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'  ("  ( the States and Union New Delhi: The Centre has rime Minister Narendra IManagement Act, the Centre Territories. asked all its employees to get PModi on Thursday held a on Thursday directed States to “Therefore, to ensure the themselves vaccinated so as to high-level official meeting and ensure uninterrupted produc- uninterrupted supply of med- effectively contain the spread of ordered the adequate supply of tion and supply of medical oxy- ical oxygen across the country Covid-19, a Personnel Ministry oxygen to all States. Modi can- gen and its transport along for the management of Covid- order issued on Thursday said. celled his poll rallies in Bengal inter-State borders and said the 19 patients, in the exercise of It said the Government has to remain here to attend three District Magistrate and powers conferred under the been monitoring the situation urgent meetings on Friday in Superintendent of Police of section of the DM Act, the very closely, and it has been view of an alarming Covid-19 the district concerned will be undersigned, in the capacity as decided to vaccinate all the cit- situation in the country, aggra- held responsible if there is any chairperson, National izens who have attained the age vated by oxygen and medicine violation of its order. Executive Committee, hereby of 18 years and above. crunch across the country. The directive under the directs the State and Union On Friday, the PM will stringent Disaster Management Territory Governments and undertake three-key meetings Act 2005 was issued by Union State and Union   
   — a high-level Covid review the prevailing Covid-19 situa- to health facilities”. Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla in Territory authorities to ensure meeting, a meeting with Chief tion. “Tomorrow, will be chair- Senior officials informed the wake of reports that some pandemic and demand for it. important pre-requisite for the following measures       Ministers of worst-affected ing high-level meetings to the Prime Minister that an States blocked supply of med- Bhalla said the availability managing moderate and severe within their areas of jurisdic- States, and one with oxygen review the prevailing Covid-19 elaborate exercise was being ical oxygen to other States of adequate and uninterrupted cases of Covid-19 and with the tion,” the Union Home Dubai: The UAE has banned manufacturers. situation. Due to that, I would conducted in coordination with amid sudden spike in Covid supply of medical oxygen is an increasing cases, the medical Secretary said. travel from India for 10 days For his part, Home not be going to West Bengal,” the States to identify their from Sunday due to the wors- Minister Amit Shah too cut he said. demand for oxygen and ensure ening Covid-19 situation in the short his Bengal poll cam- Instead, he is to address adequate supply accordingly. country. The travel ban will paign, cancelling two of his people of Bengal virtually on He was briefed on how 
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    come into effect from 11.59 pm three meetings to return to Friday evening. oxygen supply to States is on Saturday, April 24, the Gulf Delhi for a Covid meeting. India is witnessing an steadily increasing, according   News reported. Passengers who The PM, during the day, unprecedented surge in Covid- to the PMO. have transited through India in was briefed on how oxygen 19 cases which is putting enor- Officials said in the last few   
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               8 <.     $ 74*     he Uttarakhand Transport   TDepartment is consider- ing various options to provide  $ 74* that the corporation would administration, it would also some assistance or relaxation to not sanitise the public places of sanitise 100 wards this week- the operators of the public n view of increasing Covid- the city excessively like the last end. He informed that the cor- transport vehicles after it I19 positive cases in the city, year. poration would make teams to recently limited the number of the Municipal Corporation of However after the monitor the sanitisation passengers in public transport Dehradun (MCD) is making Dehradun district administra- process in each ward on due to the surge in Covid-19 preparations to sanitise all the tion directed all the urban Saturday and Sunday. cases. Recently, the State 100 wards of the city during the local bodies to sanitise their The corporation would Government issued orders to weekend lockdown. respective areas during the sanitise the main public places run public vehicles at 50 per Earlier, the senior officials weekend lockdown, the cor- of the first 50 wards on cent of the seating capacity as of the corporation had stated poration has started to prepare Saturday and another 50 wards a preventive measure to restrict that spraying one per cent for the weekend sanitisation. on Sunday in the presence of the Covid-19 contagion among sodium hypochlorite solution As informed by the chief the officials, informed Joshi. He  $ 74* the passengers like it did the in open areas does not affect municipal health officer, Dr also stated that the corporation last year. the Covid-19 virus as the dirt Kailash Joshi, the corporation would not sanitise the same angotri MLA and senior However, unlike the last present on the surface inacti- regularly sanitises hospitals, ward twice this time as the cor- GBJP leader Gopal Rawat year, the government has not opined that the government ators. He said that the depart- week. vates the disinfectant as per the health care facilities and Covid- poration also has to sanitise succumbed at a private hospi- permitted the operators to raise should assist the private oper- ment is mulling over the pro- Meanwhile, the Char World Health Organisation 19 affected areas like contain- about 50 containment zones in tal in Dehradun where he had the fares of public transport so ators in other ways like giving posals like whether to increase Dham Yatra is all set to com- (WHO) report. Considering ment zones across the city and the city which might increase been undergoing treatment for far. Due to this, as per the offi- exemption in taxes and insur- or double the fares of the pas- mence from the next month this, the officials have stated as per the direction of the by the weekend. a serious ailment. Governor cials, many private operators of ances of the vehicles rather than sengers or provide some kind but the department has not Baby Rani Maurya, chief min- the public transport are either increasing the fare as according of financial help that might commenced the application ister Tirath Singh Rawat, BJP seeking exemption in the seat- to them, people would start help operators to survive dur- process to issue the green cards State president Madan Kaushik, ing capacity or demanding an avoiding public vehicles if they ing the pandemic with fewer to the commercial vehicle dri-       former CM Trivendra Singh increase in the fare of each pas- would be charged double amid earnings. vers visiting Char Dham cir- Rawat, senior Congress leader senger. the pandemic like the last year. Sinha said that the depart- cuit. Sinha also shed some and ex-CM Harish Rawat along Many have approached the Talking about providing ment is presently working to light on the issue by disclosing    !" # with all cabinet ministers transport department for the relaxation to the public trans- figure out the best possible way that all the procedures to com- expressed grief at the demise same as according to the oper- port operators, the Transport that proves to be well for every- mence online service to issue of the MLA who was quite ators, they have to face a huge secretary Ranjit Kumar Sinha one considering the critical green cards are nearly com-     *$$. Central government for it. But, Delhi's oxygen quota for popular among the public. loss if they run the vehicles at said that the department is Covid situation in the state and pleted and the application he said, more supplies are treating Covid'19 patients, and They said that Rawat’s demise 50 per cent occupancy. presently considering various would possibly issue orders process would probably start by ith several hospitals needed as according to esti- said the supplies have is an irreparable loss to the peo- However, some have also possibilities to assist the oper- for the same by the end of this the end of this month. Wreporting shortage of mates Delhi needs 700 MT of started reaching the national ple of Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand oxygen in the national Capital oxygen daily. capital. and the BJP. due to rising cases of Covid-19, Delhi received its quota of “Our entire supply of oxy- Delhi Chief Minister Arvind oxygen as fixed by the Centre gen comes from companies  %  % Kejriwal said on Thursday that from other states, he said, but based in other states. The prob- ' (  the Delhi Government is mak- added; some states stopped lem that has arisen here is that      ing efforts to airlift its enhanced trucks headed to the national the states in which these com-    quota of oxygen supply capital. panies are based are not allow- from Odisha. The chief minister thanked ing oxygen cylinders to come            !& He also called Haryana the Centre and the High Court to Delhi. They say they wish to Chief Minister and sought sup- for their efforts towards raising use the oxygen in their own     *$$. port to ensure smooth passage     for trucks carrying oxygen. " #  $ # *$$. he Delhi Government will increase the "I spoke to Hon’ble Chief Tnumber of beds for Covid-19 patients once Minister of Haryana Sh ollowing the severe shortage the “oxygen crisis” in the national capital is Manohar Lal Khattar ji. Sought      Fof oxygen supply in the resolved, Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain his support in facilitating national capital, the Delhi Police on Thursday. transport of oxygen trucks      *$$. has come to the rescue of sev- Jain also said that to deal with rising num- from Haryana to Delhi. He has eral hospitals and arranged oxy- ber of cases, around 800 ICU beds are likely to assured full support." he elhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday said that peo- gen for these facilities where be added in central government hospitals soon. tweeted. Dple need to come together and unite as human beings to ensure Covid patients are undergoing “We have also demanded that the Centre give Chief Minister Kejriwal the survival of the people in this hour of Corona crisis. The Chief treatment. us 7,000 beds for two weeks. So far, 2,000 beds said a major chunk of the Minister said that he, along with Deputy Chief Minister Manish Several hospitals in Delhi have been given,” he told reporters. freshly allotted quota of oxygen Sisodia and Health Minister were running short on oxygen The number of beds are being increased, but to Delhi comes from Odisha, Satyendar Jain, is constantly in touch with officials trying to ensure cylinders and had only an hour Delhi has been facing a “serious problem” with which is hundreds of kilome- the entire process moves smoothly and is working 24x7 to ensure back up. "In the past three days, regard to oxygen supply for the last three days, tres away, and the Delhi that the resources are made available to the people. many city hospitals have made Jain said. Government is planning to Kejriwal said that the 6-day lockdown is not a period of rest SOS calls to various police sta- The Centre increased Delhi's quota of oxy- airlift it to save time at this crit- but a period of activity, which the Delhi government will utilize to tions seeking help in arranging gen on Wednesday (from 378 metric tonnes to ical juncture in the fight against overcome the shortage of oxygen, beds, etc in Delhi and strength- oxygen cylinders. On 480 metric tonnes). However, oxygen is also coronavirus. en the health infrastructure. Wednesday night, a major cri- needed for new Covid centres being opera- "Recd a call from Sh Addressing the media he said, "With the rise in coronavirus cases sis was averted after the Delhi tionalised in Delhi, the minister said. Naveen Patnaik ji. He has in the country, demands for oxygen cylinders, medicines, vaccina- Police managed to restore oxy- “Beds for Covid patients will be increased in assured complete tion etc has increased. “We are also facing an acute shortage of oxy- gen supply to a hospital here a large number once this crisis ends,” the min- support to Delhi in facilitating gen cylinders. The Delhi government has spent a number of sleep- where over 350 COVID patients ister said. lifting of Delhi’s quota of oxy- less nights trying to arrange oxygen in hospitals and other Covid are undergoing treatment," said Jain said hospitals in Delhi grappled with a gen from Orissa. He has put a care centers to try and ensure that no patient suffers because of its Chinmoy Biswal, the Public shortage of oxygen the entire night. “The sup- spl officer on the job. Thank u absence.” “We need to come together. We need to unite as Indians, Relation Officer (PRO) of Delhi ply had almost finished in some hospitals. sooo much Sir. Delhi is as human beings. We don't want to see news of states stopping trucks Police. According to Atul Kumar Thereafter, small quantities of oxygen were dis- indeed grateful," Kejriwal coming to Delhi, going to MP etc. We want to see news that shows Thakur, the Deputy tributed among hospitals,” he said.On Thursday tweeted. us how Delhi helped another state overcome their crisis, how Uttar Commissioner of Police (DCP), morning, several small hospitals in Delhi strug- He said Delhi had a daily Pradesh helped in doing so. We want to see news of togetherness South district, the chief engineer gled to replenish oxygen supply for their patients, quota of 378 MT of medical and unity. This is the only way India can overcome this crisis. The of Batra hospital, R K Baniwal, even as some big healthcare facilities received oxygen that has been increased country cannot afford to get divided into states at this point. It is informed the police that the oxy- fresh stock overnight. to 480 MT, and thanked the my humble appeal to citizens and state governments of the coun- gen at their facility will only last try, please come together and work together to overcome this pan- for two hours and they were not demic increase," he said. sure when their supply will be  restored.       #L  %   in your hands. It is especially edge was well understood by es are being benefited. The books which have transformed important for children to read our forefathers, so they wrote books written and kept in the ideology of the whole soci- as much as possible because the their knowledge and experi- libraries by these intellectuals ety not in only in ancient times effects of reading are cumula- ence and compiled them in the has been the base on which the but in current time as well.The tive. The parents and teachers form of books and also kept it ancient Indian was given the books work as a medium should set the examples so safe so that future generations privilege of Vishwa Guru. It is between the writer and the that children make a habit of can gain that knowledge them- the contribution of these books reader. reading which enhances their selves and spread it to others. and the libraries that not only The English writer knowledge. The more the Preservation of the books Indians but the whole world Stevenson and Hindi writer knowledge they have, the bet- and construction of the has gained the knowledge and Rahul Sankrityayan were ter they are equipped to deal libraries had been a part of is being able to use it. known to abandon the books  " >  the challenges they will face. Indian society since centuries The importance of the after reading them, irrespective Reading books can help them ago. The ruins of universities of books and the libraries had of the cost of the book. Both he World Book and to learn from masters who Nalanda near Rajgir, been understood very well by believed not to keep the burden TCopyright Day is celebrat- have already been through cer- Vikramshila near Bhagalpur the Indians in past and that is of books and knowledge but to ed every year on April 23 to tain situations and also learn in Bihar and Takshashila near the reason that you can see give to the others. Whosoever promote the reading of books. how to tackle them. Books are Islamabad, Pakistan and their smaller or bigger libraries in gets the book, he will read it Events take place every year a good way to educate them. grand libraries are the testi- almost every small or big cities and will be benefited. Having across the world to recognise As exercise helps your mony of the past. Nalanda of our country even now a books and reading them shows the importance of books - a body to stay healthy and fit, University, was one of the old- days. This is the era of digital your love for them, but after link between the past and the books keep your brain fit. est university in the world in technology and the impact of reading it and then giving it to future, a bridge between gen- Character is formed from the fifth century. There were it is being seen clearly. There someone else further increase erations and across cultures. childhood and books play an 10,000 students, 2,000 teachers has been decrease in interest in your love for that book. British philosopher Sir important role. Reading a book and a nine storey grand library printed books with the advent Habit of keeping the book Roger Scranton wrote that peo- can change your thinking which had more than three of e-books and electronic is good, reading books is bet- ple with depression feel isolat- process and ultimately can lakh books covering almost all devices. But I believe that the ter and giving it to someone ed and that a book can some- bring changes in you. Esko subjects. Nalanda and books will always exist in some else after reading is the best. time decrease it. A study found Valtaoja had said, you are what Vikramshila universities were form and will never disappear The habit of sharing books will that a session of 30 minutes of you read. destroyed by invader Bakhtiyar completely. Cicero once said, a make you a medium of sharing reading a book lowers your I believe that the origin of Khilji in 1200 CE and room without books is like a knowledge. Whatever is writ- blood pressure, heart rate and language must have occurred Takshashila by the Huns in 500 body without a soul. ten in books, it is written very psychological distress. It is also only when human was born CE. Takshashila was designat- The role of books is not thoughtfully. Make a habit of established that the beneficial because life cannot be devel- ed as a UNESCO World hidden from anyone, in the buying, reading, sharing and effect of reading books equals oped, or even be maintained Heritage Site in 1980. Ancient transformation of the human gifting books so that you will to that of yoga and humour. without communication with Nalanda University has been civilization the role of books inspire others to do so.Romain Researchers at Mayo Clinic, others. A language is needed resurrected by Government of has been important in the for- Rolland once said that the USA advise their patients to for communication. Languages India, with an act passed by the mation and flourishing of civ- friend who understands you, inculcate reading as part of and scripts probably were Parliament in 2014. ilizations of the world. creates you. I have gone regular pre-sleep routine. For developed millions of years There had been hundreds BR Ambedkar had said through hundreds of books better results, one should ago, but the making of books in of examples of Rishi, Munis, that cultivation of mind should and the books have contributed choose print book rather than any form is a comparatively poets and courtiers who had be the ultimate aim of human a lot in shaping my life. I reading on a screen / tablet/ modern concept if compared to preserved books, their knowl- existence.If we talk about India, believe that books are one’s mobile. origin of human civilisation. edge and experience for cen- Vedas, Purana, Ramayana, earnest friends, so love them. Now, the question is what Knowledge has been passed turies. These books had been Mahabharata, Gita, Quran, (The writer is an should you be reading? The from one generation to the next spreading that knowledge and Bible, Guru Granth Sahib, orthopaedic & spine surgeon answer is, whatever you like through books. The impor- experience to only a few in the Tattvarthasutra, Tripitaka and who is also a Padma Shri and whatever book you can get tance of propagation of knowl- ancient time but now, the mass- many more scriptures are the recipient)

