FRIDAY APRIL 18, 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: 16 WASHINGTON DC • Phone: 301-445-0200 /301-445-3543/301-917-4800 • email: indiathisweekads@gmail.com • Friday April 18, 2025 ED files chargesheet Sonia Gandhi, SC Issues Guidelines Rahul in National Herald case, to Curb Child Trafficking; Calls for Congress to hold nationwide agitation Suspension of Hospital Licenses if Newborns Are Trafficked New Delhi [India], April 15 (ANI): The Supreme Court has issued a set of stringent guidelines to prevent child trafficking, stressing that hospitals must face immediate suspension of their licenses if a newborn is trafficked from their facility. A bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan took serious action against any hospitals found to be involved in the trafficking of newborns. The court stated that any laxity in implementing these directions would be treated as contempt of court. The bench also expressed concern over the bail granted by the Allahabad High Court to individuals accused in child trafficking cases, deciding to cancel their bail. As part of its efforts to curb child trafficking, the Supreme Court directed all High Courts to gather information on the status of pending child trafficking trials. It instructed these courts to issue circulars to trial courts, urging them to complete the trials within six months, with the possibility of conducting trials on a day-to-day basis. Additionally, the High Courts are required Remember: to forward reports on the compliance of these directions to the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court’s verdict further emphasized that noncompliance with these guidelines or any laxity from authorities will be viewed very strictly, with contempt proceedings if necessary. The Court also stated that it wants to convey a message to the public, particularly parents, urging them to be extremely vigilant and careful with their children. It noted that the pain of losing a child to trafficking is far more agonizing than the loss of a child through death, as the parents suffer from uncertainty and emotional distress for the rest of their lives. In a related move, the Supreme Court directed all state governments to review the report by the Bharatiya Institute of Research and Development (BIRD) on human trafficking and to implement its recommendations. The matter will be revisited by the Supreme Court in October 2025 for compliance with the directions. “Some people don’t like change, but you need to embrace change if the alternative is disaster.” Elon Musk New Delhi [India], April 16 (ANI): The Enforcement Directorate on Tuesday filed a prosecution complaint (chargesheet) in Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court against Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, and others in the alleged National Herald case. Congress strongly protested the move, terming it “politically motivated.” Congress said it will hold nationwide protest in front of Enforcement Directorate (ED) offices at the district level in respective states on Wednesday against the BJP-led government. ED’s chargesheet also names Congress leader Sam Pitroda, Suman Dubey and others, including several firms. The matter has been listed for arguments on cognisance in the Delhi Rouse Avenue Court on April 25. The prosecution complaint has been filed under Sections 44 and 45 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, for the offence of money laundering, as defined under Section 3, read with Section 70, and punishable under Section 4 of the PMLA, 2002. Special Judge Vishal Gogne stated that as per the submission of the counsel representing the ED, the predicate offence—recorded under complaint case No. 18/2019—includes charges under Sections 403, 406, and 420, read with Section 120(B) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860, and is currently under trial at the Rouse Avenue Courts in New Delhi. The court observed that under Section 44(1)(c) of the PMLA, the predicate offence must be tried in the same court that has taken cognisance of the money laundering offence under Section 3 of the PMLA. The court further noted that both offences—the predicate offence and the PMLA offence—must be adjudicated in the same jurisdiction. The National Herald case is being heard in a Delhi court. The complaint was filed by BJP leader Subramanian Swamy against Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, their associated companies, and other individuals. The Congress said it “strongly condemns draconian actions of the Modi Government—most notably, the arbitrary and unjust seizure of assets belonging to National Herald, and the politically motivated