FRIDAY AUGUST 18, 2023 1 INDIA THIS WEEK A W e e k l y N e w s p a p e r Fe a t u r i n g N e w s & Tr e n d s f r o m t h e I n d i a n S u b - C o n t i n e n t P u b l i s h e d f r o m t h e U S C a p i t a l Website: www.indiathisweek.online Vol. 31 No: 33 WASHINGTON DC • Phone: 301-445-0200 /301-445-3543/301-917-4800 • email: indiathisweekads@gmail.com • Friday AUGUST 18, 2023 PM Modi hoists National Flag at Red Fort on 77th Independence Day New Delhi [India], August 15 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag today as the nation marks its 77th Independence Day. Earlier the prime minister took to his social media app ‘X’ to greet the country. “Best wishes on Independence Day. We pay homage to our great freedom fighters and reaffirm our commitment to fulfilling their vision. Jai Hind!,” the Prime Minister wrote. Upon his arrival at the Red Fort, PM Modi was received by Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, Raksha Rajya Mantri, Ajay Bhatt, and Defence Secretary, Giridhar Aramane. The Defence Secretary introduced the General Officer Commanding (GoC), Delhi Area, Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth to the Prime Minister. The GoC Delhi Area conducted Narendra Modi to the Saluting Base where a combined Inter-Services and Delhi Police Guard presented a general salute to the Prime Minister. Thereafter, the Prime Minister inspected the Guard of Honour. The Guard of Honour contingent for the PM consists of one officer and 25 personnel each from the Army, Air Force and Delhi Police and one officer and 24 personnel from the Navy, according to an official release. After hoisting the flag PM Modi began his customary address to the nation from the ramparts of the iconic monument. PM INDEPENDENCE DAY SEE PAGE 6 ENDS SEPTEMBER 5 SUMMER VIBES JAAREE x RAKHIYE ALL YEAR LONG LEXUS.COM The Golden Opportunity Sales Event hai aapka mauka to make every season as thrilling as Summer. Lekin jaldi kijiye—because while the vibes may last, an opportunity like this won’t. Himachal: Massive landslide strikes Shimla’s Summer Hill area, rescue operation underway ©2023 Lexus, a Division of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], August 16 (ANI): A massive landslide was reported in Shimla’s Summer Hill area on Wednesday, an official said. A search and rescue operation was launched after the word of the incident got out and sniffer dogs and rescuers were at the spot at the time of filing this report. There were no immediate reports of any casualties or injuries in the incident. Further updates are awaited. Earlier, on Tuesday, the Indian Air Force airlifted 18 army soldiers in a single sortie to aid the rescue operation following landslides in Shimla. “A Chinook helicopter of Western Air Command airlifted 18 Indian Army personnel and a 3-Ton Mini Dozer in a single sortie for rescue efforts in areas affected by landslides near Himachal Pradesh’s Shimla today,” the Indian Air Force informed through a statement on Tuesday. Incessant rains continue to wreak havoc in parts of Himachal Pradesh, resulting in damage to buildings and properties. HIMACHAL LANDSLIDE SEE PAGE 14
AUGUST 18 2023 INDIA THIS WEEK Friday ������������������������������� ���������� �������� �������� ������������������������������������� ������������������������������������� �������������������� ������������������ ������������� ���������������� ����������������������� ��������������������� ������������� ������� ���������������� ��������� ����������� ������������������� ������������ ��������������������������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������������������� First ever crude oil transaction in local currency undertaken between India and UAE Abu Dhabi [UAE], August 14 (ANI): The first-ever crude oil transaction under the newly implemented Local Currency Settlement (LCS) system took place on Monday between Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL). The transaction involved the sale of about 1 million barrels of crude oil. Both Indian Rupees and UAE Dirhams were used for the transaction, Indian Embassy in the UAE said in a press release. India and UAE have a strong oil and gas relationship and the UAE is a key partner for India’s energy security. Petroleum and petroleum products form the backbone of bilateral trade between India and the UAE. UAE is the fourth largest source of crude oil and the second largest source of LNG and LPG for India. Last year, USD 35.10 billion worth of petroleum products were traded between the two countries, accounting for 41.4 per cent of total bilateral trade, the release said. The LCS mechanism has been established under the historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the establishment of a framework mechanism for using local currencies for cross-border transactions exchanged on 15 July 2023 in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi (PM) and Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi. This is India’s first-ever LCS and is expected to reduce transaction costs and time and increase reliance on local currencies. This will further add to the preferential terms accruing from CEPA. Traders can choose the payment currency based on mutual agreement. Further, the surplus balance in local currencies can be used for investing in local currency assets like corporate bonds, Government securities, equity markets etc. LCS is likely to have a transformational impact not only on the bilateral economic relationship but in larger economic engagements across the world, the press release from the Indian Embassy in UAE said. While today’s oil transaction was the second major transaction under the LCS, the first transaction took place on 15th July, the day of the exchange of the MoU. It involved the sale of 25 Kg Gold from a leading UAE gold exporter to a buyer in India invoiced at approx 12.84 crore Rupees. (ANI)
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AUGUST 18 2023 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK US India SME Council celebrates its twentieth anniversary and second annual Incredible Inc 50 Awards U S India SME Council held its second annual Incredible Inc 50 awards ceremony on eighth August at Martin’s Crosswinds in Greenbelt near the nation’s capital, Washington, DC. US India SME Council was established twenty years ago to promote the cause of small, medium and women owned businesses and foster collaboration between US and India’s small businesses. Under the leadership of Chairman Sudhakar Gande and CEO Elisha Pulivarti the council had grown leaps and bounds since its inception. US Senator from the State of Maryland Chris Van Hollen was conferred Mahatma Gandhi Peace-Leadership Award for 2023 at the ceremony. Twenty five small, medium and women owned businesses were recognized with Incredible Inc awards. Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman delivered the keynote address. Several dignitaries from Maryland graced the occasion. Among those present were Maryland Lt. Governor Aruna Miller, Secretary of State Susan Lee, Secretary of Higher Education Sanjay Rai and others. In addition, over 300 attendees from different part of US and India were present. They were CEOs and Presidents of SMEs, non-profit organizations, and community leaders. Sudhakar Gande and Elisha Pulivarti emphasized the importance of small, medium and women owned businesses in economy, revenue and job creation. Mr. Gande, who is actively involved with aircraft design, highlighted that big aircraft manufacturers like Airbus and Boeing rely heavily on thousands of small businesses around the world for components. He spoke of political alignment beyond party lines between US and India, as well as positive environment for small business collaboration between both democracies. He urged elected leaders to continue to provide support to SMEs and improve US-India trade relations. Elisha Pulivarti focused on Journey of US India SME council and its Senator Chris Van Hollen receives the Mahatma Gandhi Peace-Leadership Award for 2023, award from US India SME Council Chairman Sudhakar Gande, US India SME council President Elisha Pulivarti is also seen, Photo Credit: Karmel Mathtew, Horizon Photgraphic Comptroller of Maryland Brooke Lierman delivers the Keynote address Photo Credit: Karmel Mathtew, Horizon Photgraphic Lt. Governor of Maryaland Aruna Miller receiving the Asian American Trail Blazer of the year Award from Sudhakar Gande (Chairman and Elisha Pulivarti (President) of US India SME Council. Photo Credit: Karmel Mathtew, Horizon Photgraphic Recipient of Mahatma Gandhi Peace-Leadership Award for 2023 US Senator Chris Van Hollen expressed his appreciation for the honor Photo Credit: Karmel Mathtew, Horizon Photgraphic US India SME Council CEO and President receives Citation from the Comptroller of MD Brooke Lierman. Photo Credit: Karmel Mathtew, Horizon Photgraphic impact on furthering the cause of SMEs. He thanked all dignitaries for joining the occasion and he, too, urged elected leaders to increase support to small, medium and women owned businesses. Senator Hollen, in his acceptance speech, recalled his experience of spending two high school years in Indian state of Tamilnadu. He explained that while researching Martin Luther King, Jr and civil rights movement, he discovered more about Mahatma Gandhi. He acknowledged that the partnership between India and US is moving in the positive direction. Comptroller of Maryland Brooke Lierman, in her wonderfully articulated key-note address, talked about duties and impact of a Maryland Comptroller. She highlighted efforts by the Maryland Comptroller to modernize operations and facilities, exercise better control over spending, improve participation of SMEs in state administered contracts, and provide timely information to Maryland citizens and businesses. She iterated that Maryland administration is open for suggestions and feedback. Maryland Lt. Governor Aruna Miller took pride in diversity of Maryland administration and high representation of Women in the cabinet. She talked about her journey of two decades from a volunteer to elected official to Lt. Governor. She thanked Maryland citizens for US INDIA SME COUNCIL SEE PAGE 5
