October 3, 2025 Friday India This Week 1 A We e k ly N e w s p a p e r Fe a tu r in g New s an d Tren d s f ro m the In d ian Sub- Co n ti nent Pub li s hed From the U S Ca pi ta l Web Site: WWW.Indiathisweek.us Volume 34 No. 40 Washington DC. Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800; 301-445-1868 E-Mail: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Friday October 3, 2025 Karur stampede claims 39 lives, leaves several injured; Commission under retired HC Judge to probe incident Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], September 27 (ANI): Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh each to the families of the victims after 36 were killed in a stampede at TVK chief and actor Vijay‘s public rally in Tamil Nadu’s Karur on Saturday evening. CM Stalin also announced aid of Rs 1 lakh each to those undergoing medical treatment in hospitals. The Chief Minister further announced the formation of a one-member Commission of Inquiry, headed by retired High Court Judge Justice Aruna Jagadeesan, to conduct a thorough investigation and submit a report to the gov- ernment. In a statement, the Chief Minister expressed deep sorrow over the incident and conveyed his con- dolences to the bereaved families. Terming the loss “irreparable,” he assured that the government is taking all necessary steps to support the victims. “On receiving the heartbreaking news that 36 people, including eight children and 16 women, lost their lives in the crowd crush at the political campaign meeting of Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam in Karur today (27.09.2025), I was deeply shocked and pained,” read the statement. “These priceless lives lost have shaken all our hearts. I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the families who have suffered this irreparable loss. I have directed that all those admitted to hospitals for treatment must receive the best possible medical care,” it added. CM Stalin also mentioned that he instructed the District Collectors of Trichy, Salem, and Dindigul to visit Karur with medical teams to assist. The Tamil Nadu CM also said that he will personally visit Karur toKarur Stampede see page 14 TN: 9 Workers Killed in Steel Arch Collapse at Ennore Thermal Power Construction Site Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], September 30 (ANI): A devastating accident occurred at the Ennore Thermal Power construction site in Tamil Nadu, where a steel arch collapsed, resulting in the deaths of nine workers on Tuesday. According to Dr. J Radhakrishnan, Chairman of the Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation (TANGEDCO), the victims were migrant workers from Assam and nearby areas. “There was an unfortunate incident at the Ennore Thermal Power construction site where a steel arch fell and nine people died. These people were from Assam and the surrounding areas. One person is injured. BHEL officials are present at the spot,” Radhakrishnan told reporters. The preliminary reports indicate that one worker suffered serious injuries. More than 10 others were also injured and rushed to Stanley Government Hospital in North Chennai. Police officials confirmed that the exact cause of the accident is still under investigation, and authorities have launched a probe. Rescue operations remain ongoing. Meanwhile, in another industrial mishap in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, six workers were killed and six others injured after the roof of a structure collapsed at a private steel plant in the Siltara industrial area. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai expressed grief over the tragedy and directed the district administration to ensure proper medical care for the Remember: “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.” Jesus Christ injured. “Everything Else Just Collapsed”: Worker Recounts Horror at Ennore Site A worker at the Ennore Thermal Power Station construction site recounted the terrifying moment when the steel arch collapsed. “I am new here. I don’t know the name of that part very well. But it was the middle connection. Suddenly, there was a noise, and that middle part fell out, and then everything else just collapsed,” the worker told the media. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed that all nine victims were migrant workers from Assam’s Karbi Anglong and Hojai districts. “We are coordinating with authorities in Tamil Nadu to bring back their mortal remains at the earliest,” he wrote in a post on X. CM Sarma identified the victims as Munna Kemprai, Sorbojit Thausen, Phaibit Fanglu, Bidayum Porbosa, Paban Sorong, Prayanto Sorong, Suman Kharikap, Dimaraj Thousen, and Dipak Raijung. “My deepest condolences to their families and well-wishers,” he added. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin also expressed sorrow over the deaths and announced Rs.10 lakh compensation for the families of each victim. “I was deeply saddened to hear the news that nine workers from Assam lost their lives in an accident… I have ordered that compensation be provided and measures taken to transport their bodies to their home state,” Stalin said in his post on X. Stalin also directed the state Electricity Minister and the Chairman of TANGEDCO to visit the site and oversee relief efforts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences over the tragedy and announced an ex-gratia of Rs.2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the next of kin of each deceased, along with Rs.50,000 for the injured. “Saddened by the mishap due to the collapse of a building in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. My thoughts are with the affected people and their families in this difficult hour. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured,” the Prime Minister’s Office said in a post on X. Tamil Nadu CM Stalin separately announced Rs.10 lakh compensation for the families of each deceased worker. He expressed deep grief over the loss of lives and reiterated that arrangements would be made to send the victims’ bodies back to Assam. Both the state and central governments have assured that investigations into the cause of the accident will be carried out and relief measures expedited.
