INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 30, 2022 1 A W e e k l y N e w s p a p e r Fe a t u r i n g N e w s & Tr e n d s f r o m t h e I n d i a n S u b - C o n t i n e n t P u b l i s h e d f r o m t h e U S C a p i t a l Website: www.indiathisweek.online Vol. 30 No: 39 • WASHINGTON D.C • Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800 • e-mail: indiathisweekads@gmail.com • Friday • September 30, 2022 Rupee breaches 81 mark for a new lifetime low Jaishankar flags US visa concerns, Blinken commits to build back on backlog soon By Reena Bhardwaj New Delhi [India], September 23 (ANI): Rupee tasted yet another lifetime low on Friday morning after the US dollar index strengthened to a twodecade high this week, on hopes that demand for safehaven currency such as the dollar would pick up. This morning, the Rupee opened 25 paise lower from the previous session to touch a record low of 81.09 versus the US dollar, against Thursday’s close of 80.86. Yesterday’s depreciation was the biggest single-day fall for the rupee since February 24. The US Federal Reserve had raised the repo rate by 75 basis points — which is the third consecutive hike of the same magnitude, in line with expectations, which essentially means that investors will move towards the US markets for better and stable returns amid the monetary policy tightening. The Fed also hinted that more rate hikes were coming and that these rates would stay elevated until 2024. The US central bank seeks to achieve maximum employment and inflation at the rate of 2 per cent over the long run and it anticipates that the ongoing hikes in the target range will be appropriate. Raising interest rates is a monetary policy instrument that typically helps suppress demand in the economy, thereby helping the inflation rate decline. Consumer inflation in the US though declined marginally in August to 8.3 per cent from 8.5 per cent in July but is way above the 2 per cent goal. Swastika Investmart, Research Head, Santosh Meena said it was apparent from the recent action and commentary of the US Federal Reserve that it was still far away from the end of the rate hike cycle, adding he reckons that the rupee is expected to remain under pressure despite the improvement in domestic economic prospects. Meanwhile, India’s forex reserves are at a two-year low. The reserves have dropped by almost USD 80 billion since the escalation of the Russia-Ukraine tensions into war earlier this year India’s forex reserves have been consistently depleting for the past few months, on account of RBI’s likely intervention in the market to defend the depreciating rupee. Typically, the RBI intervenes in the market through liquidity management, including through the selling of dollars, with a view to preventing a steep depreciation in the rupee. A depreciation in the rupee typically makes imported items costlier. “The Dollar Index may continue with its positive bias as the US Fed decided to raise interest rate by 75 bps, for a third consecutive month and signalled that it would continue to lift rates this year at a most rapid pace to combat inflation, which is running hot,” said ICICI Securities. (ANI) Quote: “They do not comprehend or discern, for He has shut their eyes so they cannot see and closed their minds so they cannot understand.” Prophet Isaiah Washington [US], September 28 (ANI): US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday assured that the US is “building back” on the backlog of visa applications from Indian nationals and said the Biden administration has a plan that will play out in the coming months. “We had constraints from COVID about the number of people we could have in our embassies at any one time etc. We are now building back very determined really from that surging resources. We have a plan when it comes to India to address the backlog of visas that have built up I think you’ll see that play out in the coming months,” Blinken said in a press briefing. The remarks came as he met with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in Washington. Jaishankar flagged concerns and challenges that Indians have been facing in receiving visas to work and live in the United States. “There have been some challenges of late, and I flagged it to Secretary Blinken and his team, and I have every confidence that they will look at some of these problems seriously and positively,” Jaishankar said in his opening remarks. The waiting period for Indians looking to secure a visitor visa to the US has gone up to 800 days, according to the website of the US State Department. The waiting period is nearly 400 days for student/ exchange visitor visas and other non-immigrant visas. “I’m