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  he second wave of the con- Ttagion of Covid-19 is con- tinuing in Uttarakhand with  $ 74* alarming intensity. After a record 4807 cases on he Chief Minister Tirath Wednesday the state health TSingh Rawat has said that all department reported 3998 new the private hospitals should patients of the disease on reserve at least 70 percent of Thursday. beds for treatment of Covid-19 The cumulative count of patients. Presiding over a meet- the patients in the state now ing with the representatives of stands at 138010. The authori- the private hospitals at his camp ties also reported the death of office on Thursday, the CM 19 patients on Thursday which emphasised on coordinated increased the death toll to 1972 effort between government and their requirement of ventilators ernment and the state admin- available for Covid patients and in the state. private hospitals in the fight and Oxygen. He claimed that istration is in regular contact in AIIMS Rishikesh 400 beds The health department dis- against the pandemic of Covid- the state government is doing with them. He said that efforts would be activated. The officials charged 1744 patients from 19. He said that optimum util- every possible effort for making to maintain availability of med- said that 80 ICU beds are in different hospitals of the state Nainital district, 229 in Pauri, two from Mahant Indiresh hos- 987, Almora 506, Rudraprayag isation of the government and them available. He suggested icines, other equipment and Mahant Indiresh hospital and following their recovery from 139 in Tehri, 112 in Almora, 84 pital Dehradun and one each 380, Champawat 355, private health facilities should be that the MBBS students and last oxygen are being done. In the 150 beds have been reserved at the disease on Thursday. A in Uttarkashi, 74 in from Base hospital Kotdwar, Uttarkashi 317, Chamoli 275, done. Stressing on manage- year nursing students can serve meeting the CM was informed Cantt board hospital. The meet- total of 106271 patients have Rudraprayag, 72 in Arihant Hospital Dehradun, Bageshwar 197 and ment of available manpower, the in the Covid Care centre of that capacity of Covid care cen- ing was attended by the cabinet recovered from the disease in Champawat, 38 in Pithoragarh Max hospital and Swami Pithoragarh 177 active cases of CM said that it would help in Raipur sports stadium. The tre at Raipur is being increased minister Ganesh Joshi, the state and the recovery per- and 29 in Chamoli district on Bhumanand Hospital Haridwar Covid-19. In the ongoing vac- the case of health workers get- CM directed the district mag- to 100 beds and oxygen support Secretaries Shailesh Bagoli, centage has now dropped to 77 Thursday. on the Thursday. cination drive which is most ting infected. He suggested that istrate (DM) of Dehradun to would also be made available Pankaj Kumar Pandey, DM percent. The sample positivity The health department The state now has 26980 important in safeguarding peo- the people should be prompted ensure safety of the private hos- there. In Coronation hospital Dehradun Ashish Srivastava, rate is 3.98 percent in the state. reported deaths of five patients active patients of the disease. ple against Covid-19, the state to use the e- Sanjivini portal for pitals. 100 bed capacity to treat Covid- VC of Himalayan hospital Vijay In Dehradun 1564 new from All India Institute of Dehradun continues to be at the health department vaccinated OPD services. The CM said that The secretary Amit Negi 19 patients is being developed. Dhasmana and representatives patients of the disease were Medical Sciences (AIIMS) top of the table of active cases 34020 people in different parts the private hospitals should said that the private hospitals are In Himalayan hospital Jollygrant of AIIMS Rishikesh and other reported on Thursday. Rishikesh, four each from of the disease with 9798 of the state on Thursday. In the inform the government about giving full support to the gov- 150 more beds would be made private hospitals. Similarly 666 patients were Government Doon Medical patients, Haridwar has 7398, state 297181 people have been found in Haridwar district, 523 College (GDMC) hospital and Nainital 3131, Udham Singh fully vaccinated so far as they second dose of the vaccine. The (COO) of state Covid-19 con- Tripathi said that 658 vaccine ferent parts of the state on in Udham Singh Nagar, 434 in Himalayan hospital Dehradun, Nagar 2253, Pauri 1206, Tehri have received both the first and Chief Operations Officer trol room, Dr Abhishek sessions were organised in dif- Thursday. *        
 

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s part of measures to check the surge in Covid- A19 cases, the state government has appointed three secretaries as nodal officers for three tasks related to the pandemic. Secretary in-charge Niraj Khairwal has been made the nodal officer for ensur- ing uninterrupted electricity supply to all the oxy- gen manufacturing plants in the state. Under no cir- cumstances will the power supply to these plants be disrupted. Secretary in-charge Vinod Kumar Suman has been made the nodal officer for ensur- ing sanitisation and cleaning arrangements in all the urban local bodies in the state. Elaborate sani- tisation work will be undertaken on every Sunday in every urban local body. Similarly, secretary in- charge HC Semwal has been made the nodal offi- cer for ensuring necessary cleaning, supply of food items and other essential arrangements in rural quarantine centres and Covid care centres for natives returning to Uttarakhand. In the order issued by additional chief secretary Radha Raturi, the home secretary has also been directed to appoint senior police officers as nodal officers or various impor- tant tasks. These include providing adequate secu- rity and regular monitoring in all government and private hospitals/medical col- '()  leges experiencing crowding due to       Covid-19, ensuring Covid appropriate  $ 74* behaviour in markets and other public n what comes as a shot in places, implementing Ithe arm, a total of 345 new the standard operat- medical officers have been ing procedure issued appointed in the Health by the state govern- department through the ment at the state bor- Uttarakhand public service ders for travellers and commission. These doctors natives entering will be posted soon. Chief Uttarakhand and minister Tirath Singh Rawat ensuring observance said that the health services of guidelines issued by of the state will be strength- the health department ened further at a time when for home isolation and the Covid pandemic is being Covid care centres. The tackled. He said that the nodal officers appoint- health services in the state ed for these four tasks are being consistently will ensure effective expanded. The arrival of action in coordination these new doctors will help with the State Disaster the government tackle the Response Force DIG. Covid pandemic, he said. . 8
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erming the stance of the state government dur- Ting Kumbh in Haridwar when lakhs of people from high Covid load states were allowed to enter the state as the reason for the present situation of Covid-19 in Uttarakhand, the Congress party has said that pandemic is going out of control in the state. The vice president of Uttarakhand Congress Surya Kant Dhasmana said that people were allowed without any restriction during Kumbh. He said that everyone was aware that a second wave of the pandemic would strike but the state gov- ernment remained ill prepared to deal with it. Dhasmana who also is in charge of the Covid Control room of the party said that the calls of the people wanting beds for their near and dear one coming to the control room present a horrific picture of the pan- demic. He said that the officials of all the hospitals told him that beds are not available in their hospitals. Similarly the injection Remdesivir and oxygen sup- plies are affected.    !" 

 
 

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  stores, the Union Home shows and vehicle rallies with Ministry has asked the Central immediate effect for the paramilitary forces and the remaining two phases of polls extent above,” the order said.  *$$. police forces in the States and in West Bengal while no pub- The EC has also restricted the the Union Territories to ensure lic meeting having more than limit of persons at any public s US President Joe Biden speedy audit and stock verifi- 500 people would be allowed meeting to 500 for the West Amade a sharp departure cation of their armoury and to after reports of Covid safety Bengal assembly polls. Such from his predecessor Donald destroy all old and condemned norms being flouted during public meetings will be Trump to admit that climate weapons through melting after       Police and Inspectors General campaigning in the State came allowed as per the availabili- change was undeniable and following procedures pre-  
 "   of Police of all States/UTs to the fore. ty of adequate space with pledged a cut in carbon emis- scribed in the Standard #$ %% "   have also been directed to Issuing an order, the EC social distancing norms and sions by 50-52% below 2005 Operating Procedure (SOP) on '" %   conduct expeditious audit and has invoked its plenary pow- adherence to Covid-19 guide- levels by the end of this decade the subject. "  # %    stock verification of their ers under Article 324 to pro- lines, the EC said. Voting for – which would, in turn, mean The move comes after the ' # 
 '% respective armoury and hibit roadshows, padyatras, the two remaining phases of more pressure on India and virtual summit of 40 global “For humanity to combat National Investigation Agency  ' %    destroy the old, obsolete, and cycle/bike/vehicle rallies, the West Bengal assembly China to cut down upon their leaders, Modi also said sus- climate change, concrete action (NIA) investigation has unserviceable and condemned effective immediately. polls will be held on 26 and 29 own — Prime Minister tainable lifestyles and guiding is needed. We need such action revealed that the weapons/parts #       weapons through melting. The order said the com- April. Narendra Modi on Thursday philosophy of “back to basics” at a high speed, on a large scale, are stolen in cannibalised form    After continuous use for mission has noted “with Earlier on Wednesday, the asserted that India’s per capita must be important pillars of and with a global scope. We, in from the stores with connivance over a period of time, all anguish” that many political EC had turned down appeals carbon footprint is 60 per cent the economic strategy for the India, are doing our part,” the of working and retired staff and Territories for adoption weapons used by police or parties and candidates are from TMC leader Derek lower than the global average post-Covid era. Prime Minister said. are assembled outside as com- through a letter on December paramilitary forces become still not adhering to the pre- O’Brien and Congress’s Adir owing to the fact that “our The Prime Minister said he “As a climate-responsible plete weapons. “Such weapons 4, 2018. A detailed proce- unserviceable or obsolete and scribed safety norms during Choudhury to club together lifestyle is rooted in sustainable and President Biden are developing country, India wel- might finally reach the crimi- dure has been laid down in the are no more of use to these the public gatherings and this the remaining three phases of traditional practices”. launching the ‘India-US cli- comes partners to create tem- nals and anti-national elements. SOP for declaring the forces. is making it difficult for the polls. The US, under Trump, mate and clean energy Agenda plates of sustainable develop- Therefore, it has been directed weapons and their associated “In order to ensure effec- state/district election machin- In its order, it said that it had withdrawn from the Paris 2030 partnership’. Humanity is ment in India. These can also to issue instructions to all accessories and spare parts tive inventory management ery to enforce the guidelines. has already issued safety Climate Agreement but Biden battling a global pandemic help other developing coun- States/ CAPFs to conduct a and ammunition which are of with respect to the weapons All previous orders for guidelines for Covid-19, cut showed a renewed commit- right now and this event is a tries, who need affordable detailed audit/stock verification no use to the Force as to avoid and their associated acces- rallies and roadshows stand down on daily campaign ment of more than what was timely reminder that the grave access to green finance and of their armoury to ensure that any pilferage by anti-nation- sories and spare parts and cancelled and only meetings hours and extended the “peri- anticipated from him. His threat of Climate Change has- clean technologies,” he said. the weapons on the inventory al elements. ammunition held by the that are attended by not over od of silence” -- stopping of pledge is double than the 26% n’t disappeared, he pointed At the summit’s opening of all depots are checked and “All CAPFs are accord- CAPFs/SPOs, being the con- 500 people, will be allowed, the campaign before polls -- to 28% reduction by 2025 out adding that “together, we address, Biden said: “We must the probability of their pilferage ingly requested to ensure trolled stores of security the EC stated. “ Now , there- from 48 to 72 to 72 hours. committed by former will help mobilise investments, try to keep the Earth’s tem- is minimised and eventually speedy audit and stock verifi- nature and to avoid any pil- fore, in view of aforesaid and The Calcutta High Court President Barack Obama at the demonstrate clean technolo- perature to an increase of 1.5C. removed. Similarly, for check- cation of their armoury and to ferage/misuse by anti-social taking all materials fact into on Thursday pulled up the Paris agreement in 2015. gies, and enable green collab- The world beyond 1.5 degrees ing the pilferage of parts of old destroy all old and con- elements, the requirement of consideration and in addition Election Commission over its China, US and India are the orations.” means more frequent and and condemned arms, it is demned weapons through an unambiguous procedure to Commission earlier orders, handling of the eight-phase top three polluters in the President Biden had called intense fires, floods, droughts, necessary that such weapons are melting after following due for declaring the weapons and the Commission invoking its election in Bengal in the mid- world. for the summit in March say- heatwaves and hurricanes - destroyed through melting,” procedures as prescribed in their associated accessories power under Article 324 fur- dle of a lethal Covid second “Let us make this a Decade ing that the event will reflect tearing through communities, reads the communication sent the SOP issued by MHA. An and spare parts and ammuni- ther orders from 7 pm on wave.”The Election of Action against climate the “urgency” to stop climate ripping away lives and liveli- to the Central Armed Police action Taken Report in this tion which are of no use to the April 22 in the state of West Commission is empowered change,” Modi said as he change. hoods.” “The signs are unmis- Forces (CAPFs) or regard may be submitted to Forces as unserviceable/obso- Bengal,” the EC said. to act, but what is it doing pitched for concrete action at Modi said India has taken takable, the science is undeni- paramilitary forces and police MHA within 60 days from the lete and their disposal there- “Permission for road about polls in these Covid a “high speed” and on a large “many bold steps” on clean able and the cost of inaction chiefs of all the States and UTs. issue of this letter,” reads the of,” according to the SOP for show, cycle/bike/vehicle rally times? The EC is just passing scale to combat climate change. energy, energy efficiency, keeps mounting,” Biden said in The Union Home recent communication. declaration of weapons and , if granted already stands circulars and leaving it to the Biden, for his part, termed it a afforestation and bio-diversity sharp contrast to Trump who Ministry had formulated an Additional Secretary their associated accessories withdrawn. Permission for people. But the EC has imple- decisive decade. despite its development chal- had junked the climate change SOP and circulated to the (Home), Principal Secretary as condemned and their prop- public meeting if granted menting authority,” the court Addressing a US-hosted lenges. theory. CAPFs, States and Union (Home), Directors General of er disposal. already stands modified to the said.    #%  % / 
  *+(       ( Oxygen Enrichment Unit as 
    