October 3, 2025 Friday India This Week Trump announces 100 per cent Tariff on imported pharmaceuticals without USbased manufacturing plants Washington, DC [US], September 26 (ANI): United States President Donald Trump on Friday announced that his administration will impose a 100 per cent tariff on branded and patented pharmaceutical products beginning October 1, 2025, unless the manufacturing companies are building production facilities in the United States. In a post on Truth Social, President Trump wrote, “Starting October 1st, 2025, we will be imposing a 100% Tariff on any branded or patented Pharmaceutical Product, unless a Company IS BUILDING their Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Plant in America. ‘IS BUILDING’ will be defined as ‘breaking ground’ and/or ‘under construction.’” Clarifying the scope of the measure, Trump added that compa- Humanitarian grounds cannot override Foreigners Act in deportation cases: Delhi HC New Delhi [India], September 29 (ANI): The Delhi High Court has ruled that humanitarian considerations cannot be used to override the statutory framework governing the entry and stay of foreign nationals in India. The court dismissed a petition filed by an Afghan national lodged at the Lampur Detention Centre. Justice Sanjeev Narula observed that while courts have the power to prevent arbitrary detention, they cannot create a right to reside in India where such a right is not provided under law. The petitioner, convicted under Section 14 of the Foreigners Act, 1946, sought release relying on a refugee certificate issued by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The court noted that India is not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention or the 1967 Protocol, and that UNHCR certification does not confer any enforceable legal status under Indian law. “The deportation of a foreign national is within the exclusive domain of the executive, subject to compliance with law and fair procedure,” the court stated, citing Supreme Court rulings in Hans Muller of Nurenburg v. Superintendent, Presidency Jail and Louis De Raedt v. Union of India, which affirmed that foreigners do not enjoy a fundamental right to reside or settle in India. Justice Narula emphasised that judicial review in such matters is limited to ensuring legality and fairness in deportation proceedings, not granting residence rights. “Courts may intervene to prevent arbitrary or unlawful detention, but not to recognise or create a right to reside in India where none exists in law,” the order stated. The court acknowledged the petitioner’s plea for relief on humanitarian grounds, recognising the hardships deportation could cause, but stressed that “such considerations cannot override the statutory framework.” It noted that without a valid visa or recognition by the Union Government, no legal entitlement to stay exists. The petition was dismissed, nies that have already begun construction of plants in the US will be exempt from the new tariff. “There will, therefore, be no Tariff on these Pharmaceutical Products if construction has started. Thank you for your attention to this matter!” the post read. He also announced sweeping tariffs on various household products, including imported kitchen cabinets and certain kinds of furniture—potentially adding even more costs to a category that has surged in price in recent months. Trump also announced heavy truck tariffs and pharmaceutical tariffs, CNN reported. Trump wrote in a Truth Social post, “We will be imposing a 50 per cent Tariff on all Kitchen Cabinets, Bathroom Vanities, and associated products, starting October 1st, 2025. Additionally, we will be charging a 30 per cent Tariff on Upholstered Furniture.” Various tariffs that Trump has imposed have already boosted furniture prices considerably over the past year. Overall, furniture last month cost 4.7 per cent more than in August 2024, according to the Bureau of Labour Statistics. and the court declined to issue a writ of mandamus for release, leaving it to the authorities to conclude deportation proceedings in compliance with law, while ensuring due regard to the petitioner’s medical and humanitarian needs during custody. Living room and dining room furniture, in particular, has grown more expensive—rising 9.5 per cent over the past 12 months, according to the BLS. Furniture prices have surged as Trump hiked tariffs on China and Vietnam, the top two sources of imported furniture. Both countries exported USD 12 billion worth of furniture and fixtures last year, according to US Commerce Department data. Furniture prices had largely fallen for the past two and a half years prior to Trump’s tariffs. But Trump said that foreign manufacturers have oversupplied the US market, and the tariffs were necessary to regain US