FRIDAY APRIL 4, 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.US Vol 34 No: 14 WASHINGTON DC • Phone: 301-445-0200 /301-445-3543/301-917-4800 • email: indiathisweekads@gmail.com • Friday April 4, 2025 President Murmu Hosts Banquet in Honour of Chilean President, Calls Chile India’s “Important Partner” in Latin America New Delhi [India], April 1 (ANI): President Droupadi Murmu hosted a banquet in honour of Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday. She welcomed him on his first State visit to India and said Chile is an “important partner” of India in Latin America. President Murmu received President Boric at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and other leaders, including members of the high-level delegation from Chile, were present. In her remarks at the banquet, President Murmu said Boric is an inspiration for all young leaders and expressed happiness to know about his political journey from student politics to the presidency. She further said India and Chile’s political and economic priorities are complementary. She said, “I am delighted to welcome Chile President Gabriel Boric Font and his delegation on his first State visit to India. This may be your first visit to India, but I have realized from meeting you that you have a deep understanding and interest in India. I hope you have had a very enjoyable time in India so far. “I remember, New Delhi [India], April 2 (ANI): Lok Sabha on Wednesday took up for consideration the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which incorporates suggestions made by the Joint Parliamentary Committee that examined the bill tabled in Parliament in August last year. The House also took up the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024, for consideration and passing. Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju moved the two bills for passing in the House. Congress member KC Venugopal accused the government of trying to bulldoze the bill, saying that they had not been given enough time to move their amendments. “You are bulldozing the legislation, you need to give time for the amendments, there is no time for amendments,” he said. Speaker Om Birla said that he had given equal consideration to the amendments of the government and the opposition members. With RSP’s NK Premachandran raising some objections to the procedure adopted by the government over the bill, Home Minister Amit Shah said that the Union Cabinet had approved the amendments which had been incorporated in the bill. He said the amendments were based on the report of the JPC. “There is no point of order,” he said. Rijiju told the media earlier that the bill is in the interest of the country. “Today is a historic day, and today the Waqf Amendment Bill will be introduced in the Lok Sabha. This bill is being introduced in the interest of the country. Not only crores of Muslims but the whole country will support Excellency, a few years ago, when you were elected as President of Chile, many of us here in India appreciated such a young leader taking on the responsibility of the highest position in his country. I was happy to know about your political journey, from student politics to the presidency. I believe that it is important for more and more youth to take interest in active politics. President Boric, you are indeed an inspiration for all young leaders.” She further emphasized the strong ties between India and BANQUET 6 SEE PAGE Lok Sabha begins discussion on Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 Remember: “Some people don’t like change, but you need to embrace change if the alternative is disaster.” Elon Musk it. Those who are opposing it are doing so for political reasons,” he said. The bill was earlier presented in the Lok Sabha in August last year, and a Joint Parliamentary Committee, headed by BJP member Jagdambika Pal, examined it. The bill seeks to amend the Act of 1995. It aims to improve the administration and management of waqf properties in India. It seeks to overcome the shortcomings of the previous act and enhance the efficiency of Waqf boards, improve the registration process, and increase the role of technology in managing waqf records. Union Minister and National President of Lok Janshakti Party, Chirag Paswan, on Wednesday stated that the amendments made in the Waqf Bill were positive and had been done with the thought of bringing transparency. Speaking to the media, the Union Minister said, “In reality, the amendments that have been done are positive and have been done with the thinking of bringing transparency. We also gave suggestions, and most of our suggestions have also been accepted, and we are supporting it.” He also stated that his party was supporting the bill. “Our party is supporting the Waqf Amendment Bill,” Paswan further added. Meanwhile, Congress MP Amarinder Singh Raja Warring said that the party would oppose the bill, further stating that the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) should have heard suggestions from everyone. “We will