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03 MAY 2025
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WEATHER
‘Many will lose sleep’: Vance hopes Pakistan will
Partly cloudy sky. Maximum & Minimum
temperature most likely to be around
33�C and 25�C respectively.
cooperate with India in
PM's jibe at INDIA bloc hunting down terrorists
RAINFALL: 0.0 mm
RELATIVE HUMIDITY PM Modi shares stage with Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan and Congress MP Shashi Tharoor
Max. 91% Min. 52% STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE (DBFOT) basis.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, 2 With a handling capacity attack does not lead to a
TEMPERATURE
MAY of up to 5 million TEUs broader regional con- US State Dept
Max: 32.0�C (-3.4) Min: 21.3�C (-4.8)
annually, the port has flict. reiterates

P
rime Minister already seen around 250 Asked by Fox News if
SUN RISES SUN SETS Narendra Modi on container ships dock since the Trump administration support, says
05:04 hrs
MOON RISES
18:04 hrs
MOON SETS
Friday took a jibe it began trial operations is worried about the stands firmly
at the opposition in July 2024. breakout of tensions
08:59 hrs 23:11 hrs
INDIA bloc during the inau- PM Modi seized the between India and Pak- with India
Full Moon on 12 May guration of the Vizhinjam moment to spotlight the istan, he said: “Sure, I STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE
International Seaport in Kerala government’s coop- am worried about any- NEW DELHI, 2 MAY
Kerala, stating that “many eration with the private time you see a hotspot
THUMBNAILS will lose sleep tonight” as sector. Referring to the breaking out, especially The USA has reiterated its
he shared the stage with Ports Minister’s speech between two nuclear support for India against
Kerala Chief Minister acknowledging Adani as a STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE powers. We’ve been in terrorism, saying it firmly
Pinarayi Vijayan and Con- partner, Mr Modi said: NEW DELHI, 2 MAY close contact with our stands with India against
gress MP Shashi Tharoor. “This shows a change.” friends in India and Pak- terrorism. The US govern-
“I want to tell the Chief He humorously added, Backing India’s stance istan.'' ment, however, urged India
Minister—you are a strong with PM Modi. “Despite Minister formally dedi- “Adani completed Vizhin- over the Pahalgam ter- His statement came and Pakistan to work together
pillar of the INDIA alliance. delays at the dysfunctional cated the Vizhinjam Inter- jam Port quickly. Adani's rorist attack, US Vice after US Secretary of to "de-escalate tensions"
Shashi Tharoor is also Delhi airport, I managed national Deepwater Mul- port has been operating President J D Vance has Defense Pete Hegseth that have been on a surge
sitting here, and today’s to land in Thiruvanan- tipurpose Seaport, built in Gujarat for 30 years. expressed the hope that spoke with Defence Min- in the aftermath of the deadly
event will give sleepless thapuram in time to at an estimated cost of People from Gujarat will Pakistan will cooperate ister Rajnath Singh on terror attack in Pahalgam
nights to several people,” receive Prime Minister 8,867 crore, to the nation. be upset if they learn Adani with India to ensure that Thursday and reiterated in Jammu and Kashmir that
PM Modi remarked, point- Narendra Modi on his Kerala Chief Minister built a bigger port in Vizhin- terrorists operating in full support of the Trump killed 26 innocent civilians.
ing to the unusual optics arrival in my constituen- Pinarayi Vijayan, Governor jam,” eliciting laughter. the neighbouring country administration in India’s "As the President (Donald
of opposition leaders shar- cy,” Mr Tharoor posted, Rajendra Arlekar, Union Highlighting India’s are hunted down. fight against terrorism. Trump) articulated to Prime
ing the stage with him. sharing images of a warm Ministers Suresh Gopi aspirations in maritime “We hope that India “The US stands in sol- Minister Modi last week,
However, the person handshake between the and George Kurien, State development, Mr Modi responds to this terrorist idarity with India and the United States stands
Devotees gather at Kedarnath Dham follow- translating his speech two. Ports Minister VN Vasa- said Vizhinjam would bring attack in a way that supports India’s right to strong with India against
ing the opening of the portals, in into Malayalam omitted There has been ongo- van, MP Shashi Tharoor, new economic stability to doesn’t lead to a broader defend itself,” a Defence terrorism and Prime Minister
Rudraprayag on Friday. nANI this portion. Noticing this, ing speculation about Mr Adani Group Chairman Kerala and the nation. “This regional conflict. And we Ministry statement quot- Modi has our full support,"
the Prime Minister Tharoor’s growing prox- Gautam Adani, and others port has emerged as a sym- hope frankly that Pak- ed him as saying. US Department of State
US approves over $131 million military sale quipped: “Message chala imity to the BJP. Unlike attended the event. bol of new-age develop- istan, to the extent that During the conversa- spokesperson Tammy Bruce
to boost India's maritime security: The Unit- gaya jahan jana tha” (“The many other opposition Developed by Adani ment,” he said, noting that they are responsible, tion, Mr Singh told Mr said at a press briefing on
ed States government has approved a poten- message has reached leaders, Mr Tharoor has Ports and Special Economic 75 per cent of India’s trans- cooperates with India to Pete Hegseth that Pak- Friday.
tial $131 million foreign military sale to India where it was meant to”). openly praised PM Modi Zone Ltd (APSEZ), Vizhin- shipment used to take place make sure that the ter- istan has a history of sup- “The Secretary (of State,
aimed at enhancing maritime security in the Notably, Mr Tharoor on multiple occasions. jam is India’s first deep- at foreign ports, causing rorists, sometimes oper- porting, training, and Marco Rubio) encouraged
Indo-Pacific region. The Government of India was present at the Thiru- Earlier this year, when water container transship- massive revenue loss. ating in their territory, funding terrorist organ- (both India and Pakistan)
had requested to buy SeaVision software vananthapuram airport former US President Don- ment port. Designed to “This is now set to are hunted down and isations. to work toward a responsible
(including requested software enhance- on Thursday evening to ald Trump described Mr enhance India's standing change. India’s money will dealt with,” he said. “Pakistan has been solution that maintains
ments); Technical Assistance Field Team receive PM Modi, a gesture Modi as a “tough and bet- in global maritime trade, now serve India, and the Mr Vance said the USA exposed as a rogue state, long-term – I should say –
(TAFT) training; remote software and analytic that has sparked political ter negotiator,” Mr Tha- the port is being developed funds that once flowed is in touch with both Pak- fuelling global terrorism let me correct that – a respon-
support; access to SeaVision documentation; speculation. roor welcomed the com- under a Public-Private Part- abroad will generate oppor- istan and India, and and destabilising the sible resolution that main-
and other related elements of logistics and On Thursday, Mr Tha- ment, saying, “That nership (PPP) model on a tunities for Kerala and the expressed the hope that region. The world can tains long-term peace and
programme support. The estimated total roor also shared photo- sounds very good.” Design, Build, Finance, people of Vizhinjam,” he New Delhi’s response to no longer turn a blind regional stability in South
cost is $131 million. graphs of his meeting On Friday, the Prime Operate, and Transfer said. the 22 April terrorist eye to terrorism,” he said. Asia,” Ms Bruce said.

Pahalgam aftermath: SC protects Srinagar Another Nepal student Indian nationals

sentenced to
family facing deportation to Pakistan commits ‘suicide’ in KIIT death in
Indonesia: Delhi
PARMOD KUMAR against the petitioners. the Indian government. STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE it on Thursday and immediately
NEW DELHI, 2 MAY It further observed that if Advocate Nanda Kishore BHUBANESWAR, 2 MAY
8UGC forms fact informed the police, in whose HC directs
the authorities ultimately further stated that while one A first-year undergraduate finding team presence the body was removed Consulate, MEA
The Supreme Court on Friday
by an interim order protected
decide against the petitioners,
they would be at liberty to
family member had roots in
Pakistan, he had long ago
student from Nepal, Prisa Sah,
was found dead in her hostel found hanging from a ceiling
from her room. It Was taken
to KIMS Hospital where she to intervene
a Srinagar-based family facing approach the Jammu and surrendered his Pakistani room at the Kalinga Institute fan in her room after she was was declared brought dead. AGENCIES
the prospects of deportation Kashmir High Court for redres- passport and had since of Industrial Technology (KIIT) absent during the 7 p.m. atten- Subsequently the body was NEW DELHI, 2 MAY
to Pakistan, directing the sal. “If the petitioner is dis- acquired Indian identification in Bhubaneswar on Thursday dance check. Commissioner taken to AIIMS Bhubaneswar.
authorities not to take any satisfied with the final decision, documents, including a valid in what appears to be a case of Police S. Devdutt Singh The University authorities While addressing a plea con-
coercive action against them a plea may be made before Indian passport. of suicide. confirmed that she was alone have informed the student's cerning the death penalty
until verification of their claim need to be verified... Since the Jammu and Kashmir High Focusing on the human This marks the second such in the room at the time. family and are extending full handed down by an Indone-
of being Indian citizens is factual pleas need verification, Court,” the bench said, while dimension of the matter, advo- incident involving a Nepali No suicide note has been cooperation to the police in sian court to three Indian
completed. we dispose of the same without also emphasising that the cate Kishore informed the female student at KIIT in less recovered so far, and an inves- their investigation, stated a nationals, the Delhi High
A bench of Justices Surya expressing anything on merits, present order should not be bench that one of the peti- than three months. A similar tigation is currently underway. release issued by KIIT on Court on Friday directed the
Kant and Nongmeikapam with a direction to the author- treated as a precedent, as it tioners was working in Ban- tragedy in February had sparked Authorities have notified the Friday. Expressing her sorrow, Indian Consulate in Indonesia
Kotiswar Singh directed that ities to verify these documents has been passed in the peculiar galore while the rest resided campus-wide protests, leading Nepal Embassy. The post- Nepal’s Minister of Foreign to take necessary measures
the authorities concerned and any other fact that may facts and circumstances of in Srinagar. to students vacating hostels mortem examination will be Affairs, Arzu Rana Deuba, to ensure that the convicted
verify the documents furnished be brought to their notice. the case. In the course of the hearing, and prompting a government- conducted at AIIMS wrote on social media platform individuals receive proper
by the family, including Aad- Let a decision be taken at the Appearing for the petitioner Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, ordered investigation. However, Bhubaneswar after the arrival X: “We are deeply saddened legal representation and
haar cards, voter ID, PAN earliest. We are not setting a family faced with the prospects representing the central gov- no such unrest was reported of her parents, said the Com- by the tragic death of Prisa appropriate assistance in pur-
cards, and other government- timeline,” the bench said in of deportation, advocate Nanda ernment, told the bench that following Thursday's incident. missioner of Police. Sah, a Nepali student at KIIT suing appellate remedies.
issued documents, and take its order. Kishore told the bench that it would be more appropriate According to the state gov- In a statement, KIIT author- University in Odisha. I offer Additionally, the Consulate
an appropriate decision at The court clarified that till the family comprised a married for the petitioner to approach ernment, local police were ities said they were deeply my heartfelt condolences to has been instructed to facilitate
the earliest. such a decision is taken, no couple and their four children, the government authorities informed of the incident around saddened and distressed by her family during this difficult communication between the
“Besides the human ele- coercive action, including all Indian nationals with valid concerned for redressal of 8 p.m. Prisa, a first year com- the incident of suicide. Hostel time and pray for the eternal convicted individuals and
ment, there are issues which deportation, shall be taken identity documents issued by their grievance. puter science student, was authorities got to know about peace of her soul.” their families in India.
Advocate Ashish Dixit,
Standing Counsel for the Cen-

Gang rape: Rape by one can Use of ‘Jagannath Dham’ for Digha tral Government and the Min-
istry of External Affairs (MEA),
accepted the notice on behalf

implicate all involved, rules SC Temple sparks outrage in Puri of the respondents and
requested time to obtain
instructions in the matter.
Justice Sachin Datta, pre-
PARMOD KUMAR on the victim or on each one court said, “… in view of Section STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE to calling the temple ‘Jagan- siding over the case, scheduled
NEW DELHI, 2 MAY of the victims, where there 114A of the Evidence Act, there BHUBANESWAR, 2 MAY nath Dham’, stating: “There the next hearing for May 6,
are more than one. is a presumption as to absence is only one Jagannath Dham, 2025, and directed the MEA
Upholding the conviction of Speaking for the bench, of consent in case of gang rape Servitors of the Puri Jagannath and it is in Puri. There are to engage with the Indonesian
an accused in a 2004 case of Justice Viswanathan said: “It and it will be presumed that Temple, along with several numerous Jagannath temples government diplomatically
gangrape, abduction, and is very clear that in a case of the prosecutrix did not give others including Padma Shri across India and abroad, to protect the rights of the
wrongful confinement in gangrape under Section consent as long as the pros- awardee and renowned sand and no one objects to them— Indian nationals under appli-
Madhya Pradesh, the Supreme 376(2)(g), an act by one is ecutrix states in evidence before artist Sudarshan Patnaik, but using the term ‘dham’ cable international conventions
Court held that an act of rape enough to render all in the the Court that she did not con- have strongly objected to is inappropriate.” or bilateral agreements, if any.
even by one person can impli- gang for punishment as long sent.” The judgment further the use of the term ‘Jagannath Deputy Chief Minister The case involves a petition
cate all in the gang if they as they have acted in furtherance said that the presumption (of Dham’ for a recently inau- Pravati Parida also weighed filed by the spouses of three
acted with a common inten- of the common intention. Fur- absence of consent) is based gurated temple in Digha, in on the issue, sharply crit- Indian nationals--Raju
tion of committing the crime. ther, common intention is on the reasoning that nobody West Bengal. icising the move. “A dictatorial Muthukumaran, Selvadurai
Referring to the Criminal implicit in the charge of Section can be consenting to several Puri is one of the four the Digha temple, including idols had initially been regime often displays arro- Dinakaran, and Govindasamy
Law (Amendment) Act, 1983 376(2)(g) itself and all that is persons simultaneously and sacred dhams in India, and the installation of darubrah- installed four months ago. gance. Lord Jagannath is Vimalkandhan--who were
(Explanation 1 to 376(2)(g)), needed is evidence to show in this case, there is nothing the designation cannot be ma—a sacred practice sig- “When I was consulted for watching everything,” she sentenced to death by an
a bench of Justice Sanjay Karol the existence of common inten- concrete adduced to rebut the replicated elsewhere. In a nifying the rebirth of Lord an auspicious date, I informed remarked on Friday. Indonesian court for nar-
and Justice K V Viswanathan, tion.” Rejecting the argument presumption of the absence letter to Odisha Chief Minister Jagannath—traditionally them that rituals cannot be Sudarshan Patnaik further cotics-related offences.
in a judgment delivered on that the prosecutrix was in a of consent. Referring to Section Mohan Charan Majhi, Mr conducted only at Puri during performed with stone idols. demanded that West Bengal According to the plea, the
Thursday, 1 May, said it was relationshipwiththe co-accused, 114A of the Evidence Act, the Patnaik emphasised that the Nabakalebara, an event that I then provided idols made Chief Minister Mamata three men were employed at
not necessary that the pros- Jalandhar Kol, and the impli- court said once a woman states title ‘Jagannath Dham’ is occurs once every 12 years. from neem wood, as per tra- Banerjee offer an apology a shipyard when they were
ecution should adduce clinch- cation that there was consent in evidence that she did not exclusive to Puri. One of the servitors who dition, for the consecration,” to Jagannath devotees for detained by the Indonesian
ing proof of complete act of by her, the judgment referring consent, the law mandates a Concerns were also raised attended the Digha inaugu- he said. referring to the Digha temple Narcotics Department for pos-
rape by each one of the accused to earlier decisions of the top presumption against consent. over rituals performed at ration clarified that stone However, he too objected as a ‘dham’. session of narcotics.
02 BHUBANESWAR, SATURDAY 03 MAY 2025

ESC sets up Odisha Use of ‘Jagannath Dham’ for Digha

temple sparks outrage in Puri
Industry Support Cell
STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE Narula, ESC Chairman Veer
STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE
BHUBANESWAR, 2 MAY

Servitors of the Puri Jagannath

BHUBANESWAR, 2 MAY: Sagar and ESC (Eastern) Temple, along with several
Chairman Dr Ashwini Kumar others, including Padma

P
roduction of semi- Rath and others were pres- Shri awardee and renowned
conductors will start ent. sand artist Sudarshan Pat-
in Odisha in the next Among the key highlights naik, have strongly objected
couple of years, said was the launch of the Odisha to the use of the term ‘Jagan-
IT Minister Mukesh Mahaling Industry Support Cell by nath Dham’ for a recently
at a summit titled 'From ESC, aimed at providing inaugurated temple in Digha,
Temple to Tech' here on export guidance, global mar- West Bengal.
Friday. ket access, mentoring, and Puri is one of the four
The summit was organ- standards compliance sup- sacred dhams in India, and
ized by the department of port for local electronics the designation cannot be
electronics and IT in col- and IT enterprises. The event replicated elsewhere. In a
laboration with the Elec- also saw the unveiling of a letter to Odisha chief minister
tronics and Computer Soft- white paper titled “Electronics Mohan Charan Majhi, Mr idols had initially been and no one objects to them—
ware Export Promotion and Software Exports from Patnaik emphasised that the installed four months ago. but using the term ‘dham’
Council (ESC). Government India and Odisha,” offering title ‘Jagannath Dham’ is “When I was consulted for is inappropriate.”
officials, industry leaders, a data-backed roadmap for exclusive to Puri. an auspicious date, I Deputy chief minister
academic experts, and start- expanding the state’s export Concerns were also raised informed them that rituals Pravati Parida also weighed
ups from across India and capabilities. over rituals performed at cannot be performed with in on the issue, sharply crit-
abroad participated in the Six Memoranda of Under- the Digha temple, including stone idols. I then provided icising the move. “A dicta-
summit. tives available to investors government came up with standing (MoUs) were signed the installation of darubrah- idols made from neem wood, torial regime often displays
Vishal Kumar Dev, Prin- in the state's IT policy and 8Semiconductor attractive policies, India has between ESC and leading ma—a sacred practice sig- as per tradition, for the con- arrogance. Lord Jagannath
cipal Secretary, Department
of Information Technology
semiconductor policy.
Joint Secretary to the Gov-
production to made considerable progress
in electronics manufacturing.
academic institutions includ-
ing IIT Bhubaneswar, IIIT
nifying the rebirth of Lord
Jagannath—traditionally
secration,” he said.
However, he too objected
is watching everything,” she
remarked on Friday.
highlighted the growing con- ernment of India, Manish start in Odisha in 99% of mobile phones used Bhubaneswar, OUTR, BPUT, conducted only at Puri during to calling the temple ‘Jagan- Sudarshan Patnaik further
tribution of the services
sector towards the State
Chadha presented a com-
parative picture of the coun-
two years: Min- in India are made within
the country.
VSSUT, and the World Trade
Center Bhubaneswar, to pro-
Nabakalebara, an event that
occurs once every 12 years.
nath Dham’, stating: “There
is only one Jagannath Dham,
demanded that chief minister
Mamata Banerjee offer an
Gross Domestic Product try's hardware production ister Mahaling Executive Director of ESC mote industry-academia col- One of the servitors who and it is in Puri. There are apology to Jagannath devo-
(GSDP). He spoke about the and said that a few years Gurmeet Singh, Chairman laboration and skill devel- attended the Digha inaugu- numerous Jagannath temples tees for referring to the Digha
various benefits and incen- ago there were many chal- lenges. But after the central (Global Outreach) Sandeep opment. ration clarified that stone across India and abroad, temple as a ‘dham’.

HSC results:
Girls do better
IOCL clears the air on High-Speed Corridor connecting
than boys LPG services in an area Meghalaya to Silchar worth
STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE
BHUBANESWAR, 2 MAY:
Girls outperform boys in the
of Bhubaneswar Rs 22,864 cr approved
High School Certificate ( HSC) STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE For any further support
examinations , results to which BHUBANESWAR, 2 MAY: or grievance redressal, cus- STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE Jowai-Ratacherra. However, NH-27, NH-106, NH-206,
were declared on Friday. The tomers may contact the fol- NEW DELHI, 2 APRIL: Guwahati-Shillong-Silchar NH-37 providing seamless
overall pass percentage was The IOCL cleared the air lowing officials and distrib- being the shortest route is connectivity to Guwahati,
94.93 as against 96.07 last over an issues faced by LPG utors: - Field Officer: The Government of India preferred by traffic. Shillong, Silchar, Diengpa-
year. A total of 5.02.417 students consumers in a certain area 9437577913 , - Customer has approved the Develop- The primary goal of the soh, Ummulong, Phramer,
had appeared at the exami- of Bhubaneswar which was Service Cell Officer: 0674- ment, Maintenance and proposed project is to pro- Khlieriat, Ratachera,
nations and 4.84,863 have published on 28 April and 2740088 / 7381040179, it Management of 166.80 km vide high-speed connectivity Umkiang, Kalain..
passed. stated that it was due to the stated. of National Highway No. between Guwahati and Upon completion, the
A total of 244,612 girls temporary closure of one It has also listed out that 06 from Mawlyngkhung Silchar, which provides the Shillong - Silchar Corridor
passed the exam with a pass LPG distributorship but added three distributors M/s (near Shillong) in Meghalaya gateway to Mizoram, will play a pivotal role in
percentage of 96 per cent, that there was no disruption Bhubaneswar Gas - to Panchgram (near Silchar) Manipur and Tripura. The regional economic growth,
outperforming 240,251 boys. as Indian Oil had initiated 9556344550 / 9937633209 , in Assam on Hybrid Annuity existing 2-lane with Paved improving connectivity
School and Mass Education proactive measures to ensure - M/s Seva Gas - 9437056059 Mode as 4-lane access con- Shoulder NH-06 between between Guwahati, Shillong,
Minister Nityananda Gond that customers linked to the / 7978063701 / 8599035394 trolled green field High- Shillong and Silchar face Silchar, Imphal, Aizawl and
told media persons that this distributor continue to receive and M/s Maa Mangala Speed Corridor at a total significant congestion due Agartala.
year a total of 3,273 high uninterrupted LPG servic- Indane have been providing capital cost of �22,864 Crore. to dense urban areas and The project aligns with
schools in Odisha achieved es. LPG services to different The project length of 166.80 high traffic volumes. the government’s vision of
100% pass rate . He said 1,112 Customers who are areas . km lies in Meghalaya (144.80 This project provides an Atmanirbhar Bharat,
students scored A1 grade attached with the closed dis- Krishnendu Choudhary, km) and Assam (22.00 km). optimized greenfield align- enhancing infrastructure
(above 90 per cent), while tributorship are being sup- GM, Corporate Communi- At present, the connec- ment, ensuring better access while generating employ-
12,200 received A2, 38,831 plied by three alternative cation, ERO , IOCL, asserted tivity between Guwahati to key highways and reducing ment and fostering socio-
got B1, and 84,971 passed in distributors, it asserted while that Indian Oil remains com- and Silchar is either through travel time and costs. economic development in
B2. Over 1 lakh students denying that the consumers mitted to delivering unin- East-West Corridor (NH- The project alignment Meghalaya, Assam, Manipur,
secured C grade, and 67,013 were subjected to inconven- terrupted and high quality 27) or through the existing integrates with major trans- Mizoram and Tripura, stated
cleared the exam with E grade”. ience or harassment. service to every consumer. 2-lane NH-06 via Jorabat- port corridors, including officials.