manufacturing prowess, as per CNN. “The reason for this is the large-scale ‘FLOODING’ of these products into the United States by other outside Countries,” Trump said. “It is a very unfair practice, but we must protect, for National Security and other reasons, our Manufacturing process.” Meanwhile, new tariff rates for dozens of countries were introduced in August, after delays to allow for trade talks. They include: 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods, including a 25 per cent penalty for trade with Russia; 50 per cent tariffs on Brazilian goods; 30 per cent tariffs on South African goods; 20 per cent tariffs on Vietnamese goods; 15 per cent tariffs on Japanese goods; and 15 per cent tariffs on South Korean goods. (ANI)
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October 3, 2025 Friday India This Week Union Cabinet approves opening of 57 new Kendriya Vidyalayas with outlay of more than Rs 5862 crore The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the opening of 57 new Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs) under the Civil sector across the country to facilitate the educational needs of the wards of an increased number of Central Government employees. According to an official release from the Ministry of Education, the total estimated requirement of funds for the establishment of the 57 new KVs is Rs 5862.55 crore (approx.), spread over a period of nine years from 2026–27. This includes the capital expenditure component of Rs 2585.52 crore (approx.) and operational expenditure of Rs 3277.03 crore (approx.). It is worthwhile to note that, as exemplar schools for NEP 2020, for the first time, these 57 KVs have been sanctioned with Balvatikas, i.e. three years of the foundational stage (pre-primary). The Union Government approved the Scheme of KVs in November 1962 to provide educational facilities of uniform standard throughout the country to cater to the educational needs of wards of transferable and non-transferable employees of the Central Government, including Defence and Paramilitary forces. Consequently, the “Central Schools Organisation” was started as a unit of the Ministry of Education of the Government of India. The opening of new KVs is a continuous process. The Ministry and KVS regularly receive proposals from various Sponsoring Authorities, including Central Government Ministries/Departments, States/UTs for opening of new KVs. These proposals are sponsored by the concerned sponsoring authority viz. State/UTs/ Ministries/Departments of Central Government. As of date, there are 1,288 functional KVs, including three abroad — Moscow, Kathmandu and Tehran. The total enrolment of students as of June 30, 2025, is 13.62 lakh (approx.). Together with the earlier sanctioning of 85 KVs, the instant proposal responds to the high demand for KVs while balancing pan-India expansion. The CCEA has approved seven KVs sponsored by the Ministry of Home Affairs and the remaining 50 by State/UT authorities. The 57 new proposals for Kendriya Vidyalayas reflect a strong commitment to reaching underserved and strategically important regions. The proposal demonstrates an approach which anchors growth in the East while ensuring balanced representation across North, South, and West to strengthen inclusivity and national integration. Continuing with the 85 KVs sanctioned in December 2024, in this proposal, 17 states/UTs are being covered. Among these 57 KVs, 20 are proposed to be opened in districts where no KV presently exists, despite a significant number of Central Government employees. Furthermore, 14 KVs are proposed in Aspirational districts, 4 KVs in LWE districts and 5 KVs in NER/Hilly areas. In continuation of the sanction of 85 KVs accorded in December 2024, a further 57 new KVs have been approved by prioritising those States which had not been covered since March 2019. The administrative structure for implementing the project will require the creation of posts at par with the norms fixed by the Sangathan for running one full-fledged KV with a capacity of approximately 1,520 students. Hence, 86,640 students would benefit. As per norms in vogue, a full-fledged KV (from Balvatika to class XII) provides employment to 81 persons and accordingly, with the approval of 57 new KVs, a total of 4,617 direct permanent employment opportunities will be created. Construction and allied activities associated with the augmentation of various facilities in all KVs are likely to generate employment opportunities for many skilled and unskilled workers, the release stated. In pursuance of the National Education Policy 2020, 913 KVs have been designated as PM Shri schools, showcasing the implementation of NEP 2020. The KVs are some of the most sought-after schools due to their quality teaching, innovative pedagogy