Delhi Was Taken for the Admiral Arun Prakash Said on the Differences, Which Covishield Vaccine Accounts Strategic Exercise, Which Was in Twitter, “There Is Irony Here

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/12013 eration on advancing a free and on the continental shelf mili- open Indo-Pacific region, tary exercises or manoeuvres, naval drill by the US Navy including support for freedom in particular those involving Aearlier this week in the of navigation and territorial the use of weapons or explo- because of a large number of Indian Exclusive Economic integrity”. sives without the consent of the doses of Covid vaccine being Zone (EEZ) has raised eye- Reacting to this develop- coastal State”. The US has so far administered here. At over 83 brows as no prior consent from ment, former Navy Chief not ratified UNCLOS. million, AstraZeneca’s New Delhi was taken for the Admiral Arun Prakash said on The differences, which Covishield vaccine accounts strategic exercise, which was in Twitter, “There is irony here. began during the drafting of /12013 for 90 per cent of the doses total disregard of internation- While India ratified UN Law of the treaty, is over the interpre- administered in India so far. al conventions. However, the the Seas in 1995, the US has tation of Article 58 (i) of the t least 700 severe and seri- The remaining 8.1 million US has claimed it has abided by failed to do it so far. For the 7th Convention, which says:.. In Aous adverse events have doses are of Bharat Biotech’s the international laws. Fleet to carry out FoN missions the exclusive economic zone, all been reported from across the Covaxin. This exercise without in Indian EEZ in violation of States, whether coastal or land- country post-Covid vaccina- “Besides, we also have a approval by India came at a our domestic law is bad locked, enjoy, subject to the rel- tion since nationwide inocula- large-scale AEFI monitoring time when the two countries enough. But publicising it? evant provisions of this tion drive began on January 16. and assessment mechanism are marching ahead to forge USN please switch on IFF Convention, the freedoms The cases are under scanner in already in place for the uni- closer strategic and defence ties. (Identification, friend or foe)!,” referred to in article 87 of nav- India in the wake of the glob- versal child immunisation pro- Moreover, the two countries, The US regularly conducts igation and over flight and of al concerns over rare or unusu- gramme,” he added. now part of the Quadrilateral FONOPs against several coun- the laying of submarine cables al types of blood clots after On Wednesday, the last year, held the Malabar tries challenging what it says and pipelines, and other inter- administration of the European Medicines Agency series of exercises along with are “excessive maritime claims” nationally lawful uses of the sea AstraZeneca-Oxford (EMA) confirmed that the Japan and Australia. and FONOPs were regularly related to these freedoms, such University shots. cases of blood clots with low Taking exception to the conducted against India too in as those associated with the Meanwhile, India reported blood platelets were associated exercise, the External Affairs the past. operation of ships, aircraft over 1.44 lakh cases in 24 with the administration of the Ministry said here on Friday " $%& $%' ()* Both the countries have and submarine cables and hours on Friday, while the 773 AstraZeneca vaccine, but India has expressed its con- differences on the rights of pipelines, and compatible with people died of Covid-19. should still be listed as very rare cerns to the US through diplo- cerns regarding this passage miles west of the Lakshadweep expansionism, particularly in Littoral States to stop foreign the other provisions of this Sources in the Union side effects. matic channels. through our EEZ to the Islands, inside India’s EEZ, the South China Sea. India and warships from carrying out Convention. Health Ministry said the In fact, till March 29 when A Ministry statement said Government of the USA without requesting India’s prior the US hold naval exercises military activities in their EEZ. The second clause of the national committee on adverse over 6 crore people were inoc- UN Convention on Law of the through diplomatic channels,” consent, consistent with inter- throughout the year. India and the US have fun- Article then lists Articles “88 to events following immunsation ulated, nearly, 180 people died Sea did not authorise other the MEA statement said. national law. India requires The US statement also said, damental differences in coastal 115” as also applying to the (AEFI) is closely monitoring after getting the vaccine while states to carry out military The US informed about its prior consent for military exer- “We conduct routine and reg- states’ rights to stop foreign EEZ “in so far as they are not the cases and relooking at 617 adverse events have been exercises or manoeuvres, in drill when a statement by the cises or manoeuvres in its ular FONOPs, as we have done military ships from conducting incompatible with this Part”. some of the unusual technical reported in India. This means particular those involving use US Navy 7th fleet said it con- exclusive economic zone or in the past and will continue to military activities within their The US asserts that the parameters following reports that 29.2 per cent of these of weapons, in EEZ and on ducted Freedom of Navigation continental shelf, a claim do in the future. FONOPs are EEZ. phrase “other internationally by the European regulator and AEFI cases resulted in deaths. continental shelf, without con- Operations (FONOPs) within inconsistent with internation- not about one country, nor are When India ratified the lawful uses of the sea” means the World Health