FRIDAY MAY 9, 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: 19 WASHINGTON DC • Phone: 301-445-0200 /301-445-3543/301-917-4800 • email: indiathisweekads@gmail.com • Friday May 9, 2025 Trump Administration Launches $1,000 Self-Deportation Incentive Program As activist judges across the country continue to obstruct the Trump administration’s efforts on immigration enforcement, a new initiative has been introduced that could outpace judicial activism with practical effectiveness. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a voluntary self-deportation program for undocumented immigrants. Under this plan, individuals who choose to leave the United States voluntarily will be provided with a one-way ticket to their home country—up to a value of $3,500—and a stipend of $1,000. This approach is significantly more costeffective than traditional deportation procedures. The federal government currently spends an estimated $17,000 to arrest, detain, and deport a single undocumented immigrant. In contrast, the voluntary selfdeportation program costs approximately $4,500 per individual, saving taxpayers around $12,500 per case. To participate, individuals Remember: must register through the CBP app, submit their personal information, and confirm their intent to leave the country voluntarily. Those who selfdeport may also benefit from a more favorable immigration record, potentially improving their chances of legally returning to the United States in the future. However, those apprehended and deported by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) typically face permanent bans from reentry. This initiative aligns with President Trump’s broader immigration policy, aimed at removing the millions of undocumented immigrants who entered the country during the Biden administration’s tenure, which has been widely criticized for its lax border controls. While the selfdeportation plan has drawn opposition from left-leaning organizations, it has been welcomed by conservative groups who see it as a long-overdue step toward restoring border security and the rule of law. “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” John F. Kennedy Op Sindoor: India hits terror hotbeds in Bahawalpur, Muridke, Sialkot and PoJK New Delhi [India], May 7 (ANI): Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation, sources told ANI. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was constantly monitoring Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI. The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved “Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution,” the statement added. According to the Ministry, these strikes were carried out in response to the “barbaric” terrorist attack in Pahalgam, where 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were killed. The government said it is committed to holding those responsible accountable. PM Narendra Modi monitors Op in sponsoring terrorist and Pakistan-occupied activities in India. Jammu and Kashmir from Sindoor through the In the early hours where terrorist attacks night, 9 targets—all of Wednesday, the Indian against India have been successful Army launched Operation Sindoor, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan planned and directed, said an official statement from the Ministry of Defence. milestone, India and the UK have successfully concluded an ambitious and mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement, along with a Double Contribution Convention.” The post added, “These landmark agreements will further deepen our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and catalyse trade, investment, growth, job creation, and innovation in both our economies. I look forward to welcoming PM Starmer to India soon.” The Prime Minister’s Office in a statement said, “Shri Narendra Modi and OPERATION SINDOOR SEE PAGE 2 India, UK successfully conclude Free Trade Agreement New Delhi [India], May 6 (ANI): India and the United Kingdom on Tuesday successfully concluded a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA), along with a Double Taxation Avoidance Convention. Prime Minister Narendra Modi made the announcement about the successful FTA deal. Describing the FTA deal as ambitious and mutually beneficial, PM Modi emphasised that these agreements will significantly strengthen the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and boost trade, investment, innovation, and job creation across both economies. Sharing a post on X, PM Modi said, “Delighted to speak with my friend PM @Keir_ Starmer. In a historic Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Sir Keir Starmer had a telephone conversation today. The two leaders welcomed the successful conclusion of an ambitious and mutually beneficial India-UK Free INDIA UK FTA SEE PAGE 6
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Op Sindoor: India hits terror hotbeds in Bahawalpur, Muridke, Sialkot and PoJK OPERATION SINDOOR FROM PAGE 1 Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been constantly monitoring the Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources said to ANI. The strike called by the Indian forces on all the nine targets has been successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces had selected the location for strikes with the intent of targeting top Jaish-eMohammed and Lashkar leadership for their role in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. In the early hours of Wednesday, the Indian Army launched the Operation Sindoor, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistanoccupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed, said an official statement from the Ministry of Defence. “Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution,” the statement said. According to the Ministry, these steps come in response to the “barbaric” Pahalgam terrorist attack, in which 