FRIDAY JANUARY 17, 2025 INDIA THIS WEEK 1 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 34 No: 3 WASHINGTON DC • Phone: 301-445-0200 /301-445-3543/301-917-4800 • email: indiathisweekads@gmail.com • Friday January 17, 2025 Rupee hits fresh record low against USD, may drop to 87 by March end: Experts New Delhi [India] January 13 (ANI): Indian rupee touched an all-time low against US dollar. At the time of filing this report, the rupee was trading at 86.40 against US dollar. Experts say the volatility trends show that the rupee will drop to 87 by March end. “As per implied volatility trends, there are 80 per cent odds that the currency will drop to 87 between now and Marchend, up from 27 per cent a month ago.” says Akshay Chinchalkar, Head of Research, Axis Securities. Akshay adds that rising treasury yields and surge in crude prices has dampened the outlook for the Indian currency. The rupee has dropped for 16 straight weeks, which has never occurred in its history. “India’s Rupee slumped beyond 86 this morning as a global dollar advance fueled by rising treasury yields and a surge in oil further dampened the outlook for the rupee. Offshore markets continue to bet against the rupee via options, where dollarrupee out-of-the-money calls have been traded aggressively last week. The rupee has now dropped for 16 straight weeks, which has never occurred in its history,” he said. Ajay Bagga Banking and market expert disagrees and says, rupee is facing pressure in line with other global currencies. In 2024, it has performed better than other emerging markets (EMs) “The Rupee is facing pressure in line with other global currencies. In CY2024 the rupee was a relative outperformer versus other EMs. In 2025 we are seeing the continuation of US economic and bond yield Washington DC [US], January 15 (ANI): Pete Hegseth, the nominee for Secretary of Defence, said that upon confirmation, he would collaborate with the US State and Commerce Departments to reassess the India-US partnership and advise President Donald Trump accordingly. The former combat veteran, a TV news show host and Donald Trump‘s pick for defence secretary was grilled on Tuesday by the Senate Armed Services Committee in a confirmation hearing to serve as Defence Secretary. H e g s e t h highlighted the importance of joint military exercises, defence sales, and strategic talks which have bolstered India-US ties significantly. “If confirmed, in coordination with the State and Commerce Departments, I would review our current relationship and agreements and then provide the Defence Department’s recommendations to the President,” Hegseth said in response to a written question submitted by the Senate Armed Services Committee ahead of his confirmation hearing. Hegseth is the first of Trump’s nominees to be grilled as part of a process that will see them either approved or rejected for currency depreciation as a strategy in 2018 to counter Trump tariffs. India has to be a market follower in this scenario to keep its exports competitive” said Bagga FPIs pulling out funds from the Indian markets is also putting pressure on rupee. Trump’s impact on Indian Rupee likely to be shortlived: SBI Report exceptionalism which is leading to further strength in the US dollar and global currencies weakness.” said Ajay Bagga Banking and market expert Indian rupee has been under pressure since last few months due to various domestic as well as international factors. These include India’s sluggish growth, outflows by foreign investors from Indian equities, and the strengthening of the dollar index after Donald Trump announced tariff plans, among others. US dollar index rises to 109.98, highest since November 2022. Bagga said U.S. exceptionalism and EMs devaluing their currency to keep export competitiveness are reasons for rupee weakness. “This US exceptionalism is the main reason for rupee weakness. Moreover, there is competitive devaluation as well, as to keep export competitiveness, EMs try to keep their currencies in a broad band with respect to export competitors, China for example used demand new and strong leadership in the Pentagon. “First and foremost, we will defend our homeland, our borders and our skies. Second, we will work with our partners and allies to deter aggression in the Indo-Pacific from the communist Chinese. Finally, we will responsibly end wars to ensure we can prioritise our resources-and reorient to larger threats. We can no longer count on “reputational deterrence”– we need real deterrence,” Hegseth said in his opening statement. Throughout the confirmation hearing, the 44-year-old combat veteran said that he would work with partners and allies to deter China’s offensive led by the Communist Party in the Indo-Pacific region. The hearing was disrupted several times as Hegseth attempted to deliver his opening statement, with police removing protestors from the committee room. Democrat senators grilled Hegseth on his lack of experience, his past comments about women and Black troops and allegations of excessive The “Trump Tantrum,” referring to the impact of Donald Trump‘s presidency on the Indian rupee, is likely to be a short-term phenomenon, says a report by State Bank of India (SBI). The