   well as with integrated version with ‘Swasth Vayu’ technolo- 

    gy of CSIR-NAL.      
 Reddy stressed that the unit is essentially required string of holidays, in an  *$$. particularly as ‘Mini ICUs’ at  *$$. attempt to curb surging   >  *$$. Laboratories (P) Ltd, tiplied through the adoption of small hospitals and isolation COVID-19 infections. pposition leaders have Kushaiguda, Hyderabad and this in-situ and decentralised centres and at remote villages fter Japanese Prime Prime Minister Yoshihide Oquestioned the Centre’s here’s good news for the the CSIR-CMERI which has generation of Oxygen,” he said. and places. By use of Oxygen AMinister Yoshihide Suga Suga is set to finalise the deci- Covid-19 vaccine policy TCovid-19 infected patients already invited Expression of The Director added that Concentrators, the optimum and UK PM Boris Johnson, it sion at a task force meeting on terming it as anti-people and gasping for breath due to acute Interest (EOI) from Indian further research is going on to utilization of oxygen to the is Russian Deputy Prime Friday, as a resurgence of infec- discriminatory and demand- shortage of medical oxygen in companies / manufacturing develop a pulse dose mode needy patients may also be Minister Yury Borisov whose tions puts pressure on the ed that the vaccination should various hospitals across the agencies/ MSMEs / start ups which is capable of sensing the ensured. If this facility is pro- scheduled visit to India later medical system with just three be free for eligible citizens. country. for manufacturing oxygen breathing pattern of a patient vided to COVID patients at this month has been post- months until the Tokyo While Congress president Scientists from CSIR- enrichment units through and then deliver during the initial stage, their visits to poned due to the ongoing Olympics kick off, it said.. Sonia Gandhi wrote to Prime CMERI (Central Mechanical technology transfer. inhalation only. This mode is hospitals and further ventila- Covid-19 crisis. For his part, British Prime Minister Narendra Modi Engineering Research Prof. (Dr.) Harish Hirani, supposed to reduce the oxygen tory support may be avoided Borisov was to visit here Minister Boris Johnson can-  *$$. terming the policy as arbitrary Institute), Durgapur, West Director, CSIR-CMERI said demand by around 50% when in most of the cases. for the India-Russia intergov- celled his visit next week in and discriminatory and urged Bengal, have developed that the unit requires easily compared with the current It was also felt that the use ernmental commission for view of the alarming Covid-19 he Indo-Tibetan Border him to intervene immediate- ‘Oxygen Enrichment’ tech- available oil free reciprocating version of continuous mode. of such units is also safe and trade, economic, cultural, and situation in India. He was TPolice (ITBP) is re-oper- ly to reverse it, West Bengal nology which is capable of compressor, Oxygen grade Jaipal Reddy of Apollo easier considering the recent scientific cooperation. His scheduled to arrive on April 25. ationalising the Sardar Patel Chief Minister Mamata delivering medical air in the zeolite sieves and pneumatic Computing Laboratories said risk factors involved with the postponement of the visit is He will now hold a `virtual’ Covid Care Centre at Banerjee too, through a letter, range of up to 15 LPM (litres components. “If required, this that the first prototype would Oxygen Cylinders. attributed to the Covid-19 dialogue with Prime Minister Chhattarpur here with an ini- urged the PM to make the per minute) with oxygen puri- unit can even deliver up to 70 be developed within 10 days Over the past few weeks, surge in India. Narendra Modi in the coming tial capacity of 500 oxygenat- vaccine free for all. ty of more than 90 per cent. LPM at a purity of around 30 and the production would be many breathless Covid-19 Earlier, Suga, who too was days. ed beds amid the the surge in In her letter, Sonia alleged This is expected to meet the per cent and can safely be started from the second week patients have died due to the scheduled to arrive here in the This is the second time that Covid-19 cases in the nation- that the new vaccine policy oxygen demand and minimise placed in the isolation ward of of May. unavailability of medical oxy- last week of April, had to post- the British Prime Minister’s al Capital. implies that the central gov- the supply chain problem of the hospital for patients who “We have presently the gen in hospitals situated in pone his plans to focus on han- visit was cancelled. He was The move comes after ernment has abdicated its transportation and storage are in dire need of Oxygen. manufacturing capacity of 300 Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, dling the recent surge in coro- invited as the Chief Guest for Delhi Government sought responsibility of providing risks related to oxygen cylin- “This will help the acces- units per day which may be Maharashtra, Gujarat and navirus cases in Japan. this year’s Republic Day parade. medical officers and para free vaccine to all Indians ders. sibility of Oxygen in the augmented on demand,” he Madhya Pradesh besides a few The Japanese government However, he postponed his medical staff from the Union between 18 and 45 years of On Thursday, the tech- remotest places and widest said adding that the company other States. Demand is rising is considering a state of emer- visit due to the outbreak of Home Ministry to man the age. nology was transferred virtu- points of need. The Outreach is planning to develop the each passing day due to a sharp gency for Tokyo and Osaka as corona in the UK then. Sardar Patel Covid Care “It is surprising that ally to Apollo Computing Factor of Oxygen will be mul- unit both as stand alone as rise in Covid-19 cases. the number of new coron- Giving details of the latest Centre at Chhatarpur, which despite the harsh lessons of avirus cases increase. postponement, the ministry of is being re-operationalised. last year and the pain inflict- According to Kyodo News, external affairs said here on The Home Ministry has ed on our citizens, the in 10 days that Sonia wrote to citizens between the age group benefit of a uniform price for COVID-19 vaccination’ strat- the Japanese government is Monday Johnson will not visit designated ITBP as Nodal Government continues to fol- Modi with her demands of 18 and 45 years. This is vaccination, Sonia urged Modi egy is biased in favour of the considering placing Tokyo and India next week in view of the Force for operating the facil- low an arbitrary and discrim- amidst the pandemic. complete abandonment of the to intervene immediately and market and against the inter- three western prefectures of coronavirus pandemic. The ity and the paramilitary can inatory policy, which promis- “The policy implies that Government’s responsibility “reverse this ill-considered est of people, Banerjee said Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo ministry spokesperson draw medical and paramed- es to exacerbate existing chal- the Government of India has towards our youth,” she said. decision”. that manufacturers should under a state of emergency Arindam Bagchi said the deci- ical staff from other paramil- lenges,” she said in her letter. abdicated its responsibility to Noting that any reason- Terming the Centre’s new not do business with vaccines from Sunday to May 11, cov- sion was taken as per mutual itary forces if required to run This is the second letter with- provide free vaccination for able person will agree on the ‘liberalised and accelerated at this hour of crisis. ering the country’s upcoming agreement by both sides. the Centre. “A deliberation in this regards took place at the Centre this evening by ITBP 
',    $  "  officials with all stakeholders    '   ,   and the ITBP will try to open it as soon as possible and the # ,-    '#   target is less than three days %   to start its functioning,” a     rine, went missing during a mil- edged and appreciated India’s senior ITBP official said.  *$$. itary exercise around the Bali support to his country. The national capital has Strait on Wednesday. It was “I have already directed been witnessing a surge in    he Indian Navy has sent a reportedly engaged in an exer- the @indiannavy to move its coronavirus cases with over
      Tspecialised vessel for search cise 25 to 30 km north of Bali. Deep Submergence Rescue 24,000 fresh COVID-19 cases  *$$. are estimated 48.34 lakh central and rescue mission of an Some other countries besides Vessel (DSRV) to Indonesia. I and 249 deaths being record- government employees,  &  &  56.5 Tapan in North Bengal won- Indonesian submarine missing India like Singapore, Australia have also tasked the Indian Air ed on Wednesday. The spiral he Centre on Thursday according to an official data. All dered “is it a joke that one gov- since Wednesday morning with and Malaysia are also likely to Force to see the feasibility of in the cases has led to short- Tasked all its employees to citizens of 18 years and above engal Chief Minister ernment will buy it for Rs 150 53 crew members on board. pitch in for the search and res- induction of the DSRV inter- age of oxygen and hospital get themselves vaccinated so as will be eligible for COVID-19 BMamata Banerjee has once and another will have to buy it The submarine was taking part cue mission. vention system by air,” he said. beds here. to effectively contain the spread vaccine from May 1. At present, again attacked Prime Minister for Rs 400 and the privatehos- in a naval drill off the coast of Defence Minister Rajnath Under the framework of “There will be 500 beds of Covid-19. A Department of those above 45 years and above Narendra Modi questioning pitals will get it for Rs 600… Bali. Singh also spoke to his comprehensive strategic part- which will be operationalized Personnel Ministry order said are eligible for the inoculation. the discriminatory nature of why is it being commercialized India is one of the few Indonesian counterpart General nership between India and initially but in future the the Government has been The Personnel Ministry his new corona vaccine policy … isit being done to serve the countries in the world which Prabowo Subianto and assured Indonesia, the two navies share number of beds may be monitoring the situation very had earlier this month asked all and accusing his Government interests of some business has the specialized vessel called him of all support. a strong partnership of opera- increased,” an official said. closely, and it has been decid- central government employees of promoting commercialisa- interest.” She asked “why the Deep Submergence Rescue “Spoke to the Defence tional cooperation. The SPCCC was opera- ed to vaccinate all the citizens of the age of 45 years and above tion of vaccines in an hour of States will have to pay 167 per- Vessel (DSRV) for locating a Minister of Indonesia, General Highlighting the features of tionalised in June-July last who have attained the age of 18 to get themselves vaccinated. crisis. Questioning why the cent more price than the submarine in distress at sea. Prabowo Subianto over the the Indian DSRV, officials said year and closed on February years and above. They were further advised to Centre should be given to Centre?” when they were Giving details of the deploy- phone and shared my pain it is fitted with latest technolo- 23 during which it treated Accordingly, “all central continue to follow COVID- purchase vaccines for Rs 150 doing the same work: that is to ment of the DSRV inducted into over the news of missing sub- gy and it has a side-scan sonar 11,657 coronavirus-infected government employees are appropriate behaviour, even whereas the same vaccine serve the common man. the Navy in 2018, Navy officials marine Nanggala and its crew for locating the position of patients referred from various advised to get themselves vac- after vaccination, particularly, should be sold to the States for The Chief Minister also said here it left for Bali on members. India is extending its submarines in distress at sea. hospitals during the seven cinated so as to effectively con- frequent washing of hands/ Rs 400 Banerjee said New wrote a strongly worded letter Thursday from Visakhapatnam full support to the ongoing The Indian Navy sent the and a half months period tain the spread of COVID- 19. sanitisation, maintenance of Delhi’s policy was not only dis- to the PrimeMinister raising to support the Indonesian Indonesian rescue efforts,” DSRV following an alert it when it was operational. Further, they may continue to social distancing and masking criminatory, anti-federal but it her objections and saying that Navy’s efforts to locate its diesel- Rajnath tweeted. received through the The SPCCC with a capac- follow COVID protocols, even etc. The employees have also was also “anti-people, anti- her Government would start powered submarine. He also said India is always International Submarine Escape ity of 10,000 was touted to be after vaccination” said the order been advised to continue fol- poor andanti-federal.” vaccinisation of the people According to Indonesian committed to assist its strategic and Rescue Liaison Office the country’s biggest Covid issued to all the central gov- lowing Covid-appropriate The Chief Minister while free of cost from first week of authorities, the KRI Nanggala- partners during times of need (ISMERLO) about the missing care center before it’s closure ernment departments. There behaviour. addressing an election rally at May. 402, a German-made subma- and that Subianto has acknowl- Indonesian submarine. in February this year. .    !"