US India SME Council celebrates its twentieth anniversary and second annual Incredible Inc 50 Awards USINDIA SME COUNCIL FROM PAGE 4 bringing about the change and encouraged them to vote in every election and make each vote count. She presented a citation to US India SME Council on completion of twenty years. Few other specialized awards were awarded at the ceremony. The evening concluded with a dinner and a networking reception. Small Businesses are the Engines that fuel our Nation’s Economy---They are the Economy! Small business owners, represent 99 percent of all American employers and that create three-quarters of new American jobs every year. U.S. Senator Van Hollen, Lt. Governor Miller, Comptroller Lierman, and SBA Program Director Raju spoke about Small, Minority and Women-owned businesses and opportunities and creating more inclusive through the lens of empathy and building bridges of trust and understanding across diverse backgrounds. The U.S. India SME Council, Inc was formed in July 14, 2003 at the request and initiative of then Maryland Governor Bob Ehrilich, Jr. The U.S. India SME Council is the Premier Business Advocacy organization and was celebrating its twodecades of Excellence and hardwork for companies of Small, Medium, Minority and Women-owned on August 10, 2023 at Martin’s Crosswinds, Greenbelt, Maryland and Capital Region. The U.S. India SME Council introduced the “INCREDIBLE INC.50” recognizing the most successful and fastgrowing companies. We honored the 50 small, minority and women-owned companies on August 10, 2023 in Maryland this year. Small businesses are vital to American prosperity and FRIDAY AUGUST 18, 2023 Over 40 Years Of Experience 5 FAMILY HAIRCUT $ MEN • WOMEN • CHILDREN ROOT TOUCH-UP FOR MEN 20 & up $ SERVICES Lt. Governor of Maryaland Aruna Miller speaks at the US India SME Gala Photo Credit: Karmel Mathtew, Horizon Photgraphic are the backbone, and are the engines that fuel our Nation’s economy. This year Incredible Inc.50 awards function was attended by VIPs including the United States Senator Honorable Chris Van Hollen, Maryland Lt. Governor Honorable Aruna Miller, Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Program Director Ben Raju, Maryland Secretary of State Susan Lee, and Maryland Secretary for Higher Education Dr. Sanjay Rai and many other elected officials and more than 300 Business and Community Leaders from different states including guest from India. We honored more than 30 fast growing companies, including many women-owned, Carwash, Cleaning-Janitorial services, Technology, Medical-Healthcare, Physicians, Realtors, Vineyard-Farmer, Textiles, and more.... The U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen was honored with the prestigious award of “Mahatma Gandhi Global Leadershippeace” 2023 highlights the relationship between the United State and India and Gandhi vision of nonviolence and peace....building Lt. Governor Aruna Miller was awarded with “Asian American Trailblazer of the year Award..... as a strong champion of small businesses. Dr. Rajan Nata- rajan, Founder and CEO, Global Alliant, Inc received “Extraordinary and Outstanding Leadership of the year 2023 Award” Global Alliant is one of the fastest growing and most innovative emerging technology companies in the nation. Congratulations to all the Incredible Inc.50 Awardees: • Abaris Realty • Anthony Brown Consulting and Services • Applix, Inc • Center for Social Change, Inc • DC South Asian Arts Council, Inc • Fairfax Realty Select • Gabtics, LLC • Global Telvision Network • Hawkeye Medical, LLC • Hidden Hills Farm and Vineyards, Inc • Integrated Consultancy Services, Inc • Inter Globix, Inc • International Software Systems, Inc • Krishigap Digital Solutions Pvt. Ltd • New Hampshire Carwash • Nextt, Inc • NilaApps Pvt. Ltd • Office Care, Inc • Pragathi, Inc • Quantum Point, Inc • Techbuilderz, Inc • Tekway, Inc • USTechtroncis, Inc • Wave Welcome, Inc • Edmund International, Inc • Dr. Ninala Jennefer Wilkinson-Best Psychiatrist • Little Gym in Columbia • And more..... • BEARD TRIM $500 $ • SHAMPOO 1000 • BLOW DRY $1000 $ 00 • PERM FROM 20 $ 00 • COLOR FROM 20 • HIGHLIGHTS FROM $3500 • SPA PEDICURE FROM $1700 Beauty & Barber Shop 7311 Little River Turnpike, Annandale, VA 22003 info@csbarbernschool.com 5