extremely sensitive to this,” said Blinken as he blamed the Covid-19 pandemic for the backlog. “Our ability to issue visas dropped dramatically during COVID. And the last thing we want to do is make that any more difficult. On the contrary, we want to facilitate it. So bear with us. This will play out over the next few months but we’re very focused on it,” Blinken added. Moreover, Blinken also noted that the partnership between India and United States is one of the most consequential in the world during the joint press conference. “The partnership between India and US is simply one of the most consequential in the world. It is to address any global challenge that our people face – health security, climate change, food security, and upholding the free and open international order. Over the past years, we have made real progress in elevating that partnership bilaterally — through institutions like QUAD and G20 and international organizations at the United Nations,” Blinken said here. India will take over the presidency of the Group of Twenty (G20) in December. Speaking over the presidency, Blinken said: “With India holding the presidency at the UNSC in December and taking over the presidency at G20 next year, we will be able to drive more global cooperation and action together.” External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with Blinken earlier at the Quad meeting which saw participation from foreign ministers from India, the US, Australia, and Japan. (ANI) NSA Sullivan, Jaishankar discuss USIndia strategic partnership, Ukraine war Washington [US], September 28 (ANI): White House National Security Advisor Jack Sullivan on Wednesday met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and discussed a myriad of issues including US-India strategic partnership, the Ukraine war and a free and open Indo-Pacific amid Chinese assertiveness in the region. “Met today with Indian External Affairs Minister @DrSJaishankar to discuss our shared efforts to deepen the U.S.India strategic partnership, mitigate the impacts of Russia’s war in Ukraine, and advance a free, open, secure, and prosperous IndoPacific,” tweeted Sullivan. Responding to Sullivan, Jaishankar tweeted, “Good to meet US National Security Advisor @JakeSullivan46. Discussed the Ukraine US-INDIA SEE PAGE 6
September 30, 2022 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK Wes Moore and Aruna Miller interacted with Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Community Democratic nominees for Maryland Governor and Lt. Governor interacted with AAPI community at a reception organized by Maryland Senator Susan C. Lee. Dr Rajan Natarajan and Dr Eugenia Henry co-chaired the reception. Over 300 business and community leaders were present at the reception held at the China Garden restaurant in North Bethesda. Several Democratic nominees including Brooke Lierman – nominee for Maryland Comptroller, Marc Elrich – nominee for Montgomery county executive, Julie Yang – nominee for Montgomery County Board of Education, and others were present. Over 400 local AAPI community and business leaders attended the reception. Senator Susan Lee, Brooke Lierman, and other leaders energized the community with their words. Nominee for Aruna Miller and Wes Moore Congress David Trone spoke with crowd and encouraged everyone to vote. Drs Natarajan and Henry outlined the importance of reception and bringing the community together. The democratic leaders interacted with the community and took many pictures, shook hands, Senator Susan Lee, Wes Moore, Elisha Pulivarti, Aruna Miller, Brooke Lierman exchanged greetings and continued the jovial atmosphere. Wes Moore and Aruna Miller won a tightly contested Democratic primary earlier this year. Wes Moore served as a captain and paratrooper in 82nd airborne battalion in Afghanistan. He has written bestselling books like “The Other Wes Moore” and “Five Days” reflecting the issues of race, equity and opportunity. He spoke enthusiastically about his campaign slogan and promise of leave no one behind. He spoke about bringing the communities together in Maryland and creating equal opportunities for all. If elected, Wes Moore would become the first African American to be elected to the Office of Maryland Governor. Aruna Miller’s family immigrated from India to the US when she was 7 years old. She is a graduate from Missouri University with a degree in Civil Engineering. She worked at Department of Transportation in Maryland County for 25 years. After joining the politics, she represented District 15 in the Maryland House of Delegates. If elected, she would become the first Asian American and immigrant lieutenant governor of the state of Maryland.
