crore Bajaj Finance - Rs 20 crore Maruti Suzuki India - Rs 20 crore Ultratech - Rs 15 crore TVS Motors - Rs 10 crore. The SBI revealed that a total of 22,217 electoral bonds were bought between April 1, 2019, and February 15, 2024, with most being redeemed by political parties. Concerns raised by opposition Controversies erupted soon after the ECI made the data public. India's main opposition Congress party alleged a discrepancy in the number of entries in donor and recipient files. Congress leader Amitabh Dubey on Thursday said, "The donors' file has 18,871 entries, the recipients' file has 20,421 entries. Why the discrepancy." He also inquired about the missing data between 2017 and 2019. The leader asked why the data shared period from April 2019 even though the scheme was introduced in 2017. (With inputs from agencies)

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