report highlighted that while the rupee may face initial volatility during the early days of his presidency, it is expected to stabilize soon RUPEE SEE PAGE 6 “Will collaborate with US State & Commerce Depts to reassess India-US ties”: Pete Hegseth Remember: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in –Jesus Christ heaven.” the roles the president-elect has nominated them for. In his opening remarks, he firmly claimed that he would be a “change agent,” a “warrior” for the department, “re-build US military” and “re-establish deterrence” as Republicans drinking and sexual misconduct. He was challenged over previous comments made about women in the military.Hegseth also dismissed questions over reports of his drinking, calling them a “smear campaign.” In November 2024, while nominating Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defence, Trump said, “Pete has spent his entire life as a Warrior for the Troops, and for the Country. I am honoured to announce that I have nominated Pete Hegseth to serve in my Cabinet as the Secretary of Defense. Pete is tough, smart and a true believer in America First. With Pete at the helm, America’s enemies are on notice – Our Military will be Great Again, and America will Never Back Down.” (ANI)
January 17, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK US Congressman Krishnamoorthi leads resolution for Tamil Language and Heritage Month Washington DC [US], January 15 (ANI): US Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi on Tuesday introduced a bipartisan resolution to designate January as Tamil Language and Heritage Month. Sharing a post on X, he wrote, “For the 360,000 Tamil Americans living in the US today, January is a uniquely special time thanks to the festival of Pongal. I was proud to introduce my bipartisan resolution to designate January in honour of the Tamil language and heritage.” The resolution highlights the significance of Tamil language, one of the world’s oldest languages, spoken by over 80 million people globally. A press release on his official website stated, “Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (DIL) introduced a bipartisan resolution designating January as Tamil Language and Heritage Month. More than 80 million people SC dismisses review plea on same-sex marriage worldwide, including 360,000 Americans, speak Tamil, one of the world’s oldest languages. The resolution coincides with Pongal, a major Tamil festival that begins in midJanuary.” “As a Tamil American, I am proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution honouring the Tamil language, heritage, and culture here at home in the United States and around the world,” the release added. Tamil Americans United PAC said, “Tamil Americans United PAC wholeheartedly welcomes and deeply appreciates Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi and the members of Congress for introducing this significant legislation, which highlights the rich history of the ancient Tamil people and their invaluable contributions to the modern world. We urge Tamil Americans to actively and effectively engage in efforts to ensure the successful passage of this legislation in the United States Congress.” Federation of Tamil Sangams of North American (FeTNA) said that as proud Tamil Americans, they strongly support Krishnamoorthi’s resolution to create a Tamil Language and Heritage Month. “Tamils have much to contribute to this dear country we call our home, and showcasing our history, language, and culture will allow us to meaningfully share what we have with our fellow citizens,” FeTNA said. Congressman Krishnamoorthi was joined in introducing the resolution by Reps. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), Thanedar (D-MI), Ro Khanna (D-CA), Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Ami Bera (D-CA) , Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Yevette Clark (D-NY), Sara Jacobs (D-CA), Debroah Ross (DNC), Danny Davis (D-IL), Dina Titus (D-NV), Don Davis (D-NC), and Summer Lee (D-PA). (ANI New Delhi [India], January 9 (ANI): The Supreme Court on Thursday rejected a batch of petitions seeking review of its judgement by which it had denied to recognise same-sex marriage. A bench of Justices BR Gavai, Surya Kant, BV Nagarathna, PS Narasimha and Dipankar Datta said it found no error apparent on these earlier judgments. “We have carefully gone through the judgments delivered by S Ravindra Bhat (former judge) speaking for himself and for Justice Hima Kohli (former judge) as well as the concurring opinion expressed by one of us previous Government. This scheme will ensure the highest-quality healthcare at affordable rates. It will particularly benefit the Nari Shakti and the elderly of Odisha,” PM Modi said in a post on X while replying to the Odisha CM. Meanwhile, Odisha Chief Minister Charan Mohan Majhi thanked PM Modi for helping implement the scheme. The scheme is meant to provide 3 crore people in the state with access to cashless treatment at over 30,000 government and private hospitals across the country. “I express my heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for bringing Odisha on board this transformative scheme, which is focused on providing quality and affordable healthcare for all. In Odisha, beneficiaries will have access to cashless treatment at over 30,000 government and private hospitals across the country. Nearly 3 crore individuals from 1.3 crore families are set to benefit from this initiative,” the CM’s post read. He further explained that the state is in the process of establishing healthcare services in rural areas, by building primary health centres, ‘Ayushman Arogya Mandir.’ “Ayushman Bharat Mandirs will be established in every Panchayat of Odisha with the goal of delivering healthcare services to rural areas. An instructor will be present at each Mandir, and we will also provide additional facilities and services alongside healthcare workers,” the post added. According to an official statement by the Ministry of Health, the scheme will be implemented alongside the state’s Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana (GJAY) “The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PMJAY) will be implemented in convergence with the existing Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana (GJAY) in Odisha,” read the statement. The statement added, “It will provide a cover of Rs 5 lakh per family per annum with additional Rs 5 lakh for women members. A total of approximately 1.03 crore families will come under the converged scheme with 67.8 lakh families supported by the Union Government.” (ANI) PM Modi congratulates Odisha on joining Ayushman Bharat scheme Bhubaneshwar (Odisha) [India], January 13 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the people of Odisha on implementing the Ayushman Bharat scheme, and said that it was a ‘travesty’ with the previous government denying people the benefits of quality, affordable care. Odisha joined 33 other states in implementing the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) on Monday after a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the state’s health department and the National Health Authority of Union Government. The MoU was signed in the presence of Union Health Minister J P Nadda, and Union Ministers Ashwini Vaishnaw, Dharmendra Pradhan and multiple other officials. “It was indeed a travesty that my sisters and brothers of Odisha were denied the benefits of Ayushman Bharat by the (Justice Pamidighantam Sri Narasimha), constituting majority view. We do not find any error apparent on the face of the record,” the judgement stated. “We further find that the view expressed in both the judgments is in accordance with law and as such, no interference is warranted. Accordingly, the review petitions are dismissed. Pending application(s), if any, stand(s) disposed of,” the judgement added. The bench considered the review petitions in chambers (not in open court). A five judgejudge Constitution bench in October 2023 had held that there is no unqualified right to marriage and same-sex couples cannot claim that as fundamental right. On October 17, 2023, the apex court had refused to recognise the right of same-sex couples to enter into marriages or have civil unions and left it to the Parliament to decide the issue. The Constitution bench had unanimously said it cannot strike down the provisions of the Special Marriage Act (SMA) or read words differently to include non-heterosexual couples within its fold. It had refused to tweak the provisions of the Special Marriage Act even as the apex court declared that queer couples have a right to cohabit without any threat of violence, coercion of interference. The verdict of the apex court had come on a batch of petitions seeking right to marriage for members of the LGBTQIA+ community under the Special Marriage Act, 1954. The petitioners before the apex court included same-sex couples, rights activists, social workers and organisations. (ANI)
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January 17, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK “Symbol of pride and trust for every Indian”: Rajnath Singh extends wishes on 77th Army Day New Delhi [India], January 15 (ANI): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday extended his heartfelt greetings to the brave soldiers, officers, and families of the Indian Army on the occasion of 77th Army Day. In his message, Singh saluted their unwavering courage, valour, and selfless service, highlighting the Army’s crucial role not only in safeguarding the nation’s borders but also in disaster management, peacekeeping, and humanitarian efforts. “On the auspicious occasion of Army Day, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all the brave soldiers, officers, and their families of the Indian Army. This day provides an opportunity to salute their indomitable courage, valour, and selfless service towards the security and integrity of our nation. The Indian Army not only plays a leading role in defending the borders of the country, but also makes exceptional contributions in disaster management, peacekeeping, and humanitarian assistance. It is a symbol of pride and trust for every Indian,” he said. Rajnath Singh also emphasized that the Indian Army is one of the most important pillars of national security, and its role in nation-building is unparalleled. “I am pleased that the Indian