oppose the bill. The JPC should have heard suggestions from everyone. All INDIA bloc leaders will fight against it. The JPC heard us but did not take our suggestions,” Warring said while speaking to ANI. On the other hand, Swami Jitendranand Saraswati, the National General Secretary of Akhil Bharatiya Sant Samiti, voiced his support for the Waqf Amendment Bill and expressed hope that it would be passed in Parliament. Speaking to ANI, Swami Jitendranand Saraswati said, “Every sadhu and saint across the country is filled with joy and hope as they anticipate the bill’s passage. We are confident that this bill will be passed in Parliament.” “We fully support this bill and commend Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP for bringing it forward,” he said. Syed Naseruddin Chishty, Chairman of the All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council, also backed the bill and shared his positive outlook, expressing that the people have been eagerly awaiting this moment and that there is widespread hope that the bill will be a positive development for the community. “People have been waiting for this for a long time. People are hopeful that a good bill will come... In a democracy, everyone has the right to protest, but I have come to know that the main objections raised by the opposition have been accepted by the government, so this will be a very good bill. Now the Waqf money will reach the common and poor Muslims,” he said. WAQF BILL SEE PAGE 2
April 4, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK Gujarat: Fire breaks out at firecracker godown in Deesa area of Banaskantha, 21 killed Banaskantha (Gujarat) [India], April 2 (ANI): A massive fire broke out at a firecracker godown in the Deesa area of Gujarat’s Banaskantha district on Tuesday. As of Wednesday, 21 people are reported dead. The entire structure of the firecracker godown fell apart after the blaze erupted. The death toll in the firecracker godown explosion in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district has risen to 21. Banaskantha Collector Mihir Pravinkumar Patel said that most of the deceased workers were residents from the Dewas and Harda districts in Madhya Pradesh. The Collector confirmed that the identification process of the victims has been completed, and their bodies are being sent back to their native places with the support of local administrations. Speaking to the media here, Patel said, “Majority of the deceased workers were from Dewas and Harda district of MP. The minister (Chouhan Nagar Singh), senior officers, and local administration officers from MP arrived here last night. The families of the deceased were also present at Deesa Civil Hospital yesterday.” “After completing the identification process of the 10 people from the Dewas district in the presence of their family members, the deceased were sent to their native land in ambulances. A local administration team from the Harda district has also reached Deesa Civil Hospital. After the identification process, the eight deceased from the Harda district will also be sent to their native place,” he said. Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh Minister Chouhan Nagar Singh also spoke to the media about the development in the incident and said, “As per the instructions of the MP and Gujarat CMs, teams from MP and Gujarat are working on this incident. Both the Gujarat and MP governments and the Prime Minister have announced compensations for the families of the deceased.” “I have spoken to the District Collector about the seriousness of this matter as well. The government will take strict action against the culprits. The administration is taking legal action,” he stated. On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over a firecracker explosion in the Banaskantha region of Gujarat and announced an ex-gratia of 2 lakh rupees to the next of kin of each deceased and 50,000 rupees to the injured. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav also announced Rs 50,000 to the injured and Rs 2 Lakh ex-gratia to the families of the workers killed in the firecracker factory fire in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district. there will be a nationwide movement, and it will start from Delhi. ‘The movement will start from where it ended last time.’ We will use our democratic rights and will not tolerate any attack on the rights given to minorities in the Constitution,” Jamai posted on X. The bill is being tabled in the Lok Sabha by Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju in the ongoing budget session. Despite opposition to the bill, women from the Muslim community in Delhi and Bhopal came out in support of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. Members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Minority Morcha in Mumbai’s Borivali were seen distributing sweets and celebrating the bill’s tabling, which aims to amend the Waqf Act of 1995. Wasim R Khan, President of Mumbai BJP Minority Morcha, lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying that this bill would help poor Muslims. “I thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi for bringing this bill as it will help poor Muslims. Those who considered Waqf properties as their ‘baap ki jaagir’ would get under control. This bill should have been brought much before,” Khan told ANI. Speaking on the opposition to the bill, Khan said that Waqf properties were supposed to benefit the poor but only benefited the rich. Dismissing the objections raised by the opposition, Khan alleged that they want Muslims to remain poor. BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, who was the Chairman of the JPC on the Waqf Amendment Bill, said that the Bill, which is going to be tabled in Parliament for passing, would benefit poor and Pasmanda (backward) Muslims. Labelling it as a “historic day,” Pal said that the hard work of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), which took stakeholders in several states in confidence, has paid off. He added that JPC meetings were held and the opposition was heard for eight hours every day. BJP leader Mohsin Raza on Wednesday expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the Waqf Amendment Bill is set to be moved in Parliament, saying that passing the amendments to the Waqf Act would be the biggest “Eidi” for marginalised Muslims. could not be done in the last ten years. “The WAMSI portal (An Online System for Searching Waqf Properties) was mentioned again and again... 10 years is a long time. You could not register all properties in 10 years... You could not do this work in 10 years, but now you say that properties have to be registered within 6 months. Who would do the registration? Your officers. How would that be done within 6 months when it could not be done in 10 years? This is an anti-Constitutional Bill,” Masood said. Rijiju countered by highlighting the inefficiencies in Waqf property management and the necessity of the amendments. Lok Sabha begins discussion on Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 WAQF Bill From Page 1 “Nationwide Movement if Waqf Bill Imposed Forcibly”: Delhi AIMIM Chief Delhi All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) President Shoaib Jamai on Wednesday warned of a nationwide movement, which would be initiated from the national capital, if attempts were made to “forcibly” impose the Waqf Amendment Bill. He said that attacks on rights granted by the Constitution to minorities would not be tolerated. “If an attempt is made to forcibly impose the Waqf Bill on Muslims, “This is an AntiConstitutional Bill”: Congress MP Imran Masood on Waqf Amendment Bill Congress MP Imran Masood strongly opposed the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025, terming it as an “antiConstitutional” Bill. M a s o o d questioned how the government could register Waqf properties within six months when the same
FRIDAY APRIL 4, 2025 3
April 4, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK India-US forces aboard INS Jalashwa for opening of Exercise Tiger Triumph 2025 Vishakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh) [India], April 2 (ANI): India-US Naval forces gathered aboard the INS Jalashwa for the opening of Exercise Tiger Triumph 2025 to enhance humanitarian assistance and disaster relief readiness. In a post on X, the US Pacific Fleet wrote, “Strength in Unity: US and Indian forces stand together aboard INS Jalashwa for the opening of Exercise #TigerTriumph2025, enhancing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief readiness. #StrongerTogether #FreeA ndOpenIndoPacific.” The exercise has started on April 1 and will conclude on April 13 in Vishakhapatnam, as per the Indian Navy. “The operations and associated tactics and procedures that we will plan, execute and refine with our Indian partners will greatly expand our joint combined capacity to respond to any crisis,” said Rear Adm. Greg Newkirk, commander of the US Navy’s Task Force 70 and the joint US forces participating in the exercise. “Tiger Triumph 25 represents the joint forces of two strategic partners enhancing our shared multi-domain awareness and ability to operate more effectively in those commonly understood domains. This is essential to prepare for any contingency that could emerge.” This is the fourth time US and Indian forces have come together for Tiger Triumph, a joint India-US amphibious exercise. The exercise will involve approximately 3,000 personnel and at least four ships and seven aircraft from the two countries, according to the US Commander Pacific Fleet. Tiger Triumph 25, which will take place over a two-week period, continues the joint and combined forces’ ongoing efforts to improve interoperability for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations, the statement added. “The longstanding strategic partnership between India and the United States is based on shared democratic values and convergence of ideas and interests on bilateral, regional and global issues,” said the Indian Navy’s Rear Adm. Susheel