      ( 3   +       34 5    4                      -2       #                Melbourne: Australian Prime Minister Scott
  !  ;<<4 February, 2021 for a successful con- Morrison on Thursday announced a 30-per cent London: Heathrow Airport in duct of the pilgrimage which is reduction in flights coming from high-risk London, the UK's largest and ue to worsening Covid-19 sit- expected to start from 28th June, Covid-19 nations like India, following an alarm- busiest airport, has declined  &  &  56.5 in the skirmish, the ECI sources violence polling was brisk with Duation across different parts of 2021. The decision has been taken ing rise in coronavirus cases in institutionalised requests from at least four said. 77.76 percent voters turning out India the Amarnathji Shrine Board to check any unnecessary gather- quarantine centres in the country. international aircraft carriers to he sixth phase of polling Elsewhere at Aushgram in at North 24 Parganas. In North on Thursday decided to temporar- ings" , the statement read. After a national Cabinet meeting in land eight extra flights from Ttook place in Bengal on Birbhum a BJP candidate was Dinajpur 75.94 percent voters ily suspend registrations for this Meanwhile, 1965 fresh cases of Canberra, Morrison said: "What we have agreed India on Thursday, Thursday with 79.09 per cent vot- allegedly beaten up by the TMC came to vote whereas the polling year’s Amarnathji Yatra with imme- coronavirus were reported across to -- and this particularly relates to the chartered ahead of the coronavirus pan- ers exercising their franchise men whereas the saffron workers percentage at diate effect. Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday services we''re running into the demic "red list" travel ban amid stray violence and police fir- attacked TMC men at Habra in Nadia was 82.67 percent. In The registration process was taking the total tally of active pos- Northern Territory -- we will be reducing by some which comes into force from ing that left at least two persons North 24 Parganas. East Burdwan the percentage of launched across different bank itive cases to 16094.Several senior 30 per cent the numbers coming Friday. hurt at Bagda in North 24 Similarly a Trinamool office polling was 82.15 which was branches from April 1 to enable pil- doctors at Government Medical through our chartered services in the months The airport said the deci- Parganas. The polling rate was was attacked at North Dum Dum likely to go up further by sever- grims to register themselves for this college hospital in Jammu, IAS offi- ahead." sion to decline requests for likely to go higher as there were whereas BJP and TMC men al percentage points, sources year's pilgrimage beginning June 28. cer and spokesman of the Jammu The reduction would apply to both govern- additional flights was taken to many people standing in the fought with bombs at several said. Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board and Kashmir government Rohit ment-organised repatriation flights and com- ensure that the existing pres- queues when reports last came in areas of Bhatpara, Jagaddal and Polling on Thursday was was anticipating an estimated foot- Kansal tested positive. mercial flights into Sydney, ABC News report- sures on the border at 5 pm. Titagarh, sources said adding conducted at 14,480 polling sta- fall of around 6 lakh during the yatra Also 08 COVID-19 deaths have ed. are not "exacerbated", result- At Bagda the police had to however that none was injured in tions in 43 Assembly con- period this year. In a statement, been reported, 02 from Jammu While the list of high-risk countries was still ing in long queues and crowds fire three rounds, Election the fight. stituencies across parts of North spokesman of the Shri Amarnathji Division and 06 from Kashmir being finalised, Morrison said the announcement at passport control on Commission of India sources At least six persons, includ- 24 Parganas, Nadia, Uttar Shrine Board Thursday said, Division in the last 24 hours. To con- was made keeping in view India''s worsening sec- arrival. said adding the police had to fire ing a child, were injured at Dinajpur and East Bardhaman. "Considering the evolving situation tain the spread of the virus, the dis- ond wave of the coronavirus. India's addition to the to disperse a crowd of about 250 Titagarh after bombs were hurled Among the 306 candidates across the country and Union ter- trict magistrate in Jammu notified India registered over 3.14 lakh new coron- travel "red list" was announced people that had assembled and indiscriminately police said. A whose political fate will be decid- ritory alike, it was decided to defer five more areas as micro contain- avirus cases on Thursday, the highest-ever sin- in the House of Commons attacked the sector office. The large posse of police personnel ed during this phase are heavy- registrations for the Amarnathji ment zones. The district adminis- gle-day count recorded in any country, taking the earlier this week amid 103 angry locals were allegedly and CPF jawans rushed to the weights such as BJP’s national Yatra 2021". It was informed that the tration in Srinagar and across other total tally of COVID-19 cases in the country to cases recorded in the UK of a protesting against the police inac- area following the incident. vice-president Mukul Roy, TMC situation is being constantly moni- district headquarters have been 1,59,30,965. new variant of coronavirus tion against the TMC goons who There were intermittent ministers Jyotipriyo Mallick and tored and the registrations will roped in to spread the awareness "We will also be limiting the departure excep- first detected in India. Health had earlier vandalized a local BJP clashes between TMC and ISF Chandrima Bhattacharya, reopen once the COVID spread is among the masses regarding appro- tions for Australians travelling to high-risk Secretary Matt Hancock told camp office. workers at Amdanga in North 24 CPI(M) leader Tanmay reviewed as the situation evolves. priate Covid19 behaviour and countries … to India. As time goes on, and the MPs that the decision had The officer in-charge of Parganas with each side blaming Bhattacharya and film director Board had commenced regis- adhering to the guidelines besides pandemic continues to rage, there are countries been made after studying the Bagda police station and some the other for bombing. Raj Chakraborty who is fighting trations on 1st April, and the participating in the ongoing vacci- that are frankly of greater risk than others," data and on a “precautionary other policemen had been injured Notwithstanding, sporadic on a Trinamool ticket. arrangements were on track since nation drive. Morrison said. PTI basis”. PTI 122)    "   &
40  5 00/ #            "&     56 KGMOA, on Thursday has categorically stat- ed that Kerala’s infrastructure to take care of    !   . 87 Wednesday night. The family      6  s the number of new Covid-19 patients the Covid-19 pandemic is poor and sub-stan- members of the deceased alleged Atouched the 27,000 mark on Thursday, dard. ive Covid positive patients that there death was due to lack of   .4 5*6 and his media advisors for got one. the one and only organisation representing The KGMOA, the only service organi- Fdied in SJD hospital of Aligarh oxygen. They also created a ruckus medical assistance as his oxy- Ankit Shukla, 32, died ear- the Government Doctors in Kerala came out sation representing all categories of doctors due to lack of oxygen on wednes- in the hospital. hortage of ventilators, oxy- gen levels kept going down, but lier this week of Covid while in the open exposing the shortcomings in the in Health Services and the moto of which is day night. The administration has After the information on the Sgen cylinders and hospital help came only after he passed Waseem left for another world Department of Health and the lacuna in pre- “Save Health Services, Fight for Quality; For been shaken by the reported death death of patients due to lack of beds has led to the death of away. on Wednesday. ventive measures that led to the unprece- the Members and For the Society” has told of five patients at SJD Hospital in oxygen, the Chief Medical Officer, over half-a-dozen journalists Tavishi Srivastava, the Pramod Srivastava, 48, the dented hike in the number of patients suf- the chief minister in no uncertain terms that the city at intervals of few hours. Dr. BP Singh Kalyani has sent in Lucknow in the past 10 days. political editor of 'Pioneer', newly elected member of the fering from the pandemic. the public health infrastructure in the State The family members of the dead ACMO Dr. Anupam Bhaskar to All these scribes had to could not get admitted to a hos- UP State Accredited Journalist “On Thursday, the number of persons is ill prepared to conduct mass tests ordered created a furore, alleging death due SJD Hospital late in the night to struggle for hours to get admit- pital after she complained of Committee 2021, elections for diagnosed with Covid-19 reached 26,995 by the State Government. to lack of oxygen. Late night the check the veracity. A large num- ted to the hospitals after they breathless. which were held on March 21, while the Test Positivity Ratio stood at 19.97,” Kerala is experiencing an alarming Health Department officials along ber of police forces was also developed Covid symptoms. For hours on April 18, her died last month due to Covid. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said in his increase in the number of Covid-19 cases with the police team have reached deployed on the spot. Shyam, the Some of them arranged colleagues tried to arrange for At least a dozen journalists late evening media interaction. since the conclusion of the assembly elections the spot. brother of one of the deceased, for oxygen cylinders on their an oxygen cylinder and med- at present are Covid infected Kerala Government Medical Officers held on April 6. “The RT-PCR Testing Looking after the allegations says that the brother and others own but, could not get venti- ical aid. Finally, a senior jour- and battling for better medical Association, the umbrella organization of Facility in the State is overstretched and it of the relatives, the DM has died due to lack of oxygen. lator support. nalist from Delhi managed to facilities. More than 20 family doctors in Government Service broke silence takes days to get the final result. At this junc- ordered for inquiry in this case. The dead included 54-year-old Sacchidanand Gupta of get her admitted to the King members of scribes are also for the first time in the last 18 months on ture, the order by the Government to hike Corona patients are undergo- Sarita Rani of Jaiganj, Mukesh, a 'Jadeed Amal', an Urdu news- George's Medical University, hospitalised at currently. Thursday and questioned the acts and the number of tests is highly dangerous and ing treatment with administrative 30-year-old youth from Akarabad, paper, passed away on April 14 but it was already too late as she Journalists' unions are now deeds of the State administration in handling impractical. We do not have the human permission at the 40-bed SJD 50-year-old Anil Kashyap from because he could not get ven- passed away hours later. demanding that beds should be the Covid-19 pandemic. resources to carry out Mass Tests. The per- Hospital near Dhanipur Mandi Mahendranagar as primary tilator support on time. Pawan Mishra, a young reserved for scribes and the A letter addressed to the Chief Minister sonnel manning the health services are over- ahead of Etah Chungi. The death teacher in Mathura, 50-year-old Vinay Srivastava, a veteran journalist, died two days ago. state government should also by Dr G S Vijayakrishnan , president and Dr worked and overstrained,” said the KGMOA of five patients, one by one, took Jayveer from Sikandararau and journalist, kept tweeting to His family claims that he need- recognise them as Corona war- T N Suresh, general secretary of the letter. place at a gap of a few hours on Lalit Prasad. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ed ventilator support but never riors.   !       0 .1 *#  0  8 
   &   <4<( ing right treatment to the cination, it is uncertain whether those eligible. We need to organ- 
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 B patients. Why, then, should the we can ensure availability of vac- ise the management of this lamming the Centre’s deci- central government control the cines in sufficient numbers to pandemic very carefully,” Raj Panaji: Goa's prime beach vil- which have been coded pink in Ssion to control the purchase purchase and distribution of provide for the vaccination of all said.  lages, namely Baga, Calangute the study in the North Goa dis- and distribution of Remdesivir Remdesivir?,” the MNS chief and Anjuna, have been identified trict. vials, MNS chief Raj Thackeray asked. Maintaining that it was Amaravati: More than one lakh eligible people in Andhra as "very high risk areas" in North The study formed the base of on Thursday told Prime "heartbreaking" to see the spurt    .$/#
 Pradesh availed the Aarogyasri health scheme to undergo Goa with high chance of con- Chief Minister Pramod Sawant's Minister Narendra Modi in no in the death rate while the free coronavirus treatment in corporate hospitals. tracting Covid-19, according to decision on Wednesday to uncertain terms that “the situ- images of queues of dead bod-
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% Within a few days of the pandemic striking the state, the the findings of GPS mapping impose a night curfew from 10 ation is grim and terrifying”, ies awaiting their turn in Gujarat Mumbai: Flagging once again been receiving only 36,000 government included Covid as one of the diseases for which exercise of Covid-19 cases con- p.m. to 6 a.m. up to April 30. “our health system has col- and other states were "very dis- the contentious issue of dis- injections per day and now”. eligible patients can avail free treatment if the hospital bill ducted by the state's top govern- Most of the areas identified lapsed”, “this is not the time to turbing", the MNS chief said: crimination against “According to the new allot- exceeds Rs 1,000. ment hospital. in the study, which has mapped indulge in petty politics” and "The situation is very grim and Maharashtra in the allocation of ment, Maharashtra will receive In total, 1,00,033 patients in the southern state got Covid The three beach villages cur- the expanse of the state with use “we must come together and terrifying. This is not the time Covid 19-related medicines only 26,000 #Remdesivir injec- treatment through this scheme, with the government rently top the list of long-staying of GPS, as "very high risk areas" face the situation collectively”. to indulge in petty politics. We and materials to it, the MVA tions per day and this therefore spending Rs 309 crore. tourists and work-for-home pro- are located in the populated and In a letter written to the must come together and face the Government on Thursday root- will create further crisis in our In many cases, the treatment cost of a beneficiary was fessionals who have descended tourism-friendly coastal belt of Prime Minister on the issue of situation collectively”. ed for the allotment of 50,000 state which has a high number higher than their entire family's annual income. on Goa over the last few months, Goa, which is home to its popu- allowing the states to purchase “We have not witnessed a vials of Remdesivir as against of #Covid cases,” Malik said. "For instance, the government approved a sum of Rs 5.8 especially from metros in wake of lar beaches. and distribute Remedesivir and health emergency of this mag- 26,000 vials of the life saving “We demand that the cen- lakh towards the medical bills of 49-year-old Ramanaiah the pandemic. Goa has witnessed a deluge other essential drugs and mate- nitude in the history of our injections earmarked to the tral government allot us our Manda, a resident of Nellore district who availed free treat- In South Goa district, of Covid-19 cases over the last rials required for Covid-19, Raj country in the last 10-0 years. state. requirement of 50,000 injections ment at the Apollo Specialty Hospitals," said an official. Fatorda, a suburb of Margao, one few weeks, in sync with the said: "I fail to understand why The challenge we face is a big- In a series of tweets put per day and thus fulfill the Similarly, Rs 4.6 lakh was approved for the treatment of of the biggest towns in the state, infection patterns witnessed in the Central Government has ger one,” the MNS chief said in against the Centre over the requirements of the citizens of 58-year-old Sheikh Nazeer. the port city of Vasco da Gama most parts of the country. decided to control the pur- his letter without mincing short supply of Remdesivir vials Maharashtra,” the minister "Considering the fact that one's family income should and Gogol, another Margao sub- As of Thursday, the state chase and distribution of words. to Maharashtra by the Centre, added. be below Rs 5 lakh per annum in order to be eligible under urb, top the list of "very high risk has reported 1,410 new Covid Remdesivir. It is the state gov- “Our health system has col- Minorities Affairs Minister and This is not for the first time this scheme, one can only imagine how the respective fam- areas". cases over the last 24 hours, ernment's machinery - its health lapsed. The speed of testing has senior State NCP leader Nawab that Malik has lambasted the ilies would be subjected to immense financial turmoil if they The study conducted by the during which 21 persons have department, local institutions slowed, hospitals do not have Malik said: “Central govern- Centre for its “discriminatory had to spend their entire annual income on the treatment," Goa Medical College, the state's died. such as municipal corporations sufficient beds, essential medi- ment has just released the allo- attitude” towards the he highlighted. apex government health facility, The state currently has a and staff at all levels that are at cines such as Remdesivir are not cation data of #Remdesvir injec- Maharashtra government over Aarogyasri was first introduced in the southern state by has also identified urban hubs positivity rate of 36.09 per cent. the forefront of this crisis". available and the life saving sup- tion to various states in our the supply of Remdesivir vials Y. S. Rajasekhar Reddy during his term as the chief minis- like Porvorim and St Inez, both So far, 10,228 persons have test- “They (the state govern- ply of Oxygen is disrupted,” he country. #Maharashtra requires and also threatened to seize the ter between 2004-09, enabling many poor people to avail free suburbs of the state capital, and ed positive for Covid-19 since the ment machinery) are working said. 50,000 injections per day, which stocks of Remdesivir from the treatment in corporate hospitals. IANS Mapusa as "very high risk areas", pandemic broke out. IANS with utmost dedication and “Though much larger pop- our government has been exporting firms and supply facing daily challenges of ensur- ulation is now eligible for vac- demanding. So far we have them to the needy people.         - 
  0            

"&    56 quiz shows resplendent with which we would not have got *    quiz master, scorer and expert from regular classes,” said Agartala: At least 31 Covid he indefinite close down of members. Lakshmi, an upcoming TV positive patients from other Teducational institutions On Thursdays and artist. states have fled from a tempo- which has forced them to stay Sundays, they are joined by It is not the children alone rary care centre in Tripura on indoors due to the pandemic, corporate honchos, teachers, who take part in these webi- Thursday and police launched a collective of 45 children in the professionals like engineers, nars. “Their parents are equal- a massive search to trace them, 10-15 age group drawn from lawyers and medical doctors to ly or more interested in watch- officials said. the States of Kerala, Tamil share with them about the ing live the intellectual prowess Sub-Divisional Police Nadu and Karnataka are mak- lively experience they had in of their wards,” said Asok, who Officer (SDPO) Anirban Das ing the maximum out of the their careers. logs in at sharp 6.55 am in spite said that these people escaped lock down period. “We do not feel any sense of the chilling weather of from the Covid Care Centre at While parents, teachers of loneliness or unhappiness as Coorg. the Panchayat Raj Training and psychologists burn mid- the on-line sessions fill our In addition to quiz com- Institute at Arundhuti Nagar night oil trying to find a solu- minds with more than what we petition, the children stage on the outskirts of Agartala tion to any psychological crisis get from schools,” said scenes from famous Malayalam early on Thursday. affecting these children, Swagatha who along with plays which has brought them "We have alerted all possi- Lakshmi Roy and Swagatha, Lakshmi anchor the shows. closer to the classical literary ble places including railway sta- two students of 12 years of age They are guided by Asok, works of yester years. “I am tions and airports. Search is on decided to launch their own a teacher from the Sainik sure they will not find wanti- to locate the fleeing Covid on-line group as an School at Coorg. “Because of ng when they are probed about positive patients," Das avenue to express their extra- these on-line meetings, we their familiarity with the clas- said. curricular passions like read- learnt Aithihyamaala , a col- sics in Malayalam,” said Bimal A health official said that ing, acting and of course lection of legendary stories in Roy. the 31 people from Uttar quizzing. Malayalam authored by Some of the children who Pradesh, Haryana and The result? Every morning Kottarathil Sankunni. were reluctant to wake up in Rajasthan came to Tripura at 7 all of them assemble for an The series Parayipetta the morning have developed recently to attend the on-line session of one hour Panthirukulam, which we the habit of waking up early to interview for recruitment as where they sing, act, recite the learnt from these legendary be ready for their little but riflemen in the Tripura State poems they like and conduct stories is a new experience important webinars. Rifles (TSR). IANS  ,           
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So while the obedient citizens believed what            was being fed to them, they +                    utilised their time making                  #    Dalgona coffee at home. They           )              banged plates, lit candles and sacrificed their daily wages in declared by showing how lockdown did little to prepare as the smartest move last             !" !#         the belief that they were being our country fared so much our health infrastructure for year? Confusing to me.     B7C              $. (; #   protected from the tentacles of better than the rest. If the the tsunami facing us today. If the March 2020 lock- +                  ( a deadly virus. Time spent with- ‘Great Indian Lockdown’ was In such a case, what did the down was not a mistake, it        5E5    *    *>+!    ( out social contact would van- about preparing the health lockdown achieve? Very little. definitely cannot be a mistake quish the virus was the war cry, system, then shouldn’t the It did not vanquish the virus, in April 2021. However, since       .            for some time. nation have been served a it did not adequately prepare it does not seem to be a tool         O      .     ( As time passed, reality slow- graph of additional hospital our health system but it def- for the Government in the      9     .           ( ly dawned that the ‘Great Indian beds, ventilators, oxygen initely destroyed the liveli- current crisis just yet, isn’t that                      ( Lockdown’ in no way could capacity and the like to keep hoods of millions. an admission that it erred in extinguish the virus. The the citizens informed of the Personally, I have never March last year? The sad part   :  *>+!   ;  ;        P     Government’s narrative conve- work being done to prepare  $N87$ * * been an advocate of lock- is that they are erring again.   Q ;            *S    %   niently changed to the lock- for the worst? It is hard for .6 56*O- downs. Each one must eval- However, this time, by not                       down being an instrument to normal folk to accept a mis- (6407$07 *8 uate one’s own risks and act enforcing one. The happen-                      prepare the health system to take, and even harder for the accordingly by imposing a ings over the last year remind      $  +    +    ( cope. Now, this made sense — Governments to do so.  $ $. self-lockdown when required. me of a game we played as a lot of sense. The obedient cit- Rather than admitting to an However, if there is ever a children, called “musical                    izens never questioned this nar- error in judgement, a -9-$< $* greater reason and logic for a chairs”. The Government  *>+!          rative, since it genuinely had a changed narrative from “let’s - 64.*O $ stringent lockdown, it is now. seems to be caught on the lot of merit to it. For the com- kill the virus” to “we are I have constantly maintained wrong side of the chair each mon man, the changing narra- preparing the health system” * 6* :$($$* that lockdowns simply reduce time the music stops playing. -"#$ tive explaining the reasons for worked as a convenient expla- the pace of spread of the As most of us juggle mul- the lockdown was immaterial as nation. I, for one, hoped that -$7:$870 virus. They never complete- tiple calls for help from fam- long as the end justified the the changed stance truly 6  6*. ly eradicate it or stop its ily and friends, television means. A short crisp lockdown reflected the Government’s spread. Thus, a lockdown is grabs of religious ceremonies was probably the need of the intent. Sadly, I was wrong. 6-0 .($- unfortunately necessary only and election rallies seem to hour in late March 2020 to bet- Cut to the present. If the :$* .67- and only when the health sys- mock us. Do we deserve this? ter prepare the health infra- Government presumably tem is running at capacity. Who is to blame for our structure. There can hardly be acted prudently and helped 6E98$* 0 9 And it is running to more predicament? The virus, the a debate on this. prepare the health system in * $. 5$6 than capacity now. The time Government’s response or us But what explains the sud- those 68 days and the ensu- to save lives is now, not when who cast our ballots — the 1.4 denness of it all when hospitals ing period of another 200+ 5$$0 $  =$*- our hospital capacity was billion? Think hard about it. were empty and deaths a frac- days since ‘Unlock 1’, then chugging along at 30 per Let’s hope and pray that tion of where we are today? what explains the current *67<$6 cent or so, in April 2020. With lives as well as livelihoods are What explains the painful and mess? Even for the uninitiat-  $675($ *8 the hospitals bursting at saved. Sadly, as it is playing prolonged 68 days of being ed, it simply means that the seams, the Union out, it seems neither lives nor shut down? The only number preparation was grossly inad- 6*$607$07$ Government in its wisdom livelihoods are safe. the Government seemed to be equate and the forecasting 67 $67-F thinks that lockdowns don't (The writer is ‘an ordinary bothered about then was the even worse. The time spent in help. Really? Wasn’t the ‘Great concerned citizen’. The views infection graph. Victory was lockdown and the time post- Indian Lockdown’ presented expressed are personal.) / 13-/ SOUNDBITE   #      