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were killed. The government reiterated its commitment to hold those responsible accountable. Precision strike weapon systems from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, including loitering munitions, were employed in Operation Sindoor, which successfully targeted nine terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistanoccupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), sources confirmed to ANI. The coordinates for the attacks were provided by intelligence agencies, and the strikes were carried out entirely from Indian soil. The Indian forces selected these locations with the intent of targeting key Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba leadership, responsible for sponsoring terrorism in India, sources added. Despite India’s precision strikes on terror targets, Pakistan violated the Ceasefire Agreement by firing artillery in Jammu and Kashmir’s Bhimber Gali area, just hours after the operation. The Indian Army is responding “appropriately in a calibrated manner,” officials confirmed. In a post on X, the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADG PI) wrote, “Pakistan again violates the Ceasefire Agreement by firing artillery in Bhimber Gali in the Poonch-Rajouri area. Indian Army is responding appropriately in a calibrated manner.” (ANI) Dr. Babu Stephen Honored with the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award Wa s h i n g t o n , D.C. — It is with great pride and admiration that we congratulate Dr. Babu Stephen, a distinguished business entrepreneur, investor, and dedicated social and community activist based in the nation’s capital, for being honored with the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award from the President of the United States. This prestigious national award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a lifelong commitment to volunteer service and civic engagement. Dr. Stephen was selected for this honor in recognition of his unwavering dedication to the public good, his visionary leadership, and his tireless efforts to uplift and support communities both locally and globally. Through decades of service, Dr. Stephen has shared his time, talent, and passion to help address some of society’s most pressing challenges. His work has touched countless lives and embodies the spirit of active citizenship and compassionate leadership that this award seeks to celebrate. On behalf of the U.S. Indian-American community, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Babu Stephen for his courage, integrity, and exemplary commitment to making a lasting impact. His contributions are a source of inspiration and a testament to the profound difference that one individual can make. Congratulations, Dr. Babu Stephen, on this well-deserved recognition! New Delhi [India], May 6 (ANI): Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced on Tuesday that bilateral trade discussions between India and the United States are progressing steadily and positively. Speaking at the Columbia India Energy Dialogue in New Delhi, Goyal emphasized the growing synergy between the two nations, calling their economic relationship “totally complementary.” “Conversations with the US are going extremely well. We were the first to initiate them, and they’re moving progressively in the right direction,” Goyal stated. He underscored that while the US and India rarely compete in the same product spaces, the trade relationship benefits both economies. “At USD 83,000 per capita income, what the US can produce can never compete with Indian goods made in India,” he noted, highlighting India’s interest in US technologies and innovations. The minister projected that this “winwin” partnership will play a defining role in the years ahead, especially as India aims to grow its economy from USD 4 trillion to USD 35 trillion by 2047. India and the US are working toward finalizing a bilateral trade agreement (BTA) by fall 2025. Trade figures from 2024–25 show India’s exports rising by 11.6% to USD 86.5 billion, while imports increased by 7.4% to USD 45.3 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of USD 41 billion. The US typically imposes reciprocal tariffs on countries with significant trade surpluses. During their February 2025 meeting, President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi committed to expanding trade and investment, launching “Mission 500” — a bold initiative to more than double bilateral trade to USD 500 billion by 2030. The leaders emphasized promoting growth, national security, and resilient supply chains. Goyal also addressed the European Union’s proposed carbon tax, warning that India would retaliate if the tax is imposed. “If they do put it in, we will retaliate. The retaliation will target products that hurt their economy,” he said, expressing hope that European nations will reconsider and avoid targeting friendly countries like India. India–US Bilateral Trade Talks “Moving Progressively,” Says Piyush Goyal