filing of chargesheets against senior party leadership, including Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi”. In a statement, party leader KC Venugopal said that National Herald, CHARGESHEET SEE PAGE 6 India Commemorates Ambedkar Jayanti at UN, Minister Ramdas Athawale Joins Celebrations New York [US], April 15 (ANI): The Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations marked Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s birth anniversary with a special commemorative event at the UN headquarters in New York, attended by global leaders. Speaking at the event, Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale said, “Today, the permanent mission of India in New York organised this important function. We are celebrating the birth anniversary of Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar. Not only all over India, but many countries are celebrating.” He conveyed appreciation to India’s Permanent Mission to the UN for its “steadfast commitment towards international dialogue, social justice and inclusion.” Deelip Mhaske, President of the Foundation for Human Horizon, proposed that Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy should be elevated to the global stature of Nelson Mandela. He thanked the Mayor of New York for the support in honoring Dr. Ambedkar. Dilip Chauhan, Deputy Commissioner for the New York City Mayor’s Office for International Affairs, emphasized Dr. Ambedkar’s global relevance. He said, “Dr. Ambedkar was more than the principal architect of the Indian Constitution–he was a visionary thinker, a tireless reformer, and an advocate for the marginalised. His ideals go beyond borders and time, finding strong AMBEDKAR JAYANTI SEE PAGE 10
April 18, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK H Mart Announces ‘2025 Children’s Art Contest’ Across the U.S. “Open to Smart Rewards Card Members’ Children... 90 Winners, $10,000 Total Prize Pool” Lyndhurst, NJ – H Mart, the largest Asian supermarket chain in North America, is excited to announce the launch of its ‘2025 Children’s Art Contest’ in celebration of Family Month. The contest will run from April 14 (Monday) to May 19 (Monday) and is open to children from Pre-K to 5th grade who are members of the H Mart Smart Rewards Card program. Customers wishing to participate can register at the customer service center of their nearest H Mart store by bringing their Smart Rewards Card. Official contest drawing sheets will also be distributed at the customer service centers. A total of 90 winners will be selected in the contest. The overall winner (1 per category) will receive a $1,000 scholarship and a special certificate of achievement. In addition, the contest will award: • 1st place winners (2 per category) •2nd place winners (5 per category) •3rd place winners (10 per category) Honorable mentions (54 winners across all categories) All winners will receive scholarships and trophies. The total prize pool amounts to $10,000. Winners will be announced on June 23 (Monday) via: H Mart’s official website: www.hmart.com Official Instagram account In-store posters Email notification H Mart shared, “We hope that this art contest will provide children with the opportunity to express their creativity and imagination, while creating fun and meaningful memories.” For more information about the contest, customers can contact H Mart’s Customer Service Center: •Email: customer_ care@hmart.com •Phone: 877-427-7386 • Virginia Stores Fairfax (703-896-4640), Falls Church (703-573-6300), Annandale (703-914-4222), Centreville (703-830-6180), Manassas (571-358-3400), Burke (703-621-2345), Herndon (571-346-7330) • Maryland Stores Catonsville (443-612-9020), Wheaton (301-942-5071), Gaithersburg (301-355-7499), Ellicott City (443-574-3456), Frederick (443-574-3456)
FRIDAY APRIL 18, 2025 3 CUSTOMER SERVICE T 8 7 27 T. 877.427.7386 Customer_care@hmart.com For events, coupons & exclusive deals, subscribe at www.hmart.com, and Visit our Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest & Instagram to stay up to date on special offers! Follow us @hmartofficial M E AT at unbeatable low prices SEAFOOD HERNDON 1228 Elden St., Herndon, VA 20170 at shockingly low prices at ow prices During the editing process, there may be mistypes/misprints. Each location may be subject to limited availability, as well as their sale prices. Some products may be sold out. If a product is not listed as a boxed sale item, it cannot be purchased as a boxed sale item. All H Mart locations accept all major credit cards. JOIN MARKET EATERY FOOD HALL! CONTAC T :t.com me@hmar Have a great idea for a restaurant, we have the perfect busy location for you.