and up-to-date infrastructure. There has been a continuous increase in the number of students applying for admission to Balvatika/Class I in KVs every year, and the performance of the students of the KVs in the board examinations conducted by CBSE has consistently been the best among all educational systems. Thus, with KVs as model schools, the proposal ensures that quality education will spread in states that were under/not represented in the earlier sanctions of Government of India, while also reinforcing coverage in high-demand areas having significant number of Central Government employees, in aspirational districts and extending the KVS network to geographically challenging and socially critical areas. (ANI) news for Assam in particular, and the northeast region as a whole, as these states grow bamboo in abundance. In 2014, the ethanol blending was just 1.53 per cent. By 2022, India had achieved a 10 per cent blending rate, five months ahead of schedule. The original target of 20 per cent blending (E20) by 2030 was advanced to 2025 and has already been achieved in the current ethanol supply year (ESY). The Numaligarh Rs 5,000 crore 2nd-generation bioethanol plant is the first of its kind in the world to utilise bamboo. (ANI) Union cabinet approves four-laning of Kaliabor-Numaligarh section in Assam to avoid man-animal conflict, deaths New Delhi [India], October 1 (ANI): The Union Cabinet has approved the four-laning of the Kaliabor-Numaligarh section of National Highway (NH) 715 to avoid man-animal conflict and deaths, Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Wednesday. Vaishnaw briefed the committee about the four-laning of the highway, which crosses through Kaziranga National Park, stating that it features a 34-kilometre elevated viaduct. “The fifth big decision taken by the Union Cabinet today is the four-laning of the Kaliabor-Numaligarh section of NH-715 (86 km, Rs 6,957 Cr). It has a 34 km elevated viaduct, which passes through the Kaziranga National Park,” Vaishnaw said while addressing a gathering. “In Assam, the wild animals, including the Rhinoceros, at Kaziranga National Park start coming towards the hilly area during the monsoon, which is when they have to cross the road. This creates a problem of animal conflict and death. The four-laning of the Kaliabor-Numaligarh section of NH-715 will be done, and a major part will be elevated,” he added. According to an official release, the Centre has decided to widen and improve the existing carriageway to four lanes of the Kaliabor-Numaligarh section. This project aims to upgrade the existing highway from two lanes to four lanes along the Kaliabor-Numaligarh section (NH-37/NH-715) in Assam. Spanning 85.67 km across Nagaon, Karbi Anglong, and Golaghat districts, the project incorporates wildlife-friendly measures, including an elevated corridor and wildlife crossings, to protect the biodiversity of Kaziranga National Park. As this happened, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union Cabinet. “My gratitude to Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union Cabinet for approving the widening of the 4 Lane Kaliabor-Numaligarh section of the NH-715 for Rs 6,957 crore,” Sarma said. “The project also includes the ambitious 34 km Elevated Corridor in Kaziranga, which will ease traffic movement and at the same time save the lives of our faunal friends who fall victims to accidents. This is a major infrastructure project which will transform connectivity in Assam and open a new template of human-animal coexistence,” he informed. Meanwhile, India got its first second-generation ethanol plant on September 14, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating the Numaligarh Refinery Ltd’s bamboo-based refinery unit in Assam. The foundation stone of the NRL Bio Refinery at Numaligarh was laid by the PM himself on February 9, 2019. This is significant
October 3, 2025 Friday 5
October 3, 2025 Friday India This Week Indian firms submit bids for developing desi 5th gen fighter with DRDO; former BrahMos chief led panel to evaluate submissions New Delhi [India], September 30 (ANI): Multiple Indian firms, along with their partner companies, have submitted their bids to tie up with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for developing and designing the indigenous fifth-generation fighter, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). September 30 was the last day for submission of bids in response to the Expression of Interest issued by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) of the Defence Research and Development Organisation.Multiple bids have been received from the major Indian firms to partner for a Rs 15,000 crore design and development project for the DRDO. The bids will now be examined by a Committee formed under