INDIA THIS WEEK PM Modi hoists National Flag at Red Fort on 77th Independence Day INDEPENDENCE DAY FROM PAGE 1 Modi’s address from the ramparts marked his 10th Independence Day speech. Around 1,800 people from different walks of life and from all across the country have been invited as special guests to the main celebratory event in the national capital. This year’s Independence Day will culminate the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ celebrations, which were launched by the Prime Minister from Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad, Gujarat on March 12, 2021, and will, once again, usher the country into ‘Amrit Kaal’ with renewed vigour to realise PM Modi’s dream of making India a developed country by 2047. The Indian Army is the coordinating service this year. The Guard of Honour was commanded by Major Vikas Sangwan. The Army Contingent in the Prime Minister’s Guard was commanded by Major Indrajeet Sachin, the Naval contingent by Lieutenant Commander MV Rahul Raman and the Air Force contingent by Squadron Leader Akash Ganghas. The Delhi Police contingent was com- manded by Additional DCP Sandhya Swami. After inspecting the Guard of Honour, PM Modi proceeded to the ramparts of the Red Fort where he will be greeted by Raksha Mantri, Rajnath Singh, Raksha Rajya Mantri Ajay Bhatt, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar, and Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, the Ministry said. The GoC, Delhi area conducted the Prime Minister to the dais on the ramparts to hoist the National Flag. After being hoisted, the Tricolour received a ‘Rashtriya Salute’. The Army band, consisting of one JCO and 20 Other Ranks, played the National Anthem during the hoisting of the National Flag and presenting of the ‘Rashtriya Salute’. The Band was conducted by Naib Subedar Jatinder Singh. Major Nikita Nair and Major Jasmine Kaur assisted the PM in hoisting the National Flag. There was a synchronised with the 21 Gun Salute by the valiant gunners of the elite 8711 Field From The Poet’s Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- June 30, 2023 The Words of Jesus Christ Mark 6 19 And the whole multitude sought to touch him: for there went virtue out of him, and healed them all. 20 And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said, Blessed be ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of God. 21 Blessed are ye that hunger now: for ye shall be filled. Blessed are ye that weep now: for ye shall laugh. 22 Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man’s sake. 23 Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets. 24 But woe unto you that are rich! for ye have received your consolation. 25 Woe unto you that are full! for ye shall hunger. Woe unto you that laugh now! for ye shall mourn and weep. 26 Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets. 27 But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, Battery (Ceremonial). The ceremonial battery was commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Vikas Kumar and the Gun Position Officer will be Naib Subedar (AIG) Anoop Singh. The National Flag Guard comprising five officers and 128 other ranks from the Army, Navy, Air Force and Delhi Police presented Rashtriya Salute at the time of the hoisting of the national flag by PM Modi. Major Abhinav Detha from the Army was in command of this InterServices Guard and Police Guard. The Army Contingent in the National Flag Guard was commanded by Major Mukesh Kumar Singh, the Naval contingent by Lieutenant Commander Harpreet Mann and the Air Force Contingent by Squadron Leader Shrey Chawdhary. The Delhi Police contingent was commanded by Additional DCP Shashank Jaiswal, according to an official release. As soon as the national flag was hoisted by the Prime Minister, flower petals was showered at the venue by two Advanced Light Helicopters MarkIII Dhruv of the Indian Air Force in the Line Astern Formation. The captains of the helicopter were Wing Commander Amber Agarwal and Squadron Leader Himanshu Sharma. Decisions taken today will decide direction, future of country for 1000 years: PM Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that decisions taken by the country today and the work done will impact its future for 1000 years. Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the 77th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that there is a tremendous opportunity before the country due to the trinity of democracy, demography and diversity. He said India faced a struggle for several centuries before it gained Independence in 1947. “I am talking about the last 1000 years because I see that there is opportunity before the country once again. What we do in this era, the steps we take, and the decisions we take one after the other will decide the direction, future of the country in the coming 1000 years,” he said. “Today, we have demography, democracy INDIA THIS WEEK Address: P.O. Box 352, Bryans Road, MD 20616 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: Chief Editor: Contributing Editors: Dr. Babu Stephen Rajan George 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 and diversity – these three together have the ability to realise the dreams of the nation. The trinity of demography, democracy and diversity has the power to realise the dreams of the nation,” he added. In his 10th consecutive Independence Day speech Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced the launch of the Vishwakarma Yojana with an initial spending of Rs 13,000-Rs 15,000 crore in the next month for those with traditional skills. Addressing the country from the ramparts of the iconic Red Fort, the prime minister said, “The government will launch ‘Vishwakarma scheme‘ with an allocation of Rs 13,000 to 15,000 crore in the next month for those with traditional skills.” Vishwakarma Scheme was announced in the Budget 2023. The PM Vishwakarma Scheme aims at improve the quality, scale and reach of products and services of artisans and craftspeople and to integrate them with the domestic and global value chain. This would result in the economic empowerment of such workers, especially those belonging to the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Communities, women, transgender and other weaker sections of the society. The scheme will be launched in September on the Vishwakarma Jayanti. Vishwakarma Jayanti falls on September 17, 2023. Meanwhile, in his address to the nation from Red Fort, the Prime Minister emphasised the significant role of women in making the country embrace new heights of development. “I want to thank the mothers, sisters and daughters of my country for their capability. I pay my deep regards to our parivaarjans, our farmers, our labourers... Our professionals, be they scientists, engineers, nurses, teachers or professors, everyone is giving their best to ensure a bright future for Maa Bharti,” the PM said. “Women scientists are leading Chandrayaan mission,” PM Modi emphasises on importance of women-led development Addressing countrymen from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the 77th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday laid emphasis on the importance of womenled development and stated that today women scientists are leading the Chandrayaan mission. “The one thing that will take the country forward is womenled development. Today, we can proudly say that India has the maximum number of pilots in civil aviation. Women scientists are leading the Chandrayaan mission,” PM Modi said. “I want to tell the mothers, sisters and daughters that today the country has progressed due to the power of you all,” he said. The G20 countries are also recognising the importance of women-led development,” he added. With the launch of Chandrayaan-3, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is embarking to achieve a successful soft landing on the Moon. India aims to become the fourth country in the world to achieve this feat, joining the ranks of the United States, Russia, and China. Chandrayaan-3 is India’s third lunar mission and second attempt at achieving a soft landing on the Moon’s surface. It is a follow-on to the unsuccessful 2019 lunar mission – Chandrayaan-2. It will demonstrate India’s end-toend capability in safe landing and roving on the lunar surface. The Chandrayaan3 spacecraft, which was launched on GSLV Mark 3 (LVM 3) heavy-lift launch vehicle successfully from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Andhra Pradesh’s Sriharikota on July 14, is scheduled to land on the surface of the moon on August 23. 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
FRIDAY AUGUST 18, 2023 7
AUGUST 18 2023 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK No-confidence motion against NDA government defeated in Lok Sabha New Delhi [India], August 10 (ANI): The noconfidence motion moved by the Opposition against the NDA government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi was defeated in the Lok Sabha on Thursday. The NDA defeated the no-confidence motion comfortably with a voice vote in the Lok Sabha. The opposition moved a no-confidence motion against the Modi government on July 26 which was taken up by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. The three days of the motion witnessed a fierce battle between the ruling and the Opposition coalitions over the Manipur violence and other raging issues. This is the second time Prime Minister Narendra Modi faced a no-confidence motion. The first such motion against the Modi government was introduced in 2018 over granting a special category status to Andhra Pradesh which was later defeated. The NDA has a commendable majority with a number of 331 MPs out of which the BJP has 303 MPs while the combined strength of the Opposition bloc I.N.D.I.A is 144. The numbers of unaligned parties’ MPs are 70 in the Lower House. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday replied to the motion in the House, where he tore into the Congress party during his reply to the debate on the no-confidence motion, saying the people of the country had no confidence in Congress. “People of the country have no confidence in Congress. Due to arrogance, they are not able to see the reality. In Tamil Nadu, they won in 1962 and since 1962 the people of Tamil Nadu are saying ‘No Congress’. In West Bengal they won in 1972, people of West Bengal are also saying ‘No Congress’. In UP, Bihar, and Gujarat they won in 1985 and the people of these states are also saying ‘No Congress’...,” the PM said. PM Modi, while starting his speech, said that this is the blessing of God that a motion for a floor test has been brought by the opposition. “God is very kind and speaks through some medium...I believe that it’s the blessing of God that opposition has brought this motion. I had said during the no-confidence motion in 2018 that it was not a floor test for us but a floor test for them and as a result they lost in the elections...” PM Modi said while replying to the no-trust vote. The PM also said that Opposition’s No Confidence has always been lucky for the NDA government. “In a way, Opposition’s No Confidence has always been lucky for us. Today, I can see that you (The opposition) have decided that NDA and BJP will come back in the 2024 elections with a grand victory, breaking all previous records, with the blessings of the people,” he said, adding that the trust of the people of the country shown in our government again and again. Notably, any Lok Sabha MP, who has the support of 50 colleagues, can, at any point of time, introduce a motion of no-confidence against the Council of Ministers. Thereafter, a discussion on the motion takes place. MPs who support the motion highlight the government’s shortcomings, and the Treasury Benches respond to the issues they raise. Ultimately, voting takes place and if the motion is successful, the government is forced to vacate the office. “Country is with you”: PM Modi’s message to Manipur Asserting that state and central government are working to restore the peace in Manipur, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday ‘assured’ for strictest punishment for the accused indulged in crimes against women. “There are serious crimes against women and they are unforgivable,” he added. “Both the state and central governments are doing everything possible to ensure that the accused get the strictest punishment. I want to assure the people that peace will be restored in Manipur in the coming time,” PM Modi said while replying to the no-confidence motion against his government. He further said the country is with the people of Manipur. “I want to tell people of Manipur including women and daughters of Manipur that the country is with you,” he added. Notably, the Opposition has moved a noconfidence motion against the NDA government over the issue of Manipur. The Opposition has been demanding a statement from the PM inside the Parliament over Manipur. “Congress is asking us answers for Manipur violence, they are forgetting what Nehru ji did when Assam was attacked,” PM Modi said. He further said that the Opposition didn’t have the courage and intention to discuss Manipur. “We had asked them (opposition) to come for a discussion on Manipur. The Home Minister had written a letter, asking them to hold a discussion on Manipur. But they didn’t have the courage and intention. There was an intention to send a message of peace to the people of Manipur in Amit Shah’s message,” the PM said. Meanwhile, Opposition MPs staged a walkout of the Lok Sabha as Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks on the motion. PM Modi, coming down heavily on the Opposition, especially on Congress said that their pain is ‘selective’ and they cannot think beyond politics. “Whose government was there in Manipur when everything used to happen according to the wishes of insurgent organisations? Whose government was there in Manipur when Mahatma Gandhi’s picture was not allowed in government offices, whose government was there in Manipur when the decision to not allow the national anthem in schools was taken?... Their (opposition) pain is selective. They cannot think beyond politics...,” he added. Modi tore into the Congress party during his reply to the debate on the no-confidence motion, saying the people of the country had no confidence in Congress. “People of the country have no confidence in Congress. Due to arrogance, they are not able to see the reality. In Tamil Nadu, they won in 1962 and since 1962 the people of Tamil Nadu are saying ‘No Congress’. In West Bengal they won in 1972, people of West Bengal are also saying ‘No Congress’. In UP, Bihar, and Gujarat they won in 1985 and the people of these states are also saying ‘No