April 18, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK Belgium Confirms Arrest of Fugitive Businessman Mehul Choksi, Says India Has Introduced Extradition Request B r u s s e l s [Belgium], April 14 (ANI): The Belgian Federal Public Service of Justice on Monday confirmed that fugitive Indian businessman Mehul Choksi was arrested on April 12 and is currently being held in detention. It further stated that India has also submitted a request for his extradition. “The Belgian Federal Public Service of Justice can confirm that Mr. Mehul Choksi was arrested on Saturday, April 12, 2025. He is being detained in anticipation of further judicial proceedings. Access to his legal counsel has been assured,” the Belgian authority told ANI. They also confirmed that Indian authorities have officially introduced an extradition request for Choksi. “Finally, the Belgian Federal Public Service of Justice can confirm that the Indian authorities have introduced an extradition request for Mr. Choksi. As is standard in individual cases, no further details can be released at this stage,” the statement added. The 65-yearold fugitive diamond merchant, who fled India on January 2, 2018, is wanted by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for allegedly defrauding the Punjab National Bank (PNB) of 13,850 crore. His nephew, Nirav Modi, was also allegedly involved in the fraud. Choksi is accused of conspiring with his associates and certain PNB officials between 2014 and 2017 to fraudulently obtain Letters of Undertaking and Foreign Letters of Credit from the bank, causing a wrongful loss of �6,097.63 crore to PNB. Following his arrest, Choksi’s lawyer, Vijay Aggarwal, stated that his client’s “human rights” would be “greatly affected” if extradited back to India. During a press conference on Monday, Aggarwal said the defense team would challenge the extradition on two primary grounds: the political nature New Delhi [India], April 13 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid homage to the victims of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, calling it a “dark chapter” in India’s history and a “major turning point” in the country’s freedom struggle. In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, “We pay homage to the martyrs of Jallianwala Bagh. The coming generations will always remember their indomitable spirit. It was indeed a dark chapter in our nation’s history. Their sacrifice became a major turning point in India’s freedom struggle.” Several other leaders also remembered the victims and the impact of the brutal massacre, which took place on April 13, 1919, during British colonial rule. Union Home Minister Amit Shah wrote, “The Jallianwala Bagh massacre is a dark chapter in India’s freedom struggle that shook the entire country. The anger that arose among the countrymen due to the cruelty of the British rule, which had reached the pinnacle of inhumanity, turned the freedom movement into a struggle of the masses.” Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also paid tribute, stating, “Homage to the innocent martyrs of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. India will forever remain indebted to them. The colonial barbarity that day in 1919 gave rise to a new wave of national consciousness, more fierce, fearless and resolute for freedom.” “May the sacrifice of the brave men, women and children inspire us to protect our sovereignty, inclusivity and freedom,” he added. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also posted his tribute on X: “Tributes to the martyrs of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Their determination, courage and sacrifice for our freedoms will never be forgotten.” The Jallianwala Bagh massacre, which took place on April 13, 1919, remains one of the darkest chapters in India’s colonial history. According to the Ministry of Culture, the massacre marked a turning point in India’s freedom struggle and is remembered as a symbol of courage and resistance. The massacre occurred in Amritsar, Punjab, where thousands had gathered at Jallianwala Bagh during the festival of Baisakhi. The gathering was also meant to peacefully protest against the Rowlatt Act and demand the release of leaders Dr Satyapal and Dr Saifuddin Kitchlew. British officer Brigadier General Reginald Dyer, without issuing any warning, ordered his troops to fire on the unarmed crowd. According to the Ministry of Culture, “1650 rounds were fired. The firing ceased only after the ammunition had ran out.” While official British records put the death toll at 291, Indian leaders like Madan Mohan Malviya estimated over 500 deaths. According to the Ministry of Culture, Brigadier General Dyer showed no remorse for his actions during the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. In his testimony before the Hunter Commission, he displayed an “unapologetic attitude” when asked about the aftermath of the firing. As cited by the Ministry, he was questioned, “After firing took place, did you take any measures to attend to the wounded?” to which Dyer replied, “No, certainly not. It was not my job. Hospitals were open, and they should have gone there.” The Ministry of Culture also highlights how General Dyer’s actions during the Jallianwala Bagh massacre were promptly acknowledged and approved by the colonial authorities. As per official records, ‘Sir’ Michael O’Dwyer, the then Lieutenant Governor of Punjab province, sent