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         # 
 Sir — In what may be called an era-defin- 
 
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 0  ing day for the US, police officer Derek  # Chauvin was found guilty of the murder    
 # of George Floyd, a black security guard    
    
  7R  8+$+ % %      who had lost his job during the pandem- # K    
I     # ic. The episode was followed by simmer-   #    3 ,  % 9      ing racial tension across the country, trig-    @655$ 6 gering mass protests under the umbrella  #      K7 8         (          of ‘Black Lives Matter’. %                   !  $       * There is an important takeaway for  
   I 0 )           +       ( India here. Floyd was killed in May 2020;       I 7                   #    the country’s justice delivery system   8O #    worked fast. Chauvin was found guilty by       O     8
        +            a court in less than a year following a trial 8         

#   +           which was covered widely by the media. G < ) L.       
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                        requisite to build trust in a system.        
               Contrarily, the Indian judicial system’s   
#       I backlog running into millions of cases                  (        (   # builds distrust among its citizens.      
#      +     $    -S    Another aspect of the trial that is rel-    % 
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# evant is the nature of police response. 6:655 6     S     (  ( Floyd was picked up following an allega- vaccines, medicines and oxygen to win the         battle against the second wave of K<          (.     tion that he used a counterfeit note of $20 Sir — I am aged 71 years and got my first to buy cigarettes. The sequence of events Coronavirus. The Opposition, including dose of Covaxin at a private hospital on      $       +  led to Chauvin kneeling on his neck for 9 the Congress and the NCP, often get dis- March 24 just to avoid crowds at the  O
 /   *(- !   , 0   1+/2*03     #   minutes and 29 seconds, unmindful of the appointed with Modi’s speech, which cre- Government hospitals where it was being        45  65 +         )   78 victim repeatedly saying, “I can’t breathe.” ated a storm on social media as many peo- provided free of cost. But now the hospi-      ple were expecting some relief which they #
  9         -         +/2*0S The prosecution’s evidence included a tal where I took the jab has been declared police chief who observed that Chauvin didn’t get. On the other hand, many a COVID hospital and going there for the                   "     75 ( Twitter users were relieved that Modi did- second dose is highly risky for senior cit-     violated protocol. India has often seen cus-  #                          75 todial deaths and other police excesses. n’t announce a complete lockdown. izens like me. The situation will deterio-          :  -           Similarly, in the US, it’s hard to get a con- He also stated that the Government rate after the ongoing six-day lockdown in was putting in all efforts to save lives. The the Capital is lifted. $ :%8$6             *     ,-   viction of police officers who violate K-0 norms. We hope the George Floyd trial will PM was very sympathetic towards all Arrangements should be made by the       +                  catalyse some change here too, to hold the those families who have lost their loved authorities concerned to provide the vac-           S             ( rogue police officers to account. ones to the virus. Further, he assured that cination at homes at least for the senior cit-         ; $ < *            N Sadhasiva Reddy | Bengaluru the pharma sector is very robust and it has izens and other special categories. Also, the 8
 increased the production of medicines Delhi Government should set up separate 
                 0             manifold. He said he had held detailed dis- centres across Delhi for providing the vac-  
                       Sir — Prime Minister Narendra Modi has cussions with the pharma industry lead- cination to senior citizens.       9                     stated that lockdown should be the last ers for enhancing drug production. It’s Madhu Agarwal | New Delhi                          resort and the focus must be on creation good that from May 1, all citizens above -# 18 years will be eligible for vaccination.     #  0 $@$$B5%6 =      0          of micro-containment zones. He assured K5 7 the country that there is enough stock of Anshita Rochwani | Ujjain %%65%86?@:$<7:    !" 4

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ecently, the nation was shocked by the news of mass casualties of policemen who Rwere part of an instant anti-Maoist oper- ation launched in the forests of Bastar in '()#  Bijapur district of Chhattisgarh, a Maoist-          Q #   (  infested State. The forces not only suffered large-                ( scale loss of lives but the rebels also managed to : escape with weapons, bullet-proof jackets, boots          (     "(             PQ    and other personal accessories of the martyred     S        :    policemen. What is shocking is that such loss- es occur frequently and we hardly learn lessons     S               from the past failures to ensure that the loss of               men and weapons is minimised in future. The                  ( bitter fact is that the Maoists have proved more           -    P   professional, in the sense that they are known               >      to critically analyse each operation by filming - Q                   the same and carrying out post-operation                     analysis to draw lessons for the future. 6($8 *   Unfortunately, when security experts  $7$ -*$$          (      analysed the recent anti-Maoist operation, they 67 67648                 ( were sad to note that the mistakes committed 6:$7 4.*             "   +( in Sukma in 2018 were repeated by the forces. - 5$I406 $                 ( Evidently, our forces have failed to learn from 678* - 6*. the past, which speaks poorly of the leadership. -74 47$# - In fact, senior journalist Shekhar Gupta has * .4$- observed that, “the first reaction after any such 7$ 6*6 operation is to cover the ba@#&ide of the senior -$07$ officers.” How true! Narratives and stories are < * -796 spun to justify failure by converting it into a well- *$7*. contested, successful operation. We lack inves- -$ 47 9 al combat, quick mental reflexes ture must give way to military cul- of the rank of DIG and above for tigative journalism and the media houses also are needed to respond and act as ture. A patchwork solution will operations should be replaced by buy the narrative spun by Government agencies.  7648 per the emerging tactical or oper- lead us nowhere. To close the Red Brigadiers and above on second- In order to draw a comprehensive strategy 7$-74 47 *8 ational situation. That needs Corridor which has already shrunk ment from the Army. The Army to close the Red Corridor, it is essential to under- 6 $$E - *8 immediate availability of the com- to less than one-third (only 31 has a large number of officers in stand the shortcomings and professional errors < * -796 manders at headquarters and in affected districts remaining out of these ranks with adequate combat                 committed in the conduct of instant operations. 6<$ 7- combat with the troops for on-the- the original 200 plus), a synergised experience of counter-insurgency ,      0            It is learnt that the operation was launched on *-$07$ spot decision- making. This is also approach is needed. and fighting in the jungle terrain.              ;  ( a specific Intelligence input provided by an 60$7 6*. a frequently-observed drawback. The first and foremost require- The logistics branch can con-         H > "        ( Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). The objective 6<<*67 The CRPF must inculcate the ment is to regain the confidence of tinue to have officers from the                   was to trap Hidma (a top-rated Maoist comman-  $$* 7$7$ habit in its officers of leading from the people and convince them of police. Only those units of the           #       %   der known for conducting successful ambush- 677 67.$(9 the front in such operations. the Government’s determination CRPF or other police organisations . $4$**I   >         es). A careful analysis of the Intelligence input Unpredictability is the key to and capability to eliminate the Red which are trained in counter- should have prompted the planners to maintain 8$*$7.# - success in unconventional opera- terror. Its only when the local pop- insurgency and jungle warfare -                contact with the high-value target and keep all 6<<* tions. However, a study of the ulation is convinced of the should be “on the order of battle”                ( his activities under surveillance through both - 64. 4 operations carried out by the Government’s upper hand in the of this Anti-Maoist Operations               1-:3     Electronic Intelligence (ELINT) and Human  76---$ CRPF leads one to believe that Red Corridor that the much- Command (AMCOM). The       -           Intelligence (HUMINT). (64*7 $-* their operations are very pre- needed human Intelligence would Command should also have spe-                 :  Obviously, it was not done, otherwise how ($<*$6 dictable and hence afford an start flowing. cialised units for Psychological                    can the ability of Hidma to gather 400 Maoists 6*4  opportunity to the Maoists to sur- To begin with, there is need for Operations and WHAM (Winning for the ambush be justified? Hence, inadequate prise them. The fact that the a thorough overhaul and shake-up Hearts and Minds) operations.   )        (        -$<.$-- Intelligence assessment and poor Intelligence 60$7 6*- troops were lured into a “U-Type” of the organisational structure. Population-control measures     -                gathering along with faulty operational planning ambush bears testimony to the This includes creation of a separate to isolate the Maoists should also                     * $ are the obvious shortcomings, just like the fail- $- 8*$ fact. Proper terrain analysis dur- Ministry of Internal Security be initiated prior to launching full- #               ( ings noticed in the previous botched-up oper- 8$6870 . ing the planning stage would have through restructuring of the exist- fledged operations to eliminate                 ations. The conduct and execution of the oper- 7$ identified the likely ambush sites ing Ministry of Home Affairs and them on the pattern of the Sri      ation is as good as its planning. This incident on the route-in and route-out and a separate operational command Lankan Army, which undertook /      , %       ( reflects poorly on the standard of training, par- plans could have been made to for the entire Red Corridor led by the operations to finish the Tamil ticularly specialised training in jungle warfare. secure these sites before advancing a Lieutenant-General. This com- Tigers or the LTTE.           - (    The other major shortcoming was lack of further. Obviously, it was not mand should cut across State The Government will come #       4E            proper command and control, coupled with the done. boundaries and be mandated to under tremendous pressure from         :        absence of commanders with their respective No tactical operation is ever conduct seamless operations with- Maoist sympathisers, so a           >        ( units and formations. Since four different forces launched without planning and in the designated geographical favourable national opinion will              - (  were operating together, a foolproof command catering for reserves. In the latest area. have to be built by highlighting the            #     and control structure was mandatory. Anti- The author is a case, lack of reserves was obvious The force needs to be provid- danger Maoists pose to not only              %   Maoist operations can’t be treated as routine Jammu-based veteran, as was the lack of coordination for ed operational and logistics where- local development but also to ones. The troops and commanders need to political commentator, casualty evacuation and reinforce- withal tailor-made for conduct of national integrity and security. A            acquire the skills not only for counter-insurgency columnist, security and ments using helicopters. operations as well as for logistics “hammer and tongs” strategy is ,               operations but for jungle warfare as well. strategic analyst. A thorough overhaul of the support. Drones, helicopters and needed to eliminate the Red                   The views expressed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are are personal. forces operating against the UAVs should be totally integrated Corridor and bring the Maoists to                 good for routine activities and drills but for actu- Maoists is needed. The police cul- with this force. The senior officers the negotiating table.      #           (       *                    (     ( POINTCOUNTERPOINT            # %      "  (               (  (    D                "                  (       < &  "        &            #            (                  D  &         <                 L    L>                             &   1        $   %    $3 -           <                                

he raging forest fires in (mm) of rainfall, saw a measly dent solely on forests and the dron blooms are replete with have dealt a major blow to this 1,065 ghost villages in the State Uttarakhand have 10 mm. This left the forest products that come out of time-tested medicinal proper- small flourishing economy. whose population has migrat- Talready consumed over floor dry as tinder and provid- them. ties. The tree has a flowering The repeated lockdowns ed to the cities in search of bet- 2,800 hectares of irreplaceable ed an endless run to the for- According to the season between February and and curfews have prevented ter prospects and livelihoods. verdant forests, mainly in the est fires. Uttarakhand State Council April and the locals earnestly the local people from going The Uttarakhand State higher altitudes, and as many Wildfires are frequent for Science and Technology, look forward to the season so out to collect the leftover Government must set up a as eight people have lost their annual incidents all over India 80 per cent people are direct- that they can sell these flow- flowers that have not been task force to investigate the ris- lives due to the wildfires. The $" /-/2 and the “Devbhoomi” ly or indirectly dependent on ers, the juice and the pickle burnt by the forest fires. Last ing scale of forest fires and loss of wildlife is yet to be Uttarakhand, with over 70 forests either for their suste- made out of the blooms. Over year, the season saw a major simultaneously provide the ascertained, but has to be per cent of its area under nance or subsistence. Forests the last two decades, climate drop of 60-70 per cent in the fire department with state-of- colossal as these calamitous forests, is no exception. But the provide fodder, firewood, change has had a telling flower harvest, and this year, the-art equipment including fires started six months ago. fact that the State lost 85,000 many wild fruits, construction impact on the local crops as too, is not promising. aerial firefighters so that the However, thanks to the ongo- football fields or 45,000 materials and medicines for rising temperatures and dry- These are difficult times difficult terrain does not ham- ing pandemic, national as well hectares of woods to forest humans and livestock. Besides, ing glaciers have caused pauci- for all but for the population per firefighting operations. as State resources have been fires over the past 20 years is forests also provide the micro- ty of water resources leading of the hills of Uttarakhand, it Similarly, afforestation efforts steadfastly focused on fighting a disconcerting reality. The climate for the cultivation of to continuous crop failures. is an exceptionally bad time as must be redoubled to com- the Coronavirus that seems to colossal loss of ecology is only several crops that can be Owing to the unpre- failing crops, forest fires and pensate for the loss of the be becoming more unman- rivaled by the immense pollu- grown only on the hills and dictability of traditional crops, a beleaguered tourism indus- green cover. The locals under- ageable with each passing day. tion generated during the provide substantial livelihood hood is now being threatened the local communities have try in the wake of the pandem- stand the significance of the The Uttarakhand forest course of these fires. The cur- opportunities for the people by the increasing scale of for- started to depend more on ic means feeding a family has forest better than anybody department recorded 989 fires rent fires have caused the lev- living in the forest fringe est fires every year. harvesting of the rhododen- become a challenge. else and hence must be given between October 2020 and els of black carbon to shoot up areas. For instance, the har- The bright red flowers, dron flowers in order to sup- According to a report by the ownership of the same. April this year and, to make six times to 12,000 micro- vesting and processing of the growing at an altitude of 1,200 port their families. But every the State Government, these The afforestation drives must matters worse, the annual The writer is an grams per cubic metre of air. rhododendron — the State feet and above on full-sized year the increasing intensity of trying circumstances have be carried out at the tehsil-level rainfall was scanty also. The environmental The most telling impact of this flower of Uttarakhand — has trees, present a mesmerising wildfires during the flowering already led to a mass exodus with the involvement of local period between January and journalist. The views natural disaster has been on been an integral part of the visual against the backdrop of season and now the restric- from the villages to the cities. communities, to expedite the March this year, that usually expressed are personal. the livelihoods of the local local commerce for centuries. snow-clad mountains. Locally tions imposed in the backdrop The report confirms that cur- rejuvenation of lost forest witnesses 55 millimetres communities that are depen- But this very source of liveli- called “burans”, the rhododen- of the COVID-19 pandemic rently there are a total of cover.    !"  %5