Army is not only always prepared to deal with all kinds of traditional and unconventional threats but also plays a crucial role in helping the country emerge as a developed nation. The Army is also progressing rapidly in adopting change and modern technology, promoting self-reliance and boosting indigenization,” he said. “The skill, discipline, and patriotism of ourArmy have brought India honour on the global stage. The sacrifices and services of our brave soldiers can never be forgotten, and the people of the country are forever grateful to them,” he added. General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) also conveyed felicitations and warm wishes to the Army. In his message, General Dwivedi New Delhi [India], January 15 (ANI): Delhi‘s Tis Hazari court has acquitted a man from the allegations of cruelty and harassment of his wife for dowry as well as his brother of the charge of raping her, citing inconsistencies in the victim’s testimony. The court acquitted the accused persons noting that the testimony of the alleged victim was not of sterling quality. The present case was registered in 2021. Additional Sessions Judge (ASJ) Anuj Agrawal acquitted the accused persons noting material inconsistencies in the victim’s statement. “The testimony of the prosecutrix is not of quality and suffers from material contradictions as her version stands discredited in view of scientific/ electronic evidence brought on record. The parties are admittedly having matrimonial discord. Seen in the light of aforesaid circumstances, this court is of the considered view that the prosecution failed to prove its case beyond all reasonable doubts against accused persons and therefore they deserve to be acquitted,” ASJ Agrawal said in the judgement passed on January 4. It was alleged by the victim that the husband and her relatives were harassing her for dowry. He got married in November 2020. She further alleged that on September 28, 2021, she was drugged and locked in a room, following which her brother-in-law committed digital rape. The court in its judgement noted that the prosecution’s case was based on the prosecutrix’s testimony. The court remarked, “While there is no cavil with the proposition that a conviction can be emphasized that the Indian Army plays a crucial role in ensuring a stable and secure environment, which is essential for the uninterrupted progress of the nation, towards its envisioned goal of Viksit Bharat. “Our commitment towards that remains unwavering. Each soldier of the Indian Army stands resolute, in confronting the security challenges, whether at our borders or in the hinterland. We have and shall always remain steadfast in our obligation to assist civil authorities, render humanitarian aid, undertake disaster relief and contribute to nationbuilding initiatives,” he said. He also pointed out that the security landscape remains dynamic and the character of warfare continues to change. “In order to prepare for future challenges, we have embarked upon a ‘Decade of Transformation’ towards evolving into a modern, agile, adaptive and technology-enabled future ready force. Our capability development endeavours which are inclusive to our Transformation pursuit, stand on the edifice of Atmanirbharta, towards which we firmly stand committed,” the COAS said. He also asserted that the Indian Army will observe the year 2025 as the ‘Year of Technology Absorption’ where in ‘assimilation’, ‘adoption’ and ‘integration’ of new technology into the warfighting systems will remain thrust areas. General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) extended his greetings on the occasion and said that the day is a celebration of the unwavering dedication, courage, indomitable spirit and professionalism that define the Indian Army. “The Indian Army‘s legacy is built on its credible ability to adapt to challenges, uphold sovereignty and serve the nation selflessly. The relentless efforts of the personnel of the Indian Army in maintaining a high state of readiness, excelling in operational domains and ensuring the safety and well-being of our citizens, under all circumstances are commendable,” General Chauhan said. He also asserted that modern warfare is evolving rapidly, driven by advancements in technology and shifting geo-political dynamics. “Conflicts are increasingly expanding into new domains, including Cyber, Space and Cognitive arenas. New age technologies and concepts such as Automation powered by Artificial Intelligence and Data-Centric Architecture, Celerity Centric Warfare bolstered by Stealth and Hypersonic technologies, and Robotics driven by Autonomous Vehicles are transforming how future wars will be fought,” he said. The CAS emphasized further that the Indian Army will need to adapt and equip technologically and continually upgrade its Tactics, Techniques and Procedures to remain ahead of its adversaries. “Empowering men with higher technical acumen with the infusion of improved Information and Communications Technology is the need of the hour,” he said. “On the solemn occasion of the Army Day, we pay homage and express our gratitude to the brave martyrs, who made the supreme sacrifice and laid down their lives in the Line of Duty. We remain indebted to our Veterans and Veer Naris who continue to remain a source of inspiration for us,” he added. (ANI) New Delhi [India], January 12 (ANI): The Indian Army, set to celebrate its 77th Army Day on January 15, is showcasing its significant technological advancements as part of its ongoing commitment to operational excellence and self-reliance, a release said on Sunday. In 2023, the Indian Army declared the “Year of Technology Absorption” and has now extended this initiative for another year, aligning with the Ministry of Defence’s declaration of 2025 as the ‘Year of Reforms.’ These efforts are part of the broader “Decade of Transformation” (2023-2032), aimed at redefining India’s defence capabilities. Operating across varied terrains–from the icy heights of the Himalayas to the deserts of Rajasthan and jungles of the Northeast–the Indian Army faces unique operational challenges, leading the Indian army to a driving in-house innovation. Different terrain, weather, and operational conditions demand various specific requirements. This necessitates a culture of continuous innovation to enhance operational, logistical, and training capabilities, the release added. As per the release, the character of war is constantly evolving, and the Indian Army needs to be prepared to deal with all future challenges. The recent global conflicts have underscored the need for indigenous battlefield solutions, pushing the Indian Army to not just absorb but also develop cutting-edge technologies. The Indian Army is continuously promoting an innovation culture within itself. As part of that, since 2014, the Indian Army has been conducting its annual innovation competition, rebranded as Inno-Yoddha in 2023. This initiative provides a platform for soldiers to showcase indigenous solutions addressing capability voids. The Indian Army‘s emphasis on technology absorption and innovation is pivotal in achieving Atmanirbhar Bharat. By promoting indigenous solutions, fostering a robust defence manufacturing ecosystem, and aligning with national reforms, the Indian Army is redefining operational capabilities and setting new benchmarks in defence modernisation. As the “Decade of Transformation” unfolds, the Indian Army remains committed to shaping a future where innovation, resilience, and self-reliance drive India’s military prowess. (ANI) Delhi Court acquits Indian Army to celebrate 77th Army husband, brother-in-law due Day with focus on technological to inconsistency testimony advancements and ‘Year of Reforms’ founded on the ocular testimony of a prosecutrix, it is also well-settled that her testimony has to be cogent, reliable and trustworthy.” The court further said that there was no medical or forensic evidence to prove that she was drugged. The court observed, ” According to the call details record (CDR), the prosecutrix made phone calls to her parents at the time when she claimed to be drugged and unconscious.” The court further noted that the parties were in matrimonial dispute and there was the possibility of them exaggerating their versions. (ANI)
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January 17, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK Rupee hits fresh record low against USD, may drop to 87 by March end: Experts RUPEE FROM PAGE 1 after. It said “Empirical evidence suggest that Trump Tantrum for INR will be a short-term phenomenon, and rupee should adjust post the initial shock of early days of Presidency”. According to the report, historical data indicated that the Indian rupee has generally performed better under Republican administrations compared to Democratic ones. “Contrary to market perceptions, the rupee appears more vulnerable under a nonTrump or Democratic regime,” the report stated. Looking back at past U.S. presidencies, particularly since the Nixon era, the rupee has been relatively stable during Republican tenures. While some volatility is expected in the near term, the current situation does not mirror the levels seen during the infamous “Taper Tantrum” of 2013. This has led analysts to believe that the rupee’s reaction to the Trump presidency will be temporary. The report also noted that the rupee began to weaken in the second half of 2024 due to capital outflows. The strengthening of the U.S. dollar, triggered by Donald Trump‘s presidential victory in November, further contributed to the rupee’s decline. Since November 2024, the rupee has depreciated by approximately 3 per cent against the U.S. dollar. Despite this, the rupee’s performance remains among the most stable when compared to other global currencies. It said “Till date, rupee has depreciated by ~3 per cent against US dollar, still in lowest echelon From The Poet’s Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- January 17, 2025 Los Angeles Fires: Leaders Take no Blame Poem generated by AI Chatgpt.com In the city where the skyline burns, Where the sun through smoke-strained twilight turns, A symphony of sirens wails, As nature’s fury leaves its trails. Leaders stand on lofty stages, Reading scripts like ancient sages. With practiced hands, they shift the blame, While wildfires rage and scorch the name. “The winds were fierce, the climate