Manon, Flag Officer Commanding the Eastern Fleet. “Tiger Triumph 2025, the fourth edition of this joint exercise, is an initiative aimed at furthering our common vision for the Indo-Pacific, specifically dealing with New Delhi [India], April 1 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday jointly addressed the press with Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font at the Hyderabad House. He announced that both countries are working on a mutually beneficial Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. The teams will also focus on critical minerals, PM Modi stated. “Today we have instructed our teams to begin discussions on a mutually beneficial Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. Partnership in the field of Critical Minerals will be emphasized. Work will be done to establish resilient supply and value chains,” he said. “India is ready to share its positive experience with Chile in Digital Public Infrastructure, Renewable Energy, Railways, Space, and other areas,” PM Modi added. PM Modi highlighted that they also signed a Letter of Intent, recognizing Chile as the ‘Gateway to Antarctica.’ “We see Chile as the gateway to Antarctica. We welcome the agreement reached today on the Letter of Intent between the two sides to enhance cooperation in this important area,” he said. Chile is considered a gateway to Antarctica primarily due to its geographic proximity and the presence of key cities like Punta Arenas, which serve as major departure points for expeditions and the aspect of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. Exercise Tiger Triumph is an integrated and complex exercise, in terms of the number of assets and personnel involved, with a direct joint tri-services flavor.” Exercise events include subject matter expert exchanges, an amphibious beach landing, and the establishment of an emergency medical treatment station at the site. Tiger Triumph 2025 will include the first-ever subject matter expert exchange with US and Indian industry partners, government representatives, and operators focused on applying cutting-edge autonomous capabilities to address critical warfighter needs, US Commander Pacific Fleet stated. This exchange will advance the new USIndia Autonomous Systems Industry Alliance (ASIA) announced in February by President Trump and Prime Minister Modi and lay the groundwork for greater integration of autonomous systems into future USIndia exercises. Also new to Tiger Triumph in 2025 is the introduction of a space element to the exercise, with US Space Force representatives working with Indian counterparts to incorporate satellite technology to enhance force awareness in operational planning and execution. Service members from US and Indian armed forces will also take part in cultural and athletic events to build personal relationships and camaraderie. According to the US Commander Pacific Fleet, the Comstock and the Ralph Johnson are underway conducting routine operations as part of US 7th Fleet in support of a safe and prosperous Indo-Pacific. Additional US forces participating in the exercise include Navy P8A Poseidon and Air Force C-130J aircraft, as well as an Army platoon, medical platoon, Civil-Military Operations Center and Multi-Domain Task Force Combined Information Effects Fusion Cell. US 7th Fleet is the US Navy’s largest forwarddeployed numbered fleet and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (ANI) defence is a symbol of our deep mutual trust,” PM Modi said. PM Modi further congratulated President Boric on his first visit to India and emphasized that Chile is an important partner country for India. “This is President Boric’s first visit to India, and his commitment to strengthening the friendship and relations with India is truly amazing. I heartily welcome him and the distinguished delegation that has come with him. Chile is an important friend and partner country for India in Latin America,” he said. PM Modi noted that the discussions identified untapped potential in investment opportunities. “In today’s discussions, we identified several new initiatives to enhance cooperation in the coming decade. We welcome the growth in mutual trade and investment. We agree that there is also untapped potential for more cooperation in this,” he said. PM Modi further stated that both countries will collaborate in the agricultural sector, with India sharing its expertise in multiple domains. “Cooperation will be done to ensure food security by combining each other’s capabilities in the field of agriculture. India is ready to share its positive experience with Chile in digital public infrastructure, renewable energy, railways, space, and other areas,” he said. (ANI) “Will emphasise partnership with Chile on critical minerals,” says PM Modi scientific research trips to the continent. “India has been a reliable partner in ensuring the health security of Chile. We agreed to further deepen this cooperation. It is a matter of great happiness that the people of Chile have adopted yoga as a healthy lifestyle. The declaration of November 4 as National Yoga Day in Chile is an inspiration for all of us. We also discussed enhancing cooperation in Ayurveda and traditional medicine in Chile. The growing cooperation in the field of