Father,
daughter killed
CUO cries for greater attention Five youths stab
in road mishap,
STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE
KORAPUT , 2 MAY:
Located in Sunabeda, Kora-
put district—part of the KBK
(Koraput-Bolangir-Kalahan-
and undertook translation
projects on the lives of
Utkalamani Gopabandhu
friend to death
son injured Professor Narasingha Charan
Panda has taken over as the
di) region—the university
spans 450.09 acres over the
Das and Utkala Gourav Mad-
husudan Das. Additionally,
STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE
JAGATSINGHPUR, 2 MAY:
from Jenashai befriended
Ramakant and frequently
Acting Vice-Chancellor of villages of Chikapar and efforts were made to fill fac- drank with him. Unaware of
STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE the Central University of Chakarliput. The region is ulty positions across 20 In a shocking incident, five their intentions, Behera often
BARIPADA, 2 MAY: Odisha (CUO) following the predominantly inhabited departments. youths allegedly stabbed their joined them in drinking ses-
In a tragic accident, a father resignation of Prof. Chakrad- by Scheduled Tribe (ST) and "While an acting VC can friend, Ramakant Behera (45), sions. On the night of the
and daughter were killed while har Tripathi on 30 April . Scheduled Caste (SC) com- perform most responsibili- to death on Thursday night incident, the group asked
the son was critically injured. Prof. Tripathi had assumed munities, with historically ties, the recruitment of per- in Mangrajpur village under Ramakant for money to buy
The three were on a bike office as the fourth regular low higher education enroll- manent faculty and non- Kujang police limits. The liquor and fought with him.
which hit a roadside tree on Vice-Chancellor of CUO on ment rates. teaching staff requires the murder reportedly stemmed Ramakant returned home to
Thursday night.The deceased 26 September , 2022. Over its 15-year history, presence of a regular Vice- from a combination of a past rest. Later, the accused report-
Kumar Marandi(40), his Upon taking charge, Prof. the university has witnessed Chancellor," said Prof. Palita, rivalry over a love affair and edly called him multiple times,
daughter Salge Marandi (11) Panda addressed the uni- administrative instability, former Dean and twice Acting a dispute over money for luring him out to the village
while the son Ruhidas Marandi versity community and with four regular Vice-Chan- VC. He stressed that without alcohol. road, where they were waiting.
( 8) was injured.Kumar came emphasized the need for cellors, two additional charge special intervention from Ramakant Behera, a cook As soon as he arrived, they
to the Jamupada government- collective effort. “This is a VCs from other universities, the Ministry, critical func- by profession, was returning attacked him with sharp
run Ashram School under challenging time for the uni- and two acting VCs including tions like recruitment and home after preparing food weapons. Ramakant tried to
Kaptipada police station to versity, and only through Prof. Panda and Prof. Sarat preparations for the overdue at a local event when the flee but was chased and
bring his daughter home. He collective effort can we move Kumar Palita, who had held NAAC accreditation (due incident occurred. His nephew stabbed at least 12 times near
took his son along with him forward,” he said, urging the position twice during since 2022) remain stalled. had earlier developed a love the village Hanuman temple,
on the bike. All three were wholehearted support from transitional periods. Expressing concern, Sunil affair with a girl from Jenashai where he collapsed in a pool
turning home when Kumar faculty, non-teaching staff, Commenting on the cur- Biswal lamented that despite village. Despite opposition of blood.
lost control of the bike and students, and stakeholders. rent state of the university, high-level representation from her family, the two got Tirtol Sub-Divisional Police
hit a tree. The father and The CUO, established Prof. P.C. Mohapatro, Direc- from Odisha including the married, which sparked a Officer Chinmaya Rout con-
daughter died on the spot. under the Central Univer- tor of COATS, noted that President of India and the long-standing feud between firmed the incident, stating,
The commuters on the road sities Act, 2009, was envi- during Prof. Tripathi’s tenure, Union Education Minister the families of Behera and “Three suspects have been
had rescued the son and sioned to enhance access CUO made strides in —the university has not the girl. detained in connection with
informed the local police sta- to quality higher education research, initiated regionally received the attention it In an alleged attempt to the murder, while two others
tion. in underdeveloped regions. relevant academic programs, deserves . settle scores, a few youths are absconding”.

Class X commits suicide 20-year-old youth Two cops injured in

after exam results drowns in Mahanadi attack by highway
STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE
JAGATSINGHPUR, 2 MAY: River; 7 rescued miscreants
A 15-year-old boy died by STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE to beat the summer heat. STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE
suicide after being upset JAGATSINGHPUR, 2 MAY: While bathing, Mallick BALASORE, 2 MAY:
over his performance in the reportedly slipped and was
Class X Board Examination reportedly scored 396 marks, A 20-year-old youth from swept away by the current. Two police personnel includ-
conducted by the Board of approximately 66%, following Sanpur village under Jagats- His friends attempted to ing on-duty were injured
Secondary Education (BSE), the declaration of results inghpur police limits save him but struggled them- when they attempted to pre-
Odisha. The incident took today. drowned while taking a selves and began drown- vent an extortion attempt
place at Alasudha village Family members stated bath in the Mahanadi river ing. on NH 60 under Jaleswar
under Jagatsinghpur police that Balaram appeared upset near Tarapur under Raghu- Hearing their cries for police station limits on Thurs-
limits on Friday. after learning his results. He nathpur police limit area help, local villagers rushed day night. Police reinforcements were
Sources said the deceased, allegedly hanged himself on Thursday. Seven of his to the spot and managed The miscreants who were rushed to the spot and four
identified as Balaram Rout, from the ceiling fan in his friends, who accompanied to rescue all seven, but extorting money from a truck miscreants arrested.
a Class X student of Puro- room using a rope. him, were rescued by local Mallick remained missing. driver around 12.30 am stop- The two injured policemen
hitpur High School under Meanwhile, police have residents. The Raghunathpur Fire ping the vehicle and on were rescued along with the
Jagatsinghpur Municipality, seized the body and sent it The deceased, identified Brigade launched a search receiving information, police truck driver. They have been
had appeared for the High to Jagatsinghpur District as Amit Mallick of Sanpur operation and recovered reached the spot. Instead of admitted to a nearby health
School Certificate (HSC) Headquarters Hospital for village, had gone to the Mallick's body after four fleeing from the spot, they care centre said the official
examination this year. He post-mortem. river along with seven friends hours. attacked the police personnel. sources.
 BHUBANESWAR, SATURDAY 03 MAY 2025
03
1st phase of Assam rural body It’s our responsibility to ensure senior
citizens live with dignity: Prez Murmu
polls begins in 14 districts STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE
NEW DELHI, 2 MAY

Voters turning up in large numbers signal strong grassroots participation in the Panchayati Raj system Observing that elder people
are a link to the past and
STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE guides to the future, President
GUWAHATI, 2 MAY The ruling coalition Droupadi Murmu on Friday
focused its messag- said it is the nation’s collective

V
oting is underway in ing on rural develop- responsibility to ensure that
the first phase of ment, infrastructure seniors live their old age
Assam’s Panchayat improvement, and with dignity and activeness.
elections, with voters She was speaking at an
the implementation
turning up in large numbers event ‘Ageing with Dignity’
across 14 districts early Friday of flagship central - initiatives for the welfare
morning. schemes such as the of senior citizens at the Rash-
Long queues outside PM Awas Yojana and trapati Bhavan Cultural Cen-
polling stations signal strong Jal Jeevan Mission. tre. The event organised by parents. Elders act as an empower oneself, analyse
grassroots participation in the Union Ministry of Social emotional pillar for the family. one's life and actions, and
what is often considered the Justice and Empowerment Elders too remain physically live a meaningful life. Spir-
bedrock of India’s democratic chayats, and Zila Parishads, witnessed the launch of the and emotionally healthy itually empowered senior
structure - the Panchayati the polls are expected to wit- senior citizens welfare portal, when they see their family citizens can lead the country
Raj system. ness intense electoral contests the virtual inauguration of flourishing. and society towards greater
The first phase covers 19 and high voter turnout. senior citizens homes, the The President said that prosperity and progress.
districts, including Sonitpur, The NDA has already distribution of Aids and Assis- in today's competitive and She was happy to note
Biswanath, Dhemaji, Lakhim- secured an uncontested victory tive devices and the signing quick-paced life, the support, that the government is
pur, Tinsukia, Dibrugarh, in 37 Zila Parishad and 288 of an MoU between the inspiration and guidance of empowering senior citizens
Sivasagar, Charaideo, Jorhat, polling. octane campaign blitz came opment, infrastructure Anchalik Panchayat seats - Department of Social Justice senior citizens is extremely through various initiatives
Majuli, Golaghat, Cachar, By 11:40 a.m. officials to a close on Wednesday. improvement, and the an outcome Chief Minister and Empowerment and Brah- important for the younger so that they can actively par-
Hailakandi, and Sribhumi. reported a voter turnout of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa implementation of flagship Sarma hailed as “an unprece- makumaris organisation. generation. The wealth of ticipate in all aspects of life.
The Assam State Election 8.47 per cent within the first Sarma led the charge alongside central schemes such as the dented achievement in The President said that experiences and knowledge, She urged all citizens to com-
Commission has deployed two hours. Election authorities Union Minister Sarbananda PM Awas Yojana and Jal Jeevan Assam’s political landscape.” respecting parents and elders which senior citizens have, mit themselves to the hap-
over 1.20 lakh polling per- expected the participation Sonowal and state BJP pres- Mission. The panchayat elections is part of the Indian culture. can help the younger gen- piness and well-being of the
sonnel, with security forces to rise steadily as the day ident Dilip Saikia. With more than 50,000 are being conducted in two It is generally seen in families eration to face complex chal- elderly, value their guidance
stationed at every booth to progressed. The ruling coalition focused seats up for grabs across Gram phases - on 2 May and that children are very com- lenges. She said that old age and enjoy their valuable
ensure peaceful and fair The BJP-led NDA’s high- its messaging on rural devel- Panchayats, Anchalik Pan- 7 May . fortable with their grand- is also a stage to spiritually company.

Kill and dump policy in Balochistan one

of the darkest chapters in Pakistan
Crackdown on illegal madrasas & encroachments Manipur’s ethnic strife: Two years
of turmoil and the quest for peace
human rights record: Himanta Sarma continues in UP districts bordering Nepal STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE black flags as a sign of mourn-
STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE wrote in microblogging site IMPHAL, 2 MAY ing.
GUWAHATI, 2 MAY X. STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE The drive remains ongoing, reinforcing the madrasas have been found The violence that began
Sarma added that the Prime LUCKNOW, 2 MAY violating norms and not fol- As Manipur approaches the in May 2023 stemmed from
government's zero-tolerance stance on
Sharpening attack on Pakistan, Minister Narendra Modi broke lowing the required curricu- second anniversary of the deep-seated ethnic tensions
Chief Minister of Assam Himan- the global silence on Balochistan In a determined push to unlawful encroachments and unregulated lum—they have all been shut ethnic violence that erupted between the Meitei commu-
ta Biswa Sarma on Friday said in 2016. uphold the law and maintain religious establishments. down. Two other madrasas on 3 May, 2023, the state nity, residing in the Imphal
that the systematic extrajudicial “Referring to the “rivers order, the Uttar Pradesh gov- that failed to submit records remains on high alert. Valley, and the Kuki-Zo tribes
killings in Balochistan - com- of red” flowing through ernment has intensified its cedures. So far, hundreds of day alone, eight such actions within the given one-week Security forces have inten- inhabiting the surrounding
monly known as the “kill and Balochistan, he gave voice to crackdown on illegal madrasas, illegal constructions have were carried out, with 139 deadline have also been sified measures across key hills.
dump policy” - remain one of people being denied justice mosques, and other unau- been targeted under this cam- total cases handled so far. In served notices. districts, including Imphal, The immediate trigger
the darkest chapters in Pak- and dignity, affirming that thorised religious structures paign, with strict action being villages like Bhartha and In Bahraich, eight Churachandpur, and Kang- was a Manipur HC order
istan’s human rights record. India stands firmly with the on the Indo-Nepal border. taken in each case. Roshan Garh in Bhinga tehsil, encroachments were removed pokpi, to prevent any resur- directing the state government
“For years, the Baloch peo- oppressed and the silenced. Acting on directives from The drive remains ongoing, illegal mosques built on gov- on Wednesday and Thursday gence of conflict. to consider the inclusion of
ple have endured a ruthless His words carried not only Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, reinforcing the government's ernment land were demol- from the tehsils of Nanpara The Manipur People’s Meiteis in the Scheduled
campaign of enforced disap- moral clarity, but also inter- joint teams from the Revenue zero-tolerance stance on ished. and Mihipurwa. In total, 135 Convention is set to convene Tribes list, a move opposed
pearances, where students, national weight—bringing and Police departments have unlawful encroachments and Action also continued in illegal structures have been at Khuman Lampak in by the Kuki-Zo tribes. Protests
activists, teachers, and intel- overdue attention to a crisis been conducting raids across unregulated religious estab- the Pilibhit district. In Bal- demolished so far. Previously, Imphal, while the Coordi- escalated into widespread
lectuals are abducted by state Pakistan has tried to keep multiple locations, identifying lishments. rampur, eight madrasas were five other madrasas were also nating Committee on violence, resulting in over
agencies, subjected to torture, hidden,” Sarma said. and removing illegal encroach- Sources said in the served notices, three illegal sealed. In three cases on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) 260 deaths and displacing
and later found dead in remote “Organisations like the ments, officials here confirmed Shravasti district, five illegal structures at shrines (mazars) Thursday, the encroachments has urged citizens to suspend more than 60,000 people.
ravines or discarded along Voice for Baloch Missing Per- on Friday. madrasas were sealed on were removed, and five more were removed voluntarily by activities on 3 May and Several homes, churches,
desolate roads. This inhumane sons estimate that over 20,000 Madrasas operating with- Thursday, bringing the total were issued notices. A total the individuals involved. attend the convention. and temples were destroyed,
practice has become the very individuals have disappeared. out recognition and in violation number of actions taken so of 16 illegal encroachments Furthermore, action was Simultaneously, the Kuki while reports of mass rapes
face of state-sponsored terror Many recovered bodies show of prescribed standards are far to 41. Authorities have were identified, and three taken against 17 illegal religious Students’ Organisation and and lynchings surfaced.
in Balochistan - where families, signs of severe torture, pointing being sealed, while unautho- also cleared illegal temporary were demolished. At one structures - this includes Zomi Students’ Federation Despite the deployment
instead of hope, receive the to a systematic policy of silenc- rised religious structures built and permanent encroach- location, an Eidgah built three mosques and 14 unreg- have called for a shutdown of central forces and the
battered and mutilated bodies ing dissent through fear and on government land are being ments within 15 kilometeres without permission is also istered madrasas in Siddharth- in Kuki-dominated areas, imposition of internet shut-
of their loved ones,” Sarma violence,” Sarma said. demolished as per legal pro- of the Nepal border. On Thurs- under review. So far, 20 nagar district. encouraging the hoisting of downs tensions persist.

RPF, GRP, BSF begin joint patrols along Indo-Bangla border OBC interests safe in the hands of BSP: Mayawati
STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE highlighting the urgent need STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE
GUWAHATI, 2 MAY for coordinated vigilance. LUCKNOW, 2 MAY "Now, BJP and
The India-Bangladesh Congress are trying
The Railway Protection Force border, stretching over 4,096 Reacting sharply to the pro- to take credit for the
of the Northeast Frontier km, is the longest interna- posed caste census, Bahujan caste census which
Railway has launched joint tional boundary India shares Samaj Party ( BSP) supremo
patrols in coordination with with any country. Mayawati asserted that the
should also be seen
the Government Railway In the northeastern states, interests of the OBCs are by the Bahujans,"
Police and the Border Security including Assam and Tripura, safe with the BSP as the Mayawati said.
Force to bolster security the border has often been party is the true friend of
along the India-Bangladesh exploited for illegal migration, the OBC society. Ambedkar and the BSP, the
border, smuggling, and infiltration "Trusting the BJP or Con- OBC society is very aware
The move aims to protect - posing both security and gress will be fatal for the today, like Dalits, and they
vital railway infrastructure demographic challenges. Bahujans for their interest know these selfish political
and enhance surveillance Railway routes in these areas and welfare," she said. parties, which only eye on
in sensitive zones where intrusions, and threats to Following the political serve as potential conduits In a series of posts on their vote bank while BSP
railway tracks run close to passenger safety. shift in Bangladesh last year for such unauthorised move- the social media on Friday, only fought for their rights,”
the international boundary. They are also tasked with - marked by the fall of Prime ments, making them strategic Mayawati, while questioning Bahujan policies. and honest towards Bahujan she claimed.
Officials from NFR said assessing the functionality Minister Sheikh Hasina’s points of concern. the delay in the caste-based "Now, BJP and Congress Samaj, then the OBC society "Therefore, the time has
that the patrolling operation of railway safety systems government - Indian security NFR officials emphasised census, called the decision are trying to take credit for should have become a proper come to stand up on the
spans several divisions across and ensuring that real-time agencies have reported a that this intensified patrolling of the BJP-led NDA govern- the caste census which should partner in the development issue of Vote Hamara Raj
the zone, particularly those response mechanisms are surge in unauthorised entries initiative is not just a short- ment to go for caste census also be seen by the Bahujans," of the country, so that the Tumhara, Nahi Chelaga and
bordering Bangladesh. fully operational. by Bangladeshi nationals. term measure but part of a along with the national cen- she said. mission of Baba Saheb Dr to make it a reality and hence
These teams are respon- This joint operation Several arrests have been broader strategy to integrate sus an effort to woo the OBC, The BSP chief, however, Bhimrao Ambedkar would BJP and Congress should
sible for monitoring vulner- comes in the wake of rising made in recent months at railway security within the the society that remained maintained: "Anyway, if the have been successful." not be believed for the past
able railway stretches to concerns over illegal cross- railway stations situated in national security backward, exploited, and intention and policy of Con- “But due to the continuous actions against the OBC and
deter sabotage, unauthorised border movements. proximity to the border, framework. deprived due to the anti- gress and BJP were clean struggle of Babasaheb Dr dalits.”

UP government sets target to triple exports by 2030 Uttar Pradesh govt to build AI-skilled
STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE
LUCKNOW, 2 MAY
Beyond quality assurance,
the government is also pro-
ernment is actively expanding
irrigation coverage, and the workforce through six departments
moting agricultural diversi- state’s nine agro-climatic
The Uttar Pradesh govern- fication and expanding the zones support the cultivation STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE ment will run targeted training Electronics, six government
ment has set an ambitious reach of natural farming. of a wide variety of crops, LUCKNOW, 2 MAY programs customised for its departments will participate
target of tripling the state's Already being practiced along fruits, and vegetables. As domain, embedding AI com- in executing the AI training
exports by 2030, with agri- the Ganga and across Bun- India’s most populous state, In a major step toward making petencies into public gover- initiative. The Education
culture expected to play a delkhand, natural farming Uttar Pradesh also benefits Uttar Pradesh a frontrunner nance, service delivery, and Department will run AI-based
pivotal role in achieving this is now being systematically from a vast and affordable in artificial intelligence (AI), day-to-day operations. courses in schools, colleges,
goal. promoted throughout the labour force. the state government is set to This comprehensive effort and universities, helping pro-
National export data sup- state. Initiatives like the World These strengths have launch a comprehensive AI is expected not only to generate fessors, staff, and students
ports this vision, showing a Bank-supported Uttar Pradesh already helped Uttar Pradesh upskilling program aimed at a substantial pool of skilled become skilled in AI.
steady rise in the export of Agriculture Growth and Rural lead the country in the pro- preparing a future-ready work- AI talent but also to create a Similarly, the Health Depart-
agricultural and food products Enterprise Ecosystem duction of several key food force. unified framework for upskilling ment will train doctors, medical
since the COVID-19 Strengthening (UP AGREES) items, including fruits and As one of the CM Yogi across various fields. staff, and professionals in
pandemic. project, which focuses on vegetables. Chief Minister Adityanath flagship initiatives, A key feature of this program using AI technologies in health-
In 2024–25, the sector Bundelkhand and Purvanchal, Yogi Adityanath often high- this program will involve coor- is the formation of committees care. The Agriculture Depart-
recorded a growth rate of are expected to further lights that Uttar Pradesh has dinated efforts by six core at both the state and district ment will focus on training
approximately 10 per cent Uttar Pradesh to Gulf nations quality standards of these enhance the state’s export the potential to become the departments to build sector- levels to ensure timely mon- staff, NGOs, progressive farm-
compared to the previous have seen significant growth. markets, the UP government potential in the coming years. nation’s food basket, given specific AI capabilities across itoring of every phase of imple- ers, and women working in
financial year, with many While the healthcare sector is setting up a dedicated Uttar Pradesh enjoys sev- the bounty of nature. Recog- the state. mentation. The formation agro-based and rural MSME
fruits and vegetables gaining has long been a government export hub near Asia’s largest eral natural advantages that nising this potential, the gov- Officials here on Friday process is currently underway. sectors in AI-based agricultural
access to new international priority, it has gained fresh international airport at Jewar. position it well to emerge as ernment is providing com- said the initiative, designed These committees will track solutions and techniques. The
markets, officials here said momentum post-COVID, This hub will include a state- a major agricultural export prehensive support to farmers by the Department of IT and and review the monthly Rural Development Depart-
on Friday. driven by changing dietary of-the-art testing laboratory hub. The state spans a large and horticulturists - from Electronics, will be imple- progress of AI training programs ment will offer AI training to
Thanks to world-class con- habits and rising global to ensure that global quality portion of the fertile Indo- seed distribution to market mented by the Departments across the state. Based on staff, rural women, and NGOs.
nectivity and India’s only demand for organic products, benchmarks are consistently Gangetic plain, and perennial access - to realise the state’s of Education, Health, Agri- performance, departments The Revenue and Secretariat
interstate waterway - from particularly in Europe and met, promising news for rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, agricultural potential and culture, Rural Development, and districts will be ranked. Administration Departments
Prayagraj to Haldia - vegetable the U.S. farmers engaged in natural and Saryu ensure year-round meet its ambitious export Revenue, and Secretariat As per the plan prepared will also conduct training pro-
exports from parts of eastern In response to the stringent farming. water availability. The gov- targets. Administration. Each depart- by the Department of IT and grammes.
04 BHUBANESWAR, SATURDAY 03 MAY 2025