cruel,” They point to forces, nature’s tool. Yet warnings echoed, loud and clear, From voices wise, from those who steer. The scientists with charts in hand, Foretold the fate of this parched land. “Mitigate, prepare, prevent,” They cried, but funds were elsewhere spent. Instead of building firebreaks wide, Or managing the forests’ pride, The leaders sat in chambers cold, Debating profits, chasing gold. The trees, the hills, the lives now lost, A heavy toll, a grievous cost. But still they posture, shift, and spin, Ignoring cries from deep within. The flames reflect in every eye, A burning truth they can’t deny. Until they lead with hearts sincere, The fires will return each year. Oh, Los Angeles, city bright, Your leaders failed to guard your light. May they one day rise, aware, To act with wisdom, love, and care. when compared with other countries”. The report further highlighted that during the first half of 2024, the domestic foreign exchange market remained steady, supported by capital inflows driven by the inclusion of Indian bonds in global bond indices. This helped cushion the rupee against greater volatility. Overall, the report predicted that the rupee will adjust to the initial shock of the Trump presidency and stabilize in the coming months, easing concerns about prolonged instability. “Value of rupee against dollar reached lowest level ever”: Priyanka Gandhi Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Saturday criticised the central government over the depreciation of the Indian rupee, claiming that the currency’s value against the dollar has hit an all-time low, and alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has failed to live up to his earlier promises regarding the economy. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra pointed out that during the tenure of former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, when the value of the dollar stood at 58-59 rupees, PM Modi had criticised the falling rupee, linking it to the ‘prestige’ of the government. The Congress leader said that PM Modi had earlier at that time claimed that he understood the economy and asserted that a country’s currency could not depreciate to such levels.Priyanka Gandhi Vadra questioned why the Prime Minister had not lived up to his earlier statements and called on him to answer to the people of the country for the ongoing economic challenges. Taking to her official handle on X, Vadra posted, “The value of rupee against the dollar has reached its lowest level ever. For the first time in history, the value of one dollar 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: 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 has become 86.4 rupees. During Dr. Manmohan Singh’s tenure, when the value of one dollar was 5859 rupees, Narendra Modi used to link the value of rupee to the prestige of the government.” “He used to say, ‘I know everything. The currency of any country cannot fall like this. Today he himself is the Prime Minister and all records of depreciation of Rupee have been broken. He should answer to the people of the country,” said Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. Earlier on Friday, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra accused the Central government of focusing on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘personal publicity,’ and claimed that “substantial funds” have been spent on the Prime Minister’s Public Relations (PR) while the government failed to provide scholarships that could have transformed the lives of many youths. She raised concerns over the suspension of the ‘National Talent Search Examination’ (NTSE) scholarship, which traditionally helped bright students pursue higher education and contribute to the nation’s growth. Citing a news report, she stated that the scholarship program launched in 1963 provided opportunities for numerous children across the country, but has been halted for the past three years, leading to Remember: the loss of opportunities for aspiring students. She accused the government of prioritising the Prime Minister’s personal publicity over the welfare of young students and pointed out that while 62 crores were spent on public relations for the Prime Minister during this period, a mere 40 crores could have funded the scholarships for the same duration. “The Prime Minister’s PR dominates the vision of progress. The ‘National Talent Search Examination Scholarship, started in 1963, paved the way for the future of many children, they became partners in the country’s progress, and the doors of good education opened for them,” Priyanka Gandhi Vadra stated in her post. “In three years, 40 crores would have been spent on scholarship, while 62 crores were spent on publicity,” she added. “With the closure of scholarships, the road to a bright future for lakhs of youth was closed, but the Prime Minister’s PR did not stop,” she added. Earlier on Thursday, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra expressed concern over the deteriorating health of farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike and urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to hold talks with the farmers. (ANI) “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