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May 9, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK FTA with UK opens “massive export opportunities” for India’s labour-intensive sectors, 99% exports to benefit from zero duty New Delhi [India], May 6 (ANI): India and the UK have successfully concluded an ambitious and mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement (FTA), along with a Double Contribution Convention in a historic deal that will open up massive export opportunities for many labour-intensive sectors in India. The conclusion of the FTA was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his UK counterpart Sir Keir Starmer. The Commerce and Industry Ministry said in a release that the “historic and ambitious deal” will boost jobs, exports, and national growth. It stated that 99 per cent of Indian exports will benefit from zero duty, and the agreement will provide a significant boost to trade in services such as IT/ITeS, financial services, professional services, other business services, and educational services. The Commerce Ministry emphasized that the forward-looking Agreement is aligned with India’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and complements the growth aspirations of both countries. The engagement builds upon discussions held between the two Prime Ministers on the sidelines of the G-20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in November 2024. Following the meeting between the two Prime Ministers, intense FTA negotiations resumed in February 2025, marked by several engagements between the Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and the UK Secretary of State Jonathan Reynolds and their teams. PM Modi said the landmark agreements will catalyse trade, investment, growth, job creation, and innovation in both countries. “In a historic milestone, India and the UK have successfully concluded an ambitious and mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement, along with a Double Contribution Convention. These landmark agreements will further deepen our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and catalyse trade, investment, growth, job creation, and innovation in both our economies,” he said in a post on X. Piyush Goyal thanked the Prime Minister for his guidance and encouragement which made the trade deal possible, under whose visionary leadership India is looked upon as “Vishwa Mitra – Trusted Partner” of the world. “This Agreement sets a new benchmark for equitable and ambitious trade between two large economies. It will benefit Indian farmers, fishermen, workers, MSMEs, startups and innovators. It brings us closer to our goal of becoming a global economic powerhouse. This FTA is not only about goods and services, but also about people, possibilities and prosperity. It protects our core interests while opening doors to India’s greater participation in global value chains,” he said. C o m m e r c e Secretary Sunil Barthwal emphasised that this FTA is a game changer and will set India further on the path of rapid economic growth and benefit India’s global integration. He added that this is the most comprehensive free trade deal ever entered into by India and will be the gold standard for future engagements. Explosions, blackout reported in Muzaffarabad PoJK after Indian strike, Pak PM says it has right to respond I s l a m a b a d [Pakistan], May 7 (ANI): Shortly after India launched air strikes on Pakistan terror infrastructure, news agency Reuters reported loud explosions just after midnight near Muzaffarabad in Pakistanoccupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), followed by a citywide blackout. F o l l o w i n g this, an under-pressure Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif declared that Pakistan is delivering a “forceful response” to what he described as an act of war. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Sharif said, “Pakistan has every right to respond forcefully to this act of war imposed by India, and a forceful response is being given.” He affirmed national unity in the face of rising tensions and backed the country’s military efforts. “The entire nation stands with the Pakistani armed forces, and the morale and spirit of the entire Pakistani nation are high,” Sharif stated. The remarks followed confirmation from Pakistan’s military that Indian missile strikes had hit three locations — Muzaffarabad, Kotli, and the Ahmed East area of Bahawalpur. According to the Director General of InterServices Public Relations (DG ISPR), “Some time ago from now, India launched air strikes on Subhanullah mosque in Bahwalpur’s Ahmed East area, Kotli and Muzaffarabad at three places from the air.” He noted that Pakistan Air Force jets were airborne in response: “Pakistan will respond to this at a time and place of its own choosing.” India’s Ministry of Defence confirmed that the strikes were part of “Operation Sindoor,” targeting nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The ministry stated, “Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted.” The operation followed the “barbaric” Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen. A detailed briefing on the operation is expected later. Meanwhile, the Indian Army posted on X: “Justice is served. Jai Hind!” (ANI) The FTA takes place in the backdrop of growing economic relations between India and the UK, as exemplified in the bilateral trade of about USD 60 billion, which is projected to double by 2030. The release said that this comprehensive and forward-looking agreement is the culmination of intense negotiations aimed at deepening trade and investment ties across a range of sectors, including goods, services, and technology. It is designed to promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth, ensure resilient supply chains, and generate highquality employment in India. In an unprecedented achievement, India has secured an exemption for Indian workers who are temporarily in the UK and their employers from paying social security contributions in the UK for a period of three years under the Double Contribution Convention. This will make Indian service providers significantly more competitive in the UK, the release said. The release stated that the FTA with the UK is a modern, comprehensive, and landmark agreement which seeks to achieve deep economic integration along with trade liberalisation and tariff concessions. The FTA ensures comprehensive market access for goods across all sectors, covering all of India’s export interests. India will gain from tariff elimination on about 99% of the tariff lines covering almost 100% of the trade value, offering huge opportunities for an increase in bilateral trade between India