PM launches projects worth ‘Book singer Sonu Nigam for hurting

the sentiments of Kannadaigas’
`58,000 crore in Amravati LAKSHMANA VENKAT KUCHI
BENGALURU, 2 MAY
reason.” Only a few days ago
an IAF officer spread lies
and concocted a story to
The PM also dedicated railway projects aimed at enhancing connectivity and boosting capacity The language issue is crop- paint Kannadigas and Kar-
ping up in Bengaluru every nataka as violent language
AGENCIES management systems, worth Indigenous Radars, Telemetry now and then - after IAF fanatics, saying that he was
AMARAVATI, 2 MAY over Rs 17,400 crore. and Electro-Optical systems officer allegedly misused the beaten up for not speaking
PM Modi also laid the foun- enhancing the country's language issue to rubbish Kannada. Where in reality,

P
rime Minister Modi dation stone of six National defence preparedness. Karnataka and Kannadigas, he had beaten up the victim,
inaugurated, laid the Highway projects and one Rail- PM Modi laid the foun- it was the turn of playback a delivery boy - black and
foundation stone and ways project. These projects dation stone of PM Ekta Mall singer Sonu Nigam. blue. And the delivery boy
dedicated multiple include widening of various at Madhurawada in Visakha- At a recent concert in speaks six languages, includ-
development projects worth sections of national highways; patnam. Bengaluru the other day, he Kannadaigas as mindless ing English and Hindi.
over Rs 58,000 crore in Ama- construction of elevated cor- It has been envisioned got irked and downright and violent language fanatics, In a viral video, Sonu
ravati, Andhra Pradesh on ridors, half clover leaf and road with the objective of fostering angry after a fan asked him the activists are not taking Nigam said: “The best songs
Friday. over bridge, among others. national integration, sup- to sing a Kannada song out it lying down anymore. I’ve sung are in Kannada.
The Prime Minister inau- These projects will improve porting the Make in India of the many he had sung for Arun Javagal, Karnataka Whenever I do shows in Kar-
gurated seven National High- connectivity, interstate travel, initiative, promoting One Kannada films in the past. Rakshana Vedike office bear- nataka, I come with a lot of
way projects in Andhra reduce congestion and District One Product, gen- Instead of obliging a fan, er, said: “Kannada, Kannada, respect. You have considered
Pradesh. These Projects improve overall logistics effi- erating employment oppor- Sonu Nigam blasted the fan Kannada - this is what led me as a part of your family.
include widening various dedicated railway projects The Prime Minister laid ciency. Construction of rail tunities, empowering rural and blamed this kind of ten- to the terrorist attack in I didn’t like it when a boy
sections of National Highways aimed at enhancing connec- the foundation stone for infra- over rail between Guntakal artisans, and enhancing the dency for the Pahalgam terror Pahalgam Singer Sonu Nigam over there asked me to sing
and building Roads over tivity and boosting capacity. structure projects worth over West and Mallappa gate sta- market presence of indigenous attack, shocking his fans and has equated Kannada peo- in Kannada. The number of
bridges and subways, among These projects include Rs 11,240 crore, including the tions aims to bypass freight products. the general public in ple’s language struggle with years I’ve been singing in
others. the doubling of the rail line Legislative Assembly, High trains and reduce congestion Andhra Pradesh CM Chan- Karnataka. terrorism. In response, Kar- Kannada must be more than
These projects will enhance between Bugganapalle Court, Secretariat, other admin- at the Guntakal Junction. drababu Naidu felicitated The social media world nataka Rakshana Vedike is his age. He [the audience
road safety, create employ- Cement Nagar and Panyam istrative buildings, and housing The Prime Minister also PM Modi as he arrived at the was abuzz with numerous filing an FIR against the member] was so rudely
ment opportunities, and pro- stations, enhancing connec- for over 5,200 families. laid the foundation stone of event where he laid the foun- people lamblasting the singer singer.” threatening, ‘Kannada, Kan-
vide seamless connectivity tivity between Rayalaseema It will also include trunk the Missile Test Range at dation stone of various proj- for linking an audience Javagal told The States- nada’. This is the reason for
to religious and tourist places and Amaravati and the con- infrastructure and flood mit- Nagayalanka in Andhra ects for the development of request for a song with ter- man: “It seems to have the Pahalgam attack; what
like Tirupati, Srikalahasti, struction of a third rail line igation projects featuring a Pradesh, worth around Rs Amaravati's capital city, rorism. Now, already at the become a fashion for the was done here just now.
Malakonda and Udayagiri between New West Block 320 km world-class transport 1,460 crore. It will comprise including roads, defence, receiving end of many a con- people from outside to whip Look at who is standing
Fort, among others. Hut Cabin and Vijayawada network with underground a launch centre, technical railway, and industrial infra- troversy with people from up the language issue and before you. I love Kannadigas,
The Prime Minister also stations. utilities and advanced flood instrumentation facilities, structure projects. outside Karnataka painting defame Kannadigas for no I love you guys.”

Karnataka minister resigns with a Left govt made Vizhinjam port a reality: CM Vijayan
twist, dares BJP MLA to resign AGENCIES
VIZHINJAM, 2 MAY
local communities
along. “We invested Rs 120
crore for the welfare of the
STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE In a formal letter to the his challenge. Chief Minister Pinarayi local population. A skill
BENGALURU, 2 MAY Speaker, the Congress "I have accepted the chal- Vijayan on Friday asserted centre was set up here, and
leader said that Yatnal had lenge and resigned. I only that it was the Left govern- local women were trained.
Accepting a challenge from said that he would resign request him (Yatnal) that – ment that made the Vizhin- They are now operating
BJP senior MLA and former from his constituency and you asked me to contest jam International Deepwater cranes at the port,” Vijayan
minister Basangouda Patil take Patil on in his own against you. You too should Multipurpose Seaport a real- said.
Yatnal, state minister for tex- constituency, Basavana resign as MLA from Vijayapura ity. He expressed gratitude Concluding his address,
tiles, sugarcane development Bagevadi.Patil told media city, as I have. If you want to Prime Minister Narendra he said: “On behalf of the
and agricultural marketing, persons that Yatnal had me to contest from there Modi for dedicating this people of Kerala, I express
Shivanand Patil on Friday set a deadline of today (Vijayapura city) I will contest project to the nation and sincere gratitude to the
resigned from his assembly (Friday) to resign, and from there or if you want to Adani Group Chairman Gau- Hon’ble Prime Minister for
membership and dared the he did contest from Basavana tam Adani for executing this visiting our state to dedicate
BJP leader to follow suit and Bagevadi, I am ready for it," mission with excellence. this landmark project. I also
take him on in an electoral Patil said and added, “it is a “This port will emerge as congratulate the Adani Group
battle. said that Yatnal had said that purely personal decision and the most important in the shipment containers are The Chief Minister high- government in 1996. for executing this mission
The Congress minister he would resign from his it had nothing to do with country and will attract global routed through other ports. lighted the challenges that “In 2010, during our with excellence.”
submitted his resignation to constituency and take Patil anything or anyone else.” attention. Adani Ports From now on, they will come they had to overcome during tenure, the tendering process Earlier, welcoming guests
Speaker UT Khader, who is on in his own constituency, “I have no pain about los- deserves congratulations – here,” he said. the project’s execution. was blocked by the UPA gov- on the dais, State Ports Min-
yet to take a call on the same. Basavana Bagevadi.Patil told ing a minister post. When I not just for building a port, Vijayan pointed out that, “We had to face major ernment. In 2015, we floated ister V.N. Vasavan said the
However, the minister media persons that Yatnal quit as MLA, naturally, I will but for opening India’s mar- as per the original agreement, hurdles like Cyclone Ockhi, an agreement that faced crit- project became a reality due
requested the speaker to had set a deadline of today have to quit as minister too,” itime gateway for the third the project was scheduled massive floods, and the Covid icism. But after returning to to the determination and
accept his resignation, if and (Friday) to resign, and he Patil said. millennium,” said for completion in 2045. “But pandemic. But Kerala worked power in 2016, we stood leadership of CM Vijayan.
only if Yatnal also resigns did. The Speaker said that a Vijayan. operations began in 2024 hard, and so did Adani Ports,” firm on our commitment to “Since the trial run began
and his resignation is But, he added, he had decision on the resignation He credited the achieve- itself, and the first phase is he said. development - and today, last year, 255 ships have
accepted. requested the speaker to would be taken in accordance ment to the steadfast resolve already complete. All phases Tracing the port’s history, we see the result,” he said. unloaded over 5.90 lakh con-
In a formal letter to the accept his resignation only with the Constitution and of the Left government. will be finished by 2028,” Vijayan said the idea was He also spoke of the gov- tainers here,” Vasavan
Speaker, the Congress leader after Yatnal resigned as per rules. “Today, 75 per cent of tran- he added. first envisioned by the Left ernment’s efforts to take said.

Hindu activist's murder: Tension continues in Mangaluru,

Classified bandh observed; police clamp prohibitory orders
LAKSHMANA VENKAT KUCHI formed. I have sent a senior which Suhas was travelling,
. BENGALURU, 2 MAY ADGP-level officer to ensure forcing it to stop, and five or
CHANGE OF NAME CHANGE OF NAME PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE peace is maintained, and six unidentified persons got
Tension is palpable in Man- additional forces have also down and attacked him with
galuru after a known history been deployed,” he said. “We swords and other lethal
I, JOSEPH Cherian, son I, NAVEEN Taparia, S/o. THIS is informed that,
of Mr. Cherian Mathew Late Pannalall Taparia, Applicant: Naba Kumar
sheeter and former Bajrang have taken this incident very weapons, leaving him critically
(father) & Late Mabel residing at Aasha Co-opera- Mondal has been accord- Dal member Sushas Shetty seriously, and we are probing injured last night. The victim
Cherian (mother) & H/o. tive Housing Society, Flat ed the Environment (photo) was intercepted and it. We want peace in Man- was taken to a nearby local
Mrs. Noirriekta Joseph No. 3/D/6, 93, Deshpran Clearance from the beaten to death by unidentified galuru,” the state home min- hospital, AJ Hospital, where
(alias Noirriekta Konar), Sashmal Road, Kolkata- WBSEIAA for his men on Thursday night. ister said. he succumbed to injuries.
residing at Flat-3D, Tower-1, 700033, have changed my Proposed Bolsunda Sand
name and henceforth be BJP local leaders and VHP Mangaluru Police Com- BJP MP Nalin Kumar Kateel
Sugam Habitat, 158A, Mine (BIR / SAINTHIA /
Picnic Garden Road, P.S.: known as Naveen Kumar activists in the area congre- missioner Anupam Agarwal and MLA Bharat Shetty were
Taparia as declared before BOLSUNDA / 057 / 2016) gated near the hospital where told media persons that it among those who visited the
Tiljala, Kolkata-700039 is
the First Class Judicial Sand Block, at Mouza:
also known as Joseph Alex
Bolsunda, P.S.: Sainthia,
the former Bajrang Dal mem- was too early to determine hospital. Shetty said that a
Cherian as declared before Magistrate, Howrah Court
vide Affidavit No. 6499, Dist.: Birbhum, West ber died of injuries. The local the motive. Hindu worker was murdered
the Notary Public, City unit of VHP has also given a Sushas Shetty is believed today. “It’s no longer safe for
Sessions Court, Kolkata; dated: 17-04-2025 Naveen Bengal. EC Identification
and that Joseph Cherian & Taparia and Naveen Kumar No.: EC25C0107 call for a bandh on Friday. to have been involved in the Hindus in this state. The
Joseph Alex Cherian both Taparia are same and WB5813793N, Dated: It is no longer safe to be a murder of a person belonging investigation will reveal more police must act swiftly. Anti-
are the same and identical identical person. 30-04-2025. The copy of Hindu in Karnataka, said a to the minority community, details. We’ve identified a social elements are being
person. said Clearance is avail- BJP MLA, Bharat Shetty, con- Mohammad Fazil, in the year few of the accused from visu- encouraged, leading to such
able with the Parivesh demning the murderous 2022. This killing is also als,” he said. “The body will incidents. This appears to be
I, DEBOSMITA LEGAL NOTICE Portal of MOEF&CC.
attack. believed to be in retaliation be taken to Bantwal taluk in a planned murder. Another
Chatterjee, D/o. Debasish
Chatterjee, of 245, G.T. State home minister G to the murder Fazil is alleged an ambulance. Peace is every- person in the car was also
Road, Uttarpara, Hooghly- This is informed that, Parameshwara said that the to have committed just the one’s responsibility.” injured,” Shetty added.
712258, W.B., hereby
TO WHOM It May
Concern – This is to certify
Applicant: Rakhal Mahato TENDERS government was treating the day before he was killed. Fazil According to CCTV footage Meanwhile, the local unit
declare that I have changed has been accorded the incident with utmost seri- is alleged to have killed Praveen secured by the police, the of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad
that my client 1) Smt. Radha Environment Clearance
my name from Debosmita ousness and top officials were Nettaru, a BJP Yuva Morcha assault on Suhas Shetty took has called for a bandh in
Bhattacharya t� Debosmita Bhattacharjee, 2) Smt. from the WBSEIAA for his SPL-202505-0010 –
Chatterjee and hereafter be Sukla Chatterjee, 3) Smt. Proposed Gopiballavpur-ll Saraswaty Press Ltd. invites monitoring the situation member. place last night at 8.27 p.m. Mangaluru today. Security
known as Debosmita Kalpana Mukherjee, 4) Sri Sand Block MGB-9, at sealed offer for Maplitho closely. “We don’t yet know if this The video showed two cars has been tightened in all sen-
Chatterjee, vide Affidavit Debapriyo Chakraborty, 5) Mouza-Pithapur, P.S.: paper. For details / amend- “Four teams have been was a revenge killing. The approaching the vehicle in sitive areas, police said.
No. 6427, dated: 16-4-2025 Sujay Chakraborty are joint- Beliaberah, Dist.: ment please see website:
before the Hon’ble 1st Class ly execute and registered Jhargram, West Bengal. www.saraswatypress.com &
Judicial Magistrate at one General Power of EC Identification No.- www.wbtenders.gov.in

Telangana Congress leaders thank Governor for

Chinsurah, Hooghly Attorney dated 12-08-2022 EC25B0107WB5968023N,
in favour of Sri Dipankar Dated: 30-04-2025. The SPL-202505-0011 –
(Sadar).
Acharya, the said General copy of said Clearance is Saraswaty Press Ltd. invites
I, SUPRIYA Sen, W/o.
Dayamay Mahato, residing
Power of Attorney is the
land which L.R. Dag No.
available
Parivesh
with
Portal
the
of
sealed offer for SS Maplitho
paper. For details / amend- giving assent to quota bills for Backward Classes
MOEF&CC. ment please see website:
at 27 Lake Avenue, 4th 194/486 (P), L.R. Khatian AGENCIES tions, the bills passed by the
www.saraswatypress.com &
Floor, Flat 2, Kolkata- No. 985 (P), Mouza: Khorda
700026, have changed my
www.wbtenders.gov.in HYDERABAD, 2 MAY state Assembly require the
Bahera, J.L. No. 6 situated
name and shall henceforth at: 14 Jhil Path, P.O.: Centre’s approval.
SPL-202505-0012 – Telangana Congress leaders Chief Minister A. Revanth
be known as Supriya Sen Nabagram, P.S.: Uttarpara, Saraswaty Press Ltd. invites
Mahato as declared before Dist.: Hooghly, measuring on Friday called on Governor Reddy on 17 March also wrote
sealed offer for Art Board.
the First Class Judicial about 02 kathas 32 sq.ft., For details / amendment Jishnu Dev Varma and a letter to Prime Minister
Magistrate, CMM's Court, class of Land Bastu, which please see website: thanked him for giving his Narendra Modi, seeking time
Kolkata, vide Affidavit No. is purchased by my client www.saraswatypress.com &
2547 dated 18-9-2024. assent to the bills passed by to meet him along with leaders
Sri Rahul Kumar Sah vide www.wbtenders.gov.in
Supriya Sen and Supriya the State Assembly for 42 all political parties on enhanc-
Sale Deed No. 062104994 /
Sen Mahato both are same
2024, registered at A.D.S.R. per cent reservation to Back- ing reservations to BCs.
and identical person. ward Classes. The Chief Minister sought
Uttarpara, Dist.: Hooghly. If
anybody make any objec- A delegation of Congress an appointment to meet the
I, HARSH Jain, son of
Surendra Jain, wrongly
tion on this abovementioned leaders led by Telangana Prime Minister along with
recorded in the birth certifi- land then he/she will be Readers are requested to make appropri- Pradesh Congress Committee reservations for Backward 2025 and The Telangana leaders of Congress, BJP,
cate of my son as Harsh come before the B.L. & ate enquiries and seek appropriate advice
before sending money, incurring any (TPCC) President Mahesh Classes (BCs) to 42 per cent Backward Classes (Reserva- AIMIM, and CPI.
Surendra Jain in place of L.R.O. Serampur, Hooghly expenses, acting on medical recommen-
dations or entering into any commitment in Kumar Goud met the Gov- in education, employment tion of seats in Rural and The delegation which met
Harsh Jain, vide an affidavit within one month from the relation to any advertisement published in
publishing of this Notice in this publication. The Statesman Group ernor at the Raj Bhavan and and elections to rural and Urban Local Bodies) Bill 2025 the Governor on Friday
sworn before the Ld.
Judicial Magistrate 1st the daily English
doesn't vouch any claim made by the
advertisers of products and services. The thanked him for approving urban local bodies. Telangana were adopted by the Assem- included BC Welfare Minister
Class Alipore dated Newspaper.
printer, publisher, Editor and owners of
The Statesman Group publications shall the bills and forwarding it to Backward Classes, Scheduled bly. Ponnam Prabhakar, MLC
24-04-2025 that Harsh Ranjan Ghosh All Advertisements are carried Free of cost
not be held liable for any consequences,
in the event such claims are not honoured
the President of India for her Castes and Scheduled Tribes As enhancing BC reser- Vijayashanthi, former MPs
Surendra Jain and Harsh Advocate by the advertisers. For any loss incurred,
approval. (reservation of seats in edu- vations to 42 per cent will V. Hanumantha Rao and
on our website https://epaper.thestatesman.com the onus lies entirely with advertisers and
Jain is the same and one District Judge’s Court not with the publication.
The Telangana Assembly cational institutions and of breach the 50 per cent Madhu Yaskhi Goud and
identical person. Hooghly
on 17 March unanimously appointments or posts in Supreme Court ceiling for other BC leaders of the
passed two bills to enhance services under the State) Bill the overall quota for all sec- party.
 BHUBANESWAR, SATURDAY 03 MAY 2025 05
‘All democratic nations must Delhi court issues notice to Sonia,
Rahul Gandhi in National Herald case
unite to eradicate terrorism’ AGENCIES
NEW DELHI, 2 MAY
The charge sheet, filed
before Delhi's Rouse Avenue
Courts, values the alleged
Japanese delegation meets LS Speaker, reaffirms steadfast support for India's fight against terrorism A court here on Friday issued proceeds of crime to the tune
notices to Congress Parlia- of Rs 988 crore. It is alleged
STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE have common concerns and the Japanese proposal to pro- mentary Party Chairperson that the Congress leadership
NEW DELHI, 2 MAY thoughts on regional and vide opportunities to more Sonia Gandhi and Leader of had misappropriated property
global issues. Our relations than 50,000 skilled human Opposition in the Lok Sabha belonging to the Associated

L
ok Sabha Speaker Om based on mutual understand- resources of India in various Rahul Gandhi in the alleged Journals Limited (AJL), the
Birla on Friday asserted ing are extremely important sectors in Japan. He appre- National Herald money original publisher of the
that all democratic for co-beneficial progress as ciated Japan for providing laundering case. National Herald, by converting
nations, bound by a well as for peace and stability more opportunities to Indian The Rouse Avenue Courts public trusts into personal
shared commitment to peace, in the Indo-Pacific region.” students in the country. He asked the Gandhis and others assets.
security, and the rule of law, In the changing context, the also thanked Japan for its accused to show cause as to sheet without hearing the The National Herald, a
will have to come together friendship has now taken the assurance of support in the why cognisance should not accused and, therefore, newspaper established by
to stamp out terrorism. form of strategic and global infrastructure development be taken on the charge sheet notices should be issued, the Jawaharlal Nehru and other
He stressed that terrorism cooperation, he added. of India's North East filed by the Enforcement judge had said: “I cannot prominent leaders in 1938,
poses a profound global chal- Mr Birla noted that the region. Directorate (ED) under the pass such an order until was originally aimed at rep-
lenge that transcends national friendship between India and Noting that last year, India Prevention of Money Laun- satisfied.” resenting the liberal voice
borders and threatens the Japan is based on civilisational completed the golden journey dering Act (PMLA). The court had then posted within the Indian National
very fabric of peaceful societies. contacts, shared heritage of of 75 years of the Constitution, Last week, Special Judge the matter for hearing on 2 Congress. Published by AJL,
He called for a collective and of the House of Representatives Pahalgam terrorist attack and Buddhism, and shared com- Mr Birla mentioned that the (PC Act) Vishal Gogne tem- May. the National Herald was a
resolute response, grounded Nukaga Fukushiro at the Par- emphasised that in the current mitment to democratic values. Constitution has played an porarily declined to issue The ED recently filed a critical tool for Congress dur-
in mutual trust and respect liament House complex. global scenario, friendship He also expressed happiness important role in India’s jour- notice on ED’s prosecution prosecution complaint against ing the freedom struggle and
for international norms, to Mr Fukushiro strongly between India and Japan is that every year a large number ney of progress and devel- complaint and asked the fed- senior Congress leaders, post-independence years.
effectively combat terrorism condemned the terrorist attack essential for global peace, of Japanese tourists and pil- opment. Under the guidance eral anti-money laundering including Sonia Gandhi and Alongside the English pub-
and uphold the values that in Pahalgam and reaffirmed prosperity and stability. grims visit India to go to of the Constitution, the country agency to place the requisite Rahul Gandhi, in the National lication, AJL also published
define democratic societies. Japan's steadfast support for Referring to a partnership places related to Buddhism, has made large-scale socio- documents on record and Herald case. Others named newspapers in Hindi and
Mr Birla made these obser- India's fight against terrorism. between India and Japan in which promotes people-to- economic changes after inde- remove the defects. in the charge sheet include Urdu. However, the paper
vations during a meeting with Mr Birla appreciated the lead- multilateral forums like QUAD, people connect between the pendence and has kept public As the prosecution con- Congress Overseas Chief Sam ceased operations in 2008
a Japanese Parliamentary ership of Japan for expressing G20, and International Solar two countries. welfare at top priority, he tended that the court can Pitroda, Suman Dubey, and due to mounting debts
Delegation, led by Speaker solidarity with India on the Alliance, Mr Birla said: “We Mr Birla also welcomed added. take cognisance of a charge others. exceeding Rs 90 crore.