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September 30, 2022 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK Facility to apply for Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) services to be included at all online Post Office Passport Seva Kendras New Delhi [India], September 26 (ANI): To address the unanticipated surge in demand for Police Clearance Certificates (PCCs), Ministry of External Affairs has decided to include the facility to apply for PCC services at all online Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs) across India, starting from September 28. In a statement, the MEA said that it is pleased to announce yet another step to improve citizens’ experience while availing of passportrelated services. “To address the unanticipated surge in demand for Police Clearance Certificates (PCCs), the Ministry has decided to include the facility to apply for PCC services at all online Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs) across India, starting from Wednesday 28 September 2022,” it read. The action taken by the Ministry in extending the PCC application facility to POPSKs, would not only help Indian citizens seeking employment abroad, but also meet the demand for other PCC requirements including case of education, long term visa, emigration. Earlier this year, the MEA had signed an agreement for the second phase of the Passport Seva Programme with Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) appointing them as the service provider for the project. “The Ministry of External Affairs today signed an agreement for the second phase of the Passport Seva Programme (PSP-V2.0) with M/s. Tata Consultancy Services Limited, our valued partner, appointing them as the Service Provider for the project,” the ministry had said in a press release. The Ministry also said that the issuance of e-Passports for enhanced customer satisfaction, increased security and the next level of citizen experience will also be unveiled in the upgraded PSP-V 2.0. (ANI) New Delhi [India], September 27 (ANI): Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) gun is in the advanced stage as user trials have been conducted successfully and left with few procedural trails, informed defence sources on Tuesday. “ATAGS is a Greenfield project, designed and developed through a successful partnership between DRDO and the Indian private sector. User trials have been satisfactorily conducted; a few procedural issues are being taken care of. It is a good system worthy of induction,” according to the sources of the Defence establishment. Sources also revealed that the Indian army is ready to induct more K-9 Vajra to enhance firepower support for Mechanised Formations. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approval has been received for the induction of additional regiments. “Previous induction has enhanced the Indian Army’s capability manifolds in terms of firepower and shock action. Vajra – SelfPropelled Gun roars in high-altitude areas along the northern borders. The system has already been validated and deployed in high altitude areas along Northern borders,” it added. Sources mentioned that the Indian army sees the country transforming as “Atmanirbhar” in loitering munition technology and graduating as a global leader. “Keeping in league with the prospective battlefield requirements, the Indian Army has already contracted Loitering Munition System thereby augmenting our surveillance; target acquisition and precision strike capability. We are also in the process of procuring indigenously designed and developed, advanced Loitering Weapon System with enhanced strike capability,” it said. It further said that they received enthusiastic responses from the Industry wherein many firms have expressed their capability to manufacture the weapon system,” as per sources. Defence establishment sources added the Advance Fire Control Automation is fielded in Indian Artillery along Northern Borders. “Upgraded version of an automated fire control system for artillery weapon system fielded for all artillery units deployed along Northern Borders. Its capability enhanced to deliver artillery firepower in the swift time frame and with more accuracy,” the source highlighted. (ANI) ATAGS guns in advanced stage, user trails conducted successfully: Defence Sources
INTRODUCING Woodleigh Chase NEW SENIOR LIVING COMING TO FAIRFAX FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 30, 2022 5 Experience vibrant living at the new Erickson Senior Living®-managed community coming to Fairfax. Our Sales Center is now open! • Preview our stylish apartment homes • Explore services to enhance your well-being • Discover resort-style amenities • Learn about our ideal location Call 1-888-750-8984 for your free brochure or to schedule your visit to our Sales Center. 