Congress’...,” the PM said. (ANI) “Opposition has secret vardaan...” PM Modi New Delhi [India], August 10 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday tore into the opposition during his reply to the debate on the no-confidence motion and took a jibe mentioning about a ‘special blessing’ given to the opposition. During the debate on the no-confidence motion in the Lower House, PM Modi said that opposition leaders have received a secret vardaan (blessing). Speaking further, the Prime Minister said that the secret vardaan is that whenever opposition leaders wish bad upon someone, that individual always benefits. “I am one of the examples of this,” the PM said, evoking laughter from the treasury benches. Giving three other examples to prove his point, PM Modi said that the opposition tried to question India’s banking sector but their profits have doubled since then. “They said the banking sector will be crushed, it will be ruined, the nation will be in doldrums. They got experts from abroad to spread their negative narrative. When they wished ill for our banks, our public sector banks flourished,” he said. PM Modi said that when the opposition tried to decry HAL, it recorded its highest-ever revenue. “They ruined HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited). They tried to incite the workers and spread negativity. But now HAL is flourishing. It has recorded its highest ever revenue. HAL has now become the pride of the country,” he said. PM Modi added that opposition tried to criticise LIC too, but it is now growing stronger day by day. Speaking in the Lok Sabha, the Prime Minister slammed the Opposition for moving the motion and said that they themselves do not have confidence in their own motion. He also said that the no-trust motion against his government is auspicious for him and asserted that NDA will return with an even bigger mandate in 2024. “God is very kind and speaks through some medium...I believe that it’s the blessing of God that opposition has brought this motion. I had said during the no-confidence motion in 2018 that it was not a floor test for us but a floor test for them and as a result they lost in the elections...” PM Modi said while replying to the no-trust vote. The PM also said that Opposition’s No Confidence has always been lucky for the NDA government. “In a way, Opposition’s no-confidence has always been lucky for us. Today, I can see that you (The opposition) have decided that NDA and BJP will come back in the 2024 elections with a grand victory, breaking all previous records, with the blessings of the people,” he said, adding that the trust of the people of the country shown in our government again and again. (ANI) Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], August 14 (ANI): Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and Ayush, Sarbananda Sonowal on Monday said that West Bengal is poised to receive investment worth Rs 1 trillion in the maritime sector and that will make the state a maritime hub in near future. The Union Minister was speaking during the roadshow organised by Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (SMPK) for the ensuing Global Maritime India Summit, 2023 (GMIS) in Kolkata on Monday. The roadshow was attended by the captains of India Inc in the city as well as top officials, technocrats as well as social leaders with an intent to encourage their participation meaningfully to “Connect, Collaborate and Create” with global investors at the forthcoming summit in New Delhi. Speaking on the occasion, Sonowal said, “Inspired by the vision of Honourable Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, our ministry is organising 3rd Global Maritime India Summit, 2023 (GMIS) from 17 October to 19 October, 2023 at Bharat Mandapam with an aim to ‘Connect, Collaborate and Create.’ Today, all of you have joined us on this novel exercise to enable and empower the maritime sector of India as a true multiplier force of India’s economic growth. Kolkata, with its rich maritime heritage and strategic location, plays a pivotal role in the maritime sector in enabling and empowering the eastern part of India. The maritime sector is the lifeline of the Indian economy contributing more than 90 per cent of EXIM cargo by volume and about 70 per cent by value.” West Bengal to receive Rs 1 trillion investment in maritime sector: Union Minister Sonowal