Pro-farmers party slams Ajit Pawar Jaisalmer man booked for Four dead after jeep overturns in MP: Four people, including a woman, died and five others were seriously injured when a
for failure to waive off farm loans allegedly spying for Pak
pickup jeep carrying a marriage party of 17 people overturned in Vidisha district of Madhya Pradesh, police said on Friday. The
incident took place at the Aari ghati near Lateri town of Vidisha at around 11.30 p.m. SNS

STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE loans. The farmers trusted STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE Since then, he has been
MUMBAI, 2 MAY him. Therefore, now Ajit Pawar JAIPUR, 2 MAY grilled by teams of intelligence
should clarify if the farmers agencies in prolonged phases
Maharashtra based pro-farmers made a mistake by trusting A Jaisalmer resident has been before formally arresting the
political party Swabhimani Devendra Fadnavis,” Shetti arrested by Rajasthan Intel- suspected spy on Thursday,
Shetkari Sanghatana chief Raju said. Incidentally, before coming ligence sleuths for spying for an official spokesman stated
Shetti attacked Deputy Chief to power, the Mahayuti gov- Pakistan after intensive probe in the communique.
Minister Ajit Pawar on Friday ernment had announced in and interrogation by various The spokesman said that
for failing to waive off loans its election manifesto that Central agencies for over 4- the suspect went to Pakistan
taken by farmers in the state, loans taken by farmers would week here. in 2013 for the first time and
as promised in the BJP-led be waived off. The suspect – Pathan Khan met several key intelligence
Mahayuti's 2024 Maharashtra However, after coming to of RD Zero (0) Mohangarh – functionaries, and officials
assembly election manifesto. power, no decision has been was found indulging in dubi- and took formal training for
Shetti said: “In the election taken regarding the loan waiver ous activities in the border various activities. Since then,
manifesto which was released of farmers, citing shortage of region along the Jaisalmer he has been collecting and
by the Mahayuti, did they funds. The opposition in Maha- district for quite some time. passing sensitive and secret
promise to give 20 per cent rashtra has been constantly He was under the surveil- information and tip-offs about
more subsidy to farmers on criticising the government lance of intelligence personnel army personnel and their
the guaranteed price or not? about this issue. for a long time. Noting that activities of strategic signifi-
Ajit Pawar should clarify. Now, On Friday, Maharashtra his activities were prima facie cance to his Pakistani han-
Pawar has claimed that he Deputy Chief Minister Ajit highly suspicious in the sen- dlers.
never said that he would waive Pawar, said in Kolhapur: “Who sitive border zone – the hub He has also made available
off farmers' loans.” promised farmers waiver of of Army movement and field Indian SIM cards to his han-
Raju Shetti said that Pawar loans? Did I promise it? I never exercises – Khan was nabbed dlers across the border to
should clarify that he had promised any such thing.” in Jaisalmer and brought facilitate them to get tip
nothing to do with the manifesto After Pawar's statement here about a month ago, an off directly from Indian con-
published by the Mahayuti, regarding waiver of loans intelligence police commu- tacts, the communique
and his party had nothing to availed by farmers, there is nique stated here on Friday. informs.
do with it. “At that time, the speculation that farmers are
leader of the Mahayuti was likely to feel let down after
Devendra Fadnavis. He had they trusted the Mahayuti's
repeatedly promised that he Maharashtra assembly election
would fulfill the wishes of manifesto and voted for the
farmers and waive off their Mahayuti alliance.
 06 BHUBANESWAR, SATURDAY 03 MAY 2025 Vol. CXXXXXIX 103

Incorporating and directly descended

Conflict without end? A MEMBER
OF THE

ASIAN VOICES
from THE FRIEND OF INDIA - Founded 1818
The Baloch people have a distinct cultural, linguistic, and ethnic identity that Of teachers,
Trump Factor predates the creation of modern nation-states in the region. The Balochistan students and
I n a remarkable twist of irony, it was Donald Trump ~
not Mark Carney, nor Pierre Poilievre ~ who became
region has historically been a contested territory, with various empires and
dynasties vying for control over the area. The creation of the region of
school education

P
the decisive figure in Canada’s recent federal election.
What began as a predictable contest marked by fatigue ublic school teachers from
with a decade of Liberal governance transformed into Balochistan is a complex historical process that spans thousands of years. It across the country have
been marching on the
something else entirely: a referendum on Mr Trump’s has been part of various ancient civilizations. The region’s strategic location streets of Kathmandu for
vision of Canada. His taunts about turning the country
into America’s “51st state,” his belittling of the US-Cana- on the Iranian plateau made it a hub for trade and cultural exchange weeks now. They have put forward
a set of demands vis-à-vis their
da border as “artificially drawn,” and his looming tariffs careers. The government has yet to
on Canadian auto exports lit a fire under an electorate agree to their longstanding issues,
that had otherwise seemed resigned to change. New including the enactment of the
Prime Minister Mark Carney understood this shift better School Education Bill, intended to
than anyone. A political newcomer with an elite banking ensure teachers’ job security, timely
background, he could easily have been cast as out of tou- promotion, minimum wages and
trade union rights. The media has
ch. Instead, he ran not just against his Conservative riv-
extensively covered the teachers’
al, but against the shadow of a US President determined protests and their significance.
to reduce Canada to a bargaining chip. In his victory Hopefully, the government will
speech, Mr Carney declared: “President Trump is trying heed their calls. However, I believe
to break us so that America can own us.” That was not this is also an opportune time to
political theatre ~ it was the emotional core of his cam- rethink our entire schooling system.
paign. This election became a story about sovereignty ~ This would apply to both private
not in the abstract, but in concrete terms. Mr Trump’s and public institutions.
threats to upend trade ties, impose punitive tariffs, and In 2023, Oxford University
undermine long-standing diplomatic norms made the Press published an interesting
book, Anthropological Perspectives
stakes feel immediate. For many Canadians, it wasn’t
on Education in Nepal, edited by
just a matter of policy; it was personal. The ballot bec- Karen Valentin and Uma Pradhan.
ame a tool of resistance. Mr Poilievre’s Conservatives, The editors and contributors offer
though domestically focused, were dragged into this valuable ethnographic observations
framing. Their ideological alignment with Trumpian the- of the ground realities in Nepal,
mes ~ small government, fossil fuel revival, culture war which, I would suggest, the Ministry
rhetoric ~ only deepened the perception that a Conser- of Education and policymakers

W
vative victory might echo or empower Mr Trump’s ap- must read. I felt, however, that the
proach north of the border. That perception proved fatal. ill our geography change? Will states of Kalat, Lasbela, Kharan, and Mak- itant groups. The Taliban and Lashkar-e- book doesn’t adequately expose the
a new country emerge on the ran. When India and Pakistan gained inde- Jhanvi have carried out attacks on civilians, deeply entrenched problems root-
Mr Trump didn’t merely loom in the background ~ he
South Asian map? Is Pakistan pendence in 1947, Kalat remained inde- government officials, and security forces fur- ed in the ancient Gurukul system.
dominated the stage from afar. His erratic style, bom- on the verge of breaking apart pendent for a few months before joining ther destabilizing the region. Students are required to respect the
bastic statements, and contemptuous view of Canada’s again? And will India get a chance to correct Pakistan. In fact, Balochistan resisted joining The Pakistani military’s response to the teacher and their views wholeheart-
autonomy injected urgency into the race. Mr Carney sei- its nearly 80-year-old mistake? Fuelling at the time of the country’s inception fol- insurgency has also been criticized for its edly. “Be an obedient student” is
zed the moment, framing himself as a defender of na- many such questions, a raging fire of anti- lowing the partition of British India. The heavy-handedness, with allegations of common advice received by all
tional dignity. That message resonated deeply, especially Pakistan sentiment is burning fiercely in region aspired to be an independent or human rights abuses and enforced disap-
with voters who might have otherwise stayed home or Balochistan. Thus, the politics of South Asia autonomous state, a desire that remained pearances along with extrajudicial killings.
voted against the Liberals in protest. In a global moment is gradually changing. Balochistan is ablaze unfulfilled. The military’s tactics have only served to
where populist conservatism has resurged, Canada chart- with protests, and the heat of this fire is also This sentiment of independence and exacerbate the situation, driving more Nepali students. And obedience
ed its own course. The Liberal resurgence under Mr Car- being felt in Pashtunistan. distinctness continues to persist in Baloch youth into the arms of nationalist here doesn’t just mean behaving
On the other hand, the Pakistani mili- Balochistan and the Baloch people have groups. well in class. Students are required
ney was not a repudiation of conservative ideas alone ~
tary is perpetrating severe human rights The Iranian government’s role in the to listen and learn from the learned
it was a rejection of American interference. Mr Trump’s abuses in Balochistan to quell the nation- conflict has been equally problematic. guru passively and submissively.
attempt to bully Canada into economic and political sub- alist insurgency. The region has witnessed Tehran has provided support to the Pak- There’s little room for critical think-
mission didn’t just fail; it backfired spectacularly. Ironi- thousands of killings, targeted assassina- istani government, while also carrying out ing. It’s almost a sin to question the
cally, Mr Trump may have preferred Mr Carney to his tions of intellectuals, and widespread use military operations against Baloch insur- teacher’s point of view. As in the
predecessor Justin Trudeau. But by inserting himself so of force, arrests, and brutality. Despite this, gents on its own territory. ancient Gurukul system, students
forcefully and frequently into Canada’s political conver- the resistance persists. The underlying The United States has also been drawn are required to listen to the teacher
sation, he left voters with no ambiguity. The choice was cause of the unrest is Pakistan’s continued into the conflict, providing military aid to obediently and soak up his ideas
no longer about continuity or change. It was about stand- occupation of Balochistan, which the Pakistan, which has been used to combat like a sponge, and vomit the same
ing tall or being subsumed. Now, Mr Carney faces the Baloch people view as an infringement on the Baloch insurgency. China’s growing in the exams. Still, there are many
their rights and sovereignty. The review of economic interests in the region, particu- teachers who would disapprove of
hard part: negotiating with the very President who helped the situation corroborates the facts men- larly through the China-Pakistan Economic a different view of students in class.
him get the mandate. But if this election proved anything, tioned earlier. MANAS MUKUL ABHISEK
Corridor (CPEC), have added another Nepal would do well to heed
it is that Canadian democracy, when tested, doesn’t The Balochistan region, spanning
BANDYOPADHYAY KARMAKAR
dimension to the conflict. the famous American anthropolo-
retreat. It responds ~ with purpose, and with pride. across southwestern Pakistan, southeastern The writers are, respectively, Associate Professor Therefore, the Baloch enigma has far- gist and public intellectual Mar-
and Head, Political Science, Chandernagore Govt.
Iran, and southern Afghanistan, has been College, and Associate Professor, Political Science, reaching implications for regional and glob- garet Mead’s advice: “Children
embroiled in a protracted conflict that has Galsi Mahavidyalaya al security. It is to be remembered that the must be taught how to think, not
Fragile Grid defied resolution for decades. This intra-
ctable dispute has pitted the Pakistani gov- since then been seeking greater autonomy
conflict has the potential to destabilize the
entire region, with spillover effects on Pak-
what to think.” This has been a big
issue in Nepal, which must be rec-

T he massive power outage that plunged large swa- ernment against Baloch nationalist groups, or independence, citing cultural, economic, istan, Iran, Afghanistan, and India. tified as soon as possible.
thes of Spain, Portugal, and parts of France into with the Iranian government and Islamist and political marginalization by the Pak- To unravel the complexities of this pro- I want to share my personal
militants also entangled in the fray. Thus the istani state. tracted conflict, a comprehensive and experience of acquiring higher edu-
darkness this week is more than a regional mishap
conflict involves a diverse array of stake- The conflict between the Baloch insur- nuanced approach is required. This will cation in the UK to emphasise my
~ it is a flashing red warning for the rest of the world. In holders including the Pakistani and Iranian gents and Pakistani military forces has been necessitate meaningful dialogue and nego- point about the need to change our
a matter of minutes, key transport systems collapsed, governments, Baloch nationalist groups, on for years, with periods of escalation and tiations between the Pakistani government traditional teaching methods and
millions lost access to basic utilities, and critical infra- Islamic militants, and external powers such relative calm. A recent incident of this kind and Baloch nationalist groups, as well as eliminate the culture of rote learn-
structure teetered on the edge of failure. As emergency as the United States and China. has brought the conflict to the forefront, economic development and investment in ing, and encourage critical thinking
workers pried open elevators and trains ground to a halt, The Baloch people have a distinct cul- sparking widespread controversy and atten- the region. among school students. Although
the modern grid was revealed in its stark vulnerability. tural, linguistic, and ethnic identity that pre- tion. Last March, Baloch Liberation Army The Pakistani government must addr- born into a poor family in the
The reported trigger ~ a fault with the interconnector dates the creation of modern nation-states (BLA) insurgents took control of the Jaffar ess the underlying grievances of the Baloch remote hills of northern Gorkha
between France and Spain ~ exposed the fragility of even in the region. The Balochistan region has Express near Bolan Pass, 160 km from Quet- people, including their demands for greater District, I was fortunate enough to
the most developed energy networks. While investiga- historically been a contested territory, with ta. The insurgents selectively targeted and autonomy and self-determination. The gov- win a scholarship to attend Gandaki
various empires and dynasties vying for con- killed Pakistani Army Officers and soldiers ernment must also ensure that the region’s Boarding School in Lamachaur,
tions continue, what is already evident is this: increasing trol over the area. travelling on the train. The news of this train natural resources are exploited in a trans- Pokhara.
dependence on centralised and highly integrated power The creation of the region of Balochis- hijacking sent shockwaves amid the intense parent and equitable manner, with benefits It is a very good private school
systems may offer efficiency, but it also breeds risk. The tan is a complex historical process that conflict between Balochistan’s insurgents accruing to the local population. Until Pak- that is cheap with the support of the
domino effect witnessed across national borders is a spans thousands of years. It has been part and Pakistan’s military forces. istan addresses these issues, the intensity international charity, United Mis-
chilling demonstration of how a single weak link can of various ancient civilizations. The region’s The Baloch quagmire is an intricate and of the insurgency will increase rather than sion to Nepal. After completing my
unleash widespread chaos. For countries far removed strategic location on the Iranian plateau multidimensional dilemma that has been decrease, because now the Baloch people year 12 there, I pursued a BA in
from Europe, especially in Asia, Africa, and Latin Amer- made it a hub for trade and cultural besetting the region for years. This enigmat- are desperate to protect their rights. Social Work at St Xavier’s College,
ica, the events of Monday carry hard-earned lessons. exchange. The Baloch people migrated to ic puzzle involves a diverse array of stake- The international community, includ- Kathmandu. The latter is another
First, no nation is immune. The assumption that such the area from the West and are believed to holders as mentioned above. ing the United States and China, must also elite institution run by the Jesuit
be of Aryan and other races. At its core, the Baloch predicament play a constructive role in resolving the con- society. Graduating from St Xavier’s
infrastructure failures only occur in the developing world
It is to be noted here that Balochistan revolves around the quest for autonomy and flict. This will require a delicate balancing in 2001, I worked for the British
has been shattered. European nations with advanced is a vast and resource-rich region in south- self-determination by the Baloch people, act, taking into account the competing inter- Embassy in Kathmandu for seven
technology and robust institutions found themselves western Pakistan covering about 44 per cent along with the local people seeking greater ests of various stakeholders while promoting years. I then had the extraordinary
scrambling to restore control. Secondly, decentralisation of the country’s land area. It is the largest control over their political, economic, and a peaceful and inclusive solution. opportunity to pursue my Master
is no longer a luxury ~ it’s a necessity. Distributed power province in Pakistan, but has the lowest cultural affairs. The region’s rich natural Ultimately, the resolution of the Baloch of Philosophy (MPhil) in social
systems, including local micro-grids and renewable population density due to its arid desert cli- resources, including gas, oil, copper, and enigma will require a sustained commit- anthropology at Oxford University.
energy sources like solar and wind, can insulate com- mate. There are approximately 14.9 million gold have also become a bone of contention, ment to dialogue, negotiation, and econom- I believed that my education at
munities from total blackout. In an era of climate uncer- people, with a diverse mix of ethnic groups, with the Pakistani government accused of ic development. Only through a compre- Nepal’s elite schools, combined
tainty and geopolitical tensions, diversified and localised including the Baloch and Pushtuns. exploiting these sources without providing hensive and inclusive approach can the with my work experience with
energy sources can make the difference between dis- In 1947, the British Indian Empire was adequate compensation or benefits to the region hope to achieve lasting peace and British diplomats, had developed
partitioned, and Balochistan was forcibly local population. stability. Failure to address these issues will my language and academic skills to
ruption and disaster. Moreover, this crisis challenges the incorporated into Pakistan. Under British The Baluch imbroglio has been further likely push the Baloch people towards alter- a level that was adequate for an
overconfidence many governments have in technology colonial rule, it consisted of the four princely complicated by the presence of Islamist mil- native routes or solutions. Oxford degree.
as a cure-all. Smart grids, AI-based load management,
and digital monitoring are important, but they cannot
replace robust physical infrastructure and contingency LETTERS TO THE EDITOR [email protected]
planning. High-tech systems must be balanced with old-
ENTANGLED
What J & K needs
fashioned resilience ~ redundant backups, manual over- unism. Rebuilding trust between completely transform China's
rides, and boots-on-the-ground capacity ~ to respond the administration and the peo- export model.
swiftly when algorithms alone are not enough. Thirdly, ple must now be the foremost SIR, As tensions between India The situation is most con-
priority. Restoring public confi- and Pakistan reach a peak, the cerning in Yiwu and Dongguan,
communication breakdown was as damaging as the out-
SIR, The recent tragedy in Pahal- solidarity with the victims. Such dence will require sincere efforts, tariff war between the US and China’s major export hubs. The
age itself. With mobile networks down and people stran- gam is a grim reminder that the spontaneous acts of humanity not just in terms of security but China has also intensified. Many athletic wear factory "Wuiswole"
ded underground, the inability to access timely infor- path to peace in J&K remains reflect the deep-rooted desire for also in fostering inclusive devel- factories in China have shut in Ningbo has started online sales
mation led to panic and disorder. Governments world- fragile. Yet, amidst the horror, the normalcy and stability among opment and strengthening dem- down after losing orders from the in the domestic market. Accord-
wide must reassess emergency preparedness, ensuring collective grief and unity shown Kashmiris. ocratic institutions. United States. There is growing ing to several Chinese company
not just backup power, but also resilient channels for by the people offer a glimmer Leadership in such times The Centre and other states concern that around 10 to 20 mil- heads, the impact of Trump’s tar-
public communication. Finally, the incident underscores of hope. demands honesty and restraint. must recognise that J&K’s healing lion workers in China, linked to iffs is more severe than that of
the need for transparent, accountable governance in uti- It is encouraging to see com- It is heartening that the govern- process cannot be left to the export industries, may face Covid-19.
lity management. The public deserves clarity on what munities rising above divisions to ment has responded with humil- Union Territory alone. National unemployment. Chinese tech companies
went wrong and how similar situations will be prevent- condemn violence and express ity rather than political oppor- solidarity, thoughtful engage- Many factories manufactur- have come forward to support
ment, and tangible support are ing toys, sports goods, and cheap domestic businesses. Hundreds
ed. The absence of such assurances only deepens mis- critical to prevent further alien- products have sent their workers of companies have been provid-
trust and anxiety. As the lights come back on in Madrid ation. True peace will come not home and have nearly stopped ed with free AI tools and virtual
and Lisbon, the world should not simply watch and through force, but through a production. In response, several hosting services to help them
move on. We must absorb the lessons, invest in infra- shared commitment to justice, Chinese companies are now resume online sales quickly amid
structure renewal, and embed resilience into the core compassion, and mutual respect. seeking new customers in Europe difficulties caused by the Trump
of our energy policies. In an increasingly interconnected The people of J&K deserve and Latin America instead of tariffs. The Chinese dragon is
world, one region’s blackout is a signal to all. It's a call not just sympathy, but sustained depending on the US. now deeply entangled in the web
to illuminate not just our cities, but also our thinking. partnership from the entire They are also considering of American tariff strategies.
Disaster does not wait for convenience. Preparedness nation. setting up production units in Yours, etc.,
Yours, etc., Vandana, India and Southeast Asia. In the Dattaprasad Shirodkar,
must not wait for disaster.
Chandigarh, 29 April. coming months, this shift could Mumbai, 30 April.