440463 4595 Burke Station Road Fairfax, VA 22032 WoodleighChase.com Conceptual rendering From Ukraine to Russia to France, Modi’s India wins global praise at UNGA New York [US], September 26 (ANI): At the ongoing United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session India has been winning praise from several developing and developed nations both for its economic and foreign policy. Some of the most powerful voices, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and French President Emmanuel Macron have referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s India in a positive light, UN SecretaryGeneral Antonio Guterres also acknowledged the key role India can play in the success of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Countries like France, Jamaica and Portugal also heaped praise on India. While referring to PM Modi’s earlier remarks to Russian President Vladimir Putin, France’s Macron was the first one to praise India, saying Narendra Modi, was right about the time being not right for war. “It is not for revenge against the West or for opposing the West against the east. It is the time for a collective time for our sovereign equal states. To cope together with challenges, we face,” Macron said while referring to the conversation between PM Modi and Putin during the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting in Samarkand. UN chief Guterres, in his message to a special ‘India@75’ event on showcasing the ‘IndiaUN Partnership in Action’, underlined that as home to the largest youth generation in history, India will be decisive in the success of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “Looking ahead, India, home to the largest youth generation in history will be decisive in the success of the Sustainable Development Goals, and reiterating Prime Minister Modi – as you reform, the world transforms,” Guterres said. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov “explicitly’ backed India for a permanent seat, straight 60 minutes after he met up with his Indian counterpart. Addressing the UNGA session, Russian FM Sergey Lavrov said that the country sees India as a “key international actor” and a “worthy candidate for permanent membership within the Council.” Another high-level delegate to praise India was Jamaica Foreign Minister Kamina J Smith, who expressed gratitude towards India for its assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic. Smith said that Kingston is grateful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Indian government, and its people for the vaccines during the pandemic. Addressing a high- level UN General Assembly session here, the Foreign Minister said that India is a reliable partner. “From the very onset, India was a reliable partner whose assistance was critical to our pandemic response. India embraced a holistic and outward-looking vaccine diplomacy strategy. Jamaica was able to secure its first life-saving vaccines from India,” she said in New York. Guyana Foreign Minister Hugh Hilton Todd also hailed India in UNGA. “Small countries like Guyana would have benefitted immensely from India’s growth trajectory as it has always been an economy that focuses on human development, putting humans ahead of any other form of development,” he said. On Thursday, Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa called for UNSC reform that should include representation of India, Brazil and Africa continent at the UN Security Council. Addressing the General Assembly, Costa advocated for a Security Council that incorporates a comprehensive view of security and gives fair representation to small countries. Speaking on the long-pending issues of UN reforms, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that there has been a “shift” on the issue of UN reforms among the international community that was seen this week. “In respect of UN reform, every General Assembly (session) you revisit that issue, but this time something has shifted. You can see that, you can sense that,” Jaishankar told reporters on Saturday as he wrapped up the New York leg of his visit to the US with his address to the UNGA high-level session. Jaishankar said it is not that only he has sensed a shift on the issue of UN reforms. “I think everybody sensed a shift and it’s something which others actually brought up with me”. (ANI)
September 30, 2022 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK Lt General Anil Chauhan (retd) appointed as new Chief of Defence Staff New Delhi [India], September 28 (ANI): The government on Tuesday appointed Lt General Anil Chauhan (retired) as the new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS). He had retired as the Eastern Army Commander in May last year and was serving as the Military Advisor to the National Security Council. This is the first time that a retired officer has been appointed at this position for which a gazette notification was issued to announce the change in rules for the appointment. In a career spanning over nearly 40 years, Lt Gen Chauhan has held several command, staff and instrumental appointments and had extensive experience in counterinsurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir and northeast India. He will also function as Secretary to the Government of India, Department of Military Affairs with effect from the date of his assumption of charge and until further orders, an official release said. Lt General Anil Chauhan (retired) will be the second CDS of the country after Gen Bipin Rawat who died in a helicopter crash in December last year in Tamil Nadu. Born on 18th May 1961, Lt Gen Anil Chauhan was commissioned