and the UK. “The FTA provides positive impact on manufacturing across labour and technology intensive sectors and opens up export opportunities for sectors such as textiles, marine products, leather, footwear, sports goods and toys, gems and jewellery and other important sectors such as engineering goods, auto parts and engines and organic chemicals. This will substantially improve Indian goods competitiveness in the UK vis-a-vis other countries,” the release said. The FTA will have significant positive gains for employment in India. “India will benefit from one of the most ambitious FTA commitments from the UK in Services such as IT/ITeS, financial services, professional services, other business services and educational services, opening up new opportunities and jobs,” the release said. The FTA eases mobility for professionals including Contractual Service Suppliers; Business Visitors; Investors; IntraCorporate Transferees; partners and dependent children of Intra-Corporate Transferees with right to work; and Independent Professionals like yoga instructors, musicians and chefs Immense opportunities for talented and skilled Indian youth will open up in the UK, which is a major global centre for digitally delivered services due to its strong financial and professional services sectors and advanced digital infrastructure, the release said. India has secured significant commitments on digitally delivered services for Indian service suppliers, especially in professional services such as architecture and engineering, computerrelated services, and telecommunication services. “The exemption for Indian workers who are temporarily in the UK and their employers from paying social security contributions in the UK for a period of three years under the Double Contribution Convention will lead to significant financial gains for the Indian service providers and enhance their competitiveness in the UK market that would create new job opportunities as well as benefit a large number of Indians working in the UK,” the release said. India has ensured that non-tariff barriers are suitably addressed to ensure the free flow of goods and services and that they do not create unjustified restrictions to India’s exports, the release said. The FTA seeks to promote good regulatory practices and enhance transparency that are in sync with India’s own focus on domestic reforms to enhance the ease of doing business. “As two leading democracies and global innovation hubs, India and the UK reaffirm their commitment to strengthening economic cooperation and working together to address global challenges,” the release said. The India-UK FTA sets a new benchmark for fair, ambitious, and modern trade agreements worldwide, it added. (ANI)
FRIDAY MAY 9, 2025 5
May 9, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK India, UK successfully conclude Free Trade Agreement INDIA-UK FTA FROM PAGE 1 Trade Agreement along with the Double Contribution Convention.” “The Leaders described it a historic milestone in the bilateral Comprehensive Strategic Partnership that would foster trade, investment, innovation and job creation in both the economies. Both agreed that the landmark agreements between the two big and open market economies of the world will open new opportunities for businesses, strengthen economic linkages, and deepen people-to-people ties,” the statement added. PM Starmer said that strengthening alliances and reducing trade barriers with economies around the world is part of their Plan for Change to deliver a stronger and more secure economy. The two leaders agreed that expanding economic and commercial ties between India and the UK remain a cornerstone of the increasingly robust and multifaceted partnership. The conclusion of a balanced, equitable and ambitious FTA, covering trade in goods and services, is expected to significantly enhance bilateral trade, generate new avenues for employment, raise living standards, and improve the overall well-being of citizens in both countries. It will also unlock new potential for the two nations to jointly develop products and services for global markets. This agreement cements the strong foundations of the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and paves the way for a new era of collaboration and prosperity. Prime Minister Modi invited Prime Minister Starmer to visit India. The leaders agreed to remain in touch. FTA with UK opens “massive export opportunities” for From The Poet’s Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- May 2, 2025 When Thieves Run The State By Rajan George When thieves run the state, They mollify the public with lies— Carefully spun to mask their crimes, Deceiving the gullible and the weak. They scream at the top of their lungs, Shouting down those they hate— Those they fear might lift the veil And dare expose their shame. They scorn the noblest souls of all, Who serve with quiet care, Yet still they try to smoke them out— Relentless, cold, and bare. They rail against false claims aloud, Then chant them over and o’er, Until their prey, exhausted, flees Just to escape the pain. Not all fighters flee in fear; Some firmly stand their ground and fight, Till they’ve laid bare the crooked schemes And stripped the thieves of might. The kleptos do not yield with ease, But wield their power to crush Those they know would thwart their aims— Unconcerned with the cost or the hush. Sometimes, the fruit of labor returns Too fast to cry or flee; Your masters vanish before you know, And none redeem before you’re crushed to dust. India’s labour-intensive sectors, 99% exports to benefit from zero duty India and the UK have successfully concluded an ambitious and mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement (FTA), along with a Double Contribution Convention in a historic deal that will open up massive export opportunities for many labour-intensive sectors in