FRIDAY APRIL 4, 2025 5
April 4, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK President Murmu US State Department declines to comment on USCIRF’s recommendation Hosts Banquet in Honour of Chilean to place India on CPC list President, Calls Chile India’s “Important Partner” in Latin America US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce on Monday (local time) declined to comment on the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom’s (USCIRF) annual report, which recommends placing India on the Country of Particular Concern (CPC) list. When asked about the US Commission’s request to put sanctions on Indian Intelligence Agency RAW, Bruce replied, “Well, I will not discuss negotiations or diplomatic considerations in that manner at all.” She further added that the department would “take a look at where that stands and the reference to that. But that’s not something that is – I’m going to be commenting on.” According to the report, the CPC designations include Burma, China, Cuba, Eritrea, Iran, Nicaragua, North Korea, Pakistan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan. Further, she also addressed questions regarding President Donald Trump’s ability to make the world a better place. When asked about Trump’s role in PoJK (Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir) and Afghanistan, where people are seeking his help and ‘his bold decisions to lift them out of misery,’ Bruce acknowledged that many Americans believe President Trump is not only beneficial for the US but also for the world, citing his reputation as a peacemaker. “Well, I support From The Poet’s Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- April 4, 2025 Violence ! Never a Solution By Rajan George BANQUET FROM PAGE 1 President Trump, and I think that the majority of Americans who gave him this mandate understand that that’s what is possible. We saw that happen in the first term. We’ve seen the nature of his impact even as a businessman in the United States when it comes to the impact on cities and states and the country as a whole, to the point where the American people made him the President of the United States,” she said. “Clearly, a financially stable America, a strong America, for as long as we’ve been here, has made the difference in the safety and security of the rest of the world. That is the kind of dynamic that the world wants and expects. President Trump embodies the nature of our original founding about what America is for and the nature of what it can accomplish when it comes to sticking with its values and making sure that we’re safe and secure and that we respect ourselves and implement our values,” she added. (ANI) INDIA THIS WEEK Violence! Violence! Violence! The refuge of fools, Devoid of wisdom, prudence, or grace, With nowhere left to flee. Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800 www.indiathisweek.online Cowardice is their strongest trait, Power—by any means—their final goal. Kleptocracy, their chosen creed, And all who oppose them, foes indeed. 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. Malice swells within their hearts, Yet virtue is the mask they wear. Hypocrites weaving crooked schemes, With deception as their favored snare. Heartless brutes and cunning frauds, Who mock the weak with scornful glee. Yet blind they are to fate’s disdain— Their ruin sealed in infamy. The irony—these hollow souls Have perched upon the halls of power, Now scheming hard to keep their thrones, And sending pawns to maim and kill. But fools they are, expendable, Mere tools that crooks will cast aside. They fight for causes not their own, For words they’ve heard, yet never known. Prudence whispers, pause and ask— Who reaps the spoils? Who pays the price? For power’s favor fades too soon, And leaves its servants sacrificed. India This Week is published every Friday by ADV Solutions Inc, 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 Chile, stating, “Even though India and Chile are geographically distant, we are closely linked to each other by our long-standing relationship, which is rooted in mutual respect and shared democratic values. As both of our countries celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations, your visit to India assumes even greater significance. Chile is an important partner for India in the Latin American region. Our political and economic priorities are complementary, and we both are independentminded countries.” President Murmu highlighted opportunities for expanding cooperation between the two nations in various sectors, including technology, cultural exchanges, trade, investment, and people-topeople ties. She stated, “We have many opportunities to expand our partnership, from trade and investment, technological and cultural exchanges to