CMYK
 BHUBANESWAR, SATURDAY 03 MAY 2025

100 YEARS AGO

07
SATURDAY INTERVIEW
OCCASIONAL NOTE

‘Terrorists have a shelf life’

MANY who fought for the Allies in the
War have probably never heard of the battle
of Tannenberg, and even the bulk of those
better informed who are aware that here
Hindenburg won a victory over the Russians
are only dimly conscious of the tremendous
bearing it had upon the War at large. The

L
ieutenant General Satish Dua the army and Assam rifles, over nine defence minister asked what our Q: Pakistan Army Chief Asif British, in particular, are inclined to poke fun
(retd) is the former chief of Inte- years from 1993 to 2003. The Ikhwan response should be? I told him that we Munir recently called Kashmir the at the Germans for making an idol of a man,
grated Defence Staff to the worked well with the army, Rashtriya always are defensive when they (Pak- jugular vein of Islamabad. What is not for what he did later in the West, but for
chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Rifles and the local police. They were istan) send terrorists to kill our citizens your take on that? a victory the details of which are almost
Committee (CISC). A highly decorated successful in bringing many terrorists and soldiers. They sometimes mutilate A: Kashmir is the glue that binds unknown in France and England. This igno-
officer over a career spanning four to book to the extent that it really our bodies and go back. We do not Pakistan. Pakistan is really mired in rance was pardonable during the War itself,
decades, Lt. Gen Dua is an alumnus of helped in conducting the 1996 assem- have terrorists to send across. So let us problems economically, diplomatical- for naturally the Allies did their best to keep
the National Defence Academy and the bly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. do something very different this time. ly, and politically. They resort to India the details from the public. Then for two or
Indian Military Academy. He was com- However, it was an experiment Let us go on the offensive. We will have bashing to divert the minds of the three years after the War people were too
missioned into the 8 Jammu and Kash- and had to be closed down because to cross the LoC and hit the terrorist public. School children are always busy nursing their present bruises to trouble
mir Light Infantry (Siachen), a regi- of certain issues. We launched anoth- locations, terrorist camps, training taught the slogan “Kashmir Banega themselves about past events. Within the last
ment renowned for its operational er bolder experiment wherein we camps, and we will get back. We should Pakistan”. year or two, however, the military historian
excellence. He was the Corps Com- made an army battalion out of the take ownership of the action too. As to the fact of calling it a jugular has been busy, and there is little excuse for
mander of Srinagar-based Chinar surrendered terrorists. That battalion I thought the defence minister vein, I think that is so absurd. How the educated who say they do not know what
Corps during a crucial period of count- is from my regiment. And this is the would go back to Delhi and speak to can somebody else’s territory be your happened at Tannenberg.
er-insurgency operations. It was under story that I wanted to write. Prime Minister Narendra Modi. But he jugular vein? That is absurd.
his command that surgical strikes to (Parrikar) gave the permission then and The interview was to the Pak- NEWS ITEMS
avenge the Uri attack were carried out. Q. While you were the Corps there, after thinking for some time and istani diaspora. What more would you
In an interview with Parwinder Sandhu Commander of 15 Corps, India car- asking a few other questions. To his expect a Pakistani army chief to say?
of The Statesman, Lt Gen talks about ried out a surgical strike to avenge the credit, the defence minister just said one He’s addressing his domestic audi- „DEAR OLD TED ‰
the surgical strike, changes in Kashmir deaths of soldiers in the Uri attack? word after that ‘barobar’. So the decision ence. He only has to tow these lines. The youth are enjoying seeing
post the abrogation of Article 370 and How did the operation unfold? was taken by Manohar Parikhar. This General Asif Munir does not really multiplex movies as earlier there were HEN IN FOOTBALL JERSEY
the recent comments made by Pak- A: I took over as the Corps Com- was something that has never been have the kind of depth and stature to no cinema halls. The youth are seeing
istan Army chief on Kashmir. mander on 18 September 2016 and I done before. It has drawn new red lines. really talk differently. things that they only watched on the AT VARSITY CEREMONY
sadly lost 18 soldiers on my watch. It is Internet. They are experiencing it CARB TOWN, MAY 1.
Q. Your association with Kash- something that weighs down very heav- Q: What went through your Q: Have you visited Kashmir themselves. Certainly, there are pockets AFTER a dance at Government House last
mir spans over 40 years. From seeing ily on a commander's mind. So that day mind during that period between the post the abrogation of Article 370? of alienation, but it has been only five night, attended by several guests, at which
the birth of militancy in the Valley in after I learnt about the attack on the attack and the surgical strike. Would How has it changed? years. It will take a couple of genera- the Prince of Wales danced untiringly, the
the nineties to the response of the base, which was very close to the Line you share some of them with us? tions for that attitudinal shift to come. Prince was out at 9-30 in the morning.
army, especially the formation of of Control (LoC), I went there with a A: I will not be able to share most A: I have been to Kashmir four or His appearance was the occasion of a
Ikhwan. You have written about that chopper to take stock of the situation. of the stories for the reason that they five times after my retirement. I have Q: How do you see our defence most successful unrehearsed demonstration.
response through the story of a ter- The fires were raging and we coor- are confidential. I can only talk about gone to the interiors of Kulgam, forces evolving over the next few Bands of massed students, including hun-
rorist-turned-soldier, Lance Naik dinated the operations over there. The our attitudes and state of mind. Every- Anantnag, Awantipora, South Kash- decades? dreds of attractive girls in University gowns
Nazir Ahmad Wani? Why is his story army chief arrived at the spot. After one was very focused because we mir, the hotbeds, without any protec- A: For the last few years, we have collected outside Government House and,
so inspirational? some time, we got news that the then were given the go ahead, and we real- tion parties. The last visit was exactly been on a threshold of modernization. forming into a body of comic cavalry, armed
A: It is a story of Kashmiri patriot- defence minister Manohar Parrikar ized that the onerous responsibility two years ago, and I have seen the dif- We are now looking at the new fron- with brooms and brushes, followed an
ism. Wani was from Kulgam. The sto- was arriving there. My first reaction rested on our shoulders. We have ference after Article 370 was diluted. tiers of cyber space, emerging tech- oxwagon draped in blue and white, and
ries that normally come out of Kashmir was an outburst as to why today? I did been given permission to do some- There is a sea change. The develop- nologies, drones, artificial intelligence, drawn by twelve oxen. An immense proces-
are those of terrorism and violence. But not want more VIPs on my hands as thing to join the very small select ment has come about with three-tier and robotics. These are the things of sion of cheering and laughing students sang
in my regiment, the Jammu and Kash- many operational issues were going number of countries that follow this Panchayat raj being in place along the future. in chorus a specially-written song urging the
mir light infantry, we have many sol- on. But I was told that the minister had policy of hot pursuit and go inside with many development projects For the long run, several schemes Prince not to be “down in the mouth.”
diers from the Kashmir Valley with half already taken off. another territory and strike. And we being undertaken. have been launched. Atamirbhar The Prince was intensely amused and,
of them being Muslims. These sons of must not let them down. Whenever I The markets are open and one Bharat in defence, the entry of the seating himself on the wagon drove off and
the soil face a lot of challenges in their Q. What do you remember of would find a little time, I would be can see the tricolor at Lal Chowk. public sector in the defense sector has led the procession to the crowded City Hall
village and community as some of that interim period between the praying for no casualties on our side. There is no unpredictability. The been liberalized and incentivized where he was ceremoniously installed as
them are hated for serving in the army. attack and the surgical strike? In the army, we say that we fight number of tourists has increased using the academia, to collaborate Chancellor of the University in 1918, and was
So, Wani’s story is that of a terrorist A: Upon reaching Srinagar, Par- to the last man, last round. But when manifold. The youth can enjoy unin- with the Research and Development given an honorary degree of Doctor of Laws.
who started his life on the wrong path rikar wanted to visit Uri, but we advised we fight terrorists, we do not want to terrupted studies as the Hurriyat aspects. The proceedings were marked by good-
but after surrendering he formed part against it as the operations were still lose our soldiers because these terror- does not issue any bandh calendar. We have started making tanks humoured ragging, including the appear-
of a force called Ikhwan. going on. We took him to the head- ists are not worth it. I do not want to There is no stone pelting on the and guns also. Shipbuilding has also ance on the platform of a small white hen
Ikhwan was a controllable group quarters located at Badami Bagh can- lose any of my soldiers for killing ter- street. No violence spilling on the started. Make in India is happening wearing the Varsity football colours.
formed by our country which helped tonment. After I finished briefing, the rorists. A terrorist has a shelf life. streets. in a big way. There was also a parade round the
Hall with a counterfeit presentment of Mr.
Ramsay MacDonald and the singing of
songs addressed to the Prince of Wales as

Tough balancing act for government

“Dear old Ted.”

THE MOHAMMEDAN
COMMUNITY
RUHI TEWARI group of the banned Pakistan-based This government’s response to concerned. It, therefore, has to be MR. FAZL-UL-HAQÊS PLANS
Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terror group, terror strikes, therefore, has been one mindful of not overplaying its hand.
FOR ORGANIZATION

T
he savage massacre of tourists claimed responsibility. With that, laden with tough messaging. What, As it plans retaliatory measures,
by terrorists in Kashmir’s Pahal- India began its diplomatic offensive however, makes the Pahalgam attack India has to be cautious not to cross FARIDPUR, MAY 2.
gam and its aftermath are the against the neighbouring country. On different from both Pulwama and Uri a fine line that changes its position as AT the annual meeting of the Anju-
toughest challenge yet for the Tuesday, Prime Minister Modi at a is the targeting of innocent tourists a victim to that of a disproportionate man, Faridpur to-day Mr. Fazl-ul-Haq
Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led gov- key security meeting is believed to who were simply in the Valley to enjoy aggressor. The government is sea- delivered his presidential speech in the
ernment in its 11 years of being in have said the armed forces have “full some peace and calm. The images soned enough to understand the course of which he stated that they had
power. Not just because it was a brutal operational freedom to determine from the site of attack have shaken the nuances of diplomacy and interna- had enough of discussions. He was fully
and brazen attack on helpless civilians, the mode, targets, and timing of entire nation, bringing to the fore out- tional equations. Thus, the massive convinced that the need for such discus-
or because it reflects a degree of security India’s response to the attacks”, indi- rage and grief of another magnitude. challenge is to maintain a fine balance sions was gone, and that the time had
lapse and intelligence failure or because cating it was not shying away from a People are angry, but there is also fear between its domestic compulsions come for the Muslim community of Ben-
it punctures the government’s claims of military offensive. - the kind that comes with an attack and international expectations. gal to take immediate and decided action.
a significant reduction in terror-related But, even as the Modi govern- on someone we view as one of us, as Beyond the domestic messaging More than four years had been wast-
incidents in the Valley. This is the Modi ment weighs its options, it is aware opposed to one on security forces. and international positioning, the ed in aimless and purposeless agitation
government’s biggest crisis so far, even that it faces its most daunting chal- The BJP government is well aware Modi government’s toughest task raising its ugly head, further displaying and they could not afford to pursue a pol-
bigger than the 2019 Pulwama attack, lenge since entering the national of this, and its messaging has been would be to resist the urge of slipping a complete lack of cohesiveness and icy of drift any longer.
as it puts it in a sticky spot with respect scene in the summer of 2014. commensurate with the public anger. into its favourite political trope - unity in the polity. Yes, this was an It was said that he had all along been a
to three fronts - domestic, international The BJP, under the leadership of With statements like “It is our national majoritarianism. attack by Islamic terrorists, but blam- non-cooperator and that he had suddenly
and messaging to Pakistan. PM Modi and Home Minister Amit resolve to deliver a crushing blow to Beyond a military offensive and ing or isolating the Indian Muslim is as changed his creed and joined the ranks of the
On the domestic front, the gov- Shah, has built its politics around a terrorism” and “India will identify, international censure, the biggest mes- shameful and as heartless. opponents of the non-cooperators. These
ernment, known for its muscular and carefully curated muscular national track and punish every terrorist and sage India can send to the perpetrators The onus of keeping its ecosys- rumours were absolutely false. He was never
hardline national security stance, security stand, often even mocking its their backers”, the prime minister has and the world at large is one of unity tem in check and nipping any such a non-cooperator. As a matter of fact he had
must send out the right message and predecessor, the Congress-led United himself led from the front. and the full support of the Kashmiri attempts in the bud also lies with it. raised his voice against the non-cooperation
be seen to be doing something signif- Progressive Alliance (UPA) government However, the BJP is aware of the people. Large-scale protests against the The BJP has built its politics on not movement at the moment it was promulgat-
icant to assuage the collective anger. for being ‘soft on terror’. For such a need to be seen as walking the talk gruesome attack erupted across the just a strong national security premise ed by its authors at the memorable All India
On the other hand, however, it has to government, therefore, an attack of the and doing something that, to its vot- Valley, and Kashmiris led from the but, more importantly, on an aggres- Conference held at Allahabad in June 1920.
escalate the situation without crossing nature and magnitude of the one in ers, seems bigger than the surgical front in strongly condemning them. A sive brand of Hindutva. At this He then pointed out that he was not prepared
a certain line and risking alienating Pahalgam puts it under pressure to be strikes and Balakot airstrikes. Given lot has been written and said about the moment, even a slight hint of this to join the non-cooperation movement
the global community that has so far seen as upping the ante and teaching its tough image and the whole idea of acts of kindness and empathy divide, or estrangement of Kashmiris, because he did not believe that any practical
overwhelmingly thrown its weight the perpetrators a lesson. a ‘teflon’ PM, the BJP can ill afford not displayed by the average Kashmiri in does nothing but play straight into the good would come of the programme which
behind India. And most importantly, Post the February 2019 terror to be seen as doing enough by its the aftermath. The outrage was deep, hands of the terrorists and the coun- the non-cooperators professed to follow. He
as it tries to pacify its domestic audi- attack in Pulwama in Jammu and domestic constituency. and the anger was intense. There is no try’s enemies. A nation fighting within opposed some of the principal items in the
ence while balancing the international Kashmir by a suicide bomber that If it has its domestic constituency bigger damning message for the per- the aftermath of such a dastardly act programme, such as the boycott of schools
front, it has to be extra cautious not killed 40 personnel of the Central to appease on the one hand, the Modi petrators than to see Kashmir unequiv- by extraneous forces is half the battle and colleges because he was fully convinced
to allow its brand of majoritarian pol- Reserve Police Forces (CRPF), the government, on the other hand, has to ocally censure such acts. won for those behind it. that the adoption of such a policy would be
itics to become the dominant mes- Modi government retaliated militarily toe a fine line so as not to alienate the However, threats and attacks on To tide through its biggest crisis, suicidal to the best interests of their (the
sage, thereby playing right into the with the Indian Air Force bombing the international community. The mas- Kashmiris in other parts of the coun- the Modi government, therefore, has Mohammedan) community.
hands of the enemies. terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammed’s sacre saw unprecedented global sup- try single-handedly defeat the cause, to display an evolved degree of matu-
On April 22, as many as 26 civil- camp in Balakot in Pakistan-Occu- port for India from a wide cross-sec- betraying deep schisms within. Not to rity and statesmanship, combined RAILWAY STRIKE
ians—25 Indians (including one pied-Kashmir. Before that, in 2016, tion of countries and world leaders. mention the dangerous impact of with an unyielding response to terror-
local) and a Nepali citizen—were India carried out surgical strikes With the brazen and barbaric nature such acts in alienating Kashmir, which ists and garnished with some fine MEN RETURNING TO WORK
killed in a terrorist attack at Baisaran, inside Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in of the attack, India is a clear victim that was finally showing signs of healing. diplomatic manoeuvring. LAHORE, MAY 1.
a popular tourist spot in Pahalgam. response to an attack on an Indian has an upper hand as far as solidarity Equally important is that the THE North-Western Railway strike situ-
The Resistance Front, a shadow army camp in Uri. from the international community is Hindu versus Muslim chasm is already The Kathmandu Post/ANN. ation outside Lahore is practically
unchanged. The situation at Lahore has
CROSSWORD improved considerably and the numbers at
NO-293123 work in the loco and carriage shops have
increased daily this week by about 100 men
per day. The men offering for re-engagement
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
ACROSS 17 Old horny creature 28 Doris’s daughter 3
No change in 16 Attacker not a are being taken on. The position in regard to
8 9 rolling round floor dressed in red Washington – rarely motorcyclist? (5) the running staff is satisfactory and it has been
YESTERDAY'S SOLUTION 8 Partly swapped (4) cuddling sweetheart guilty (6) 18 Tots are busy with a possible to send engine crews to other sheds.
permanently bleating 19 Michael gutted to (6) 4 Colours ultimately balloon, perhaps
10 11 P D C M A P M female, we hear – stop doing jobs round 30 Confuse extremists in faded of course (8)
The agent, in a statement issued this
C I R C U L A T E F R E D A well done! the house? Clearly Delaware (4) (4) 19 Party rubbish? He evening, says that at Ludhiana and Lyallpur
U E E S T I R R (4,3,3) not (5) 31 Fair happening 5 Ian still occasionally gets a woman (8) there are no absentees. At Kotri there has
12 13 14 15 16 R I V A L T H A T C H I N G 9 Mount, in turn, but a 20 Start to dredge North shortly – he’s outside appearing in dock, 22 Mess in dish – been no change during the last six days,
S A L D I A little awkwardly (4) Yorkshire river – you with dodgems at curiously (8) language! (6)
E C L I P S E A D O P T E R except that less than half of the carriage
10 Let out to catch bug may have to work at first (4-6) 6 Runs into old PM 24 What can I earn in
17 18 19 20 E O T N R E (6) it (4) around Teesside town Bangkok? Say, that’s
workers absented themselves on April 29. At
N O N S L I P A D AM A N T 11 Flipping idiots! Man U 21 Dross! Oscar unlikely Down (4) capital (6) the Karachi shops 556 new men have been
E C Y R D D player’s unexplained for creaking old 1 Cycling home, finally 7 Stoke are playing – 26 Have to defend recruited. The position in Rawalpindi is
21 22 23 24 MA E S T R O F L OW E R S marks on body (8) British drama (10) stopping where they the epitome of English poet (4) unchanged and satisfactory.
A H G A U A 12 One’s book a little bit 23 Soldiers going round sell wine Englishness? (3,5) 27 Attracted Prince –
T O P S E C R E T S Y N O D The returns of the running of mail and
25 26 27 28 29 of poetry (4) at speed (4) (6) 13 Violently assaults in one extradited? (4) passenger trains for the period April 1 to 28
O E I E C H I L 14 They hate spending 25 Accompanied earl 2 A time to seal off Chelsea store? (5) 29 Tough outside but
D R E G S S T A T U T O R Y money abroad – this ordered guards copper mine entrance 15 School getting somewhat easier show that except on three occasions, there
E R M S T T N have been no abnormal delays in the train
30 31 grates (5-5) around (8) (4) parent’s letter (5) indoors (4)
service which are being maintained. An addi-
tional passenger service, Nos. 89 up and 70
NOTE: Figures in parentheses denote the number of letters in the words required. (By arrangement with The Independent, London) down, was introduced between Lyallpur and
Wazirabad on and from April 20.

CMYK
08 BHUBANESWAR, SATURDAY 03 MAY 2025

China weighs US trade talks, With Waltz out, Rubio takes on two key roles
after shifting to embrace Trump’s ideals
cites tariffs as obstacle
‘Attempting to engage in coercion and blackmail under the guise of talks, will not work on the Chinese side’
AGENCIES
WASHINGTON, 2 MAY

Secretary of State Marco

Rubio has been thrown into
his staunch advocacy of pro-
viding foreign aid and pro-
moting democracy overseas
since taking over the State
Department, repeating a
two top national security refrain that every policy or
ASSOCIATED PRESS work on the Chinese side,” of certain strategically impor- jobs at once as President program should make Amer-
BEIJING, 2 MAY it said. tant minerals and stopped Donald Trump presses for- ica safer, stronger or more
China is in the midst of a importing a wide range of ward with his top-to-bottom prosperous.

C
hina’s Commerce public holiday, with govern- US farm products. revamp of US foreign policy, Since being confirmed in
Ministry said Friday ment offices and markets At the same time, China upending not only longstand- a 99-0 Senate floor vote,
that Beijing is eval- closed. But share prices in has sought to join with other ing policies that the former Rubio has presided over a
uating multiple Hong Kong jumped 1.7 per countries to build a united Florida senator once sup- radical reorganisation of the
approaches by the Trump cent early Friday, while Tai- front against Trump, while ported but also the configu- State Department. That
administration for trade talks, wan’s benchmark index was ramping up its own coun- ration of the executive branch. includes the dismantling of
but steep tariffs imposed by up 2.2 per cent. US futures termeasures to the impact Trump’s appointment of hold both positions. He fol- the United States Agency for
Washington must go. also advanced. of Trump’s tariffs. Rubio to temporarily replace lows only the late Henry International Development
A ministry statement reit- As of Friday, the Trump Trump has slapped a glob- Mike Waltz as national security Kissinger, who served as both and plans to cut US jobs by
erated China’s stance that administration is ending a al 10 per cent import tax, or adviser is the first major lead- secretary of state and national 15 per cent while closing or
is open to talks, but also that imposition of tariffs,” it said. hoping to talk with the Chi- duty-free exemption on low- tariff, to try to compel man- ership shake-up of the nascent security adviser for two years consolidating more than 100
Beijing is determined to fight An unnamed ministry nese side. In this regard, the value imports from China. ufacturers to shift factories administration, but Waltz’s under Presidents Richard bureaus worldwide.
if it must. It said one-sided spokesperson was cited as Chinese side is making an That will mean higher prices back to the USA. He ordered removal had been rumoured Nixon and Gerald Ford in He has also begun a major
tariffs of up to 145 per cent saying that Beijing had taken assessment,” it said. and delivery delays when double-digit “reciprocal” tar- for weeks — ever since he the 1970s. cull of the visa system, revok-
remain an obstacle, under- note of various statements But it emphasised that the government starts col- iffs for many countries but created a Signal group chat Rubio — a one-time ing hundreds, if not thou-
mining trust. by senior American officials China would regard overtures lecting tariffs on every single then postponed their imple- and accidentally added a Trump rival and hawkish sands, of visas issued to
“The tariff and trade wars indicating a willingness to without a change in President shipment. mentation for 90 days to journalist to the conversation conservative who was derided foreign students.
were unilaterally initiated negotiate over tariffs. Donald Trump’s sharp tariff Beijing has responded to allow time for negotiations. where top national security by the president as “Little He has overseen the nego-
by the USA, if the US side “At the same time, the hikes as insincere. Trump’s tariff hikes by raising He has also hit foreign steel, officials shared sensitive mil- Marco” during the 2016 pres- tiation of agreements to send
wants to talk, it should show USA has recently taken the “Saying one thing but its own duties on imports of aluminium and autos. itary plans. idential campaign — has immigrants accused of crimes
its sincerity, and be ready to initiative to convey infor- doing another, or even American products to as high The toughest measures So, just over 100 days into proven adept at aligning him- to third countries, most
take action on issues such mation to the Chinese side attempting to engage in coer- as 125 per cent. were reserved for China, the his tenure as America’s top self with Trump’s “America notably to El Salvador, in
as correcting wrong practices on a number of occasions cion and blackmail under It has also tightened restric- world’s biggest exporter and diplomat, Rubio now becomes First” foreign policy positions. cases that are now being
and cancelling the unilateral through relevant parties, the guise of talks, will not tions on exports to the USA second largest economy. just the second person to Rubio has largely eschewed challenged in federal courts.