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January 17, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK Seers and devotees gather at Triveni Sangam for Shahi Snan, advocate for peace Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India], January 14 (ANI): As festivities for the 2025 Maha Kumbh mela commence, seers like devotees take a dip in the holy confluence on the occasion of Makar Sankranti. Many Akharas headed by the seers lead their processions towards Triveni Sangam. After taking a dip in the holy Sangam on Tuesday morning, Kumar Swami Ji Maharaj from Anand Akhara said that those who can visit the Maha Kumbh were “extremely” fortunate. Advocating for peace, the seer said that the religious texts have always upheld peace. “Nothing is bigger than this (Maha Kumbh). Those who are able to come here are extremely fortunate... Wherever we see people are fighting among themselves. Here it’s peaceful. Merely being present here and watching everything unfold, brings joy and peace... Our saints and shastras have always wanted peace in the world. I bow down to our great seers and our religious texts, I bow down to our earth and Lord Shiva for giving us this day. Everyone should come here...” Swami Ji Maharaj told ANI. Meanwhile, Mahamandleshwar Swami Gyan Puri of Mahanirvana Akhara said, “It’s a huge crowd but it’s amazing how everything flows. Everyone finds a place for a holy dip. I think it is only possible to see this here.” The procession of Niranjani Akhada is heading towards the Triveni Sangam for the first Amrit Snan of Maha Kumbh on the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti on Tuesday. Sadhus of the 13 Akhadas of the Sanatan Dharma will take a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam — a sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna and ‘mystical’ Saraswati river. The 13 akhadas are divided into three groups — Sanyasi (Shaivite), Bairagi (Vaishnav) and Udaseen. The Shaivite akhadas include Shree Panch Dashnam Juna Akhada, Shree Panchayati Akhada Niranjani, Shree Shambhu Panchayati Atal Akhada, Shree Panchayati Akhada Mahanirvani, Shree Shambhu Panchagni Akhada, Shree Panchdashnam Aavahan Akhada and Taponidhi Shri Anand Akhada Panchayti. Before the procession, Niranjani Akhada, and Mahanirvani Panchayati Akhara are marching towards the Triveni Sangam to take holy dip on Makar Sankranti. Meanwhile, Naga Baba Pramod Giri of the Shambu Panchayati Atal Akhara said that it was a matter of happiness that Shmbhu Panchayati Atal Akhara and Mahanirvani Panchayati Akhada are going together for Shahi Snan. “It’s a matter of happiness for us that Shmbhu Panchayati Atal Akhara and Mahanirvani Panchayati Akhada are going together to have Shahi (Amrit) Snan. It has been a tradition that Naga Sadhus are kept ahead...” he said speaking to ANI. As celebrations begin, many personalities from across the globe have been flocking to the ghats in the city, taking a dip in the holy confluence (Sangam) of Ganga and Yamuna. The latest among many to attract attention at the Maha Kumbh festival is Laurene Powell, wife of former Apple CEO Steve Jobs, who has been participating in the cultural festivities. Reacting to this, Spiritual leader Swami Kailashanand Giri on Tuesday morning said that such was the tradition that those who have never seen it want to partake in. “She will participate in the ritual of taking a dip (at the Sangam). She is resting in my ‘shivir’. However, she has some allergies. She has never been to such a crowded place. She is quite simple. She stayed with us during the pooja. Our tradition is such that those who have never seen it – they all want to join,” Giri told ANI. `He further said that Niranjani Akhara was preparing for Rajasi Shahi (Amrit) Snan, which is scheduled for today morning. Expressing gratitude towards UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the arrangements done by the government, Giri said that nearly 30 to 40 million people will take a holy dip. Devotees, both Indian and foreign, immersed themselves in the sacred tradition, contributing to the world’s largest spiritual gathering. The atmosphere around the Triveni Sangam was filled with devotion as foreign pilgrims joined in the spiritual energy of the Mela. Foreign devotees from various parts of the world gathered to sing bhajans, blending into the devotional ambience. They sang ‘Om Jai Jagdish Hare’ and ‘Mahishasura Mardini Stotram,’ adding their voices to the sacred chants of the gathering. Maha Kumbh is one of the largest and most significant religious congregations in the world, held every 12 years at one of four locations in India. Maha Kumbh is one of the largest and most significant religious congregations in the world, held every 12 years at one of four locations in India. The Maha Kumbh-2025, which is Poorna Kumbh will take place till February 26, 2025. Key ‘snan’ dates include January 14 (Makar Sankranti – First Shahi Snan), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya – Second Shahi Snan), February 3 (Basant Panchami – Third Shahi Snan), February 12 (Maghi Purnima), and February 26 (Maha Shivaratri). (ANI)
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