people-topeople ties. In recent years, we have seen growing cooperation in all these areas. I am told that you have had extensive discussions on all these aspects with Prime Minister Modi today. I am sure your visit will further strengthen this relationship.” She also acknowledged the contributions of the Indian community residing in Chile, which is actively involved in business and Remember: technology. She expressed confidence that President Boric’s State visit would open a new chapter in bilateral ties. President Murmu said, “Today, Indians in Chile are involved in all fields, from business to technology. The Indian community in Chile is popularizing Indian cuisine, Yoga, and Ayurveda, thereby strengthening people-to-people ties. I hope that during dinner today, our friends from Chile will get a glimpse of the rich heritage of Indian art, cuisine, and music. I am confident that your State visit to India will open a new chapter in our long-standing relations, benefiting the people of both our countries.” Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with President Boric at Hyderabad House in Delhi, describing Chile as an “important friend” of India in Latin America. In a post on X, PM Modi stated, “India welcomes a special friend! It is a delight to host President Gabriel Boric Font in Delhi. Chile is an important friend of ours in Latin America. Our talks today will add significant impetus to the India-Chile bilateral friendship.” Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font arrived in New Delhi on Tuesday for his first State visit to India, receiving a ceremonial welcome and a Guard of Honour. He was warmly received at the airport by Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita. “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 APRIL 4, 2025 7
April 4, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK Centre Set to Increase Limit for Auto Settlement of PF Withdrawal from Rs 1 Lakh to Rs 5 Lakh New Delhi [India], March 31 (ANI): To expand the ‘Ease of Living’ of its 7.5 crore members, the Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has decided to enhance the auto settlement of advanced claim (ASAC) limit by five times from the current Rs 1 lakh, sources told ANI. According to sources, Sumita Dawra, Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Employment, approved the proposal to enhance the limit from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 lakh in the 113th meeting of the Executive Committee (EC) of the Central Board of Trustees (CBT), held last week. This revision will enhance the ease of living for its crores of members. The meeting was held in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, on March 28, and was attended by Ramesh Krishnamurthi, Central Provident Fund Commissioner, EPFO. Now, the recommendation will go for the approval of CBT. After the approval of CBT, EPFO members can withdraw PF up to Rs 5 lakh through ASAC. The auto mode of claim settlement was introduced in April 2020 for advances related to illness. In May 2024, the EPFO increased the auto settlement of the advanced claim limit from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh. EPFO has also introduced auto mode settlement of advance claims for three more categories: education, marriage, and housing. Earlier, members were able to withdraw their PF only for illness or hospitalisation purposes. The auto-mode claims are processed within three days, with 95 percent of claims now being automated. The EPFO achieved a historic high of 2.16 crore auto-claims settlements as of March 6, 2025, during the current financial year, up from 89.52 lakh in 2023-24. According to sources, the rejection ratio of claims has also been reduced to 30 percent, down from 50 percent last year. The EPFO has introduced an auto-claim solution in which claims are processed automatically by an IT system without human intervention. The validation formalities for withdrawing PF have also been reduced from 27 to 18, and it was decided in the meeting to bring it down to six. Certain upfront validations have been developed to guide members about the eligibility and admissibility of claims, ensuring that members do not file ineligible claims. The claim settlement process is being further simplified with the centralization of member databases under a Centralized IT-Enabled system. The entire autosettlement process is ITdriven, eliminating human intervention. Any claim with KYC, eligibility, and bank validation is processed for payment automatically by IT tools. As a result, the periodicity of claim settlement is significantly reduced from 10 days to within 3-4 days for such advances. Claims that are not validated by systems are not returned or rejected. B a n g k o k [Thailand], April 2 (ANI): The 25th Meeting of Senior Officials of BIMSTEC took place in Bangkok, marking a key step in preparations for the upcoming 6th BIMSTEC Summit. India’s Secretary (East) P Kumaran participated in the discussions, which focused on cooperation across various sectors