a direct message to Dyer of the case and concerns over Choksi’s medical treatment if returned to India. “His human rights will be greatly affected,” Aggarwal said, referring to possible mistreatment and lack of proper healthcare if extradited. “That’s a procedure. Basically, we will be defending it on two grounds. It is a political case and, secondly, because of the human condition in India,” he added. Aggarwal further claimed that Choksi had not been formally declared a fugitive and had remained cooperative with Indian investigative agencies. He also noted that legal proceedings in the matter have been ongoing for years.Interpol revoking Red Corner list against Mehul Choksi won’t have bearing in PNB bank scam case: Sources New Delhi, Mar 21 (ANI): (File Photo) The removal of Mehul Chinubhai Choksi’s name from the Interpol database of Red Notices will make the fugitive diamantaire eligible to travel at will to any other country, apart from India, where he faces multiple cases, according to government sources on Tuesday. (ANI Photo) stating, “Your action correct. LieutenantGovernor approves.” The brutality of the act led Rabindranath Tagore to renounce his Knighthood. Udham Singh later assassinated Dwyer, the former Lieutenant Governor of Punjab Province, who had backed the action. According to the Ministry of Culture, “The Jallianwala Bagh stands as a symbol of struggle and sacrifice and continues to instill patriotism amongst the (Indian) youth.” A memorial was set up by the Government of India in 1951 at Jallianwala Bagh to commemorate the spirit of Indian revolutionaries and the people who lost their lives in the brutal massacre. The memorial, as per the Ministry, stands as a symbol of struggle and sacrifice and continues to instill patriotism amongst the youth.In March 2019, the Yaad-e-Jallian Museum was inaugurated, showcasing an authentic account of the massacre. (ANI) Mandi (Himachal Pradesh) [India], April 13 (ANI): A tourist bus overturned on the Chandigarh-Manali highway near Mandi in Himachal Pradesh, leaving 31 people injured, an official said. According to Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Mandir Sagar Chander, the tourist bus en route to Kasol Kasol in Parvati Valley of Kullu district overturned around 4:00 AM this morning. A total of 31 passengers, including the driver and conductor, sustained injuries. Of them, two have been critically injured. They were rushed to Nerchowk Medical College for advanced treatment. Six others suffered serious injuries, while the remaining passengers sustained minor injuries. Preliminary investigations suggest that over-speeding may have been the primary cause of the accident. (ANI) PM Modi, leaders pay tribute to Jallianwala Bagh martyrs on 105th anniversary Himachal: Tourist bus en route Kasol overturns, 31 injured
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April 18, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK ED files chargesheet Sonia Gandhi, Rahul in National Herald case, Congress to hold nationwide agitation CHARGESHEET FROM PAGE 1 founded by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru in 1938, played a vital role in the Indian freedom struggle, serving as a powerful voice against British colonial rule. It stood for justice, liberty, and democratic ideals— values that continue to guide the Indian National Congress to this day. The so-called action is not a routine legal procedure. “It is a state-sponsored crime masquerading as the rule of law—an egregious misuse of state institutions aimed at silencing the democratic opposition. The ruling regime has crossed all limits in its pursuit of vendetta politics, weaponising investigative agencies to intimidate and harass the leadership of the Congress Party,” it said. The party said there is widespread anger among the people of India over this blatant abuse of power, and the Congress Party will voice this public outrage through democratic means. It said the party will organise nationwide protests on Wednesday in front of Enforcement Directorate offices at State Headquarters and Central Government offices at the district level. “All senior state leaders, MLAs, MPs, office bearers of frontal organisations, and Congress workers will participate in these state-level protests being coordinated by the respective PCCs. These demonstrations will be a powerful expression of our collective resolve to stand against the politics of fear and oppression,” the release said. “This is a decisive moment to stand united— to defend our democracy, uphold constitutional values, and confront tyranny with courage. We reiterate From The Poet’s Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- April 4, 2025 Violence ! Never a Solution By Rajan George that the Indian National Congress and its leadership will not be silenced by such unlawful actions. We have fought to uphold the soul of India before, and we are prepared to do so again. Our commitment to truth, justice, and constitutional democracy is unwavering. Satyameva Jayate is not merely a slogan—it is our conviction,” the party added. Senior advocate and Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi said that there is “nothing” in the case in a legal sense. “This will be contested fully in all aspects... I think the government, by such matters, is only exposing itself and its campaign of political vendetta because there is absolutely nothing in this case in a legal sense,” Singhvi