FRIDAY AUGUST 18, 2023 9 Amit Shah introduces three bills in Lok Sabha for revamping criminal laws, replace IPC, CrPC and Indian Evidence Act New Delhi [India], August 11 (ANI): Three bills of momentous significance aimed at replacing British-era laws with a thrust on “justice instead of punishment” were introduced in Lok Sabha by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on the last day of the monsoon session of Parliament. The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023 and The Bharatiya Sakshya Bill 2023 were introduced in the Lower House of Parliament. Amit Shah said that the bills are being referred to the Standing Committee for scrutiny While the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023 seeks to replace IPC 1860, Bhartiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita 2023 seeks to replace Criminal Procedure Code and Bharatiya Sakshya Bill 2023 will replace the Indian Evidence Act, 1872. Home Minister said that the bills are not aimed at giving punishment but rendering justice. He said the bills have been introduced after extensive consultations. The key provisions of the legislation include repealing sedition, a new penal code against mob lynching, death for rape of minors and firsttime community service as one of the punishments for petty offences. The offences against women and children, murder and offences against the State have been given precedence. New offences of terrorist acts and organised crime have been added to the Bill with deterrent punishments. New offences added on acts of secession, armed rebellion, subversive activities, separatist activities, or endangering sovereignty and unity of India and there is one-year imprisonment for bribing voters during elections. The Bharatiya Sakshya Bill 2023 provides that ‘evidence’ includes any information given electronically, which would permit the appearance of witnesses, accused, experts and victims through electronic means. It provides for admissibility of an electronic or digital record as evidence and it shall have the same legal effect, validity and enforceability as paper records. The bill seeks to expand the scope of secondary evidence to include copies made from the original by mechanical processes, copies made from or compared with the original, counterparts of documents as against the parties who did not execute them and oral accounts of the contents of a document given by some person who has himself seen it and giving the matching hash value of original record will be admissible as proof of evidence in the form of secondary evidence. It seeks to put limits on the facts which are admissible and its certification as such in the courts. The proposed Bill introduces more precise and uniform rules of practice of courts in dealing with facts and circumstances of the case by means of evidence. The Evidence Act was enacted in the year 1872 with a view to consolidating the law relating to evidence on which the court could come to a conclusion about the fact of the case and then pronounce judgment. It came into force on September 1, 1872. The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023 proposes to repeal the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973. It provides for the use of technology and forensic sciences in the investigation of crime and furnishing and lodging of information, and service of summons, through electronic communication. Specific timelines have been prescribed for timebound investigation, trial and pronouncement of judgements. The bill states that a citizen-centric approach has been adopted for the supply of copies of the first information report to the victim and to inform them about the progress of the investigation, including by digital means. In cases where the punishment is seven years or more, the victim shall be given an opportunity of being heard before the withdrawal of the case by the Government. The summary trial has been made mandatory for petty and less serious cases. The accused persons may be examined through electronic means, like video conferencing. The magisterial system has also been streamlined. The Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 regulates the procedure for arrest, investigation, inquiry and trial of offences under the Indian Penal Code and under any other law governing criminal offences. The Code provides a mechanism for conducting trials in a criminal case. It gives the procedure for registering a complaint, conducting a trial and passing an order, and filing an appeal against any order. The bill states that delays in the delivery of justice due to complex legal procedures, large pendency of cases in the courts, low conviction rates, low level of uses of technology in the legal system, delays in the investigation system, complex procedures, inadequate use of forensics are the biggest hurdles in speedy delivery of justice, which impacts poor man adversely. It also notes that the experience of seven decades of Indian democracy calls for a comprehensive review of our criminal laws, including the Code of Criminal Procedure and adopt them in accordance with the contemporary needs and aspirations of the people and that the government is committed to making a comprehensive review of the framework of criminal laws to provide accessible and speedy justice to all.
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