into the 11 Gorkha Rifles of the Indian Army in 1981. He is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla and Indian Military Academy, Dehradun. In the rank of Maj General, the officer had commanded an Infantry Division in the critical Baramula sector in the Northern Command. Later as Lt General, he commanded a corps in the North East and subsequently went to become the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Command from September 2019 and held the charge until his retirement from the service in May 2021. In addition to these command appointments, the officer also tenanted important staff appointments including the charge of Director General of Military Operations. Earlier, the officer had also served as a United Nations mission to Angola. He superannuated from the Indian Army on 31 May 2021. Even after his retirement from the Army, he continued to contribute to national security and strategic matters. For his distinguished and illustrious service in the Army, Lt General Anil Chauhan (retired) was awarded the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Uttam Yudh Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Sena Medal and Vishisht Seva Medal. The CDS is the most senior uniformed officer in rank, the first among equals — the only four-star officers in the country are the CDS, the chiefs of the Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force. The post was lying vacant since December 8 last year after the death of General Bipin Rawat. When General Bipin Rawat was appointed CDS by the Narendra Modi government within six months of coming back to power in 2019, it was hailed as one of the biggest reforms in the higher military structure of the country. The CDS is also the single point of contact for the government for giving military advice and is the senior-most bureaucrat in the defence ministry which has four major departments. The appointment comes amid efforts by the government to give a big push to indigenisation in the equipment for defence forces. (ANI) NSA Sullivan, Jaishankar discuss USIndia strategic partnership, Ukraine war US-INDIA FROM PAGE 1 conflict and its repercussions, the IndoPacific situation, South Asia and the Gulf. Exchanged views on addressing the current global economic volatility.” “Sullivan and Jaishankar reviewed progress in the US-India strategic partnership and exchanged views on global and regional priorities, including the implications of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and its impact on food and energy insecurity around the world,” read a White House press release. NSA Sullivan also said that he is looking forward to India’s G20 presidency. Both of them also discussed approaches to promoting debt sustainability and advancing a free, open, secure, and prosperous IndoPacific. Earlier on Monday, US Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo met Jaishankar to discuss the US-India commercial From The Poet’s Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- September 30, 2022 Thanks be to God Janie Alford I do not thank Thee , Lord, That I have bread to eat while others starve; While empty hands solicit Heaven; Nor for a body strong While other bodies flatten beds of pain. No, not for these do I give thanks! But I am grateful, Lord, Because my meager loaf I may divide; For that my busy hands May move to meet another’s need; Because my doubled strength I may expend to steady one who faints. Yes for all these do I give thanks! For heart to share, desire to bear And will to lift, Flamed into one by deathless Love– Thanks be to God for this! Unspeakable His Gift! relationship and welcomed the government of India’s participation in the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF). The US Secretary also appreciated Jaishankar’s views on IPEF going forward and emphasized the need for an ambitious and high-standard outcome as she underlined working closely with India in the discussions ahead, the official statement by the US Department of Commerce read. The talks between the two ministers also covered resilient supply chains, high technology cooperation, semi conductors and business promotion in Washington as Jaishankar is in the US on a 10-day visit to hold bilateral consultations with several US cabinet ministers. Notably, Jaishankar also met US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin at the Pentagon where he was welcomed in an enhanced honour cordon ceremony on Monday. The External Affairs Minister concluded the high-level United Nations General Assembly debate in New York on Saturday. Jaishankar was in New York from September 18 to 24. IPEF, a group of 13 countries, is a multilateral economic framework. Since its launch in May launch, IPEF countries have engaged in intensive discussions to scope out each pillar of the Framework. The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) was launched jointly by the USA and other partner countries of the Indo-Pacific region on May 23, 2022, in Tokyo. India joined the IPEF and Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the launch event along with US President Joe Biden, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and other leaders from partner countries. Previously, virtual