former BranMos Aerospace chief A Sivathanu Pillai, defence officials told ANI.The Pillai committee will then submit its evaluation report and recommendations to the Defence Ministry, which will make the final decision on choosing partners for the project, they said. The Defence Ministry has been deeply involved with the project ever since it was approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security last year. The Defence Sec- retary has been working closely with the DRDO and ADA to expedite the process, ensuring the project remains on track and meets its timelines.In this project, Larsen and Toubro is partnering with Bharat Electronics Limited, and Bharat Earth Movers Limited has partnered with other private sector companies. The biggest aerospace player in the country, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), has also submitted its bids for the project. The AMCA is expected to be ready for production and induction into the Indian Air Force by the year 2034-35. The design and development partner for the project may also serve as the production partner, with at least 125 aircraft likely to be produced.The manufacturing project is expected to be worth around Rs 2 lakh crores for producing around seven squadrons of the most advanced indigenous planes. (ANI) The Poetic Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- October 3, 2025 INDIA THIS WEEK- October 03, 2025 “What Goes Around Comes Around !” When it is time for you to taste the medicine you once prescribed for others, why lament and mourn, if you believed what you did was right? Haven’t you heard the saying: “What goes around, comes around”? You may have spoken it with glee when you caused others hurt. Perhaps it never dawned on you that your own deeds would return to haunt you. But when, after many days, your past visits you—how miserable you feel. You never had a soul that forbade you from setting traps for others. You lied and dug deep pits, never considering that others have souls. They struggled hard to escape your snare, not knowing it was you who made it. They sought your help for relief, but with the guise of help you tightened the screws. Now it is your turn to go through the ringer. Enjoy the ride— the master you once served is long gone; there is no reprieve. What goes around, comes around. By Rajan George INDIA THIS WEEK Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800 www.indiathisweek.online India This Week is published every Friday by ADV Solutions Inc, Views expressed in this paper are those of the individual writers and not necessarily of India This Week. India This Week accepts no liability for the errors in advertisements or in any of its reports. For remedial actions any errors should be brought to the attention of the editor by the information provided below. Publisher: Dr. Babu Stephen Chief Editor: Rajan George Contributing Editors: Saju Mathew Isaac George Asst. Editors: Manu Jacob Sherena Panjikkaran Special Business Correspondent Elisha B. Pulivarti Business Coordinators Rajan C. George Jithu Johny Panjikkaran Dr. Renuka Misra, Special Correspondent: Geeta Goindi Community Coordinator: Prof. Vinod Goel India Office Manesh Krishna Columnists: Anadi Naik World Religions Dr. Sam Prasad Jillella Photo Journalist: Mathew Karmel, System Admn. & Maintenance: Rajan C. George Layout & Graphics: Prinston Samuel, Business Affairs: Mrs. Molly George CALL US • 301-445-0200 • 301-917-4800 e-Mails: Advertisements: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Press Releases: indiathisweekpress@yahoo.com Web: www.indiathisweek.online 117 villages in distress; Crop losses in 10 lakh hectares: Karnataka CM on floods Kalaburagi (Karnataka) [India], October 1 (ANI): Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced on Tuesday that a combined package amounting to more than Rs 2000 to 2500 crore will be provided as compensation, as crops have been damaged in an area of 10 lakh hectares in the state due to excessive rainfall in four districts of the State. At a press conference in Kaaburagi on Tuesday, Karnataka CM said, “After the aerial survey, I had a lengthy discussion with the Ministers, MLAs, and officials, reviewing the situation in the four districts: Kalaburagi, Bidar, Yadgir, and Vijayapur, regarding the flood situation. “The Chief Minister further said that 117 villages across the four districts are in “distress”, and 80 care centres have been opened. Siddaramaiah noted that the water released from Maharashtra, combined with excessive rainfall in all four districts, has increased the level of disaster and distress. “It is estimated that crops have been damaged in an area of 10 lakh hectares in the state. This may increase further. It will be clear after the joint survey is completed. Currently, the joint survey has