Organisation However, not a single case has sent of coastal state. India’s exclusive economic zone al law,” said a statement by the they about making political UN Convention of the Law of that they can enjoy the freedom (WHO). been attributed to deaths due to It further said the US war- off the Lakshadweep Islands US 7th Fleet Public Affairs. statements.” the Sea (UNCLOS) in 1995, it to operate in the EEZ. They The result of the analysis is the vaccine. ship USS John Paul Jones was without India’s permission. The statement irked New In the Quad group meeting declared that in its under- also cite Article 87 that lists likely to be finalised by the end Instead, the Ministry has continuously monitored tran- “On April 7, 2021, the USS Delhi since the US is among held in February this year, the standing “the provisions of the freedoms in the high seas, of this week, said the sources. found that most of the persons siting from the Persian Gulf John Paul Jones asserted navi- India’s closest strategic partners first since a new US adminis- Convention do not authorise including freedom of naviga- They said the review is sig- who succumbed to their illness towards the Malacca Straits. gational rights and freedoms with both sides having repeat- tration took over, the partners other States to carry out in the tion, implying that this applies nificant as globally regulators had co-morbidities. “We have conveyed our con- approximately 130 nautical edly opposed China’s maritime pledged “to strengthen coop- exclusive economic zone and to the EEZ. are waiting for India’s data Continued on Page 2 # ! )* itive for the coronavirus and sions. $"% five of them have been admit- The Peltzman Effect has $R# % ted for treatment. been termed after Sam Similarly, about 40 doctors Peltzman, an economist at the have tested positive in a hos- University of Chicago. &'( , - pital in the last few days. According to the theory, holding the Home Ministry Around half of them belong to Peltzman postulated that man- responsible for controlling the /12013 the general surgery depart- dating the use of seatbelts in conduct of the Central forces ment, nine of the urology automobiles led to more acci- ! during the elections… but a lit- he Delhi Government on /12013 department and three of the dents. This implies that safety tle common sense would make TFriday ordered all schools department of medicine. Most perception increases the "" her think differently… in fact to remain shut amid the rising ven as Covid-19 cases are of them had taken the vaccine appetite for risks. In other during the elections the Central cases of coronavirus in the Esurging despite ramping up in the first phase of the vacci- terms, people become more ' ' !43!& forces are not controlled by the city. On Friday, Delhi record- of the vaccination drive each nation that was launched from careful when they sense greater Union Home Ministry but by ed 8,521 fresh Covid-19 cases, passing day, the Government is January 16. risk and less careful if they feel ven as the Election the Election Commission,” highest single-day spike since bracing up for a new worry as Studies say the “Peltzman more protected. ECommission of India Shah told mediapersons adding November 11 last year, and 39 the virus is infecting even Effect”, might be one of the rea- Continued on Page 2 slapped a second notice on he had not seen a Chief new fatalities, according to those people, including large sons. The term is used to indi- Mamata Banerjee, this time for Minister acting in a manner the Health department bulletin. number of doctors, who have cate that when safety mea- asking her supporters to block- way she did. The Directorate of already taken both doses of sures are mandated, people’s ,">% ade the Central forces and Saying that Mamata’s out- Education ( DoE ) in its order vaccines. perception of risk decreases, then vote because “they are +, %-.., / burst was the result of her fear stated, “In view of the sudden examination related work i.e., This might hamper the making them take riskier deci- &? Amit Shah’s men,” a defiant % %% of losing the elections, the surge in the cases of Covid-19 practical, project submission, health services at a time when Bengal Chief Minister alleged 0 , ( Home Minister said, “Mamata in Delhi, all the Heads of assessments etc) till further the country is witnessing a sec- 5" Nagpur: Rashtriya Home Minister Amit Shah was Banerjee’s outburst only indi- Government, Government orders,” said the order issued by ond wave. Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) trying to incite violence in the PM Narendra Modi to control cates that she is losing the elec- aided and unaided recognised the DoE. Dr Jugal Kishore, head of chief Mohan Bhagwat has State and egging on the police Amit Shah first. He is inciting tions … the frustration is evi- Schools are hereby informed “However, teaching learn- the department of community tested coronavirus positive to engage in unethical acts. riots here,” news agency PTI dent from her regular attack on that conduct of all academic ing activities may be conduct- medicine at Safdarjung )78 and he has been admitted to The TMC supremo quoted Mamata saying this the Central forces… In fact I and examination activities ed for the students through dig- Hospital, said infection among #/ a private hospital in Nagpur, advised Prime Minister while addressing a rally in have never seen a Chief through physical mode shall ital modes,” it said further. doctors even after getting vac- sources said on Friday. Narendra Modi to control Memari in Purba. Minister or party chief asking remain suspended with imme- Meanwhile, Delhi cination can impair the func- Jaipur: Rajasthan Chief Shah, alleging that he may On his part, the Union the people to gherao the diate effect till