India. The conclusion of the FTA was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his UK counterpart Sir Keir Starmer. The Commerce and Industry Ministry said in a release that the “historic and ambitious deal” will boost jobs, exports, and national growth. It stated that 99 per cent of Indian exports will benefit from zero duty, and the agreement will provide a significant boost to trade in services such as IT/ITeS, financial services, professional services, other business services, and educational services. The Commerce Ministry emphasized that the forward-looking Agreement is aligned with India’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and complements the growth aspirations of both countries. The engagement builds upon discussions held between the two Prime Ministers on the sidelines of the G-20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in November 2024. Following the meeting between the two Prime Ministers, intense FTA negotiations resumed in February 2025, marked by several engagements between the Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and the UK Secretary of State Jonathan Reynolds and their teams. PM Modi said the landmark agreements will catalyse trade, investment, growth, job creation, and innovation in both countries. “In a historic milestone, India and the UK have successfully concluded an ambitious and mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement, along with a Double Contribution Convention. These landmark agreements will further deepen our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and catalyse trade, investment, growth, job creation, and innovation 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 in both our economies,” he said in a post on X. Piyush Goyal thanked the Prime Minister for his guidance and encouragement which made the trade deal possible, under whose visionary leadership India is looked upon as “Vishwa Mitra – Trusted Partner” of the world. “This Agreement sets a new benchmark for equitable and ambitious trade between two large economies. It will benefit Indian farmers, fishermen, workers, MSMEs, startups and innovators. It brings us closer to our goal of becoming a global economic powerhouse. This FTA is not only about goods and services, but also about people, possibilities and prosperity. It protects our core interests while opening doors to India’s greater participation in global value chains,” he said. C o m m e r c e Secretary Sunil Barthwal emphasised that this FTA is a game changer and will set India further on the path of rapid economic growth and benefit India’s global integration. He added that this is the most comprehensive free trade deal ever entered into by India and will be the gold standard for future engagements. The FTA takes place in the backdrop of growing economic relations between India and the UK, as exemplified in the bilateral trade of about USD 60 billion, which is projected to double by 2030. The release said that this comprehensive and forward-looking agreement is the culmination of intense negotiations aimed at deepening trade and investment ties across a range of sectors, including goods, services, and technology. It is designed to promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth, ensure resilient supply chains, and generate high-quality employment in India. In an u n p r e c e d e n t e d achievement, India has secured an exemption for Indian workers who are temporarily in the UK and their employers from paying social security contributions in the UK for a period of three years under the Double Contribution Convention. This will make Indian service providers significantly more competitive in the UK, the release said. The release stated that the FTA with the UK is a modern, comprehensive, and landmark agreement which seeks to achieve deep economic integration along with trade liberalisation and tariff concessions. The FTA ensures comprehensive market access for goods across all sectors, covering all of India’s export interests. India will gain from tariff elimination on about 99% of the tariff lines covering almost 100% of the trade value, offering huge opportunities for an increase in bilateral trade between India and the UK. “The FTA provides positive impact on manufacturing across labour and technology intensive sectors and opens up export opportunities for sectors such as textiles, marine products, leather, footwear, sports goods and toys, gems and jewellery and other important sectors such as engineering goods, auto parts and engines and organic chemicals. This will substantially improve Indian goods competitiveness in the UK vis-a-vis other countries,” the release said. The FTA will have significant positive gains for employment in India. “India will benefit from one of the most ambitious FTA commitments from the UK in Services such as IT/ITeS, financial services, professional services, other business services and educational services, opening up new opportunities and jobs,” the release said. The FTA eases mobility for professionals including Contractual Service Suppliers; Business Visitors; Investors; IntraCorporate Transferees; partners and dependent children of Intra-Corporate 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 MAY 9, 2025 7