been completed in only 5 lakh hectares. As soon as the survey is completed, the money will be transferred to the accounts,” Siddaramaiah assured.Siddaramaiah further revealed that around 95 percent of crops have been damaged in eight districts, including Vijayapura, Bagalkot, Yadgiri, Bidar, Raichur, Gadag, Kalaburagi, and Dharwad. The Chief Minister further stated that a combined package from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) and the state government, amounting to more than Rs 2000 to 2500 crore, will be provided as compensation. Meanwhile, Karnataka BJP President BY Vijayendra, along with senior party leaders, visited flood-affected areas in Bidar on Monday, where farmers are facing distress due to heavy rains and the release of water from Maharashtra reservoirs. Speaking to ANI, BY Vijayendra said, “I, along with our LoP Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, our senior MLAs and former minister Prabhu Chauhan, are visiting the affected areas of Bidar. Famers are in great distress due to heavy rains, since water has been released from Maharashtra reservoirs.” (ANI) Remember: “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. ” Jesus Christ
October 3, 2025 Friday 7 Election Commission publishes final electoral roll for Bihar polls after SIR, 7.42 crore voters eligible to exercise their franchise New Delhi [India], September 30 (ANI): The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday published the final electoral roll for the Bihar assembly elections following the completion of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR). The total number of electors in the final list stands at 7.42 crore, while there were 7.89 crore electors as of June 24 this year. An Election Commission press release stated that 65 lakh voters were removed from the draft list, and the number of electors in the draft list as of August 1, 2025, stood at 7.24 crore. It stated that ineligible electors removed from the draft list stood at 3.66 lakh, while 21.53 lakh eligible electors were add- ed to the draft list (Form 6), taking the total to 7.42 crore voters. Opposition parties have opposed the manner in which the SIR of the electoral roll was conducted in Bihar. The poll panel said that regular meetings were conducted with political parties “to explain SIR process and keep them informed throughout”. The Election Commission congratulated the people of Bihar, election officials, political parties, and other key stakeholders on the completion of the SIR. “Election Commission of India (ECI) congratulates people of Bihar, Election Officials, Political Parties and other key stake- holders on the successful completion of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar,” the release said. It said that physical and digital copies of the final electoral roll are being shared with political parties. The press release also shared a link where electors can check the final electoral roll. “SIR exercise was carried out in line with Article 326 of the Constitution and ECI’s motto of ‘no eligible voter to be left out, and no ineligible person to be included in the Electoral rolls,” the release said. It added that if any eligible person still wishes to apply for inclusion of their name in the Electoral Roll, they can submit an application up to ten days Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge admitted to hospital in Bengaluru Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], October 1 (ANI): All India Congress Committee (AICC) President Mallikarjun Kharge was admitted to a hospital in Bengaluru on Wednesday morning for medical treatment. Meanwhile, Kharge is scheduled to visit Kohima on October 7 and address a public rally at Naga Solidarity Park. Lok Sabha MP S Supongmeren Jamir, President of the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee, made the announcement during a press conference at Congress Bhavan in Kohima. According to Jamir, Congress expects a gathering of at least 10,000 people for the rally. The event, themed around “Safe Democracy, Safe Secularism, and Safe Nagaland,” will also highlight key issues such as youth employment, entrepreneurship, good governance, and road connectivity. The statement said that the rally will be followed by separate meetings between Kharge and senior members of the Congress Political Affairs Committee, Pro-Committee, and presidents of the District Congress Committees (DCCs). The Congress MP emphasised that the rally is not only a party function before the last date for filing nominations for the election. The poll panel said that if any person is not satisfied with the decision of the ERO regarding an entry in the final electoral roll, they may, under Section 24 of the RP Act, 1950, file a first appeal before the District Magistrate and a