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85  - *86* Menendez, ranking member tives to China's Belt and Road Kabul:At least 78 Taliban mil- and chairman of the Senate in the Indo-Pacific and deliv- itants were killed in various  - *86* mines. closed aspirations and powerful Senate commit- Foreign Relations Committee. ering on the promise to provide operations conducted by His commitment to cut US vignettes rather than specific Atee has overwhelmingly It urges the US government over one billion COVID-19 Afghan government forces in aying the United States and fossil fuel emissions up to 52% plans, budget lines or legisla- approved the key China strate- that in close consultation with vaccines to the region,” he said. the past 24 hours, the Ministry Sother big economies "have to by 2030 marks a return by the tive proposals for getting gic competition Bill which India, identify areas where it The bill bolsters the United of Defence announced on get this done," President Joe US to global climate efforts there. among other things supports can provide diplomatic and States diplomatic strategy in Thursday. Biden opened a global climate after four years of withdrawal Biden and Vice President  - *86* the QUAD grouping and other support as appropriate for addressing challenges posed summit on Thursday aimed at under President Donald Kamala Harris opened the enhances security partnership India's efforts to address eco- by the Chinese government getting world leaders to dig Trump. Japan, a heavy user of Earth Day summit from the hina's President Xi Jinping with India. nomic and security challenges and reaffirms America's com- deeper on emissions cuts. The coal, announced its own new White House East Room Creiterates his country's Known as the posed by China in the region. mitment to its allies and part- United States pledged to cut in 46% emissions reduction tar- before world leaders, including pledge to peak carbon emis- “Quadrilateral Security The two lawmakers ners in the Indo-Pacific region half the amount of climate- get Thursday before the sum- those from China, Russia, sions before 2030 and achieve Dialogue, the Quad grouping described the legislation as an and around the world, and calls wrecking coal and petroleum mit opened as the US and its India, Gulf oil states, European carbon neutrality before 2060. comprises the US, India, unprecedented, bipartisan for the United States to reassert fumes it is pumping out. allies sought to build momen- and Asian allies and island and Xi spoke at the global cli- Australia and Japan. The rep- effort to mobilise all American its leadership within interna- "Forty-four Taliban mili- "Meeting this moment is tum. coastal nations already strug- mate summit hosted by the resentatives for the four-mem- strategic, economic, and diplo- tional organisations and other tants were also wounded and about more than preserving The Biden administra- gling against the effects of cli- United States on Thursday. ber nations have met periodi- matic tools for an Indo-Pacific multilateral fora. eight others were arrested as a our planet,” Biden declared, tion's pledge would require by mate change. Pope Francis He says, “We must be com- cally since its establishment in strategy that enables the US It renews America's com- result of Afghan National speaking from a TV-style set far the most ambitious US cli- was also due to take mitted to green development. 2007. The top leaders of the government to compete effec- mitment to allies and partners Defense and Security Forces for a virtual summit of 40 mate effort ever, nearly dou- part. To improve the environment is four countries held a historic tively with China and the chal- by prioritising security assis- (ANDSF) operations in world leaders. "It's about pro- bling the reductions that the Biden planned to join a to boost productivity.” virtual summit hosted by lenges it poses to its national tance for the Indo-Pacific Ghazni, Zabul, Herat, Paktika, viding a better future for all of Obama administration had second session of the Xi says developed coun- President Joe Biden last month. and economic security for region, and strengthens US Balkh, Nimroz, Helmand and us,” he said, calling it "a committed to in the land- livestreamed later in the morn- tries, responsible for greater The Senate Foreign decades to come. diplomatic efforts to address Kandahar provinces," the moment of peril but a moment mark 2015 Paris climate ing on financing poorer coun- historical carbon emissions, Relations Committee, following One amendment moved by challenges posed by China in Ministry said in a statement. of opportunity." accord. tries' efforts to remake and should bear more responsibil- a three hour debate and sever- Senator Edward Markey, and the Western Hemisphere, The ANDSF also discov- "The signs are unmistak- The new urgency comes as protect their economies against ity for making changes at home al amendments voted 21-1 to approved seeks to establish a Europe, Asia, Africa, the ered and seized weapons and able. The science is undeniable. scientists say that climate global warming. and helping developing coun- approve the Strategic QUAD Intra-Parliamentary Middle East, the Arctic, and defused 36 improvised explo- The cost of inaction keeps change caused by coal plants, Due to the coronavirus tries finance their transition to Competition Act on Working Group to connect Oceania. sive devices (IEDs) and land- mounting," he added. car engines and other fossil fuel pandemic, the summit was low-carbon economies. Wednesday. together lawmakers from the The Indo-Pacific is the mines during the cited period, Biden's administration is use is already worsening playing out as a climate He says, “We must be com- The United States should United States, Japan, Australia most consequential region for Xinhua news agency quoted sketching out a vision of a droughts, floods, hurricanes, telethon-style livestream, lim- mitted to the principle to com- reaffirm its commitment to and India. Markey is chair of American foreign policy. China the statement as saying. prosperous, clean-energy wildfires and other disasters iting opportunities for spon- mon but differentiated respon- the Comprehensive Global the Asia-Pacific subcommittee. is engaged in hotly contested The statement didn't say if United States where factories and that humans are running taneous interaction and nego- sibilities." Xi emphasises that Strategic Partnership with India “The Quad Inter- territorial disputes in the South there were any casualties on the churn out cutting-edge batter- out of time to stave off most tiation. The effort opened with China is aiming to move from and further deepen bilateral Parliamentary Group will help and East China Seas. Beijing side of the Afghan security ies for export, line workers re- catastrophic extremes of glob- a technological glitch — an peak carbon to net zero in a defence consultations and col- our four countries diversify has also made substantial forces. lay an efficient national elec- al warming. B u t echo in Harris's and Biden's short time period -- just 30 laboration with the country, cooperation on issues beyond progress in militarising its The Taliban outfit has not trical grid and crews cap aban- administration officials, in pre- remarks that was soon years, or the span of one gen- says the bipartisan bill moved its traditional defence focus man-made islands in the past made comments on the doned oil and gas rigs and coal viewing the new target, dis- fixed. eration. by Senators Jim Risch and Bob such as by delivering alterna- few years. Ministry's report so far. IANS 5 " #         +   8           56

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  G4$)    #   Washington:Prominent Department of Justice. From 2014 to 2017, Gupta %   Indian-American civil rights Senate Majority Leader, served as the assistant attorney our people were killed and lawyer Vanita Gupta has been Senator Chuck Schumer, who general for civil rights under Fover a dozen others injured Washington:Senior Congress state of Punjab situated in the confirmed by the US Senate as played a key role in her con- President Barack Obama, when an explosive-laden vehi- Hong Kong:A Hong Kong “other traffic and transport leader Manish Tewari has writ- North West of India. Punjab is associate attorney general, firmation, said Gupta is the where she advanced criminal cle exploded inside the parking journalist was found guilty on related issues.” The application ten to US President Joe Biden the natural and spiritual home making her the first person of first-ever woman of colour justice reform, prosecuted hate lot of a hotel in Pakistan's Thursday of making false state- does not provide an option for expressing concern over of millions of Sikhs who live colour to occupy the third and civil rights attorney to crimes, protected voting rights Quetta city, Interior Minister ments in obtaining information journalistic research. “increase” in hate crimes against across the world,” he said. highest position at the serve in the role. and fought against discrimi- Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad con- for an investigation into an Choy, a freelancer affiliat- Sikhs in America, saying last “This unfortunate outrage Department of Justice. “She will bring a long over- nation. firmed. attack on anti-Government ed with RTHK, pleaded not week's Indianapolis shooting in Indianapolis has reverber- Republican Senator Lisa due perspective to our federal Indian-American groups There was a threat alert in protesters, in the latest blow to guilty. She was convicted on has reverberated throughout ated throughout the commu- Murkowski broke away from law enforcement agency,” he congratulated Gupta on her Quetta and other major cities press freedom in the city as two counts of making false the community both in India nity both in India as well the her party colleagues to support said. historic confirmation. after some suspicious calls were authorities continue their statements and fined 6,000 and the diaspora. diaspora. This tragedy is per- Gupta (46), giving the The daughter of Indian “Vanita Gupta is the daugh- intercepted, and security was crackdown on dissent. Hong Kong dollars (USD 775). Eight people, including sonal for me as it was in Sri Democrats 51 votes to see her immigrants who was born and ter of Indian immigrants who on high alert including cities in Choy Yuk-ling, also known The documentary Choy four members of the Sikh com- Anandpur Sahib that the Sikh through the historic confir- raised in the Philadelphia area, came to the US with only eight Balochistan, Rasheed told as Bao Choy, was arrested in was working on, titled “7.21 munity, three of whom were faith was consecrated on the mation on Wednesday. Gupta has had an illustrious dollars and a dream. She has Xinhua news agency on November on charges of false- Who Owns the Truth,” also women, were killed in a mass 13th of April 1699,” wrote the The Senate voted 51-49 to career of fighting for civil become one of the foremost civil Wednesday night. ly declaring why she was explored the behavior of Hong shooting at a FedEx location in Congress leader. confirm Gupta. rights. rights advocates in the country He said that despite the obtaining license plate infor- Kong police during last year's Indianapolis. Tewari highlighted the Vice President Kamala She received her Bachelor and will effectuate our highest security measures, the vehicle mation from a publicly acces- anti-government protests. “As we approach the 20th August 2012 attack on a Sikh Harris was present in the of Arts degree from Yale ideals of justice as associate carrying explosives managed sible database. Police were accused of not anniversary of the dastardly temple at Oak Creek in Senate to cast her vote in case University and Juris Doctor attorney general,” said Neil to enter the parking lot from She was attempting to track intervening during the attack in 9/11 attacks, it is regrettable but Wisconsin which claimed seven of a tie. The two parties have 50 from New York University. Makhija, executive director of the main gate of the Serena down the perpetrators of a the subway station. needs to be flagged that the lives.“Members of the Sikh faith members each in the 100-seat At the age of 28, she start- IMPACT, a leading Indian- hotel, which is a matter of big violent attack by a mob of Ahead of the court session, aftermath of that catastrophe once again became victims of a United States Senate. ed her career at the NAACP American advocacy group. concern and the responsible white-clad men on protesters in supporters of Choy held plac- saw an increase in hate crimes perverse mindset,” he said. “Congratulations to Vanita Legal Defense Fund where she “We are deeply proud of people will be taken to task a subway station in 2019 for an ards that read “Journalism is targeting the Sikh community,” “May I on behalf of the over Gupta on making history as the successfully overturned the Vanita Gupta, knowing that for creating security lapse investigative documentary for not a crime” and chanted slo- Tewari said in a letter to Biden two million people that I rep- first woman of colour to serve wrongful drug convictions of 38 she will be a stalwart champi- which gave terrorists a chance public broadcaster RTHK. gans. that was delivered to the White resent and the state that the as associate attorney general. Black Americans in Tulia, Texas. on for all Americans and in par- to carry out the Principal Magistrate Ivy Media groups are con- House on Wednesday. community calls it's organic Now, I urge the Senate to con- While at the American ticular communities that have attack. Chui said the Road Traffic cerned that Hong Kong's new The Congress leader home, appeal to your good self firm Kristen Clarke. Both are Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), been marginalised. At a time Terror group Tehrik-i- Ordinance only allows the pub- security law, which outlaws expressed "deepest condo- to kindly advise all US state eminently qualified, highly she fought to end mass incar- when we see assaults on our Taliban Pakistan claimed lic to obtain vehicle ownership secession, subversion and for- lences" to the aggrieved fami- governors and mayors to try respected lawyers who are ded- ceration and secured a land- voting rights and a rise in hate responsibility in a text mes- records for transport or traffic- eign collusion to interfere in the lies of the “horrific and das- and ensure that members of the icated to advancing racial equi- mark settlement against the crimes, our country needs a sage to journalists saying a related matters, legal matters, or city's internal matters, could be tardly” tragedy at Indianapolis. Sikh faith are protected from ty and justice,” President Joe Immigration and Customs champion for civil rights like suicide bomber launched the for vehicle purchases. used against journalists report- “I represent the con- such gut wrenching and Biden said. Enforcement (ICE) on behalf of Vanita Gupta at the highest lev- attack targeting locals and She said Choy declared in ing on issues considered relat- stituency of Sri Anandpur Sahib absolutely senseless attacks,” Gupta is also the first civil immigrant children that led to els of the Justice Department,” foreigners, but the claim has her online application that she ed to national security. in the Indian Parliament. This Tewari wrote. rights lawyer to serve at one of the end of family detention at he said. not yet been officially con- would use the information for AP constituency is located in the PTI the top three positions at the the facility. PTI firmed.     "6 7   #        3   # Rome:Italian police have said Italian police said in a Albanian and French authori-  458
    they arrested a 28-year-old statement on Wednesday that ties, reports dpa news agency.     Albanian man suspected to be the man, for whom a European Eighty-six people were an accomplice in the 2016 ter- arrest warrant was in place, was killed on Bastille Day, 2016, London:Entrenched preju- 45,000-54,000 casualties, pre- that the Commission would ror attack in Nice, France, captured near Caserta, north of when Tunisian-born Mohamed dices, preconceptions and per- dominantly Indian, East now work on actioning the rec- which claimed the lives of 86 Naples, thanks to a coordinat- Lahouaiej Bouhlel ploughed a vasive racism of contemporary African, West African, ommendations of the review. <    people. ed effort between Italian, truck through crowds watching imperial attitudes meant that Egyptian and Somali person- During the World War I a fireworks display on the sea- nearly 50,000 Indian soldiers nel, were commemorated (1914-18), India, which at that  <6- 6 Western concerns. Russia also side promenade in Nice, in who died fighting for the unequally. time included Pakistan and announced restrictions on southern France. British Empire during the A further 116,000 casual- Bangladesh under British colo- he Russian military on flights near Crimea this week, Lahouaiej Bouhlel himself World War I were not com- ties, potentially as many as nial rule, sent the largest share TThursday conducted mas- arguing that they fully conform was shot dead by two police memorated the same way as 350,000, were not commemo- of Commonwealth soldiers to sive drills in Crimea involving with the international officers who chased his truck other martyrs, finds a new rated by name or possibly not the war effort at over 1.4 mil- dozens of navy ships, hundreds law. on foot as it swerved through review released on Thursday. commemorated at all. lion. of warplanes and thousands of Ukrainian Foreign the crowd. The Commonwealth War “Underpinning all these Shrabani Basu, historian- troops in a show of force amid Minister Dmytro Kuleba The 28-year-old Albanian Graves Commission (CWGC), decisions… were the author of ‘For King and tensions with Ukraine. warned Tuesday that the man is suspected of having sold which commemorates the 1.7 entrenched prejudices, pre- Another Country: Indian The maneuvers were Russian buildup across the weapons to the attacker, Italian million Commonwealth ser- conceptions and pervasive Soldiers on the Western described as the largest since border is continuing and is media reported. vicemen and women who died racism of contemporary impe- Front, 1914-18' and one of the Russia annexed the Black Sea “expected to reach a combined The Nice attack was during the two World Wars, rial attitudes,” notes the ‘Review committee members behind peninsula from Ukraine in force of over 120,000 troops” in claimed by Islamic State, but had created a Special of Historical Inequalities in the review, said the most 2014 and threw its weight about a week and urged the while investigators determined Committee in late-2019 to Commemoration'. shocking fact that came to behind separatist insurgents West to beef up sanctions that Lahouaiej Bouhlel held investigate potential gaps in the UK Defence Secretary Ben light during the research was in eastern Ukraine. against Moscow. extremist views, they did not commemoration of those who Wallace made a formal apolo- that nearly 50,000 Indian sol- The exercise comes amid Moscow has rejected firmly establish any link with died during and after the World gy on behalf of the government diers had not been com- increasing violations of a cease- Ukrainian and Western con- the terror group. War I. in the House of Commons in memorated in Mesopotamia, fire in Ukraine's east and a cerns about the buildup, argu- IANS It found that an estimated relation to the findings. Palestine and Egypt and the massive Russian troops ing that it's free to deploy its "There can be no doubt “sheer callousness” with buildup on the border with forces anywhere on the Russian prejudice played a part in some which an Indian Army gen- Ukraine that raised Western territory and charging that of the Commission's decisions," eral had advised the then concerns. they don't threaten anyone. the minister told the members Imperial War Graves The Russian Defense But at the same time, the of parliament. Commission (IWGC), later Ministry said the Crimean Kremlin sternly warned "On behalf of the changed to CWGC, saying maneuvers involve more than Ukrainian authorities against Commonwealth War Graves that Hindu and Muslim sol- 60 ships, over 10,000 troops, trying to use force to retake Commission and the govern- diers placed “no importance” around 200 aircraft and about control of the rebel east, where ment both of the time and on their names being record- 1,200 military vehicles. seven years of fighting have today, I want to apologise for ed on graves and therefore The exercise featured the killed more than 14,000, saying the failures to live up to their they could just be mentioned landing of more than 2,000 that Russia could be forced to founding principles all those in memorial tablets. paratroopers and 60 military intervene to protect civilians in years ago and express deep “From my research, I knew vehicles on Thursday. Fighter the region. regret that it has taken so long that this was not true at all. jets covered the airborne oper- Amid the tensions, to rectify the situation. Whilst They wanted to be remem- ation. Ukrainian President we can't change the past, we bered,” said Basu. Russian Defense Minister Volodymyr Zelenskyy on can make amends and take “A Sikh soldier specifical- Sergei Shoigu flew in a heli- Wednesday signed a law allow- action,” he said. ly tells his officer that he would copter over the Opuk firing ing the call-up of reservists for “We are sorry for what understand if he couldn't be range in Crimea to oversee the military service without happened and will act to right cremated and had to be buried, exercise. announcing a mobilization. the wrongs of the past,” said but he would like his name Last week, Russia has The new law will allow to Claire Horton, Director recorded on a headstone. announced that it would close quickly equip the military with General of the CWGC. Another Dogra soldier says broad areas of the Black Sea reservists, "significantly “Our response today is that if he is to be buried, his near Crimea to foreign navy increasing their combat effec- simple: the events of a century shoes should not be put in his ships and state vessels until tiveness during military aggres- ago were wrong then and are grave. November, a move that drew sion,” Zelenskyy's office said in wrong now,” she said, adding PTI Ukrainian protests and raised a statement.    !" # 6