Ministerial Meetings were held immediately after the launch on May 23 and thereafter from July 26-27, 2022. (ANI) INDIA THIS WEEK Address: P.O. Box 352, Bryans Road, MD 20616 Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800 www.indiathisweek.online India This Week is published every Friday by ADV Solutions Inc, Views expressed in this paper are solely 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 either by mail to the above address or by e-mail 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 Manish 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 Visit: www.indiathisweek.online Advertisements ADV Solutions Inc. Tel: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800 e-Mail: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Letters, Comments, Press Releases e-Mail: indiathisweekpress@yahoo.com
FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 30, 2022 7 ~ INDIA ~ NEPAL ~ BANGLA DESH ~ PAKISTAN ~ SRI LANKA ~ AFRICA ~ ASIA ~ EUROPE ~ MIDDLE EAST 1-800-343-0038 WEBSITE: GOFLYHOME.COM 500 arrested, 400 detained after violent PFI protests in Kerala: Police Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) [India], September 23 (ANI): As many as 500 people were arrested and 400 others put under preventive detention on Friday in connection with violent protests during the twelve-hour strike called by PFI to protest the arrest of the organisation’s leaders. The protests also saw stone pelting at an RSS office in Mattannur in Kannur, police said. Additional Director General of Police (ADGP), Law and Order, Vijay Sakhare told ANI that 500 people had been arrested so far in connection with the protests. “500 people have been arrested in connection with that and 400 more have been put under preventive detention in connection with a hartal called by the Popular front of India (PFI). An incident of stone pelting was also reported at the RSS office at Mattanur,” the ADGP said. The ADGP also gave details of another incident where arrests were made for carrying an explosive device. “In another case, two persons on motorcycle with a bomb were arrested. Three more people were arrested later. All the five have been arrested. Currently, the situation is normal and under control,” Sakhare said. Earlier in the day, a petrol bomb was also hurled at the RSS office in Mattannur during the protest against the arrest of the PFI activists. According to reports, two persons on a scooter hurled a petrol bomb at the Sangh office which resulted in the shattering of window panes. A day after PFI leaders were arrested in massive nationwide raids by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and other agencies, the controversial organization had called for a dawn-to dusk shutdown on Friday. The hartal (strike) started at 6 am and will continue for 12 hours till 6 pm, informed a protester. According to the police, stone-pelting incidents were reported at various places in the state during the protest. Visuals showed the protestors pelting stones at the Kerala State Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus at Panamaram village in Wayanad district. The bus was going to Kozhikode. KSRTC buses were also attacked in Kozhikode, Kochi, Alappuzha and Kollam. “Two miscreants on a bike at Pallimukku in the Kollam district abused police officials and hit them after they attempted to stop them,” police said. The injured police officials identified as Antony and Nikhil have been admitted to the hospital. The police said the accused will soon be taken into custody. In the state capital of Thiruvananthapuram, an auto rickshaw and a car were seen in a damaged state after being attacked in Poonthura. In Kottayam, roads were seen deserted. A total of 106 Popular Front of India (PFI) cadres were arrested yesterday in a joint operation conducted by the National Investigation Agency, Enforcement Directorate and state police forces across 15 states in the country’s multiple locations, according to the sources. (ANI)
September 30, 2022 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK Masarat Kar: The woman mayor making difference in once militancy hotbed Sopore Jammu and Kashmir [India], September 27 (ANI): Women, all over the world, are progressing towards greater political participation, yet they often remain underrepresented in politics, especially in municipal governments. According to various scholars, when women take on leadership positions in the government, they bring about a distinctive experience, which results in gender-inclusive public policies and an overall improvement in the quality of life– for both women and men. Despite all the good impact and change that women mayors have brought about in their cities, just 20% of mayors worldwide are women. One such glaring example of change, development and quality of life for citizens is Masarat Kar– the first woman chief of Sopore Municipal Council, which has 21 wards. Masarat Kar, 50, is the daughter of the great political figure of Sopore, the late Ghulam Rasool Kar. Once the hotbed of militancy, Sopore in Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a complete change in terms of development since Masarat Kar started representing the town in July 2021. For example, Sopore was waiting for