Trump threatens sanctions against buyers of US judge asks government to answer

Iranian oil after US-Iran nuclear talks are postponed questions on Indian academic’s detention
AGENCIES It was unclear how Trump Trump has separately placed Al-Busaidi, who has medi- AGENCIES court in Texas, where he is
DUBAI, 2 MAY would implement such a 145 per cent tariffs on China ated the talks through three NEW YORK, 2 MAY now held.
ban as he threatened to levy as a way to raise federal rev- rounds so far, did not elab- Suri’s lawyers fear that
President Donald Trump on secondary sanctions on enues and rebalance global orate. A judge has given the US he is at greater risk of being
Thursday threatened sanc- nations that import Iranian trade. Iran’s Foreign Minister government a day’s notice deported because the courts
tions on anyone who buys oil. Trump’s social media Abbas Araghchi also blamed to come up with answers in Texas are considered
Iranian oil, a warning that But his statement risked threat came after Oman “logistical and technical rea- regarding the detention of more conservative and could
came after planned talks further escalating tensions announced planned nuclear sons” for the postponement. an Indian academic whose be sympathetic to the gov-
over Tehran’s rapidly advanc- with China — Iran’s leading negotiations for this coming “On Iran’s part, there is deportation was temporarily ernment.
ing nuclear programme were customer — at a time when weekend had been post- no change in our determi- blocked. Giles raised questions
postponed. the relationship is severely poned. Omani Foreign Min- nation to secure a negotiated Federal Judge Patricia about the claims of over-
Trump wrote on social strained over the US presi- ister Badr al-Busaidi made solution,” he wrote on X. Tolliver Giles on Thursday crowding in the Virginia
media: “All purchases of dent’s tariffs. the announcement in a post “We are more determined ordered government lawyers detention centre for moving
Iranian Oil, or Petrochemical Based on tanker tracking on the social platform X. than ever to achieve a just to explain why Badar Khan they allege that he has links stayed his deportation, was him to a Texas facility where
products, must stop, NOW!” data, the US Energy Infor- “For logistical reasons and balanced deal: guaran- Suri was moved from a to Hamas, which the USA hearing an appeal by Suri’s he was given a cot in a TV
He said any country or person mation Administration con- we are rescheduling the US- teeing an end to sanctions, detention facility in Virginia, has declared is a Palestinian lawyers to bring him back room, while he had a room
who buys those products cluded in a report published Iran meeting provisionally and creating confidence that where he lives, to Louisiana terrorist organisation. to Virginia and stop his to himself in Virginia.
from Iran will not be able to last October that “China planned for Saturday May Iran’s nuclear programme and to Texas after his arrest He is a postdoctoral fellow deportation. She asked: “Are they
do business with the United took nearly 90 per cent of 3rd,” he wrote. “New dates will forever remain peaceful in March. at Georgetown University Government lawyers moved like that in the mid-
States “in any way, shape, Iran’s crude oil and con- will be announced when while ensuring that Iranian Immigration authorities in Washington. want the case against his dle of the night? Is that
or form.” densate exports in 2023.” mutually agreed.” rights are fully respected.” want to deport him because Giles, who had earlier deportation moved to a normal?”

A US-led effort to end the war in Ukraine looks Farage’s Reform UK hails a ‘big moment’ as it wins
a seat in Parliament, eyes local election gains
favourable to Russia, but mixed signals emerge AGENCIES It was a significant defeat
AGENCIES White House. Volodymyr Zelenskyy, echoed More recently, Trump has access to Ukraine’s vast min- LONDON, 2 MAY for Labour, which easily
TALLINN, 2 MAY What’s emerged so far Kremlin talking points, and offered mixed signals — eral resources that could won the district in last year’s
from the Washington-led indicated Kyiv would have social media posts that per- enable continued military The hard-right party Reform national election. The special
The discussions have taken effort to end the war in to surrender territory and haps Russian President aid to the country under UK led by Nigel Farage election was held because
place in an ornate Kremlin Ukraine suggests a deal that forego NATO membership. Vladimir Putin is stringing ongoing attacks from Rus- snatched a seat in Parliament Labour lawmaker Mike
hall, on the polished marble seems likely to be favourable What’s more, he has engaged him along — and a deal has sia. from the governing Labour Amesbury was forced to
of St. Peter’s Basilica and in to Russia: President Donald in a rapprochement with yet to materialise. Zelenskyy said Thursday Party and made big gains quit after he was convicted
a famously contentious ses- Trump has sharply rebuked Moscow that was unthinkable While the optics so far the deal was the first result in local elections that Farage of punching a constituent
sion in the Oval Office of the Ukrainian President months ago. have been in the Kremlin’s of his “truly historic” meeting hailed Friday as a turning in a drunken rage.
favour, no proposals that with Trump at the Vatican point in British politics. Farage said: “it’s a very,
were put forth have been before the funeral of Pope Reform’s Sarah Pochin very big moment indeed”
T E N D E R cemented.
And on Wednesday, Wash-
Francis. One gain for the
Kremlin is that Washington
was declared winner of the
seat of Runcorn and Helsby ing Labour candidate Karen
that shows Reform can win
against both Labour and
ington and Kyiv signed an is talking again to Moscow in northwest England by six Shore by the narrowest of the right-of-centre opposi-
agreement granting American after years. votes after a recount, defeat- margins. tion Conservative Party.

Israeli strikes hit near Syria’s

presidential palace after warning
sect in southern Syria. security and the unity of the
The strike came after days Syrian people.”
of clashes between pro-Syrian Friday’s strike was Israel’s
government gunmen and second on Syria this week,
fighters who belong to the and attacking an area close
Druze minority sect near the to the presidential palace
capital, Damascus. The clash- appears to send a strong
es left dozens of people dead warning to Syria’s new lead-
or wounded. ership that is mostly made
AGENCIES Syria’s presidency con- up of Islamist groups led by
DAMASCUS, 2 MAY demned the Israeli airstrike, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham.
calling it a “dangerous esca- On Thursday, Syria’s Druze
Israel’s air force struck near lation against state institutions spiritual leader Sheikh Hikmat
Syria’s presidential palace and the soveignty of the Al-Hijri harshly criticized
early Friday after warning state.” It called on the inter- Syria’s government for what
Syrian authorities not to national community to stand he called an “unjustified
march toward villages inhab- by Syria, saying that such genocidal attack” on the
ited by members of a minority attacks “target Syria national minority community.

Top UN court wraps a week of

hearings on humanitarian aid to Gaza
AGENCIES from operating.
THE HAGUE, 2 MAY Experts say the case could
have broader ramifications
The top United Nations for the United Nations and
court on Friday wraps a its missions worldwide.
week of hearings on what The hearings are taking
Israel must do to ensure place as the humanitarian
desperately needed human- aid system in Gaza is nearing
itarian aid reaches Pales- collapse and ceasefire efforts
tinians in Gaza and the occu- remain deadlocked. Israel
pied West Bank. has blocked the entry of
Last year, the U.N. General food, fuel, medicine and
Assembly asked the Inter- other humanitarian supplies
national Court of Justice to since 2 March.
give an advisory opinion on It renewed its bombard-
Israel’s legal obligations ment on 18 March, breaking
after the country effectively a ceasefire, and seized large
banned the U.N. agency for parts of the territory, saying
Palestinian refugees, the it aims to push Hamas to
main provider of aid to Gaza, release more hostages.
 BHUBANESWAR, SATURDAY 03 MAY 2025 09
THUMBNAILS
India's total exports rise 6
per cent to all-time high of
$824.9 billion: India's total
Markets end flat; Nifty near 24,350
Benchmark indices ended with marginal gains in a volatile session; Nifty closed at 24,346.70, Sensex at 80,501.99
exports have touched an all-
time high of $824.9 billion in STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE 936 points to hit an intraday the top gainers. Further, the per cent and 0.27 per cent, reflected a 7.5x jump in net
the financial year 2024–25, NEW DELHI, 2 MAY high of 81,177.93 while Nifty stocks that ended with losses respectively. profit to reach Rs 3,844.91
50 reclaimed 24,589.15, rising were shares of JSW Steel (5.81 Nifty Bank closed with a crore.

B
as per the latest data
released by the Reserve enchmark indices on 255 points, or 1 per cent. per cent), Bajaj Auto (2.75 nominal gain of 0.05 per cent. TVS Motor shares rose by
Bank of India which includes Friday ended with BSE Midcap and Smallcap per cent) and Eicher Motors Bandhan Bank shares 3 per cent intraday after the
the services trade for March marginal gains with indices, which rose up to a (2.50 per cent). slipped over 2 per cent how- company reported a sales
2025. This marks a growth Nifty around 24,350 per cent in the morning ses- Among the sectors, most ever, the domestic brokerage growth of 16 per cent YoY to
of 6.01 per cent over the level led by IT, media, oil & sion, ended with losses of ended with losses. Nifty Con- Anand Rathi reiterated its 4.44 lakh units in April 2025.
previous year’s export fig- gas stocks in a highly volatile 0.41 per cent and 0.07 per sumer Durable fell 1.39 per 'Buy' call on the stock. Federal Globally, the European
ure of $778.1 billion. Services session. cent, respectively. cent while Nifty Metal and Bank shares dropped 4 per indices were trading with
exports continued to drive At close, the Sensex was On Nifty50, the shares of Pharma dropped 0.74 per cent with Anand Rathi remain- solid gains, while Asian indices
the growth momentum, up 259.75 points or 0.32 per Adani Ports and Special Eco- cent and 0.67 per cent, respec- ing bullish on Federal Bank, edged up after China said
reaching a historic high of cent at 80,501.99, and the nomic Zone were up 4.37 per tively. maintaining a 'Buy' rating. it’s evaluating possible US
$387.5 billion in 2024–25, up Nifty was up 12.50 points or cent, Bajaj Finance by 2.70 The Nifty Oil and Gas index Adani Ports shares surged trade talks, boosting optimism
13.6 per cent from $341.1 0.05 per cent at 24,346.70. per cent and IndusInd Bank rose 0.73 per cent, while Nifty over 5 per cent following that tariff tensions will tamp
billion in the previous year. Sensex rose as much as up by 1.44 per cent ended as Media and IT climbed 0.49 Q4FY25 results. The company down.

India's forex reserves Manufacturing sector Poonam Gupta takes charge as RBI Deputy
surge past $688 billion mark hits 10-month high in Governor amid global economic challenges
April with PMI at 58.2
AGENCIES
AGENCIES NEW DELHI, 2 MAY
MUMBAI, 2 MAY
Poonam Gupta, the new
India's foreign exchange STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE buying activity and built Deputy Governor at Reserve
reserves rose for the eighth NEW DELHI, 2 MAY up inventories to keep up Bank of India (RBI), took
straight week to touch $688.13 with future demand. charge on Friday and will be
billion as of April 25, according India’s manufacturing sector The April data showed part of the central bank's
to the latest RBI data released hit a 10-month high in April strong optimism about monetary policy committee
on Friday. 2025 with the seasonally future output, driven by (MPC).
The foreign exchange kitty adjusted HSBC India Man- expectations of higher The government appoint-
surged by $1.98 billion during ufacturing Purchasing Man- demand. Companies were ed her to the post of Deputy
the week. rupee vis-a-vis the US dollar slowdown in world trade. agers' Index (PMI) rose also more confident due Governor on 2 April for a
The foreign currency com- which is good for the econ- This represents a growth from 58.1 in March to 58.2 to better marketing, period of three years from
ponent of the reserves omy. of 6.01 per cent over the pre- in April. improved efficiency, and the date of joining the post
increased by $2.17 billion to An increase in the foreign vious year’s export figure of This follows a dip to a more new customer or until further orders,
$580.66 billion. exchange reserves reflects $778.1 billion. 14-month low of 56.3 in enquiries. whichever is earlier. Her
The gold reserves com- the strong fundamentals of Services exports continued February, when output, Pranjul Bhandari, Chief expertise is crucial amid on issues related to Economic the Indian Statistical Institute
ponent of the forex reserves the economy and gives the to drive the growth momen- new orders, and input pur- India Economist at HSBC global economic challenges Growth, International Finan- (ISI), Delhi.
decreased by $207 million RBI more headroom to sta- tum, reaching a historic high chasing had slowed. said, "The notable increase and fluctuating inflation rates. cial Architecture, Central She has been the RBI Chair
to $84.37 billion while Special bilise the rupee when it turns of $387.5 billion in 2024–25, According to the survey, in new export orders in As Deputy Governor, she Banking, Macro Economic Professor at the National
Drawing Rights (SDR) went volatile. up 13.6 per cent from $341.1 the total sales were sup- April may indicate a poten- will look after Monetary Policy Stability, Public Debt, and Institute of Public Finance
up by $21 million to $18.59 A strong forex kitty enables billion in the previous year. ported by a sharp rise in tial shift in production to Department, Financial Mar- State Finances. and Policy (NIPFP) and a
billion. the RBI to intervene in the For March 2025, services international orders. India, as businesses adapt kets Operations Department, She also served as member Professor at the Indian Council
The declining trend in spot and forward currency exports stood at $35.6 billion, New business from to the evolving trade land- Department of Economic of the Economic Advisory for Research on International
forex reserves of earlier markets by releasing more reflecting a year-on-year abroad grew to the greatest scape and US tariff and Policy Research, Financial Council to the Prime Minister Economic Relations (ICRIER).
months due to revaluation dollars to prevent the rupee growth of 18.6 per cent com- degree in over 14 years at announcements.” Stability Department, Inter- and as Convener of the Advi- Dr Gupta has various
and forex market interven- from going into a free fall. pared to $30.0 billion in the start of the 2025-26 “Manufacturing output national Department, Depart- sory Council to the 16th research papers published
tions by the RBI to help Conversely, a declining March 2024, the latest RBI fiscal year and this demand growth strengthened to a ment of Statistics and Infor- Finance Commission. and an edited book “Emerging
reduce volatility in the rupee forex kitty leaves the RBI less figures show. was led by Africa, Asia, ten-month high on robust mation Management, Cor- Before joining NCAER, Giants: China and India in
has now been reversed over space to intervene in the In 2024–25, merchandise Europe, the Middle East, orders. Input prices porate Strategy and Budget Dr. Gupta had worked at the World Economy” to her
the last two months . market to prop up the rupee. exports excluding petroleum and the Americas, the survey increased slightly faster, Department and Department senior positions for nearly credit.
Earlier, the country's forex Meanwhile, India’s exter- products rose to a record participants said. but the impact on margins of Communication, according two decades at the Interna- She holds a Master’s degree
reserves had increased to an nal sector has emerged $374.1 billion, registering a Further, about 9% of could be more than offset to an RBI statement. tional Monetary Fund (IMF) and PhD in Economics from
all-time high of $704.885 bil- stronger with total exports 6 per cent increase from surveyed manufacturers by the much faster rise in Prior to this, Dr Gupta and World Bank. University of Maryland, US,
lion in September 2024. rising to an all-time high of $352.9 billion in 2023–24 — hired more workers, both output prices, of which the was the Director General of She also taught at the and a Master’s degree in Eco-
Any strengthening of the $824.9 billion in the financial the highest ever annual non- permanent and temporary, index jumped to the highest the National Council of Delhi School of Economics, nomics from Delhi School
country's foreign exchange year 2024–25 despite geopo- petroleum merchandise to meet rising demand. level since October 2013," Applied Economic Research University of Maryland (USA) of Economics, University of
kitty also helps bolster the litical uncertainties and a exports. Companies increased their Bhandari added. (NCAER), leading the works and as a visiting faculty at Delhi.

S&P Global cuts India's Patanjali’s tech arm BSPL announces strategic foray into Indian banking sector India, EU aim to
seal FTA by 2025
growth projection to 6.3 STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE
NEW DELHI, 2 MAY
Bharuwa Solutions Pvt Ltd, the tech arm of Patanjali of the Patanjali Group,
expressed his commitment
legacy of automating over
5,000 bank branches since STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE
per cent for current fiscal Bharuwa Solutions Pvt Ltd
Group, has launched an AI-powered, bilingual 360°
Banking ERP System aimed at transforming digital
banking for regional, cooperative, and small financial
to technological inclusion,
stating, “Bharat is a nation
1999 for surround products
like AML, LOS, MIS etc.
NEW DELHI, 2 MAY

STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE With regard to exchange (BSPL), the technology arm institutions in India. The platform, called B-Banking, of many languages, yet our Together, Bharuwa and Union Minister of Commerce
NEW DELHI, 2 MAY rate fluctuations, S&P projected of the Patanjali Group, on addresses key challenges in language inclusivity, banking infrastructure pre- Natural aim to deliver a com- and Industry, Piyush Goyal,
INR/USD exchange rate to Wednesday announced its security, efficiency, and regulatory compliance, dominantly operates in Eng- prehensive “Bank in a Box” held a key meeting with
S&P Global Ratings cut India's be 88 by 2025-end from 86.64 strategic foray into the Indian supporting local languages alongside English and lish—alienating the majority. solution—an all-in-one plat- European Union Commis-
growth projections by 0.2 per in 2024. banking sector with the integrating features like API banking, AML, HRMS, Bharuwa Solutions is launch- form combining frontend sioner for Trade and Eco-
cent to 6.3 per cent for the The INR/USD pair is wit- launch of an AI-powered, and ERP tools. Backed by a partnership with Natural ing a transformative product excellence with a powerful nomic Security, Maros Sef-
current fiscal year citing uncer- nessing significant fluctuations Multilingual (Bilingual) 360° Support Consultancy Services, the system offers a that is technologically supe- backend infrastructure. It covic, in Brussels to discuss
tainty over the US tariff policy since the US tariff announce- Banking ERP System. “Bank in a Box” solution designed to empower rural rior, functionally compre- seamlessly integrates with the progress of the India-
and downside risks from its ment and the rupee is currently This next-generation plat- and semi-urban banks with modern, inclusive, and hensive, and linguistically Core Banking Systems (CBS), EU Free Trade Agreement
spillover to the economy. hovering at 84-level against form is designed to revolu- compliant technology. inclusive, aligned with the supporting services like, (FTA).
It projected India's GDP the greenback. tionise digital banking by Official Language Act of Internet & Mobile Banking, At the meeting, both sides
growth to be 6.3 per cent in According to S&P, the US empowering regional, coop- allows banks to serve cus- system features robust capa- 1963.” AI-Powered Search, eKYC, reaffirmed their commitment
2025-26 and 6.5 per cent in economy is expected to grow erative, and small financial tomers in both English and bilities including API banking, “In this age of AI and CKYC, PFMS Integration, to concluding the long-await-
2026-27 fiscal year. 1.5 per cent this year and 1.7 institutions with intelligent, their local language—e.g., MIS, HRMS, ERP modules, Machine Learning, it’s time SMS Banking, KCC IS Portal, ed trade deal by the end of
It said that among Asia- per cent in the next. inclusive, and compliant Gujarati in Gujarat, Punjabi AML tools, and workflow our rural, semi-urban, coop- AML, HRMS, CSS, MIS, DSS, 2025.
Pacific's major economies, Notably, in March, S&P technology. in Punjab—ensuring acces- automation for seamless erative, and small finance and backend processes like India emphasised that
China is expected to see its had lowered the FY'26 GDP Bharuwa’s cutting-edge sibility and ease of use for operations and compliance. institutions get access to the ERP, HRMS etc. meaningful progress in trade
growth drop from 0.7 per growth forecast to 6.5 per CBS platform ( B-Banking) all citizens. Regulatory Compliance same level of technology as This holistic offering is negotiations requires equal
cent in 2025 to 3.5 per cent cent, from 6.7 per cent. is purpose-built to address Enhanced Security Fully aligned with the public and private sector tailored to enable digital focus on non-tariff barriers
and in 2026 to 3 per cent. Highlighting furher on the four critical challenges that The platform incorporates Official Language Act, 1963, banks. This initiative is about transformation for State (NTBs) alongside tariff dis-
In a report titled "Global US tariff policy, it said this have long hindered innova- state-of-the-art AI and cyber- and Supreme Court directives, empowering Bharat, in every Cooperative Banks, District cussions and regulatory
Macro Update: Seismic Shift will fall into three buckets -- tion and inclusivity in India’s security protocols to provide the solution ensures com- sense of the word.” Central Cooperative Banks, frameworks must be inclu-
In US Trade Policy Will Slow China will be an individual banking ecosystem: comprehensive protection pliance with government To bring this vision to Urban Cooperative Banks, sive, proportionate, and
World Growth", S&P Global case, reflecting the ongoing Language Inclusivity for data, transactions, and mandates for bilingual soft- life, Bharuwa Solutions has NBFCs, and other financial avoid restricting trade.
Ratings said "we reiterate geopolitical rivalry, including With India’s linguistic digital interactions. ware across financial insti- partnered with Natural Sup- institutions across India and The India-EU FTA aspires
that there are no winners in long-standing tensions around diversity, most banking serv- Process Efficiency tutions. port Consultancy Services International market, par- to reflect the evolving realities
a scenario of escalating pro- the bilateral trade imbalance ices remain limited to English. Designed for end-to-end Acharya Balkrishna, Pvt Ltd, a veteran in the bilin- ticularly in regions with mul- of global commerce by sup-
tectionist policies." and "unfair competition." BSPL’s bilingual solution banking transformation, the Founder & Managing Director gual banking space with a tilingual banking needs. porting digital transition,
promoting diversified and
resilient supply chains, Min-

Share of micro, small enterprises accessing credit through Coal production in April recorded istry of Commerce and Indus-
try said in a statement.
Taking it to social media
banks rises from 14 per cent to 20 per cent: NITI Aayog at 14.01 MT, dispatch at 16.81 MT platform X, Piyush Goyal
described the dialogue as
STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE implementation costs. “highly productive,” saying
NEW DELHI, 2 MAY NITI Aayog said that STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE that it helped redefine the
despite state government NEW DELHI, 2 MAY India-EU partnership. “The
A recent report by NITI Aayog schemes designed to support meeting focused on enhanc-
has noted improvement in technological advancement In April, the coal production ing market access for busi-
MSMEs' access to formal in MSMEs, many enterprises from captive and commercial nesses in both regions and
credit saying that between are either unaware of them mines stood at 14.01 million strengthening trusted, diver-
2020 and 2024, the share of or unable to access them. tonnes (MT), while coal dis- sified supply chains. The
micro and small enterprises In its analysis of clusters, patch was recorded at 16.81 discussions aimed to ensure
accessing credit through the report finds that upgrad- MT, reflecting a robust start that the FTA would not only
scheduled banks rose from ing outdated technologies to FY 2025–26. be strategic but also mutually
14 per cent to 20 per cent, and improving marketing This marks a notable year- operations on 15 April 2025, MT (Provisional), registering beneficial for the sustainable
while medium enterprises and branding capabilities on-year growth compared and the Naini coal block of a significant rise from 11.46 development of both
saw an increase from 4 per are critical to improving to April figures from FY 2023- M/s Singareni Collieries Com- MT recorded during the same economies,” he said.
cent to 9 per cent. competitiveness. 24 and FY 2022-23, under- pany Limited (SCCL), with period last year. Both sides expressed opti-
Despite these improve- and unlock inclusive, scalable mentioned. It said that despite various lining the sector’s upward a PRC of 10 MT per annum As on April 30, the coal mism that the agreement,
ments, the report reveals finance for MSMEs, the report Many MSMEs also fail to MSME support policies and trajectory, said the Ministry (opencast), commenced oper- stock held by coal companies once concluded, will serve
that a substantial credit gap calls for a revamped CGTMSE, invest sufficiently in research the recent boost to MSMEs of Coal in a statement. ations on 16 April 2025. witnessed a notable surge, as a transformative pillar of
remains. Only 19 per cent of supported by institutional and development (R&D), through Union Budgets, The Coal Ministry attrib- The ministry data recently reaching 125.76 MT in FY the broader India-EU strate-
MSME credit demand was collaboration and more tar- quality improvement, or increased effectiveness is uted one of the key contrib- has also highlighted that the 2025-26, as compared to gic partnership, enhancing
met formally by FY21, leaving geted services. innovation, making it difficult hampered by low awareness. utors to this achievement to overall coal production during 102.41 MT during the cor- market access, supporting
an estimated 80 lakh crore It also highlighted the to stay competitive in national To enhance policy impact, the commencement of oper- April reached 81.57 MT (Pro- responding period of the regulatory cooperation, and
unmet. pressing issue of skill shortages and global markets, it high- the report recommends ations in newly developed visional), marking an increase previous year. fostering innovation and
The Credit Guarantee within the MSME sector. “A lighted. stronger state-level design coal blocks. over the 78.71 MT produced At Coal India Limited competitiveness on both
Fund Trust for Micro and large portion of the workforce The report further points and implementation, It highlighted Kotre Bas- in the corresponding period (CIL) alone, the total coal sides. The leaders of both
Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) lacks formal vocational or out that MSMEs face barriers emphasising consistent antpur Pachmo block of M/s of the previous year. stock stood at 105 MT in FY the sides acknowledged the
has expanded significantly, technical training, which in adopting modern tech- monitoring, better data inte- Central Coalfields Limited Further, the production 2025-26, marking a 22.10 per crucial role of investment
but still faces significant lim- hampers productivity and nologies due to unreliable gration and improved stake- (CCL), with a Peak Rated from Captive/Other entities cent growth over the 86.60 flows and people-to-people
itations, NITI Aayog said. limits the ability of MSMEs electricity supply, weak inter- holder engagement in policy Capacity (PRC) of 5 MT per mines during April 2025 in MT recorded during the same mobility in sustaining eco-
To bridge the credit gap to scale effectively,” the report net connectivity and high development. annum (opencast), started FY 2025-26 stood at 14.51 period last year. nomic vitality.
PAGE 10_PAGE 01 - Copy.qxd 02-05-2025 23:01 Page 1