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 together will incur 46,323 viding free vaccination to pri- SThursday said the Indian 11 per cent growth in the banks over the past quarter. Covid-19 situation remained a number of states are expected crore, India Ratings and ority populations such as economy is projected to grow Indian GDP for the fiscal Economies are recovering concern. to remain as key drags for the Research (Ind-Ra) said on healthcare workers, frontline at 11 per cent in the current fis- beginning April 1 on account smartly, countries are rolling The benchmarks were market in the near term. This    Thursday. workers and population above cal, but flagged the “substantial” of a fast economic reopening out vaccinations, and regional propped up by bargain-hunting has certainly started posing as  <4<( As the second wave of 45 years of age, states and impact of broader lockdowns and fiscal stimulus. financing circumstances in select frontline counters as a threat to corporate earnings Covid-19 sweeps the country Union territories have been on the economy. As per official estimates, remain supportive. And yet, the well as supportive global cues, recovery. he rupee weakened fur- with alarming speed and sever- allowed to procure additional In its report on Asia-Pacific the Indian economy contract- pandemic has so seriously set traders said. “Notably, possibility of Tther by 6 paise to close ity, the Government has COVID-19 vaccine doses Financial Institutions, S&P said ed 8 per cent in 2020-21 fiscal, back the finances of households After skidding 501 points supply disruption and at 74.94 against the US dol- announced a liberalised and directly from the manufactur- the control of Covid-19 which ended March 31, 2021. and corporates, with deeply in the opening session, the 30- increased COVID-19 cases in lar on Thursday as a persis- accelerated Phase 3 strategy of ers and open-up vaccination to remains a key risk for the Last week, another global ngative effects on lenders, S&P share BSE Sensex pared all hinterland area can further tent rise in Covid-19 cases Covid-19 vaccination. Under people above the age of 18 economy. New infections have rating agency Moody’s said. It expects banks may losses to end 374.87 points or hurt economic momentum. and enhanced restrictions this scheme, all persons above years. spiked in recent weeks and the Investors Service had said the need years to fully recover. 0.79 per cent higher at We believe market is expect- imposed by states weighed 18 years of age will be eligible As a result, Indian vaccine country is in the middle of a second wave of COVID infec- Public authorities across 48,080.67. ed to remain volatile until we on investor sentiment. to get Covid-19 vaccine doses manufacturers would now be second pandemic wave. tions presents a risk to India’s Asia-Pacific have blunted the Similarly, the broader NSE see a reversal in COVID-19 Increased concerns from May 1.”This means that supplying 50 per cent of their “Our forecast growth of 11 growth forecast, but double- economic effects of COVID-19. Nifty jumped 109.75 points or cases,” said Binod Modi, Head over forex outflows weighed the total size of the population production to the central gov- per cent for India in 2021 is fol- digit GDP growth is likely in This includes an unprecedent- 0.77 per cent to finish at - Strategy at Reliance on the local unit, analysts that will now be eligible for vac- ernment and the balance 50 per lowed by a 6.1 per cent-6.4 per 2021 given the low level of ed level of fiscal and monetary 14,406.15. Securities. said. At the interbank forex cination would be 84.19 crore cent would be available for pro- cent forecast increase for the activity last year. policy support for households ICICI Bank was the top India registered over 3.14 market, the local unit out of the total population of curement by the state govern- next couple of years... Some tar- India is in the middle of the and corporates and measures to gainer in the Sensex pack, lakh new coronavirus cases in opened sharply lower at 133.26 crore,” it said a note. ments and the open market geted lockdowns have already second wave of COVID pan- encourage banks to lend and spurting 3.60 per cent, fol- a day, the highest-ever single- 75.25 against the greenback India Ratings calculated (private hospitals). been implemented and more demic and has witnessed over show forbearance toward lowed by HDFC, Bajaj Auto, day count recorded in any and traded in the range of that this “may cost 67,193 Ind-Ra said the Union gov- will likely be needed. The 3.14 lakh new infections and stressed borrowers. HDFC Bank, SBI, Kotak Bank, country, taking the the total 74.82 to 75.26 during the crore, of which the Union gov- ernment has already spent Rs impact of broader lockdowns 2,104 deaths on Wednesday. But for this support, the hit Bajaj Finance and Axis Bank. tally of COVID-19 cases in the day. On Tuesday, the rupee ernment will incur 20,870 5,090 crore on procuring 21.4 on the economy could be sub- Active COVID cases on the Asia-Pacific financial On the other hand, Titan, country to 1,59,30,965, as per had settled down at 74.88 crore and state governments crore vaccines from Serum stantial, depending on their in the country stand at over institutions would have been HUL, Asian Paints, Nestle the Union Health Ministry against the American cur- together will incur 46,323 Institute of India and Bharat length and scope,” it said. 22.91 lakh. much more significant. India, UltraTech Cement and data updated on Thursday. rency. crore”. Biotech. 7      %   (0   53  "773 @;A* %   >1 '1?1 -4; 
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  R  7 3    *$$. (Research) Kaustubh Prateek Jain said ESG con- Belapurkar said, “While still scious investing is just starting New Delhi: As the Covid-19  " ,( O &  G&   P  riven by increased investor early days in India from an ESG in India and investors are pay-  ($*8.474 businesses in solar and wind pandemic has necessitated Dinterest in environmental, funds perspective, the launch of ing more attention on how together with gas for power, remote and flexible working impact of university, every year social and governance issues, ESG funds has increased socially responsible their port- nfosys andbp on Thursday fuels, electric vehicle charging, models, the new system calls the Times Higher Education sustainable funds in India investor awareness significant- folio is. “Investors have started IAnnounced that they have battery swapping and advanced for the need to incorporate an conducts rankings of higher attracted Rs 3,686 crore in the ly. Many domestic asset domes- embracing the fact that they signed an MoU under which mobility solutions, it said. HR tech tool for organisations education institutions across 2020-21, a jump of 76 per cent tic managers are already incor- don’t have to sacrifice returns both companies intend to work “The integrated EaaS solu- to adapt to the shifting work the globe. As KIIT has been ful- from the preceding fiscal. porating ESG principles in by opting for high ESG stocks, together to develop an inte- tion aims to enable Infosys environment while not com- filling all criteria of United Moreover, the COVID- their overall investing frame- as identified in several studies.” grated Energy-as-a-Service campuses to access low carbon promising on the work done. Nations’ Sustainable 19-led crisis has only acceler- work.” The Indian mutual fund (EaaS) offering that will pro- energy and mobility options, Using digitalisation and Development Goals, THE has ated the demand for sustainable He further said corporate industry witnessed increased vide end-to- end management use energy more efficiently, automation, HR technology given 201+ rank to KIIT in the investing. India is also increasingly interest in ESG Funds, with the of a customers’ energy assets and to optimise supply and has transformed the paper- overall Impact ranking. The Sustainable or ESG (envi- acknowledging the need to launch of several new ESG and services. demand across multiple users cluttered, noisy and manual Impact Rankings of the Times ronmental, social, and gover- effectively manage the ESG funds in the second half of Together, the companies and assets, without having to work dependent department to Higher Education evaluates nance) funds in India wit- factors as means to mitigate 2020-21. intend to explore opportunities invest in additional energy a simpler and cloud-based sys- the social responsibility of uni- nessed an inflow of Rs 3,686 business risks as well as attract Among the new launches using bp’s energy and mobili- infrastructure”, the statement tem that liberates HR profes- eeds are the best answer to versities across the world. crore in just-concluded fiscal as long-term capital from are Aditya Birla Sun Life ESG, ty expertise and Infosys’ digi- said. sionals from administrative Dinjurious words. That way Also, It has been ranked compared with Rs 2,094 crore investors who are increasingly ICICI Prudential ESG, Kotak tal capabilities to manage ener- Following a pilot at Infosys’ burdens. Kalinga Institute of Industrial 86th in ‘Reduced Inequalities’ in 2019-20, according to considering ESG factors to ESG Opportunities, Quant gy assets, provide low carbon Pune campus, the companies “What was once considered to Technology (KIIT) Deemed to of SDG. For this, it has ranked Morningstar data. make investment decisions. ESG Equity Fund, Invesco power, low carbon intend to extend the offer to be a fad is clearly now a neces- be University, Bhubaneswar within 100 universities of the Such funds offer exposure In addition, domestic reg- India ESG Equity and Mirae heating/cooling, and low car- other Infosys campuses and sity. HR tech opened a window remains a torch bearer among world at least in a single para- to themes such as renewable ulations are also calling for Asset ESG Sector Leaders bon mobility to campuses, dri- explore opportunities of opportunities for companies the fraternity and its achieve- meter. KIIT has got the rank energy, low carbon, green greater disclosures from com- ETF.ICICI Prudential ESG ven by an AI-based digital to manage energy and with its tailored features and ments don’t require a 101+ in ‘Partnership for The transport and environmental panies with respect to their sus- fund raised USD 225 million in platform, an Infosys statement reduce emissions at industrial efficiency,” said Dheeraj Kumar spokesman. KIIT has been Goals’ and 201+ in ‘Quality protection. tainability practices, assets, making it the most suc- said. and business parks as well as Pandey, chief advisor for HR placed among the top univer- Education & Peace and Justice Morningstar India Belapurkar said. cessful new ESG launch in BP’s integrated energy offer cities. Systems and processes, Keka sities of the world in the Times & Strong Institutions each. It is Director and Manager Winvesta co-founder India, Morningstar noted. draws on technologies and Technologies Pvt Ltd. Higher Education (THE) the only university in eastern Impact Rankings-2021 India to achieve such an announced on 21st April 2021. impressive rank. In 2020 KIIT KIIT’s commitment to suste- was ranked in 501+. KIIT was >? @;      6<:    ' ":