second appeal before the CEO. Election Commission said the large-scale exercise was made successful through the sincere efforts of Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Bihar, District Election Officers (DEOs) of all 38 districts, 243 Electoral Registration Officers (EROs), 2,976 Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs), around 1 lakh Booth Level Officers (BLOs), lakhs of volunteers and the full involvement of all the 12 major political parties, including their district presidents and over 1.6 lakh Booth Level Agents (BLAs) appointed by them. “By July 20, 2025, CEO/DEOs/EROs/BLOs had shared booth-level lists with political parties of electors who were reported as deceased, whose enumeration forms were not received, who had permanently migrated, or who could not be traced, with the objective of identifying eligible voters. Draft Electoral Roll was also shared with all political parties. Also, list of names not included in draft roll was displayed on DEO/DMs (district-wise) as well as on the CEO Bihar website for public viewing,” the release said. The Supreme Court is hearing pleas against the SIR and has fixed October 7 for the hearing of final arguments. The apex court had stated that it was presuming the poll panel, being a constitutional authority, was following the law during the SIR exercise and warned that the exercise would be set aside in case of any illegality. Bihar is expected to go to the polls later this year. (ANI) Kerala: Three workers die after getting trapped in hotel’s septic tank in Kattappana but also a political platform to address challenges facing Nagaland and the Northeast. He appealed to citizens, especially minorities, to join the rally and voice their concerns, which he said would be carried forward by regional leaders. Kharge will be accompanied by national leaders, including Congress General Secretary (Organisation) KC Venugopal and the party’s Nagaland incharge, MP from Odisha, Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka, and other leaders. Jamir underlined that the rally is the beginning of a broader Congress campaign in the region, with the party taking a firm stand on issues such as the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), governance, and constitutional rights. He noted that the Congress high command is serious about addressing these concerns and may invite other political parties to join the movement on a common platform to safeguard democracy, secularism, and the future of Nagaland. Akuonuo Miachieo, Co-Convener of the Organising Committee and General Secretary of the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC), appealed for cooperation and encouraged all citizens to ensure that the rally’s message reaches every household in Nagaland. (ANI) Idukki (Kerala) [India], October 1 (ANI): Three workers died after getting trapped inside a hotel’s waste tank in Kattappana, Idukki, as per police. The incident took place around 10 pm on Tuesday night.The deceased were identified as Jayaraman from Cumbum, Tamil Nadu, and Sundara Pandian and Michael from Gudalur. Despite efforts by the fire force, rescuers were unable to enter the manhole and had to use an earthmover to clear the area.After a one-and-a-half-hour-long rescue operation, the workers were rushed to a hospital but could not be saved. The bodies have been kept at Kattappana Taluk Hospital.Further information on the incident is still awaited. (ANI)
October 3, 2025 Friday India This Week US-India SME Council Hosts 2025 INC. 50 Awards Honoring Innovation, Leadership, and Community Service Washington, D.C., September 24, 2025 — The US-India SME Council hosted its Fourth Incredible INC. 50 Awards on Tuesday evening, celebrating entrepreneurship, innovation, and community impact at Martin’s Crosswinds in Greenbelt, Maryland. The gala honored 25 distinguished entrepreneurs, professionals, and thought leaders whose work continues to uplift communities across the United States and India. The evening opened with a warm welcome from Dr. Nilima N. Mehra, who served as master of ceremonies. Guests included USME Council President Elisha Pulivarty and his wife, Council Board Chairman and Founder Sudhakar Gande, and Her Excellency Anna Irene Delgado, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Panama to the Organization of American States (OAS). CEO Sonal Pulivarthy delivered the opening remarks, followed by an invocation led by Pastor Sajan John. In her keynote address, Ambassador Delgado praised the council’s 25-year commitment to resilience, leadership, and women’s empowerment. “This celebration is not only about business achievements, but about the enduring values of perseverance, creativity, and vision that inspire and uplift communities,” she said. Honoring Excellence Across Sectors Keynote