May 9, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK Congress extends “full support” in CWC meeting; lauds forces for “befitting reply” New Delhi [India], May 7 (ANI): After the conclusion of an emergency informal meeting of the Congress Working Committee (CWC), Congress has extended its “full support” to the Indian forces and their precise strikes at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) under ‘Operation Sindoor’. Following the meeting, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi addressed the media, saying, “We held discussions (on Operation Sindoor) in the Working Committee. Full support to our Forces. Best wishes to them. Much love to them. Complete support from the Congress party and Congress Working Committee.” C o n g r e s s President Mallikarjun Kharge also briefed the media about the CWC meeting, reiterating complete support to the Indian forces for giving a “befitting reply” to the terrorists. “We are proud of the Indian Armed Forces, who have given a befitting reply by taking bold and decisive action against the terrorist camps in Pakistan and PoK under ‘Operation Sindoor’. We salute the courage, determination and patriotism of our brave soldiers,” Kharge said. Kharge said that Congress has “unequivocally” stood in solidarity with the armed forces and the Government since the Pahalgam terrorist attack. “From the day of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, the Indian National Congress has unequivocally stood in solidarity with the armed forces and the Government and supported every decisive action against cross-border terrorism. India’s national policy against all forms of terrorism emanating from Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) is very clear and unwavering,” Kharge said. He also called for “unity at all levels” at this Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) [India], May 7: Former Defence Minister and senior Congress leader AK Antony on Wednesday hailed the Indian Armed Forces for their Operation Sindoor that struck the terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan. “A big salute to the Indian military. I am proud of them,” Antony told reporters here. He said that a military action targeting the terrorist sites in Pakistan is the need of the hour. “This action is the need of the hour. Pakistan-sponsored terrorists mercilessly killed tourists in Pahalgam. This is the natural reaction to those actions. I think this is only the beginning. The end, I leave it to the military. The government has also left details (of the military operation) to the military,” he said. The former Defence Minister said that now is the time for the whole country to unite behind the armed forces and the government. “This is not a time for introspection, postmortem. Let us unite behind the Indian military and support the Indian government in all its actions against the terrorists,” he said. Meanwhile, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, along with Col Sophia Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, on Wednesday briefed the media about Operation Sindoor. The Foreign Secretary said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. “The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family... the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir,” he said. time to protect the national unity and integrity of the great Indian nation. “There is a great need for unity at all levels to protect the national unity and integrity of the great Indian nation. The Indian National Congress stands shoulder to shoulder with the brave soldiers of the country,” Kharge said. “History is witness that our heroes have always given their lives for the unity and integrity of the country, keeping national interest paramount,” he added. In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under ‘Operation Sindoor’ in the early hours of Wednesday. Following the strikes, the government has called for an all-party meeting on Thursday to brief the political parties on the steps taken by it. The all- party meeting will be held at 11 am in the Parliament Library Building. “Govt has called an All Party leaders meeting at 11 am on 8th May, 2025 at Committee Room: G-074, in the Parliament Library Building, Parliament Complex in New Delhi,” Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said in a post on X. Rahul Gandhi has informed that Congress will attend the all-party meeting scheduled to be held tomorrow. “We got a call today, we have been invited to the all-party meeting tomorrow,” Rahul Gandhi said. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan’s undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi’s most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI) Vikram Misri said that Indian intelligence agencies have been monitoring terrorist activities and raised concerns regarding more terrorist attacks in India. “Our intelligence indicated that further attacks against India are impending. Thus, compulsion, both to deter and prevent and hence earlier this morning, India exercised its right to respond to deter such more cross-border terrorism... Our actions were measured and non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible. They focused on dismantling terrorists’ infrastructure,” he said. Congress MP from Wayanad, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, on Wednesday praised the Indian Army for carrying out Operation Sindoor, initiating precision strikes aimed at the terror infrastructure in Pakistan. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Priyanka Gandhi wrote, “We are extremely proud of our army. Our brave soldiers protect our freedom and integrity. May God protect them and give them immense courage to face challenges with patience and bravery.” Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition (LoP) praised the Indian Army for carrying out Operation Sindoor, initiating precision strikes aimed at the terror infrastructure in Pakistan. “Proud of our Armed Forces. Jai Hind!” Gandhi posted on X. Congress leader Pawan Khera said, “We are proud of our Army. If someone threatens Indian citizens, they will meet the same fate. Our Army has proven that again. On the night of April 22, we (Congress) said that we would stand with the government. If someone threatens India, we will support what the government decides. The country stands united.” Congress chief and Rajya Sabha LoP Mallikarjun Kharge also applauded the accomplishment of the Indian armed forces during Operation Sindoor, saying that national unity and solidarity were the need of the hour. He said that the Congress has stood with the decisions of the armed forces and the government since the ghastly Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 people. “Since the day of the Pahalgam Terror Attack, the Indian National Congress has categorically stood with the Armed Forces and the Government to take any decisive action against cross-border terror. National Unity and solidarity are the need of the hour, and the Indian National Congress stands with our Armed Forces. Our leaders have shown the path in past, and National Interest is supreme for us,” Kharge posted on X. “India has an unflinching National Policy against all forms of terrorism emanating from Pakistan and PoK. We are extremely proud of our Indian Armed Forces, who have struck terror camps in Pakistan and PoK. We applaud their resolute resolve and courage,” he added. “Only the beginning; a big salute to Indian military”: Former Defence Minister AK Antony on Op Sindoor
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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 Jaish stronghold in Bhawalpur targeted in India missile strike, Pakistan confirms 24 impacts I s l a m a b a d [Pakistan], May 7 (ANI): Pakistan’s military spokesperson and Director General of ISPR, Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, has confirmed Indian missile strikes, stating that 24 impacts have been reported. Addressing a press conference at 4:08 AM on Wednesday, Chaudhry said, “A total of 24 impacts have been reported by India, with different weapons.” He also confirmed that eight casualties had occurred so far. According to the DG ISPR, four strikes were carried out in Bahawalpur’s Ahmedpur East, near the Subhan mosque. The Jamia Masjid Subhan Allah is reportedly a stronghold of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and its founder, Maulana Masood Azhar. JeM has been responsible for several terrorist attacks in India, including the 2019 Pulwama attack. One mosque in the complex was reportedly destroyed. Additional strikes were confirmed in Muzaffarabad near the Bilal mosque, and in Kotli, Muridke, Kotki Lohara in Sialkot, and near Shakargarh. Earlier, while speaking to Sky News, Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar denied any Pakistani involvement in the Pahalgam terror attack. He claimed that Pakistan itself was under regular assault by terrorists, saying, “We totally deny India’s allegations regarding terrorists.” However, he did not directly deny Pakistan’s historic associations with terror groups. Meanwhile, sources told ANI that the Indian military’s strike on all nine intended targets was successful. The targets were specifically chosen to eliminate top leadership of Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba due to their roles in organizing and funding terrorist operations in India. Precision strike weapon systems from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force—including loitering munitions—were used during Operation Sindoor, which aimed at terror infrastructure across Pakistan and Pakistanoccupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). The coordinates for the strikes were provided by Indian intelligence agencies, and all operations were launched from within Indian territory. Loitering munitions, a type of precision-guided weapon capable of hovering over a target area before striking, played a significant role in the operation. India’s Ministry of Defence later confirmed the strikes, stating that Operation Sindoor targeted nine known terrorist camps in retaliation for the “barbaric” April 22 Pahalgam attack, which claimed the lives of 25 Indian citizens and one Nepali national. The ministry emphasized that the action was focused, measured, and non-escalatory, with no Pakistani military facilities struck. India’s Consulate in New York Supports Operation The Consulate General of India in New York released an official statement on social media reiterating India’s position on the missile strikes. The statement began by noting the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 civilians, calling it “brutal and heinous.” It added, “India has credible leads, technical inputs, testimony of the survivors, and other evidence pointing toward the clear involvement of Pakistanbased terrorists in this attack.” India had expected Pakistan to act against the perpetrators, the consulate noted, but “instead, during the fortnight that has gone by, Pakistan has indulged in denial and made allegations of false flag operations against India.” The consulate stressed that “India’s actions have been focused and precise. They were measured, responsible, and designed to be non- escalatory in nature. No Pakistani civilian, economic, or military targets have been hit. Only known terror camps were targeted.” According to the statement, shortly after the strikes, India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval briefed U.S. NSA and Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding the nature of the operations and the intelligence that prompted them. International Response Pakistan’s military confirmed the Indian strikes in Muzaffarabad, Kotli, and Bahawalpur. DG ISPR Lt Gen Chaudhry also said that all Pakistani Air Force jets were scrambled in response to the attacks. Responding to the developments, U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Wednesday, “We just heard about it as we were walking through the doors of the Oval. Just heard about it. I guess people knew something was going to happen... I hope it ends very quickly.” India’s Ministry of Defence confirmed that the operation was a response to the Pahalgam attack, calling it a retaliatory strike on terror camps, not a military confrontation with the Pakistani state.
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