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he RBI on Thursday said it Thas cancelled the licence of Bhagyodaya Friends Urban Co-operative Bank Limited (Amravati), as the lender does not have adequate capital and will be unable to pay its present depositors in full. However, as per the data submitted by the bank, more than 98 per cent of the depos- itors will receive the full amounts of their deposits from Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC), the Reserve Bank said. On liquidation, every depositor would be entitled to receive a deposit insurance claim amount of his/her deposits up to a monetary ceil- ing of Rs 5 lakh from DICGC, subject to the provisions of the DICGC Act, 1961. Bhagyodaya Friends Urban Co-operative Bank Limited, Warud, ceases to carry on banking business, with effect from the close of business on Thursday. Giving reasons for can- celling the licence of the bank, the RBI said the lender does not have adequate capital and earning prospects and as such, it does not comply with the var- ious provisions of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.    !" 2   O 
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hile many would like to flush the year 2020 down the Wtoilet, bathroom tech is a no joke. Today, we live in a rapidly changing, technological world, where technology affects several parts of our lives. As it continues to progress, the way we interact with our environment will likely only grow more and more futuristic — even spaces as personal as our home bathrooms. In the after- 3   math of the COVID-19 pandemic breakout, which requires adequate Smart in-wash with in-tank WCs: social distancing and minimal human Modern toilets do not require hands   < 7=
 touch, technology-led products and or paper. These toilets have tempera- solutions in bathroom space are much ture-controlled water, spritzing wands  
  #- in demand. and air dryers to clean and sanitize. There is an increased emphasis on Giving a unique feeling of cleanliness,      products that minimise the human the in-wash technology will allow you        touch and are equipped with sensor to customise all washing and drying technology or products that effective- functions with an intuitive   
  ly prevent germ buildup. While bath- (remote/inbuilt) control panel. To rooms have traditionally been func- take it a step further, the smart toilet ctor Dia Mirza has always and environmental leaders work tional, utilitarian spaces, the latest with in-tank integrates the tank into Abeen vocal about environ- in synergy with people from all developments in technology are mak- the bowl, removing the cistern from mental issues. On the occasion walks of life to protect the earth, ing bathing an even more luxurious the bathroom space, making it more of Earth Day on Thursday, she a better world will come into experience. Individuals are opting for appealing. It is such a pleasant and said we must hold authorities being,” she said. ultra-modern bathrooms that are transforming comprehensive experi- accountable for changes in the She says that the pandemic beyond functionality, aesthetic in ence of cleanliness and comfort that environment, too, besides mak- has taught us a lot about how we nature and have a wellness quotient it has found its place in many homes. ing efforts on the personal front. are interlinked to the environ- attached to their space. Here is how “We need to mobilise ment. you can amp up your bathroom expe- Furniture unit with bluetooth speak- greater momentum now than “The ongoing pandemic has rience and make it futuristic. ers and internal lighting: Now even ever before. Of course, person- made it abundantly clear that we furniture units can be one of the ele- al behaviour change will make have to change the way we live, IoT-based smart shower: With water ments that adds comfort in the bath- a difference, but along with produce, manufacture and con- flowing at the perfect temperature, a room space with inbuilt bluetooth con- learning to lead more sustain- sume. Today, the health of every smart shower can be used by just a nectivity speakers, power outlet and able lifestyles, we also need to single human being and our col- simple gesture through which one can internal lighting. With internal com- to wash in the flush of the cistern. A sensors to avoid hand contact and LED aim at total safety and hygiene in the hold governments, industry and lective harmony hangs in the adjust, modify or stop the water flow partments for all the toiletries, there selective system discards the waste lights that allow an individual to fully bathroom, automatic taps controlled civil society accountable. We balance and is closely linked to lather up and continue enjoying it will be plenty of room to store almost water, while a powerful filtering sys- appreciate every detail. With no phys- by a sensor are therefore a good alter- need to imbibe and disseminate with the well-being of mother in the same condition afterward. An everything in one place, giving a tem keeps the remaining water clean ical contact required, the motion sen- native for making hand-washing more scientific facts which are now nature,” she said. advanced design that comes equipped neater, spacious and smart look to one’s and disinfected. Usage of this innova- sors activate LED lights simply with hygienic. These faucets are equipped more accessible than ever An awareness needs to be with a colour screen, temperature con- bathroom along with a fun element — tion can help in the reduction of water one hand motion and another sensor with an infrared sensor that activates before,” she said. spread, asserted Dia, adding: trols as well as touch buttons with inte- getting ready on your favourite music usage and allow more space in the activates the demister device that the water flow when a presence is The actor urged people to “What we need to begin with is grated light adds to the look and feel beats and perfect lighting. bathroom without compromising aes- avoids the hassle of wiping the mirror detected, minimizing direct contact raise their voices now. “We the dissemination of environ- of the bathroom. Its user-friendly tech- thetics. after showering, ensuring it always with the faucet, preventing the trans- must join movements to protect mental literacy at all possible nology boosts enjoyment by offering W+W Revolution: W+W is a state- looks spotless. LED mirrors not just mission of microorganisms and max- nature/wildlife and demand laws levels because we cannot save a very intuitive experience, even for of-the-art product that combines LED mirrors: Decorative and innov- increase brightness in the bathroom imizing hygiene at home. It’s high time that will ensure the change we what we are ignorant about. The children and the elderly. With this basin and toilet in one single piece. The ative mirrors are essential pieces in the but also generate a uniform reflection, to get high-tech with our toilets. Isn’t need. We need every single theme of Earth Day this year is installed, bathers who like to sing in basin of the W+W is integrated on the bathroom space. To provide maxi- with no brilliance or shades. it? earth citizen to work towards a clarion call to restore the bal- the shower can now enjoy this luxu- upper part of the tank of the toilet, mum comfort, mirrors are now adapt- (The writer is the Managing restoring the planet to its former ance of the natural world on ry effortlessly. allowing the reuse of the water we need ing to the new demands with presence Sensor-based touchless faucets: As we Director of Roca Parryware.) glory. When political, business which all of life depends.” Q7   R   % ne of the things that always tops the Olist of our endless beauty concerns  *7075-  :$ 
 has to be dark circles. With our busy lifestyle and imbalanced sleep pat- %*    5 I
   terns, dealing or getting rid of the same has become a really difficult task. The   ( endless home remedies and our eye      cream stashes do not seem to help r Chandraprakash Dwivedi clearly has a either. Dark circles are stubborn and a   #.     Dfascination to adapt from path-breaking viable remedy to it seems to be books and create equally brilliant cinema. He unknown.    *4- 5 =7 has directed some incredibly reviewed projects However, there’s a holy ingredient like Pinjar, Mohalla Assi and the iconic televi- in the block that is the answer to all sion show Chanakya. The film-maker is busy your prayers when it comes to dark cir- with his next, Prithviraj, starring Akshay cles. It is none other than Vitamin C. Kumar and Manushi Chhillar. On World Loaded with the goodness of antioxi- Book Day, he reveals how an epic Prithviraj dants, Vitamin C is a skin-friendly Raso is the inspiration behind this much-await- nutrient that helps you tackle all of your ed historical. skincare dilemmas, be it dark circles or “Prithviraj is based mainly on medieval lit- dark spots, acne scars, pigmentation erature, an epic called Prithviraj Raso by the and more. It has been used since ages great poet Chand Bardai. Apart from a couple to restore skin’s natural glow and of versions of Raso, there are many other lit- achieve a radiant-looking skin. While erary works on Prithviraj, his life and times. In most of us are not aware about its mag- addition to these, there are commentaries on ical properties and it being a one-stop Raso,” Dr Chandraprakash reveals. solution to those stubborn dark circles, He shares that for Prithviraj, he had to deep it indeed works wonders. dive into exhaustive research on the warrior The skin around our eyes is very king. He says, “I get involved in exhaustive thin and delicate which prompts the research as I enjoy the process of entering the need for it to be handled with care. The unknown and unexplored world of great first signs of ageing such as fine lines heroes of India and their times. It is like hav- and puffiness start appearing around ing a dialogue with these great characters in our eyes itself. Vitamin C has been their times. I am sure most of the writers must known for its under-eye benefits in the have experienced this strange phenomenon.” realm of beauty and skincare since the “Apart from the story, I love to research art, longest time. But is it really worth it? upon regular application in a well-mon- way possible and beauty enthusiasts dants help flush out toxins from the archaeology, costumes, material culture and Does it really come off as the best solu- itored manner, you will see a difference from around the world have remarked skin and protect it from sun damage available historical data. In other words, I love tion when it comes to dealing with dark in less than a week. What’s even better it as a holy ingredient, time and again. and hence, the area of our skin most to do archaeological exploration and excava- circles? Let’s have a look. is that it not only helps you deal with Another way in which Vitamin C prone to such vulnerability, i.e the skin tion in the pages of a literary work or histor- The right concentration of Vitamin your dark circles but also prevents the can be incorporated in our routine to around our eyes remains protected too. ical fiction to recreate the era and personali- C rejuvenates the delicate skin around appearance of the same in the future deal with dark circles is by incorporat- Vitamin C is indeed promising and ties of its time. This gives me immense plea- relevant for our times and the times to come. the eyes without causing any irritation while giving your overall skin a vibrant, ing it into our diet because what we eat the most viable solution to dark circles. sure and satisfaction as an artist who loves to They are shining bright stars in the galaxy of or other side-effects, ultimately helping rejuvenated and youthful glow. In definitely reflects on our skin. A healthy However, for people with sensitive paint cinema’s canvas with lights and camera,” great historical characters, which will inspire it curb and deal with fine lines, puffi- recent years, most beauty brands have diet always adds up to a healthy skin. skin, they should try a patch test. adds he. many generations to come.” ness and most importantly, dark circles. started relying on Vitamin C as a key Eating food rich in Vitamin C such as Another thing that needs to be taken The filmmaker believes that the stories of The film, produced by YRF, is based on the The goodness of antioxidants helps in ingredient for their products, especial- oranges, lemons, grapefruits and green care of is moderation in application as great warriors like Prithviraj is extremely rel- life and heroism of the fearless and mighty king skin lightening and the collagen pro- ly for their eye-care ranges. Some veggies are a great way to begin. It helps high doses can cause skin irritation. evant in today’s times, where good is constant- Prithviraj Chauhan. While Akshay (Kumar) duction helps restore skin elasticity. striking examples in this regard would improve the immunity system of our Those dreaded panda eyes won’t seem ly locked in a battle with evil. He says, “I do will be seen essaying the role of the legendary These collectively help in reducing the be St Botanica, Re’equil, The Derma Co body which boosts the overall function- so dreadful anymore; just say hi to not make characters like Prithviraj to make warrior, who fought valiantly against the mer- appearance of dark circles in a very lim- and more. Most Vitamin C-based ality, thus, aiding a reduction in the Vitamin C. them relevant for young viewers. I choose them ciless Muhammad of Ghor, Manushi (Chhillar) ited time. Vitamin C-based serums and products have been reviewed to work appearance of dark circles and other (The writer is the lifestyle creator at as my subject for cinema because I feel they are plays the role of his beloved Sanyogita. eye creams are extremely effective and its wonders in a limited time in the best skin-related concerns. The antioxi- Trell.) /3 +8/ P4*45'44 5 )%"24" #*4#5&*'26 #5  N     N  
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or me, Punjabi food has always been a feast for all the senses. And Fwhile entering Ikk Panjab, tucked away in West Delhi, Block J of Rajouri Garden, I wondered just how would this place turn out? Would the restaurant be t comes as no surprise the helps close the gap virtually and and loyalty programmes. able to satisfy my cravings? Will it rule Isudden surge in COVID cases lets us deliver our delicacies to over the heart of a food lover like me? has stopped many lot sectors in our customers doorsteps,” says RUN CAMPAIGNS (SMS Well, in order to get my answers, I their tracks. The restaurant Tushar Dhingra, Director, & EMAIL) stopped wondering and found a com- business is one such industry Defence Bakery 1962. Email and SMSs are one of fortable corner spot. that has taken a huge hit again. “Customer experience and the ways to bring the audience The restaurant, segregated into But 2020 having prepared them safety is our foremost priority at onto a restaurants’ website and two levels, honours the undying spirit with such adversity, they feel the moment. And keeping that social media handles, time and of the land of five rivers as well as cel- there still is a glimmer of hope in mind we continue to serve again. This way, restaurants ebrate the food and cultural heritage of to pull through the tough times. our customers without compro- have the ability to communi- the pre-Partition undivided Punjab. A restaurant which owns its mising on the delivery experi- cate directly with their target While the interiors were modern but the own delivery model can help ence which is more in our con- audience and stay on top of accessories made it seem that it had avoid aggressive commission trol through our own online their minds. These could stepped back in time. Photographs, arte- rates, get direct orders and con- ordering platform. Additionally, include information regard- facts and all the bric-a-brac on both tinue employment of the staff we also give a personalised ser- ing their operational time floors were from the golden era. It who can pitch in as delivery vice in the form a menu special- frame, special offers and com- wouldn’t be wrong to say that the place agents. Ankit Mehrotra, CEO & ly curated by our chefs while bos that nudge the customer to is a history lesson, a living museum and co-founder, Dineout, shares a keeping our customer dietary make a purchase. inresto cam- a restaurant rolled into one. few tips on how restaurants can requirements in mind,” says paign is one such product Sitting near the open kitchen, I avoid aggregator commissions Arun Prasanna, General which makes this happen in could smell the aroma of several food and still ace the online ordering Manager, Byg Brewski Brewing one click. items wafting out. This had the effect game. Company. of making me feel even more hungry made it look quite appealing. Properly ed that we should try Adraki gobhi MARKET YOUR than I already was. We started with cooked and roasted, these two tasted masala and Kadhi pakora along with HAVE YOUR OWN WEB- DELIVERY ONLY MENU BRAND Rajjeya pujjeya paneer tikka. There just right and elevated my experience, cheese naan. I must say both the dish- SITE & E-ORDER NOW The initial concept of a Most customers are isolat- came two Rubik’s cube-sized pieces of certainly, the stars of the evening. To es were the delight of the evening and WIDGET ON SOCIAL restaurant setup revolved ing at home, protecting them- cottage cheese, stuffed with khoa, mar- accompany the dishes, I ordered one much to my relief, without any marked MEDIA around a dine-in set up with a selves and their families. inated in curd and grilled in a tandoor mocktail — Ishq da sharbat, which flavours of the tandoor. The naan was Having your own website certain ambience. The food and Staying indoors and listening to for a smoky flavour. The size was daunt- included buttermilk, roohafza and fresh huge and was filled with cheddar and social media presence can decor too matched to give the grim news can be demoralising, ing, to say the least, which bothered me. watermelon juice, and a whisky-based cheese, spring onions and green chill- help restaurants save big and get desired results. The same can- which is why so many are tun- But the taste disappointed me even cocktail — Garmich sardi da ehsaas ies. online orders organically. not be delivered to someone’s ing into the latest IPL cricket more. Although, it was grilled to per- bunta, which had lime juice, honey and I was pretty near saturation, how- Powerhouses like Defense doorstep. But a delivery-only season for entertainment. And fection, had a crisp singe on the outside masala bunta. The drinks, perfect for ever, I ordered Kasore wali phirni Bakery 1962, Sidewok India, La menu can be crafted that takes entertainment is incomplete and was tender too, it tasted bland, summers, not only satisfied my thirst under mittha. I have had the dessert at Vie Pizzeria, Byg Breskey & less time to prep and travels without good food. This is a unlike the traditional paneer tikka. but also kept my body cool. many places but this was just how I like 3000 more are making their well. An easy to browse menu great opportunity for restaurant Unfortunately, it didn’t really make a Moving on, I tried their Tandoori it — less sweet. Made up of milk along business profitable with their along with enticing visuals can businesses to grab those crick- mark on my tastebuds. bhuni chaat, which had pineapple, with pounded rice, flavoured with car- own online ordering platform help customers make quick et fans’ eyeballs through ads Next, in the starters, came Motiyan apple, guava, mushroom, sweet potato damom and saffron, it was served in a powered by inresto. decisions, leaving them with a and promote their offers. One wali makki and Tandoori aloo nazakat. and bell peppers, all roasted in tandoor tiny earthen pot. It grew delicious with “Forming our own rela- satisfactory user experience. such platform is cricbuzz, and While the former was a combination of and dipped in chef’s special sauce. I pre- each bite. tionship with customers has The solution offers the liberty its partnership with inresto by cheese and baby corn wrapped on a ferred the dish’s wholesome taste to its I realised food is just one compo- been our priority. That’s one of for restaurants to modify the Dineout lets their restaurant baby butte, cooked in tandoor; the lat- presentation. nent of Ikk Panjab; from the atmos- the major reasons why they menu anytime they want. Apart partners stay ahead in the ter had pieces of potato, marinated in By this time, I had had enough phere, the visual display units to cop- remember us fondly and keep from this, it helps them keep game and get an edge over the rich spices, stuffed with dry fruits and paneer and tandoor. So for the main per tumblers and bell-metal quarter coming back. And in such times track of the customer data, competition by promoting their paneer, and cooked over charcoal. It was course, I decided to go with anything plates, everything portrayed multiple when social distancing is para- which later is used for running brand on the right platform. topped with pomegranate seeds, which but the two of them. The chef suggest- realities of the bygone era of the State. mount, our ordering platform customer retention campaigns L? /-

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   insisted Wednesday that the European Super League Matty Cash earned a second IPL but Mumbai Indians would
-+$+        # was not doomed, but merely “on stand-by”. anchester City closed in on booking for chopping down like its players to find form and “The project is on stand-by. The project exists, the Premier League title as Foden in the second half. !...
 # BANGLADESH REACH 474-4 M consistency and a match 7 77 but half of them have left, tired of what they have the leaders fought back to win City are 11 points clear of against an under-performing  "   <   K  heard over 24 hours, saying they don’t want to con- 2-1 at Aston Villa on second placed Manchester Punjab could well be the begin-     tinue,” said Perez. Wednesday. United and need a maximum of ning. morale and the team needs to recover *% - DNDI  His note of defiance came despite all six English Pep Guardiola’s side were eight points from their remain- Punjab have flattered to quickly or else its play-off hopes would slip (    N>NIN clubs as well as Inter Milan, AC Milan and Atletico rocked by John McGinn’s open- ing five games to clinch a third deceive after a winning start. Being fast.  -.  # Madrid turning their backs on the tournament, plans er for Villa after just 20 seconds. Premier League title in four sea- shot out for 120 by Sunrisers Rahul has got two fifties in four games for which were only revealed on Sunday night. But City recovered impres- sons. “Not the start I dreamed of Hyderabad on Wednesday hinted at so far but has lacked support from others. His REAL MADRID CRUSH CADIZ In an interview with Spanish radio station sively as Phil Foden equalised but we reacted very well. It was bigger problems for the KL Rahul-led captaincy has not inspired a lot of confidence  2'   Cadena Ser, Perez was asked if it is wrong to think before Rodri put the visitors a really good performance,” team, which has more than one issue and muddled team selection has  7<   the breakaway competition is now dead. ahead. Guardiola said. to resolve, especially its composition. compounded his woes. ..  I I
 “Absolutely,” he said. “We are working on it. City defender John Stones Elsewhere, Tottenham The formidable batting unit Deepak Hooda showed  <# Something will come out that the world thinks is the threatened to derail his team’s made a winning start to life after hasn’t hit the straps, save for what he is capable of, but best.” charge when he was sent off for Jose Mourinho as Son Heung- Rahul and Mayank greater consistency would SUSHIL IGNORED, AMIT PICKED Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus are the only a reckless foul on Jacob Ramsey min’s last-minute penalty sealed Agarwal and the bowling be needed from him if      three clubs yet to withdraw. Perez said Barcelona are just before half-time. a vital 2-1 victory against has been pedestrian. the team has to prosper. O>N P 8 I “thinking about it”. However, Villa were Southampton. -< 

Universe Boss Chris They bet on " “I am sad and disappointed. We have been work- Gayle has not been able Australian pace        ing on this for three years and fighting against the to boss over proceed- imports Jhye  6G   -   financial situation in Spanish football,” said Perez. ings while his fellow Richardson and  <AIS      “I have never seen aggression like it, from the West Indian Nicholas Riley Meredith to up
- 5 # president of Uefa and some presidents of the nation-

Pooran, expected to the ante but they have % al leagues. It seemed orchestrated, it surprised all of provide the big shots proved expensive and  QUARANTINE CAMPS FOR CLUBS us. It was like nothing I’ve seen in my career, like we in the middle, has already lost their place /  QA 8B  had killed football. We were working on how to save come a cropper so in the XI.        LK  football.” far. Punjab may look to bring in  M    “Uefa made it look like we dropped an atomic Three straight the talented Ravi Bishnoi in 1 (   .   bomb. They haven’t let us explain. It can’t be that losses would have defi- place of Murugan Ashwin and fit        those at the top lose money and the rest earn money.   #  nitely dented Punjab’s in Chris Jordan in the XI.  The rich now lose a lot of money,” he added. AFP