and finalising the agenda for the B I M S T E C Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on April 3, followed by the main Summit on April 4. Randhir Jaiswal, the Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), confirmed the developments on X, stating, “The 25th Meeting of Senior Officials of BIMSTEC was held today in Bangkok. Secretary (East) P. Kumaran participated in the meeting. The Meeting discussed the progress in the identified sectors of cooperation & the preparation of the 20th Meeting of the BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers scheduled on 3 April 2025 & the 6th BIMSTEC Summit scheduled on 4 April 2025 in Bangkok.” https://x.com/MEAIndia/ status/1907352753686626 774 The Thai capital is gearing up to host the summit with full-fledged preparations. Flags of all seven BIMSTEC member states--Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand--are prominently displayed across the city, alongside billboards and hoardings marking the event. The summit, themed BIMSTEC--Prosperous, Resilient and Open, will focus on enhancing regional cooperation in trade, security, and connectivity. BIMSTEC was established on June 6, 1997, through the Bangkok Declaration, with Thailand playing a foundational role. The organisation connects South and Southeast Asian nations with shared economic and cultural ties dating back centuries. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Thailand to attend the summit and hold bilateral discussions with his Thai By Shailesh Yadav | ~4 minutesT Punjab Police Thwart Possible Terror Attack, Pak-ISILinked Operative Arrested Instead, they undergo a second level of scrutiny and approval. In a groundbreaking development for India’s workforce, the EPFO is set to introduce a revolutionary new system for PF withdrawals through Unified Payments Interface (UPI). Last week, Labour and Employment Secretary Sumita Dawra stated that the ministry has approved NPCI’s recommendation, and members may withdraw PF through UPI and ATMs by the end of May or June this year. This initiative may also serve as a pilot for members of other schemes like the General Provident Fund (GPF) for government employees and the Public Provident Fund (PPF) of banks. (ANI) Amritsar (Punjab) [India], April 1 (ANI): In a significant development aligned with ongoing efforts to enhance safety and security in Punjab, as directed by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Counter Intelligence (CI) unit in Amritsar has successfully thwarted a potential terrorist attack. This was achieved through the apprehension of an individual linked to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency, during which a hand grenade was also recovered, as shared by Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab, Gaurav Yadav, on Tuesday. According to a release issued, the arrested suspect has been identified as Jaiveer Tyagi, alias Jawed, a native of Baroli village in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh (UP), currently residing in Ludhiana. DGP Gaurav Yadav said that the CI Amritsar team received intelligence revealing that an abroadbased individual, identified as Sehlam, who is working for Pakistan’s ISI, along with his cousin, Jaiveer Tyagi, had been hatching a conspiracy to target government infrastructure through terror attacks in various cities to disturb peace and harmony in the state. The intelligence further indicated that Jaiveer Tyagi had retrieved a consignment of a hand grenade in the Amritsar area and was waiting for his accomplices near Tara Wala Pul in Amritsar to commit a major crime. Acting swiftly on credible inputs, police teams from CI Amritsar launched an intelligence-led operation and apprehended Jaiveer Tyagi, recovering one hand grenade from his possession, the DGP added. The DGP said further investigations revealed that Jaiveer had been residing in Ludhiana for the past 14-15 years and was in contact with Sehlam through encrypted messaging apps. A case has been registered under Section 25 of the Arms Act, Sections 3, 4, and 5 of the Explosive Substances Act, and Sections 61(2) and 111 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at the Police Station State Special Operations Cell (SSOC) in Amritsar. (ANI) counterpart, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, on April 3. This will be his third visit to Thailand, following his attendance at the 2019 ASEAN and East Asia Summit in Bangkok and a stopover in 2016 to pay homage to the late King Rama IX. Thailand holds strategic significance for India as a maritime neighbor and a key partner in the Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific Vision. It is the thirdlargest economy in ASEAN and India’s fourth-largest trading partner in the region, following Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia. The upcoming summit is expected to strengthen regional ties and advance economic cooperation among BIMSTEC nations. (ANI) Bangkok set for 6th BIMSTEC Summit as preparations intensify