a public toilet for ages but got the facilities under the leadership of Masarat Kar. Not just that, under her rule, Sopore received upliftment with the installation of street lights, restoration and beautification of pavements. The Sopore town in the Baramulla district got its first fountain and its own clock tower. Masarat feels that her being in politics or participating in grass root democratic process is to serve the people of her town and area. “I came forward for my people, for my town to restore the glory Malappuram (Kerala) [India], September 27 (ANI): Congress leader Rahul Gandhi interacted with the farmers from various districts of Kerala on Tuesday with the aim to understand their challenges better. The participants in the conversation were farmers from the districts of Idukki, Wayanad, Kozhikode, and Kasaragod. The interaction was held at Pattikkad in Malappuram district during the halt of the Bharat Jodo Yatra. The ecosensitive zone was one of the farmers’ primary problems. The state government’s arbitrary acquisition of agricultural land was also the issue raised by the farmers in the interaction. They also raised concern over the state government’s lack of adequate compensation for the acquisition. The lack of subsidized loans for farmers was brought up as a second concern, and as a result, farmers are now dependent on cooperative banks for loans. The provision of the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for the rubber was a further request. Farmers also appealed to Rahul Gandhi to assist in resolving the state’s mananimal conflict. In response, Rahul Gandhi said that he is aware of the majority of the issues brought up by the farmers. He stated that Congress would bring up the issue of the farmers in the legislature. He urged the farmers to provide more information about their situation so that Congress could present a compelling argument, supported by the testimony of the farmers, in the legislature. of Sopore which once was known as Chota London,” she said. She wants to work tirelessly and relentlessly for the development of her town and more importantly aims to change the opinion that Sopore is the hotbed of militancy or hard-core fundamentalists. “The people of Sopore town have every right to grow. Why will Sopore suffer or be ignored on a developmental front due to a wrong tag? Sopore was even called Kandhar of Kashmir. Seems few politicians or people love to relate it with terrorism for few brownie points, due to which people here suffer,” she added. Masrat said the scenario has changed and now people in Sopore believe in development, and change and the people of Sopore who have expressed their faith in her, won’t be let down by her and the team. She said that she will work tirelessly to implement her agenda of all-round growth and development of Sopore. “For the development of Sopore around 21 crores has been approved only for the long pending demand of the deep-drain project. 47 lakhs have also been approved for other schemes,” Masarat added. Talking about the beautification of River Jhelum, Masrat said three ghats would be carved out in this scheme, which will give Sopore a different look and people will enjoy the riverside looks after it is completed. While sharing further information about the upcoming projects for the overall development of Sopore, she said the entry gate, Bhugu complex, MeT park besides four congested wards will come on the model mohalla map which will not only change the shape of the town but will add to the overall development. As per official data, youth in Sopore were getting involved in drugs, but the efforts of Masrat and her team in this direction are beyond words. Earlier in the month, under ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan’, a series of awareness programs were held across the town to generate awareness among the masses, especially youth about the ill effects of drug abuse. Masrat also put her efforts into reviving the traditional folk theatre of Kashmir called ‘Bhand Pather’. The Bhand community was the traditional folk entertainer in Kashmir in the past and was actively creating awareness on various social issues through their plays. “The aim of the revival project is that these (folk) theatre groups should focus on contemporary issues and happenings that the Kashmir folk theatre was dealing mainly with the issues that were relevant in the past,” Masrat Kar said. “This is high time for its revival. The folk theatre is the main source of communication and public outreach,” she added. Masarat, the town head, has all the qualities of a good leader and is on a mission to change the overall scenario of the Sopore subdivision of the Baramulla district. Looking at the developments, one has to say that she has been successful to a larger extent. (ANI) Congress leader Jairam Ramesh clarified to the farmers that if the government does not provide farmers with four times the land value in rural areas and twice the land value in urban areas, they are breaking the law. Earlier on September 26, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi slammed the BJPled center and said that the BJP-RSS wanted his ongoing Bharat Jodo Yatra to be divided. The Congress leader also called out the division and alleged that BJP-RSS was “spreading hatred.” “BJP-RSS wants this river (people at his rally) to get divided, wants residents to fight with each other. They want a river where if somebody falls, nobody picks him up and where everybody is alone. They run the country by dividing it and spreading hatred,” said Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. (ANI) Kerala: Congress will bring up issues concerning farmers in the legislature, promises Rahul Gandhi For Advertisements Call: 301-917-4800 E-mail: indiathisweekads@gmail.com www.indiathisweek.online
FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 30, 2022 9 Sale Ends 10/15/2022 Newly launched Chatbot of IRCTC getting remarkable response: Official New Delhi [India], September 23 (ANI): The newly launched Chatbot of Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Limited (IRCTC) is getting remarkable response from the train passengers during the beta launch as over 1 billion people have used it, a senior IRCTC official said. While talking to ANI, the official said that the new conversational and convenient feature to book railway tickets enables customers to interact with the system via voice, chat and click based system. Additionally, the system requires no passwords and works based on the One Time Password (OTP). The official also told that the technology is powered by CoRover, a conversational AI Platform which is being used by more than 1 billion users. “In our constant pursuit to enhance the user experience, leveraging new age technologies, we are today taking a giant leap. Now, passengers can book their train ticket in a conversational manner, leveraging our AI Virtual Assistant, AskDISHA 2.0, powered by CoRover, the Conversational AI platform, used by more than 1 billion users.” The improved VirtualAssistant,AskDISHA 2.0 has many features like booking tickets, checking PNR status, cancelling tickets, changing boarding station, checking refund status and answering queries like Tatkal timings. The official further informed that this is a landmark step towards enhancing the passenger experience. “First time, the users can book ticket without knowing their IRCTC password, it will be possible just with an OTP. AskDISHA 2.0 has also proven to be a very effective instrument and the addition of voice booking and will make it even easier for travellers to plan their trips,” the official added. The senior official also estimated that at least 25 per cent of clients will be switching to this option in the future. “It is expected that at least 25 per cent of clients will be switching to this option in the future and also attracting new users who want to book their tickets using the conversational tool rather than chatting. In August 2022, AskDISHA has got around 95 lakh queries, which includes bookingrequest,cancellation and more. Also, it had 88% positive feedback with the AI Accuracy rate of 99 per cent,” the official told ANI. The official further talked about the “Technological Revolution” in the Indian Railways under the current leadership and government. “It is notable that the Indian Railways, under the leadership of the Minister for Railways and IT have been undergoing massive technological revolution in pursuance of Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Digital India’, ‘Made in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’,” the official further said. “Under the aegis of the present government, the Indian Railways, being one of the largest rail networks of the world have been achieving new milestones of transformation every day in various spheres for improving the travel experience of the passengers,” the official added. The new avatar of IRCTC’s Chatbot AskDISHA 2.0, aims to help users get authentic, correct and instant answers to their queries. It will not just save time and enhance the user experience, but will also help them in doing end-toend real time transactions, the official said. (ANI) New Delhi [India], September 27 (ANI): The Yamuna river in Delhi crossed the danger mark on Tuesday afternoon. The river’s water level reached 206.30 meters, this happened after the national capital received rainfall for three consecutive days. The danger mark of the Yamuna river is 205.33 meters. Owing to the danger caused by the rise in water level, the northern railways suspended the rail traffic over the old Yamuna Bridge from 4:00 pm today. Consequently, a number of short-terminated and short-originated trains have been canceled or diverted by the northern railways. The list of canceled trains includes Delhi – Saharanpur Special, Delhi – Saharanpur Express, Delhi – Aligarh Special, Shamli – Delhi Special, Aligarh – Delhi Special, and Panipat – Delhi Special (JCO 28.09.22). The Delhi – Kathgodam SK Express via New Delhi – Sahibabad, Delhi – Katihar Champaran Humsafar Express via New Delhi – Sahibabad, Jaiselmer – Jammu Tawi Shalimar Express via New Delhi – Sahibabad, Amritsar – Katihar Express via New Delhi – Sahibabad and Delhi – Haridwar Express via New Delhi – Sahibabad have been diverted as per the notification form northern railways. Yamuna crosses danger mark in Delhi; Railways cancels several trains
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