Congress Working Committee resolves to make INDIA bloc an ideological and electoral success
The newly constituted Congress Working Committee (CWC), at its first meeting in Hyderabad on September 16, welcomed the “continuing consolidation” of Indian National Developmental, Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) and resolved to make it an ideological and electoral success. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, former president Sonia Gandhi, and other party senior leaders were warmly welcomed upon their arrival for the CWC. The committee acknowledged the progress made by INDIA and expressed its commitment to ensuring its success both ideologically and electorally. The consolidation of the alliance is seen as a positive step towards achieving the party’s goals.
Rajya Sabha Chairman Dhankhar to hoist national flag at new Parliament building on September 17
Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar will have the honor of hoisting the national flag at the new Parliament building on September 17. This flag hoisting ceremony will be held a day before the five-day Parliament session starting on September 18. The ceremonial event holds significance as it marks the potential shift of parliamentary proceedings from the old building to the adjacent new one. The new Parliament building is expected to provide a modern and efficient space for legislative functions.
Government shelves socio-economic data of Persons with Disabilities as disability database goes online
The Union government has decided to shelve the socio-economic data it collected while registering approximately 94 lakh Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) across the country for Unique Disability ID (UDID) cards in the past six years. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has cited concerns about the quality of the socio-economic data collected as the reason behind this decision. Rather than utilizing the existing data, the government has opted to focus on the development and implementation of an online disability database through the UDID cards.
Congress calls for increasing existing upper limit of reservation
The Congress Working Committee (CWC) convened in Hyderabad on Saturday and addressed the issue of reservation in India. Considering the BJP’s reluctance to conduct a caste census in the country, the CWC called for an increase in the current upper limit of reservation for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes (OBCs). This move aims to provide further opportunities and representation for marginalized communities. By advocating for an expansion of reservation limits, the Congress party seeks to address the concerns of these historically disadvantaged groups.
Multiple routes proposed in India-Middle East-EU corridor, but multi-billion-dollar project comes with its share of challenges
With the recent launch of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) by India, the United States, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and other countries, several details are still being ironed out. Multiple route options are being considered for this ambitious project, including the inclusion of ports such as Haifa in Israel and Piraeus in Greece. Along the west coast of India, ports like Mundra (Gujarat), Kandla (Gujarat), and Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (Navi Mumbai) could potentially be connected as part of the corridor. However, despite the numerous possibilities, the project faces significant challenges that need to be addressed for successful implementation.
Eminent writer Gita Mehta, sister of Odisha CM, passes away
Gita Mehta, an acclaimed writer, journalist, and elder sister of Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, passed away in New Delhi on Saturday. Mehta, 80, had been battling illness for some time. She had an illustrious career as a war correspondent for a foreign television channel during the creation of Bangladesh in 1971. Her extensive coverage and documentary films on Bangladesh received widespread recognition. Mehta, being the daughter of the legendary Biju Patnaik, leaves behind a significant legacy in the field of journalism and literature.
Indian Army learns from Ukraine war, reevaluates artillery requirements
Drawing valuable lessons from the recent conflict in Ukraine, the Indian Army has revised the profile of its Artillery regiment. The focus now lies on achieving a balance between mobility and augmented long-range firepower. As part of their plans, the Army aims to convert its entire artillery to medium 155 mm gun systems by 2042. This decision reflects a strategic shift to enhance the Army’s capabilities and adapt to modern warfare scenarios.
Libya investigates dams’ collapse after flood claimed over 11,000 lives
Following a devastating flood that caused significant damage and claimed the lives of more than 11,000 people in a coastal city, Libyan authorities have initiated an investigation into the collapse of two dams. Rescue teams continue to search for bodies as part of their recovery efforts nearly a week after the deluge. It is crucial for authorities to understand the reasons behind the dam collapse to prevent similar disasters in the future and ensure the safety of the affected regions.
Special U.N. summit, protests, and talks highlight the urgency of addressing fossil fuels and global warming
As the record-breaking and deadly hot summer draws to a close, the United Nations and the city hosting its summit are intensifying their focus on climate change, particularly the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas. The upcoming special U.N. summit and a week of protests and discussions involving leaders from various sectors aim to shed light on the urgency of the issue. Participants from business, health, politics, and the arts, including Prince William, will contribute to the discourse on combating global warming and transitioning to sustainable practices.
Neeraj Chopra secures second place in Diamond League Final
Neeraj Chopra, the Olympic and world champion in javelin throw, failed to defend his title in the Diamond League Final as he finished second with a modest performance of 83.80m. Despite not securing the top spot, Chopra’s achievement in reaching the final and securing a podium position demonstrates his remarkable talent and contribution to the sport. This competition serves as valuable preparation for the upcoming World Cup, where he will aim to excel and bring further acclaim to himself and the nation.
India to face Sri Lanka in Asia Cup 2023 Final
The Asia Cup continues its legacy of intense competition, although this time it will not feature the much-anticipated clash between India and Pakistan, as has been the tradition for 39 years. Instead, India and Sri Lanka will battle it out for continental supremacy in what promises to be an exciting final. With the World Cup on the horizon, this match holds greater significance beyond regional pride. Both teams will seek to fine-tune their strategies and assert their dominance before the global tournament begins.