Address-Her Excellency Anna Irene Delgado, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Panama to the Organization of American States (OAS) Dr. Jesse Singh and Dr. Sajid Tarar, COO/CEO, Center for Social Change received the “Outstanding Compassionate Service Award” In recognition of their outstanding leadership and stewardship for changing the lives of children and adults. Dr. Jesse Singh, Chief Operating Officer, Center for Social Change - Receiving Outstanding Compassionate Service Award From Dr. Sanjai Rai Dr. Neena Eapen receiving the Best Psychiatric Pharmacist Award” from her excellency Anna Irene Delgado, for her outstanding leadership in public health advocacy on opioid addiction and prevention, domestic violence, parenting, and education & interventions on diabetes. The awards highlighted outstanding contributions in healthcare, technology, community leadership, arts, business, and education. Healthcare and Technology Honorees included Dr. Sujatha Chetty (“Outstanding Services through Hi-Tech Healthcare Industry”), Dr. Jennifer N. Rios (“Best Latina Leader & Community Advocate”), Dr. Neena Eapen (“Best Psychiatric Pharma- cist”), Revive Life, LLC (“Outstanding Behavioral Healthcare Program”), and Mr. Pierson Maddi of Lifeline Healthcare Pvt. Ltd. (“Best Leader in Global Tourism Health Care”). Community Impact and Leadership Awards went to Ms. Sonia Selwin for community outreach, Ms. Sandhya Santhanam for agricultural AI solutions, Mr. Karmel Mathew for his four decades in financial leadership, Nilima Mehra (Host), Lalit K Jha (Receiving the Award from Dr. Babu Stephen (Chairman of World Malayalee Council) Jasse Singh (President of the Sikhs of America and Elisha Pulivarti (President of the USME Council) Dr. A. Reza Jafari for global ICT and AI initiatives, Ms. Kamala Kacy Chetty for cinematography, Mr. Lalit Kumar Jha for pioneering virtual journalism, Ms. Jayasri Telukuntla for women’s entrepreneurship in IT, Mr. Blesson Mannil for professional innovation, Ms. Linda Plummer of Montgomery County NAACP for multicultural partnerships, and Mr. Siva Sottallu for cultural photography. Business, Arts, and Education honorees included Mr. Praveen Samuel for community service through Food Dhaba, Mr. Nima Farshchi for educational innovation at the Center for Social Value USME Council 2025 Awards See Page 9 Recipeints of the various USME council 2025 Awards with the organizers Elisha Pulivarti (CEO and Sudhakar Gandhe(Chairman), Rajan Natarajan, Chairman of Global Alliant inc. and President of World Tamil Group
October 3, 2025 Friday 9 US-India SME Council Hosts 2025 INC. 50 Awards Honoring Innovation, Leadership, and Community Service USME Council 2025 Awards From Page 8 Creation, Grand Master Yong Sung Lee for over 50 years in martial arts, and Mr. Manjit Singh for excellence in tax and accounting services. Special Honors and Lifetime Awards Several leaders received lifetime recognition. Drs. Wilkinson and Jennifer Ninala and Drs. Michael and Grace Swinitha Osuri were honored with the Dr. M.E. Cherian Global Leadership Award. Dr. Sanjay Rai, Maryland’s Secretary for Higher Education, received the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Distinguished Service Award. New Jersey Governor Philip Murphy was presented the Mahatma Gandhi Global Peace Leadership Award. Dr. Jessie Singh and Dr. Sajid Tarar were honored with the 3D Crystal Award. The evening also featured the presentation of President’s Lifetime Achievement Certificates to Ben Raju, Kavita Chal- Celebrating 75 Remarkable Years of Pulivarthi — Surrounded by his friends and famly la, Mukesh Majmudar, Bhaskar Ganti, and Curtis Massey. A Celebration of Leadership and Legacy A highlight of the evening was the 75th birthday celebration of USME Council President Elisha Pulivarty, described as a “community legend” and “trailblazing leader.” His decades of service and dedication were honored alongside Council Founder Sudhakar Gande. Pastor Franklin G. David offered a prayer of blessing for their continued leadership. The cultural program included a vibrant dance performance by the “Bombay Girls” and live music that energized the celebration. The evening concluded with closing remarks from board member Juhi Naithani, who commended the dedication of the honorees. Guests then shared a festive dinner, stories, and reflections on cross-cultural partnerships. Building Bridges Across Borders The 2025 INC. 50 Awards not only recognized individual excel- lence but also underscored shared values of resilience, innovation, and service. By honoring leaders in both the United States and India, the celebration highlighted the enduring ties of entrepreneurship, community service, and cultural exchange that unite the two nations.
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