said in a video. Senior advocate and Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal alleged that law is being “misused” in the country since 2014 and accused the BJP of “trapping” people of Congress. “Law is being misused since 2014... If this continues, the very base of democracy will be destroyed... Why are they doing chargesheet today?... AGL or the company has not filed any complaint... Their (BJP) intent is to trap the people of Congress and a certain family... send ED for investigation, threaten civil servants in other states... There are a lot of other issues in the country, but they are not talked about... What problem do they have with the Gandhi family?...” Sibal asked. Congress MP Akhilesh Prasad Singh said that the party will not be scared. “With the spirit of revenge, the Bharatiya Janata Party tries to trap opposition leaders. But the Congress Party is not going to be scared of this,” Singh said. BJP leader Sudhanshu Trivedi said Congress should not “play politics” on the issue. “This is a technical matter. The Congress party should keep in mind that this issue started in 2012, and the Delhi High Court started this case in October 2013 through a PIL. Therefore, there is no basis for the Congress party to 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 do politics on this,” Trivedi said. BJP leader Gaurav Vallabh said ED is working according to the law. BJP MP Dinesh Sharma refuted the allegations of misuse of probe agencies. ROCKVILLE, Md., April 15, 2025— Montgomery County Councilmember Natali Fani-González will be joined by Judy Costello, Director of Economic Development Special Projects in the Office of the County Executive, and Martha Jimenez, Program Manager at the Maryland Women’s Business Center, for the fifth virtual United in Service and Support community meeting on Wednesday, April 23 at 11:30 a.m. on Zoom. The meeting will focus on Montgomery County’s diverse entrepreneurial ecosystem and different business opportunities for federal workers and all County residents. With the federal workforce facing an uncertain future and fundamental rights under attack, our resilient local leaders are coming together to support community members and share essential community resources with residents. This is the fifth in a series of biweekly online resource sessions hosted by the Montgomery County Council focused on employment, work source development and unemployment benefits, immigration issues, housing assistance, health and wellness, and essential County services. Residents should also visit the Council’s resource webpage which has information on a wide variety of services for Montgomery County residents. Residents are encouraged to log in for the April 23 webinar starting at 11:20 a.m. Join the meeting on Zoom. “Montgomery County is home to one of the smartest and most innovative workforces in the country,” said Economic Development Committee Chair Fani-González. “At the Economic Development Committee and in partnership with the County Executive and local business leaders, we have been working hard to better connect these bright minds with the technical, marketing and financial resources to bring their innovations to the market. This webinar will be a fantastic opportunity for displaced federal workers and any others to learn more about our innovation ecosystem and get plugged in.” The online host, a representative from the Montgomery County Council, will have access to read messages in the Q&A feature to protect the privacy of those joining the meeting and ensure a respectful and productive discussion. Residents can also submit a question here at any time. Simultaneous interpretation in Spanish will be provided. The webinar will also be broadcast on County Cable Montgomery and streamed on the Council’s YouTube page. Business development leaders will join Councilmember Fani-González for a virtual information session on Montgomery County’s entrepreneurship ecosystem and opportunities for federal workers 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
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April 18, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK Andhra: Death toll in Anakapalli firecracker unit explosion rises to eight Anakapalli (Andhra Pradesh) [India], April 13 (ANI): The death toll in the fire at a firecracker manufacturing unit in Andhra Pradesh’s Anakapalli district has risen to eight, officials said, adding that seven others sustained critical injuries in the explosion that occurred on Sunday. Fire officials rushed to the scene upon receiving information about the explosion at the firecracker unit located at Kailasapatnam, under the Kotavuratla mandal of the district. According to Fire Officer D. Niranjan Reddy, the cause of the blast appears to be due to manual error. “Today, around 1 pm, we received a call saying that a major explosion has taken place. We immediately rushed to the spot. Three fire tenders and 50 personnel were deployed. Eight people lost their lives, and seven others were seriously injured. The cause of the explosion seems to be a manual error,” Reddy said. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has ordered a detailed investigation into the incident. Following the incident, Naidu spoke to the District Collector, SP and Home Minister Anita about the incident and instructed officials to submit a detailed report. In a post on X, CM Naidu said, “I spoke to the District Collector, SP and Home Minister Smt Anita about the incident and ordered that better medical services be provided to those injured in the accident. I inquired about the number of workers present in the factory at the time of the accident and their current condition. We will support the affected families. I urge them to be brave. I have ordered officials to conduct an investigation into the incident and submit a report.” Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and YSR Congress Party chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic fire accident. He has also urged the state government to extend full support to the victims and their families. Jagan conveyed heartfelt condolences to the families of those who Storm Claims 80 Lives in Bihar: Minister Vijay Kumar Patna (Bihar) [India], April 11 (ANI): At least 80 people have lost their lives in Bihar following a devastating storm and heavy rains that battered the state, Bihar’s Disaster Management Minister, Vijay Kumar Mandal, said on Friday. “So far, the death toll stands at 80. The Chief Minister has announced compensation, and we are providing Rs 4 lakh to each bereaved family. People have suffered losses due to the thunderstorm and rains, and farmers too have been severely affected. We are making arrangements to address their losses as well. The government is taking this very seriously, and we will continue to work on it,” Mandal told ANI. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has expressed his condolences and directed officials to ensure that compensation of Rs 4 lakh is provided to the families of each deceased person. Earlier today, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader and Leader of the Opposition in Bihar, Tejashwi Yadav, also expressed his condolences over the tragic loss of lives due to the destructive storms and rains. Taking to social media platform X, Yadav demanded that the government provide adequate compensation to all affected families. “I am deeply saddened by the tragic deaths of more than 50 people in various incidents caused by the storm, rain, lightning, as well as tree and wall collapses in Bihar. I express my deepest condolences to the bereaved families. May God give them the strength to endure this difficult time. I urge the Bihar government to provide proper compensation to all affected families,” Yadav posted. He further pressed the government to compensate farmers whose wheat crops were destroyed by the unexpected rains. “The wheat crop stored in farmers’ barns was also ruined due to the sudden heavy rainfall. The Bihar government should compensate all such farmers for their losses and provide adequate relief,” he added. The powerful storm, which uprooted trees and brought down structures across the region, resulted in fatalities across multiple blocks in Nalanda district. In addition to the loss of human lives, significant damage has also been reported to homes, livestock, and agricultural crops. (ANI) lost their lives and those seriously injured in the incident. He directed YSR Congress Party leaders to stand by the affected families and offer all necessary assistance during this difficult time. He also urged the state government to take all necessary steps to provide proper medical treatment to the injured and to assist the affected families in every possible way to help them recover. Former Andhra Pradesh Minister and YSRCP leader Gudivada Amarnath said, “...I request the state govt to implement regulatory measures on such industries...we express our condolences. The YSRCP family will support all the families who have lost their family members and the families of the injured who are undergoing treatment...” (ANI) New Delhi [India], April 9 (ANI): The Supreme Court on Wednesday set a threemonth deadline for the Central government to introduce fresh amendments to India’s food safety regulations, ensuring that warning labels are affixed to packaged food wrappers. Acknowledging that the Union government has decided to undertake necessary amendments to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) Labelling and Display Regulations, 2020, a bench comprising Justices J.B. Pardiwala and R. Mahadevan disposed of the public interest litigation (PIL) that sought mandatory “Front-ofPackage Warning Labels on Packaged Foods.” “We dispose of [the matter] with a direction to the expert committee to prepare its recommendations and submit a report at the earliest, so that, based on that report, necessary amendments can be undertaken. The exercise shall be completed within a period of three months,” the bench stated in its order. The top court also expressed concern over the appeal of packaged snacks among children, who often consume such products without understanding their contents. “Y’all have grandchildren?” Justice Pardiwala asked the lawyers present in the court. “Let them decide the petition; then you will understand what Kurkure or Maggi is. N ame the product and let them decide what type of wrapper should be there. They don’t see the content; they only see what is on the packet,” the judge added, in a lighter vein. The PIL, filed by Advocate Rajiv S. Dwivedi, argued that warning labels help consumers identify unhealthy foods high in added sugars, sodium, unhealthy fats, and other harmful substances. By making this information clear, such labels promote healthier choices, discourage excessive consumption, and raise awareness about the health risks associated with these products, the plea stated. The counsel for the Central government informed the bench that it had received around 14,000 objections and suggestions from the public regarding labelling on packaged foods. It was further submitted that a committee constituted for this purpose would consider these suggestions and make recommendations to the FSSAI for amending current safety regulations on food labelling and packaging. The petitioner, however, requested that the Court set a clear timeline for the Centre to expedite these amendments. After considering the submissions, the Court directed the Centre to complete the exercise of amending the packaging and labelling rules for food products within three months. (ANI) SC Sets Deadline for Centre to Mandate Warning Labels on Packaged Food