10 BHUBANESWAR, SATURDAY 03 MAY 2025

Govt approves 19 industrial Oppn Congress & BJD claim credit

over caste census announcement
projects worth �3,898.54 Cr. STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE
BHUBANESWAR, 2 MAY: 8 Kamandal has finally agreed to
STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE mented across 11 districts: unit in Sundargarh. jam, aimed at improving tics sector Jay Shree Tea &
BHUBANESWAR, 2 MAY: Angul, Balasore, Cuttack, In a significant develop- maritime logistics while in Industries Ltd will invest �61 Mandal : BJD
Dhenkanal, Ganjam, Jajpur,
Keonjhar, Khordha, Koraput,
ment for the industrial gases
segment, Linde India Ltd is
Khordha, Vasanth Vihar Con-
structions will establish a
crore in setting up a Single
Super Phosphate (SSP) plant
The Congress celebrated the
announcement of caste census
8 Without guidelines & details it

T
he State Level Single Sambalpur and Sundargarh- set to invest �425 crore in �134.50 crore logistics park. in Balasore. Additionally, by the union government could well be another jumla: Cong
Window Clearance ensuring balanced regional establishing a state-of-the- Six projects in the Tourism HVG Industries Pvt Ltd will claiming that it had forced
Authority ( SLSWCA) development and inclusive art air separation unit in and Hospitality sector were establish a �55.05 crore plastic the centre to do so. OPCC Sahoo, Sanjay Das Burma ernment followed by the VP
on Friday approved economic growth. Jajpur. The facility will have approved. These will come and chemical unit in Khord- president Bhakta Charan Das and Ms Snehangini Churia Singh government at the cen-
19 project proposals entailing TATA Steel is set to an annual production capacity up in Khordha, Ganjam, ha. held a media conference on to note that the BJD had tre had advocated and worked
an investment of �3,898.54 enhance its crude steel capac- of over 12 lakh metric tonnes Angul and Koraput districts. The other projects cleared Thursday and said Rahul repeatedly voiced the demand for conduct of a caste census
crore and a potential to gen- ity from the proposed 6.5 of industrial gases . Key proposals include resorts today are - Kalinga Infra Proj- Gandhi’s nationwide cam- in parliament and the state . All along the BJP was opposed
erate 7,464 new employment MTPA to 7.1 MTPA with an The Bhuvaneshwari Foods and 4-star hotels by Birendra ects Ltd which is to set up a paign for social justice and assembly since 20011. The to it . When the Mandal Com-
opportunities across the state. additional investment of �700 & Beverages Pvt Ltd will invest Hotels worth �105 crore, �60 crore crash barriers man- caste census had evoked mas- BJD government had even mission report was placed,
The cleared proposals crore while in Keonjhar, Sree �300 crore to set up a bever- Specbru Hotels worth �99.86 ufacturing unit in Sambalpur, sive public response . set up a Commission in this the kamandal was raked up
span a diverse range of high- Metaliks Limited will invest ages manufacturing unit in crore, Surya Eco Resort worth a molasses blending and The party workers here regard in 2022, they said. by the BJP and the government
impact sectors including �885 crore to expand its inte- Khordha. �86.73 crore, Tesko Hotels warehousing facility by Shree celebrated the occasion by BJP was all along opposed collapsed, he noted.
Steel, Iron & Ferro Alloys, grated steel plant. Odisha’s logistics and and Malls Infraprojects Pvt Jagannath Supply Co with distributing sweets and beating to caste census, said Churia The immediate task for
Industrial Gases, Logistics, Lal Baba Seamless Tubes infrastructure capabilities Ltd worth �80 crore, Satva an investment of Rs 51.40 drums . while hoping that the latest the state government is to
Food & Beverage, Agro-Pro- Pvt Ltd plans to establish a are set for a major upgrade Oleo Pvt Ltd worth �78.00 crore in Keonhar, Shree Sidhi We want the centre to announcement does not end provide reservation of seats
cessing, Tourism & Hospi- �200 crore precision tube with two impactful projects, crore, and TK International Vinayak Texcolours Pvt. Ltd’s immediately issue the modal- up like the several other in colleges and technical insti-
tality, Chemicals, Metal Down- manufacturing facility in Cut- stated officials here. ACME LTD worth �55.50 crore, gen- yarn dyeing and knits fabric ities for the caste census and ‘jumla’s “ of the BJP govern- tutions to OBC’s , he said.
stream, and Apparel & Tex- tack, and Surlon India Ltd Clean Energy Pvt Ltd will erating over 1,448 jobs col- processing unit in Khordha also work on lifting the 50 ment at the centre. BJD wants socio-economic
tile. will set up a �55 crore railway develop a �366.50 crore jetty- lectively. with an investment of Rs 100 percent cap on reservations, Dr Sahoo traced the polit- and educational backwardness
The projects will be imple- component manufacturing less floating terminal in Gan- In the Chemicals and Plas- crore. said Das. ical history of the demand to be taken into account when
The BJD also held a media for justice to OBC’s and said deciding on reservation, he

CM inaugurates Multipurpose Govt to procure 14

conference with Dr Arun the erstwhile Janata Dal gov- said.

Agri dept signs MoU with 4 Corporations

Worker Waiting Centers LMT rabi paddy from STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE Promotion and Investment and Rs. 30 crore for con-

STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE

BHUBANESWAR, 2 MAY:
8 Four lakh con- tance. So far, more than 4 lakh
unorganized workers have
20 districts BHUBANESWAR, 2 MAY:

The Agriculture department

Corporation of Odisha Lim-
ited (APICOL) for their out-
standing performance in the
struction work this year. A
total turnover of Rs 1000
crore has been targeted.
struction workers been registered under this STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE season. Similarly, he suggested signed MoUs with four cor- last year. Similarly, the partnership
Chief Minister Mohan Charan have been regtd board, while more than Rs 23 BHUBANESWAR, 2 MAY: that the interests of farmers porations on Friday in the Highlighting the achieve- with OSSC aims to strengthen
Majhi inaugurated a multi- crore has been provided as can be protected in the current presence of Deputy Chief ments of the agriculture the seed production and
purpose Shramik Pratiksha and Rs 370 crore assistance, stated the CM. The state government has set Rabi season , he said. Minister K V Singh Deo. department, Singh Deo said supply chain of Odisha. It
Kendra and two labour halls assistance given The minimum wages have a target of 14 LMT to be pro- He directed to install cam- The corporations include, it has spent the highest per- will work together to promote
in the city on Thursday as part been increased by Rs 10. A cured in the rabi season. At eras in each mandi and appoint Odisha Agro-Industrial Cor- centage of budget that is seed replacement and varietal
of the May Day celebrations came to power, more than 4 Task Force has been formed least 3.37 lakh farmers have nodal officers and supervisors poration (OAIC), Odisha 94.7 percent and is commit- improvement through a coor-
and said labour waiting centers lakh construction workers have to identify and monitor migrant already registered themselves to monitor the procurement Agriculture Promotion and ted to the progress and devel- dinated farmer awareness
with facilities like drinking been newly registered and an workers. A special state action to take part in the process process effectively. There is a Capital Investment Corpo- opment of farmers. campaign. For this, a turnover
water, parks etc will be estab- assistance of Rs 370 crore has plan has also been prepared and sell their paddy. need to be more vigilant as ration Limited (APICOL), OAIC has set a target of target of Rs 56 crore has
lished in urban areas. been provided, he said. for Odia migrant workers, he Procurement will be made more farmers have registered Odisha State Seed Corpo- purchasing 45,000 tonnes been set.
He said the electoral promise On the day he gave new said. thorugh 965 primary agricul- this year. ration Limited (OSSC), Odisha of fertilizer, organic fertilizer APICOL aims to create
made by the BJP with regards identity cards to nearly 3,000 Minister of Labour and tural cooperatie societies in Like kharif, Rs 2,300 per State Cashew Development and pesticides worth Rs. 20 6,500 business enterprises
to enhancing death benefit construction workers across Employment, State Insurance, 20 districts, said officials after quintal as MSP and Rs 800 as Corporation Limited (OSCD- crore, 7000 tractors, 1000 and provide subsidies worth
amount under the board has the state and over Rs 40 crores Forest, Environment and Cli- a meeting chaired by Deputy input assistance will be credited CL). power tillers and other agri- Rs 250 crore. The OSCDCL
been increased from Rs 2 lakh were provided to the eligible mate Change Ganesh Rams- Chief Minister K V Singh Deo directly to the farmers' accounts The Deputy Chief Minister cultural machinery, 5200 will take up 500 hectares of
to Rs 3 lakh in case of normal beneficiaries for various assis- ingh Khuntia and BJP MP on Thursday. Ministers Krush- within 48 hours of paddy pro- felicitated the Managing electric powered small lift hybrid cashew replantion
death and from Rs 4 lakh to Rs tance. He also launched a Aparajita Sarangi also addressed na Chandra Patra, Bibhuti curement. In addition, com- Directors of Odisha Agro- irrigation projects, 4800 solar programme and mainte-
6 lakh in case of accidental mobile App to make services the gathering. Minister K C Bhushan Jena, Pradeep Bal plaints can be made through Industries Corporation water tank projects, 1000 nance of trees over more
death. of the Construction Workers Mohapatra, MLA Babu Singh, Samanta and Suresh Pujari, 1967. In every mandi, proper (OAIC) and The Agricultural shallow tube well projects than 1336.22 hectares.
The Chief Minister informed Welfare Board available at the Mayor Sulochana Das, chief principal secretaries, Collectors installation of CCTVs along

Satellite-tagged Amur Falcon turns

that under the Construction doorstep of the workers. secretary Manoj Ahuja , and other officials of various with drinking water and other
Workers Welfare Scheme, nearly Steps are being taken to Principal Secretary, Labour districts took part in the meet- facilities have been made
4.7 lakh construction workers register 60 categories of unor- and Employees State Insurance ing. available. In view of the unsea-
have been registered so far
and over Rs 3,951 crore has
been provided for various assis-
ganized workers under the
Odisha Unorganized Workers
Social Security Board and pro-
Department, Ms. Chitra Aru-
mugam and Labour Commis-
sioner, Indramani Tripathi
The Deputy Chief Minister
expressed happiness over the
arrangement made for pro-
sonal rains and heat wave,
special arrangements have
been made for the protection
globetrotter, reaches Odisha
tance. Since our government vide them with welfare assis- were present. curement in the last Kharif of paddy kept in the mandis. STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE It flew out to Southern
BHUBANESWAR, 2 MAY: Africa from Manipur and

Call for Compassion: MLA Kadraka Law Minister asks SJTA A feathered species, which
spent 114 days from January
to 8 April in Southern Africa

comes to the rescue of elderly pensioners to probe timber row

was satellite-tagged, last year, with 46 days alone in the Cen-
has become a globetrotter tral Kalahari Reserve in
STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE There were media reports after covering around 4,000 Botswana. Later it left Botswana
STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE Appalaswamy Kadraka, who sioners safely at their BHUBANESWAR, 2 MAY: that surplus neem wood from kilometers including many on 8 April and reached Somalia
RAYAGADA, 2 MAY: happened to pass by. Moved doorstep. Law Minister Prithiviraj Nabakalebara rituals at Puri African countries to reach on 15 April. The bird started
by the sight of the frail elders Speaking on the incident, Harichandan on Friday asked Jagannath temple were used for Odisha. its return journey from Somalia
Under the blistering heat of struggling in the intense heat, Mr. Kadraka expressed con- the Shree Jagannath Temple construction of idols installed at The satellite-tagged Amur on 25th April to India and
the summer sun, two elderly he stopped and gently asked cern over the continued hard- Administration , Puri to con- the Digha Jagannath temple. Falcon bird was released last during its flight from Somalia
pensioners were seen slowly them about their situation. ships faced by elderly pen- duct an internal inquiry on Ramakrushna Dasmoha- year in the north- eastern , it crossed Arabian sea and
making their way across a What he learned was dis- sioners in rural areas. “These the controversial reports that patra, a very senior servitor of state of Manipur and reached reached the sky of Gujarat,
flyover, visibly exhausted heartening. are our elders. After a life of the idols made for the Digha Jagannath Temple Puri, had Odisha forest recently. Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh
and burdened—not just by The elderly men explained hard work, they deserve dig- Jagannath Temple was with been to Digha for the inaugu- The scientists of Wildlife within 93 hours covering 3800
age, but by the circumstances that though they receive nity, not distress,” he said. the surplus neem timber from ration and he is in the eye of Institute of India (WII), kilometers. It reached Karlapat
forced upon them. �1,000 as pension, hiring an He urged the government the 2015 Nabakalebar ritual. the storm here. He has said Dehradun had tagged the Wildlife Sanctuary of Kalahandi
These senior citizens, res- auto-rickshaw to and from and district administration In his letter to the Chief that the initial plan at Digha male Amur Falcon in Manipur district on 30 April, stated Dr
idents of Luhakhal village Rayagada would cost them to consider doorstep delivery Administrator of SJTA Arabinda was to install idols made of last year to track its migratory Kumar.
under Tadama Panchayat in �600. This leaves them with of pensions, especially for Kumar Padhee, the Law Min- stone but when he was con- route through satellite trans- The ongoing satellite tag-
Rayagada block, had traveled a paltry �400 to survive the those who are aged, ailing, ister asked him to investigate sulted, he had advised them mitter. It made an incredible ging project aims to better
over 11 kilometers on foot month. “If we spend most and without access to nearby the matter and bring the truth to use neem wood. Dasmo- journey of around 40000 kilo- 30 kilometers from Phulbani. understand their migratory
to Rayagada town to collect of it on transport, how do banking facilities. to light. The controversy has hapatra has also stated that meters from Southern Africa It was tracked today (2 May) behaviour and improve con-
their old-age pensions. With we buy food or medicine?” Such a step, he empha- hurt the sentiments of the he had facilitated the wooden all the way to Odisha , all as in the forest of Dhenkanal servation efforts for the globally
no nearby banks or alternative one of them asked with a sized, would not just ease devotees of Lord Jagannath idols to be done at Puri and part of its regular migratory district. Its flight in various migrating species, added Dr
provisions, they had no choice weary voice. logistical burdens but would and the people of Odisha, taken them to Digha. He how- flight path. It was located at countries was detected by a Kumar.
but to undertake this grueling Deeply affected, Mr. also serve as a mark of respect Harichandan said. Appropriate ever refused the reports that Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary GPS tracker attached with The Amur Falcon, (Falco
journey every month. Kadraka immediately and care for those who once action should be taken against the timber used was the surplus in Kalahandi district on 30 this bird, said Dr Suresh amurensis) roughly the size
Their plight caught the arranged a vehicle at his own built the society we now live anyone found guilty in this wood used during the Nabakale- April. On 1 May its presence Kumar, a senior scientist of of a pigeon is a long distance,
attention of Rayagada MLA, expense to drop the pen- in. connection, he stated . bara. was recorded in a forest around WII on Friday. trans-equatorial migrant bird.
 BHUBANESWAR, SATURDAY 03 MAY 2025 11
Celebrating the spirit of become Radha.” She drives home
the fact that he would have under-
Applause
Entertainment returns
Marga Natya
stood her true feelings if he were in
her shoes, even for a minute. As he

with fourth season of

was bid, Krishna decks himself up
in Radha’s attire; he realises the
depth of her pure love. Tarana
Darbari expressed his training in
pure dance. The technical side of
Kathak’s Persian influence was
Criminal Justice
TAPATI CHOWDHURIE taking workshops. It was a great knowledge and interest in the art of shown. The syllables in Tarana were

C
exchange of ideas that was very Sanskrit theatre, is a passionate culled from the 99 names of Allah
hidakash Kalalay Centre of Art and enriching. Kathak dancer and disciple of the and were set to melody and rhythm.
Divinity presented their annual There was Rupa Rani Das from very talented Mysore Nagraj to boot. Gath Nikas and Footworks embel-
Marga Utsav on 23 March 2025 at Delhi, who was like a breath of fresh He performed ‘Damaru Harakara lished the composition. This teen
Gyan Manch in Kolkata. Sangeet air. She followed tradition. Bedecked Baaje’—an ode to Shiva based on a taal was choreographed by Maya
Natak Akademi awardee Nandini and bejewelled, she paid her obei- Dhrupad composition—after Rupa Rao.
Ramani, a versatile genius and an sance to Ganapati. Vilambit and Rani Das. The sound of the kettle- Shivohom Nirvansatkam, written
executive member of Sangeet Natak Madhya Laya in teental were her drum, “hara kara hara kara”, was by Adi Sankaracharya in the 8th
Akademi, was the chief guest. She forte. Confidently, she presented the reason for his exuberance, dis- century, depicting the oneness of
is a Bharatanatyam exponent pro- traditional compositions like That, played through spins, reminding God and his formlessness, set to
ficient in Bala Bani, a trained musician, Aamad, Uthan and Paran in Teen one of Kumudini Lakhia’s attempts raag Parameshwari sung by Jaydeep
and an art critic. Piyal Bhattacharya Taal, showing her ‘tayari’ in the to make Kathak a vehicle of the Sinha, was the subject matter of his
awarded her the Chidakash Natyakala technicalities of Kathak. The abhinaya contemporary spirit. He explored first piece in the Kathak genre, pre-
Chudamani Award, 2025. piece was on a poem by Anupam the associated meaning of the sahitya, sented on the second day of the
Piyal Bhattacharya, artistic director Kumar, the concept of which was performing later, in two speeds, a festival at Chidakash Kalalay, Centre
of Chidakash Kalalay, a recipient of based on the Ramayana. It was on piece set to raga Gunakali and Taal of Art and Divinity. The art pace of
many prestigious awards in the Urmila—the ‘Upekshita Nayika’— Dhamar, vocalised by Shankar Chidakash Kalalay is designed to
country, including the much-coveted Lakshmana’s consort. Urmilla was Shanbhogue and choreographed add to the aesthetic quality of a
Sangeet Natak Akademi award, is a forgotten character in the great by Guru Mysore B Nagaraj. ‘Radha, good presentation. This was evident
all for the arts. Despite his area of epic. Her sacrifices are not noticed. Bhava, Madhava was unfolded cre- in the presentation of Shivoham
interest being on the research to The poignancy of the story was atively. Here, Radha, waiting for Nirvansatkam. His dexterity, in the SUBHASH K JHA
forge a comprehensive method of highlighted. A parallel was drawn Krishna’s arrival at the appointed technical aspects of both the Lucknow

T
training in Indian Natya, following between contemporary women time and spot, is hurt by Krishna’s and Jaipur gharanas of Kathak, was he fourth season of
the precepts of the Natyashastra whose selfless service is betrayal. When Krishna finally good. The presentation of the different Applause Entertain-
and upholding the technique of treated with indifference. comes, Radha reminds him of elements of pure Kathak, like that ment’s outstanding
performance envisioned as Marga It was uniquely scripted the difference between carnal of the amad, tukra, tora, paran, lari, courtroom series Crim-
Natya, to create a dialogue with by Raju Das, while the and pure love. Pure love is etc., was lapped up by the enthusiastic inal Justice, starring Pankaj Tri-
contemporary societal concerns, voice-over was by Raju an expression of the soul. audience.” pathi, Mohammed Zeeshan
he makes space for the prevalent Das and Madho Prasad; She chides Krishna for not Rahabar, written by Rajendra Ayyub, Surveen Chawla, Mita
Shastriya dance forms. the accompanying musi- understanding her feel- Nath Singh, canvassed romantic Vashisht, Asha Negi, Shweta
Since this year, the focus of his cians did justice to ings. She tells him, poetry with soulful music. It was a Basu Prasad and Khushboo
festival was on the art of the Kathaka, the piece. Lak- “Oh! Krishna, neat presentation with his well- Atre, will stream on JioHotstar
Piyal Bhattacharya’s troupe gave shmi Narayan selected group of accompanists. from 22 May 2025.
the performance space to Kathak Jena, with The minute nuances of Kathak were Directed by Rohan Sippy,
dancers after he presented ‘Chaturb- enjoyed in a mehfil-like gathering. the upcoming chapter is titled
hani’. This was followed by an interactive A Family Matter and is produced
This vast country of ours has session on the “Contribution of Dr by Applause Entertainment in
an uncountable number of V. Raghavan to Indian Dance”. association with BBC Studios.
Kathak performers, mentors Raghavan was a beacon of Indian The very popular web series is
and gurus. Piyal Bhattacharya scholarship and culture. This was an Indian adaptation of the
invited Kathakas, both young not all. Mysore B. Nagraj, eminent successful BBC Studios drama
and not so young, from the Kathak exponent, held a two-day format of the same title.
north, south and east of the workshop in the Maya Rao tradition Since its inception, Criminal Honor. They’ve developed a
country. These rich minds of Kathak and made the festival a Justice has enjoyed a stream of rich slate of original content
participated in performing, composite whole. loyal followers and fans. Emerg- with shows like Rasbhari,
interacting with scholars and ing as the breakout show of Undekhi, Bhaukaal, Hasmukh,
The writer is a senior dance critic 2019, the first instalment picked Avrodh, Hello Mini and, of
up multiple awards across cat- course, Scam 1992: The Harshad
egories, including drama series, Mehta Story.
ensemble cast, the crew and Sameer Nair, the CEO of
more. Applause Entertainment, says,
Says Sameer Nair, the enter- “We are truly humbled by the
prising CEO of Applause Enter- phenomenal response from
tainment, “We are excited to audiences for all our content.
create the next chapter in this From Criminal Justice to Scam
successful franchise.” 1992, it’s been a delightful
Under Sameer Nair’s keen journey creating our shows,
guidance, Applause Entertain- collaborating with best-in-class
ment has grown from strength talent, creators and business
to strength in no time at all. partners! We are here to dazzle,
The studio has created the delight, disturb and disrupt,
official Indian adaptations of and this is just the beginning.”
popular international shows,
including The Office, Criminal The writer is a veteran film journalist
and columnist. Views expressed are
Justice, Hostages and Your personal.