Now in Ashburn, VA ❖ Accounting and Bookkeeping Service ❖ Audit, Review, Compilation and Attestation Service ❖ Tax Service ❖ IRS Service ❖ Web Hosting ❖ Business Consultancy ❖ Dedicated Service with Smiling Faces ❖ Experienced and Reliable Staff Year Round ❖ Rely on 24 Years of Experience FRIDAY APRIL 4, 2025 9 Tax Season is around the corner, are you ready ? Balagan Business & Tax Services Balagan Arumugaswamy, CPA, LL.M Tel: (301) 931-1040, (301) 931-1042 Main Office: 12100 Franklin Street Beltsville, MD 20705 (301) 595-4331; (703) 723-4488; (703) 723-4458 Fax: (703) 723-1140; (301) 595-4332 Branch Offices: 44335 Premier Plaza Suite#100, Ashburn, VA 20147 E Mail: balagancpa@msn.com Website: www.balaganfinancials.com India delivered 625 MT of humanitarian aid to Myanmar under Operation Brahma: MEA New Delhi [India], April 1 (ANI): India has delivered 625 metric tonnes (MT) of Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR) material to Myanmar as part of Operation Brahma, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Tuesday. India launched Operation Brahma to provide necessary support, including Search and Rescue (SAR), humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and medical assistance, following the devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28.Being the First Responder in times of crisis in the Neighbourhood, Operation Brahma is a whole-of-government endeavour by India to respond to widespread destruction in Myanmar. So far, six aircraft and five Indian Naval ships have delivered 625 MT of Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR) material, the MEA said in a statement. India delivered the first tranche of HADR material to Myanmar, including 15 tonnes of supplies such as tents, blankets, essential medicines, and food— supplied by NDRF and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare—using a C-130J aircraft, which landed in Yangon on March 29, the MEA said. The MEA noted that the second tranche, aboard two IAF C-130J aircraft, included 80 NDRF Search and Rescue (SAR) specialists, equipment, and relief material. One aircraft carried 17 tonnes of personal protective equipment, search & communication equipment, and rescue equipment, while the other carried 5 tonnes of HADR materials such as gensets, hygiene kits, food packets, essential medicines, kitchen sets, and blankets. These aircraft landed in Naypyitaw on March 30. The third tranche, involving two IAF C17 aircraft, transported a 118-member Indian Army Field Hospital Team with over 60 tons of supplies, rapidly deployable surgical and medical shelters, water sanitation and hygiene services, and most importantly, women and child care services. These aircraft also landed in Naypyitaw on March 30. The 200-bedded field hospital in Mandalay is now operational, treating patients and performing surgeries. According to the Indian Army, surgeons at the facility have also successfully performed two life-saving surgeries. On Tuesday, Lt Gen Myo Moe Aung, overall in charge of relief operations in the Mandalay Division, paid an impromptu visit to the hospital. He commended the highly functional medical setup and appreciated India’s extraordinary efforts in supporting Myanmar during this tragic crisis. The MEA further said that Indian Naval ships Satpura and Savitri, from the Eastern Naval Command, sailed for Yangon on March 29, carrying 40 tonnes of HADR material. These were handed over to the Chief Minister of Yangon on Monday. Indian Navy Ships Karmuk and LCU 52 from the Andaman and Nicobar Command sailed for Yangon on March 30, carrying 30 tonnes of relief material, including HADR pallets comprising essential clothing, drinking water, food, medicines, and emergency stores. These were handed over at Yangon Port on Tuesday. On Tuesday, in continuation of Operation Brahma, India dispatched further assistance, including critical supplies to meet the immediate needs of the affected population. An IAF C-130J aircraft carrying approximately 16 tonnes of HADR material, including vital supplies such as tents, gensets, drinking water, food, and emergency medicines, aimed at addressing the urgent needs of those affected by the disaster, landed in Mandalay today, the MEA said. The MEA further noted that Indian Naval Ship Gharial departed from Visakhapatnam Port on Tuesday for Yangon. The ship will deliver 442 MT of food aid, including 405 metric tons of rice, 30 metric tons of cooking oil, 5 metric tons of biscuits, and 2 metric tons of instant noodles. These supplies are intended to meet the immediate food needs of the affected population in Myanmar. India stands ready to deploy more material assistance and resources to Myanmar, depending on ground-level needs and requirements, the MEA said. India’s ongoing efforts under Operation Brahma reflect its commitment to respond swiftly and in full measure to natural disasters in her Neighbourhood. As a First Responder, India stands with Myanmar, a key partner of our Neighbourhood First and Act East policy, it added. (ANI)
Fleepit Digital © 2021