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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 DRDO’s 651 kW Waterjet Propulsion System Successfully Completes Preliminary Sea Trials New Delhi [India], April 15 (ANI): The Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) 651 kW Waterjet Propulsion System, designed by Larsen & Toubro under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme, has successfully completed preliminary sea trials aboard the Indian Navy’s Fast Interceptor Craft. In a post on X, DRDO shared, “A key milestone under @DRDO_ India’s TDF scheme. The 651 kW Waterjet Propulsion System, designed & developed indigenously by @larsentoubro (Precision Engineering Systems IC) >70% IC content, successfully completed preliminary sea trials aboard Indian Navy’s Fast Interceptor Craft.” This achievement marks a significant step towards enhancing India’s indigenous defence capabilities. India Joins Elite Nations with LaserBased Defense Technology Earlier on April 13, India achieved another major success by joining a select league of nations, including the US, China, and Russia, with the capability of shooting down fixed-wing drones and swarm drones using a high-energy 30-kilowatt laser beam. The successful trial of the Mk-II(A) Laser-Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) system was showcased at the National Open Air Range (NOAR) in Kurnool, where it demonstrated its ability to disable missiles, drones, and smaller projectiles. This accomplishment has placed India in an exclusive club of nations possessing high-power Laser-DEW systems. DRDO Chairman Samir V Kamat stated, “As far as I know, the United States, Russia, and China have demonstrated this capability. Israel is also working on similar capabilities, I would say we are the fourth or fifth country in the world to demonstrate this system.” Kamat described the achievement as “just the beginning of the journey,” adding that DRDO is working on a variety of technologies that will give India “Star Wars capability.” He emphasized that the collaboration between DRDO labs, industry, and academia is vital for reaching further milestones. The Mk-II(A) DEW system, which was indigenously designed and developed, demonstrated its full spectrum of capabilities, including engaging fixedwing drones at long range, thwarting a multiple-drone attack, and disabling enemy surveillance sensors and antennae. The speed of engagement, precision, and lethality within seconds makes it one of the most potent counter-drone systems. Developed by DRDO’s Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS) in Hyderabad, the MkII(A) system involved collaboration with the LRDE, IRDE, DLRL, academic institutions, and Indian industries. New minimum wages in Delhi: Rs18,456 for unskilled, Rs 24,356 for skilledcompliance is mandatory.” workers New Delhi [India], April 15 (ANI): The Delhi Government on Tuesday announced an increase in the minimum wages of workers in all the categories. The revised wage rates are applicable from April 1, 2025. As per the revised worker wages, the monthly wage of unskilled workers will now be Rs 18,456, while workers with graduation and above qualifications will get Rs 24,356 per month. According to the Delhi government, this increase has been made with inflation in mind, which will provide financial relief to the workers. Earlier today, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta addressed parents’ concerns about alleged harassment by certain schools. Speaking to ANI, Gupta said, “Parents from various schools have been meeting me, sharing their grievances. No school has the authority to harass parents or children, threaten expulsion, or arbitrarily hike fees. There are strict rules and laws in place, and She further warned that schools found violating these regulations would face consequences. “We have issued notices to all schools against which complaints have been received,” Gupta added, emphasising the state government’s commitment to protecting students and parents. Earlier today, the Delhi Chief Minister, in a post on X, addressed a complaint raised during a public dialogue programme regarding Queen Mary School, Model Town, where parents alleged wrongful fee collection and expulsion of children. The CM stated that immediate action has been directed, with officials instructed to investigate and take strict measures. CM highlighted a “Zero Tolerance” policy against injustice, exploitation, or irregularities and emphasized the Delhi Government’s commitment to transparency, equal opportunity, and children’s rights in education.
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