Kesari Chapter 2 fails at documenting the Narratives of the ordinary:

horrific Jallianwala Bagh genocide Malay Saha’s artwork explores memory
GAUTAMAN BHASKARAN pumps into us a feeling that India is advocate Neville McKinley (a drunk
through objects and space

O
great. In it, the actor plays advocate who sobers up too quickly for my
nce, Bollywood actor Manoj Kumar C Sankaran Nair, who takes on the comfort and slips into the black
flew the patriotic flag, singing songs Crown and O'Dwyer in the hallowed coat). If Nair's quick turnaround ROUSHAN CHATTERJEE
and mouthing dialogues that spoke portals of a court. He held the Briton from a fiery advocate of the Empire

K
of India's greatness. Films like guilty of what he called genocide. It to one loyal to his motherland was olkata's cultural scene
Kranti, Purab Aur Paschim and was that, undoubtedly. unrealistically quick, Madhavan explores a fresh theme of
Upkar, among others, had national But the movie failed to convince seemed a terrible miscast in a part intimate storytelling
pride woven into them. me beyond a point. Jallianwala that should never have been his in through objects and spaces
Today, the mantle has been passed Bagh was a humongous tragedy, the first place. Wonder why he with the exhibition of senior artist
over to actor Akshay Kumar, who which happened in 1919, signalling picked this. If writing is important, Malay Saha. The exhibition, titled
seems not to be missing half a chance a feeling in England that enough casting is even more so. No wonder “Silent Narratives: Object in Dia-
to sink into the “desh bhakt” move- was enough. The British Empire we have renowned casting directors logue”, invites viewers to reflect
ment. His latest outing on this road was clearly bleeding, and it was in Hollywood and Europe, but on memory, materiality and urban
is Kesari Chapter 2 – which details finding it increasingly difficult to India draws a blank here. transformation shaped by everyday
less and dramatises more the legal take on the burden of its colonies. But yes, the Bagh massacre (the objects and evolving spaces. Cur-
battle that followed the 1919 Baisakhi And the problems of these faraway scene was too superfluous and rently on view at the Bridging
Day Jallianwala Bagh massacre in countries were often beyond the failed to convey the enormous Culture & Arts Foundation (B-
which hundreds of men, women understanding of the English. anguish and suffering of the people) CAF), the exhibition was inaugu-
and children were brutally shot dead I also found the choice of actors led to far-reaching changes. O'Dwyer rated on 19 April and will be open
by Indian troops commanded by not quite apt. Akshay somehow had to step down and was recalled. for visitors until 3 May.
General Michael O'Dwyer – who did not fit the role of a hard-hitting At home, he was shamed and humil- Daily life objects take centre
was then the Lieutenant Governor lawyer out to teach the Englishman iated. I have no idea what happened stage in Saha's artwork– those
of Punjab. He was evil personified. a lesson after his cruelty to a crowd to McKinley. Maybe there was with which we have physical and
But nobody has been able to tell of peaceful people that had gathered something about him in the several psychological interactions, yet
me what provoked him to turn into in the Bagh to protest against the paragraphs that came at the end often overlook. “When at home,
a monster. The movie does give us draconian Rowlatt Act, which gave of Kesari Chapter 2. They rolled we rarely notice the objects we
a vague clue as to how he was the police insane powers. Indians away far too quickly. Yes, O'Dwyer use daily. However, we develop a
bullied by Sikhs as a young boy. He were also made to crawl on some died in 1940, leaving behind a dark deep bond with these everyday
harboured this throughout his life. streets in Amritsar. Peeved over legacy, which, though, provoked objects, a fact we realise when we
But this, to me, appears unconvincing, what he felt was an insult to his one of the initial stirrings of India's travel or dispose of them. For me,
as much else in the film. authority, the general ordered his freedom movement. I've always felt that these objects Now, large complexes and apart- paper pulp, folded paper, paper
Kesari Chapter 2, helmed by Karan troops to open fire on the crowd speak to me and with each other,” ments are replacing individual cutting and collage, creating layered
Singh Tyagi, arrives as the latest in without any warning! The writer is a senior movie critic and Saha told The Statesman, adding, houses, making them look alike. compositions rich with detail. “It
Akshay's basket of movies, which Pitted against Nair is Madhavan's author. Views expressed are personal. “Through my artwork, I want to This is resulting in isolation and feels like his shift from squares
honour these objects, giving voice monotony,” he notes. He further and rectangles to circular shapes
to the non-living.” emphasises the subtle yet powerful and three-dimensional paper ele-
The inaugural ceremony took relationship between objects and ments welcomes us to step into
place in the presence of eminent spaces: “I aim to depict the inter- his space and see what he sees,”
artist Hiran Mitra; Bonnya Bose, relationship between objects and Dewan claimed.
cultural entrepreneur and curator; spaces. Objects define a space. If Speaking on the artist's sensitive
Ayan Sen, eminent architect; and we remove them, a room becomes handling of space, Mitra said,
Reena Dewan, exhibition curator unidentifiable. They hold memories “Our culture was always about
and director, B-CAF. To align with and create emotional attachment.” openness and exterior life; however,
the theme, the inauguration took Dewan, who has followed Saha's Western influence has led to a
a unique turn. Instead of the tra- work for years, stated, “His canvases shift towards confined and artificial
ditional lamp-lighting ritual, guests are full of action. Every time you interiors. This transformation
were invited to pick an ordinary look, you discover something new, from community to isolation is
object placed before them – like making his work endlessly engag- reflected in his works.”
a teapot, spoon or pen – and speak ing.” “Silent Narratives” is more
about its significance in their lives. Rendered mainly in primary than just an exhibition – it urges
The evocative exercise mirrored colours like red, yellow and blue, viewers to be participants rather
the central theme of Malay's work. the exhibition features two-dimen- than mere spectators. “I hope
Space serves as another key ele- sional imagery as well as 3D instal- people will be able to relate to the
ment in his artwork. “Urban spaces lations, which are at once soothing ideas and emotions conveyed
are changing rapidly. Earlier, every and contemporary. He combines through each piece,” Saha con-
home had its unique spatial identity. mixed media elements like acrylic, cluded.
PAGE 16_PAGE 01 - Copy.qxd 03-05-2025 00:13 Page 1

KAPIL DEV PRAISES SURYAVANSHI

Cricket legend Kapil Dev has emphasised the
BHUBANESWAR
SATURDAY 03 MAY 2025 12
importance of “giving time” to 14-year-old rising
sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi, whose talent
was unearthed during IPL 2025. Kapil Dev,
who captained the Indian 1983 World Cup-
winning team acknowledged that the
teenager, who hails from Bihar, possesses
“good” talent and ability but believes the
key to success lies in giving a player time
For more updates www.thestatesman.com

THUMBNAILS
Subhasish Bose and
IPL 2025: RCB eye season double over
downbeat Chennai in crucial clash
Soumya Guguloth clinch
AIFF Player of the Year
honours: Mohun Bagan
Super Giant’s Subhasish
Bose and East Bengal’s
Having qualified for the playoffs, Royal Challengers aim to cap a superb season by beating the Super Kings
Soumya Guguloth were hon- TRIDIB BAPARNASH but a troublesome knee does-
oured with the All India NEW DELHI, 2 MAY n’t make it any easier for the
43-year-old to construct the

W
Football Federation’s (AIFF)
prestigious Men’s and ith the road to innings with quick singles
Women’s Player of the the IPL 2025 and doubles anymore.
Year awards for the 2024- playoffs virtually Dhoni has scored brisk
25 season, held in sealed, Royal 30s this season, that has
Bhubaneswar on Friday. Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) helped CSK get to competitive
The awards recognised will look to complete a rare totals, but the inconsistency
their pivotal contributions season double against a hap- of the top-order has been a
to two of the most success- less Chennai Super Kings major area of concern for
ful seasons in their clubs' (CSK) that offers fans in what the side this year.
recent history. Bose, the could perhaps be a final face- Squads:
tireless left-back and off between Virat Kohli and Royal Challengers Ben-
Mohun Bagan’s defensive Mahendra Singh Dhoni when galuru: Rajat Patidar (c) Phil
pillar, played a central role the two sides square off at Salt, Virat Kohli, Devdutt
in the club’s record-break- the M Chinnaswamy Stadium Padikkal, Jitesh Sharma (w),
ing campaign that saw in Bengaluru on Saturday. Tim David, Krunal Pandya,
them clinch both the Indian With 14 points in their Romario Shepherd, Bhu-
Super League (ISL) Shield kitty, RCB are currently at vneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazle-
and Cup titles. His leader- the second spot in the IPL wood, Yash Dayal, Suyash
ship and consistency at the points table with seven wins Sharma, Lungi Ngidi, Liam
back were instrumental as from 10 games, while five- Livingstone, Swapnil Singh,
Bagan maintained a stun- time title holders CSK are Manoj Bhandage, Rasikh Dar
ning 570-minute run with-
out conceding a goal — the
already out of the race to
the playoffs, and are lan-
Salam, Nuwan Thushara,
Jacob Bethell, Mohit Rathee,
Indian shooters in Cyprus for year’s
longest in ISL history. guishing at the bottom with Swastik Chikara, Abhinandan third Shotgun World Cup stage
Soumya Guguloth, East Ben- mere four points, after a Singh.
gal’s midfield dynamo, was rather lacklustre season. in red-hot form of late, slam- recently, and the Bengaluru In contrast, the CSK batting Chennai Super Kings:
equally influential in the While RCB will be eager ming four fifties in his last franchise will be backing the line-up that has witnessed MS Dhoni (c, wk), Shaik
club’s maiden Indian to keep the momentum going five innings and pushing for Englishman to rediscover collective failure during the Rasheed, Ayush Mhatre,
Women’s League (IWL) tri- with another win in what Orange Cap with 443 runs. his mojo heading into the season, will be challenged Deepak Hooda, Sam Curran,
umph. She ended the cam- has been yet another season The star batter will be eager business end of the tourna- by a disciplined RCB attack, Ravindra Jadeja, Dewald Bre-
paign as the third-highest of mixed fortunes at home, to produce another little ment. comprising the likes of Josh vis, Shivam Dube, Noor
goalscorer with nine goals, CSK will be happy to end masterclass to help RCB inch Similarly, all eyes will also Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed,
including the decisive strike the season on a high with a closer to the play-offs. be on RCB skipper Rajat Pati- Kumar, Krunal Pandya and Matheesha Pathirana, Anshul
in East Bengal’s 1-0 title- couple of wins, and avoid Besides Kohli, Devdutt dar, who has been due for a Suyash Sharma. Kamboj, R Ashwin, Kamlesh
clinching win over Odisha FC the ignominy of finishing at Padikkal has also been in substantial knock. On Sat- Plagued by injuries to key Nagarkoti, Ramakrishna
on 11 April in Kolkata. the bottom. decent touch at No.3 with a urday, he has a great chance players, CSK will take a lot Ghosh, Jamie Overton, Vijay
Adding to Mohun Bagan's For each side to achieve couple of fifties in his last to get his rhythm back against of positives from the batting Shankar, Rahul Tripathi,
golden night, Vishal Kaith — their goals, the onus will be two innings, and the team a CSK bowling unit that has performances of Sam Curran, Shreyas Gopal, Devon Con-
also part of the Indian on their icons, Kohli and would expect the youngster mostly blown hot and cold Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brevis way, Rachin Ravindra, STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE making his senior world cup
national team alongside Dhoni — synonymous with to continue in same vein. with the exception of pacer and Shivam Dube in the Mukesh Choudhary, Nathan NEW DELHI, 2 MAY debut and Rituraj Singh Bun-
Bose — bagged the Best the respective brands RCB However, the form of Phil Khaleel Ahmed and spinner recent outings. Dhoni has Ellis, C Andre Siddarth, Vansh dela, who has played four
Men’s Goalkeeper award. and CSK. Kohli has looked Salt has been a concern Noor Ahmad. been effective at the death, Bedi. The Indian skeet shooting world cups in the past two
squad has arrived in Cyprus, years, besides Mairaj. In the
for the year’s third Interna- women’s competition,

Shastri backs Sai Sudharsan, Arshdeep for England Test series tional Shooting Sport Fed-
eration (ISSF) World Cup
Shotgun stage, set to begin
Maheshwari will also be look-
ing to secure a first senior
world cup medal alongside
in the capital city of Nicosia Parinaaz Dhaliwal who is
STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE experience in English con- shown promise in red-ball from Saturday. four world cups old. The
NEW DELHI, 2 MAY ditions, having turned out cricket, claiming 66 wickets The National Rifle Asso- third Indian in women’s
for Surrey in the County in 21 first-class matches. His ciation of India (NRAI) had skeet, the 18-year-old Yashasvi
Former India head coach Championship in 2023 and recent stint with Kent in the named a 12-member squad Rathore will be making her
Ravi Shastri has backed young 2024. In five matches he 2024 County Championship, for the Nicosia World Cup debut.
Gujarat Titans opener Sai scored 281 runs, including a where he picked up 13 wickets back in February itself, includ- Many former and reigning
Sudharsan as a potential all- century and a fifty. in five games, added valuable ing for both disciplines of World and Olympic cham-
format player for India’s In 29 first-class matches exposure to English condi- Skeet and Trap. Skeet com- pions will be lining up for
upcoming Test series against overall, he has 1957 runs at tions. Khaleel, with 52 wickets petitions, which will continue international glory including
England citing his his impres- an average of 39.93, including in 19 first-class matches, has for three days, begin first strong teams from power
sive IPL performance and a maiden double-century in also been on the selectors' from Monday, where two houses Italy and USA.
technical prowess suitable the format in the 2024-25 radar. He was part of the Olympians, Mairaj Ahmad In Delhi on Thursday,
for English conditions. Ranji Trophy season for Tamil Australia tour, initially with Khan in men’s skeet and men’s 50m rifle 3 positions
Sudharsan, currently the Nadu against Delhi in October India A and later as a travelling Maheshwari Chauhan in (3P) final was won by the
second-highest run-scorer 2024. “Being a left-hander in reserve for the Border- women’s skeet, will lead an Railways’ Akhil Sheoran, a
in IPL 2025 with 456 runs, England, knowing English Gavaskar series, though a otherwise young and inex- reigning world championship
has found support from Shastri conditions, and just his tech- niggle cut his time short. perienced side at this top bronze medalist. He shot
for his inclusion for the five- nique, the way he plays, I Among the other batting international level. 462.5 to win the final even
Test series against England, think he'll be top of the list options, Shastri floated the A total of 350 plus athletes as West Bengal’s Adriyan
starting June 20 at Headingley. for me from the outsiders idea of Shreyas Iyer returning from as many as 54 National Karmakar picked up the
After a series of losses wanting to get into this side,” to the Test setup, especially Olympic Committees (NOCs) junior men’s 3P title.
against New Zealand and added Shastri. after his inclusion in India’s have entered the competition Riya Shirish Thatte of
Australia, that deprived India The former India all- latest central contract list. including some of the top Maharashtra was among the
of a potential third straight rounder also advocated for Iyer has impressed in sub- names in Shotgun Shooting. other stars of the first day of
appearance at the World Test the inclusion of a left-arm continental conditions, scoring The qualifying round of finals on Thursday, finishing
Championships final in June, pacer in the squad for the is in good form, and try and record as well and the number the lot – pick them. There's 736 runs in 11 Tests across the Skeet competitions begin second behind Divya with
will begin the new WTC cycle seam-friendly conditions squeeze him in there as the of overs he bowls. If he can Khaleel Ahmed, who again, India and Bangladesh at an Monday with two rounds of 28-hits in the senior final,
2025-27 with the England expected in England, and sixth (bowling) option. bowl 15-20 overs for me, he his rhythm is good, he's bowl- average of 43.29. 25 clay targets each which while also finishing fourth
series. “I see this young man, pointed out Arshdeep Singh “It could be anyone. It might very well be in the mix ing well. So it's important to However, opportunities will be repeated on Tuesday, in the junior final.
Sai Sudharsan, for all formats as someone who could fit could even be a white-ball because he's got the mindset. get that mix.” outside Asia have been limited, before the fifth and final Just like Riya in Bhopal,
of the game. He seems like a the bill and shouldn’t be specialist. I don't like this He's a thinking bowler and I Both Arshdeep and Khaleel and he’s yet to make a mark, round and the finals are Rohit Kanyan of Haryana
class player and my eyes restricted to white-ball cricket. thing when they say someone need a left-armer. It's just have previously featured in managing just 75 runs in played out on Wednesday. was the limelight snatcher
would be on him certainly,” “I'll be looking for a left- like Arshdeep Singh is a ‘white- that. You need a left-armer, India’s limited-overs squads, three matches, with appear- India’s hopes in men’s in Delhi, taking silver in the
Shastri told The ICC Review. armer,” he said. “I'll be keeping ball specialist’. “I'll keep a go and find him, whoever it but neither have made their ances in South Africa and a skeet will rest upon Abhay men’s 3P, while also reaching
Sudharsan brings valuable an eye on which left-armer close eye on his red-ball is and whoever is the best of Test debut yet. Arshdeep has solitary outing in England. Singh Sekhon, who will be the junior final to finish sixth.

KCA suspends Sreesanth for 3 years over alleged

controversial comments in Sanju Samson row
IPL: Gill, Buttler lead the charge as Titans eclipse Sunrisers
STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE the state cricket body and AJEYO BASU whirlwind knock of 74 runs bat first by SRH, Gill let his
NEW DELHI, 2 MAY Samson during a panel dis- AHMEDABAD, 2 MAY from 41 deliveries. The left- intentions be known from
cussion on a Malayalam tel- hander's lone battle came the word go when he flicked
The Kerala Cricket Association evision channel. Shubman Gill and Jos Buttler to an end when a miscued Mohammed Shami over the
(KCA) has suspended former In a statement, the KCA spearheaded a strong all- pull off Ishant Sharma saw fielder at deep fine leg for
India speedster S Sreesanth had clarified that the notice round performance as Gujarat Mohammed Siraj pull off an six off the third delivery.
for three years from all crick- was not issued for supporting Titans defeated Sunrisers excellent catch. The rest of It certainly was not the
eting activities in the state Samson but for making mis- Hyderabad by 38 runs in an the SRH batters failed to best of days for the veteran
for allegedly making false leading and defamatory com- Indian Premier League clash tackle the Titans' bowling Indian pacer as Sudharsan
and derogatory statements ments against the association. at the Narendra Modi Stadium attack as the visitors could struck him for five boundaries
against it over Sanju Samson’s During the TV discussion, here on Friday. only manage to reach 186/6. in the third over. Gill continued
omission from the Indian them. However, the meeting Sreesanth had allegedly The win over SRH cata- The Gujarat pacers kept the fireworks by hitting two
squad of the Champions Tro- decided to advise greater pledged his support to Samson pulted the Titans into the a tight leash on the SRH brilliantly struck fours through
phy. caution when appointing and vowed to protect him top three of the IPL table batters clinching all the the covers off Pat Cummins
The state cricket associ- members to team manage- and other Kerala players, with 14 points from 10 match- wickets to fall during the vis- before hitting his second
ation also maintained that ment,” the statement said. while levelling accusations es. The visitors, who were itors' innings. Prasidh Krishna maximum of the night in the
Srresanth’s subsequent reply The General Body also against the KCA. His remarks already out of the race for was the most successful In-form opener Sai Sud- flair and class. The Indian same over.
to a KCA notice were deroga- resolved to file a compensation came amid criticism of the the playoffs, continue to lan- among the Gujarat bowlers harsan ensured a good start top-order batter showed his Sudharsan continued the
tory and inappropriate. The claim against Sanju Samson's KCA for dropping Samson guish at second from bottom with superb figures of 2/19 for the Titans' innings with deep arsenal of shot selection, rampage by hitting four
decision was taken by the father, Samson Vishwanath, from the Kerala squad for - just above Chennai Super in his four overs. Siraj also 48 runs off 23 balls and was finding the gap and rushing boundaries off Harshal Patel
association at a general body and two others for making the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Kings - with six points. claimed two wickets while unlucky to miss out on what to 76 off just 38 deliveries as the duo raised Gujarat
meeting on 30 April. baseless allegations using which was believed to have With the hosts setting a Ishant Sharma and Gerald would have been a well- with 10 boundaries and two Titans’ highest score in the
Sreesanth is currently a Sanju Samson's name, it affected his chances of being formidable target of 225 runs, Coetzee picked up one each. deserved half-century when sixes to his name. It is the power-play by smashing 82
co-owner of Kollam Aeries, added. selected for India's Cham- the SRH batters were waging Earlier, Shubman Gill pow- he failed to pick up a googly third innings in a row when for no loss in the opening
a franchise team in the Kerala The KCA had issued a pions Trophy team. an uphill battle right from ered his way to 76 runs off from Zeeshan Ansari. the right-handed opener six overs. However, the left-
Cricket League. show-cause notice to the 42- On being contacted by the start. just 38 delieveries while the For the bowling side, Jay- failed to reach the century handed opener was denied
“Since the franchise teams year-old —Sreesanth—who The Statesman, Sreesanth Opener Abhishek Sharma Jos Buttler also continued dev Unadkat was the highest milestone after having looked his sixth half-century of the
gave satisfactory responses was part of the India squad declined to comment on the was the only SRH batter who his superb form with 64 off wicket-taker with three scalps set for a big score, with scores season courtesy of a great
to the notices, no further that won two World Cup suspension, saying he wasn’t managed to get on top of 37 as Gujarat piled up 224/6 to his name. of 90 and 84 in their last two catch by Heinrich Klassen
action will be taken against titles--for his remarks linking aware of the development. the Gujarat bowling with a in their 20 overs. Gill’s innings was one of games. After being put to behind the stumps.

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* Editor: RAVINDRA KUMAR. * Managing Editor: ARYA RUDRA *Resident Editor: K RAVI © The Statesman Ltd. RNI Reg. No: ODIENG/2019/78866. Vol 5, Issue 499