further orders. Government-run Rajiv Gandhi tionality of services that are Minister Ashok Gehlot has incite riots in the State. Home Minister on Friday Central forces.” He wondered “They are further directed Super Speciality Hospital being provided. “If doctors go written to Prime Minister “I have not seen such a pledged “common sense” to the whether by using such words to ensure that no student of (RGGSH) has been again con- for quarantine or get sick, who Narendra Modi, saying the ‘gunda’ (gangster), ‘dangabaaz’ Bengal Chief Minister inform- she was trying to create anar- Classes IX to XII is called in the verted into a dedicated Covid- will provide healthcare ser- stock of coronavirus vaccine (rioteer) Home Minister in my ing her about how the CPF chy. “Is she trying to create school physically for any kind 19 facility amid a massive surge vices,” he cautioned. in the state will finish in next ' entire life. Amit Shah is more functioned during the elec- anarchy? I do not understand,” of academic or examination in coronavirus cases in the For instance, at least 37 two days and urged him to dangerous than a tiger. People tions. Shah said. activity (like practice of prac- national Capital, officials said doctors in Delhi’s Sir Ganga immediately provide at least fear talking to him. I will urge “Mamata Didi has been Continued on Page 2 ticals, mid-term & annual on Friday. Ram Hospital have tested pos- 30 lakh doses. /12013 . ! " "#$ % aharashtra Minister 2 $3 MVijay Wadettiwar on Friday said that a three-week ./' long lockdown was required & in the State to bring the coronavirus cases under control. O " 4 % Having only a weekend % lockdown was not enough /12013 for the State considering the !O " 34/04/ /120135 #67 after losing elections. So they rise in numbers, he said. # " ntensifying their protest (allies) want to take guard,” “We are doing all we can $ % Iagainst the three farm laws, ritain’s Prince Philip — the o thwart possible attempts AICC chief spokesman to check the spread, but it the farmers protesting at Delhi BDuke of Edinburgh, the Tof horse-trading by the rul- Congress’s Randeep Singh requires strong manpower. borders will block the key husband of Queen Elizabeth II, ing BJP, Assam’s minority- Surjewala said confirming the We will soon make available P Kundali-Manesar-Palwal high- who passed away at the age of based All India United developments. five lakh doctors, including !" & way for 24 hours starting 99 on Friday morning — made Democratic Front (AIUDF) Speculation is rife the can- those who are completing #' # Saturday morning. three memorable royal visits to on Friday sent all its candidates didates could be taken further their postgraduation,” the ( !O ) “Tomorrow, on April 10, India in his long years of of the recently-concluded to Dubai from Rajasthan as the Relief and Rehabilitation "" the KMP-KGP highway will be accompanying the 94-year-old Assembly elections to results of the keenly-contested Minister told a TV channel. ' blocked for 24 hours (from 8 monarch during her nearly Congress-ruled Rajasthan in a led AIUDF. AIUDF is a com- Assam elections will scheduled We need to bring curbs am, 10th April to 8 am 11th 69-year reign. chartered plane, perhaps being ponent of Assam’s 10-party to be declared on May 2 comes on the movement of railways O April) as a warning to the gov- The UK’s longest-serving the first case when election and Congress-led grand closer. and stop crowding in public " ernment,” the Samyukt Kisan royal consort joined the Queen contestants, not MLAs, have alliance of Opposition. It was “All of us have just landed places to prevent the com- * " Morcha, an umbrella body of in India in 1959, 1961, 1983 been put in a secure place. formed two months back to in Rajasthan. The Rajasthan munity spread and save peo- " " +, ,,, % the protesting farmer unions, and 1997 — during which he As many as 22 candidates oust the BJP from power. Government has made ple’s lives, Wadettiwar said. said in a statement on Friday. made quite an impression with world with the highest esteem of the Opposition alliance led They have been kept in the arrangements for our stay,” “As Relief and # The KMP stands for his sense of humour, which and affection. India had the by the Congress in Assam have same Fairmont resort in Jaipur one of the AIUDF candidates Rehabilitation Minister, I Kundali-Manesar-Palwal often also got him into some honour of receiving him and been flown to Jaipur amid where Rajasthan Chief Minister said as quoted by a Assam daily. would demand that instead of $ $ & &() expressway and the KGP for controversy. HM The Queen on four mem- fears that the BJP may try to Ashok Gehlot had put his He mentioned the AIUDF just a weekend lockdown,we " Kundli-Ghaziabad-Palwal “Deeply saddened at sad orable occasions,” the Indian lure them away ahead of elec- MLAs last July during the chief Maulana Badruddin should go for a three-week " * expressway. demise of HRH Prince Philip, High Commission in London tion results due early next party’s internal crisis led by Ajmal though have not accom- long strict lockdown. It is " " -. The move is a part of the Duke of Edinburgh, an iconic said in a statement. month. The candidates from Sachin Pilot. panied the team since he is in required to check the com- /0 " % farmers’ strategy for protest this pillar of the British monarchy, Continued on Page 2 Mahajot alliance are from the “It’s now a trend since the Mumbai. munity spread,” he said. month. regarded by his people and Related reports on P8 Maulana Badruddin Ajmal- BJP tries to break the Congress Continued on Page 2 !"#!# * , % %%5678- (( 1 2&3 9: %% % 4 " 1 % 7027 Yamunotri. . The formation of the panel through leg- ( # 1# '77 eversing his predecessor's decision, islation in December 2019 had not gone down # # ((6 RUttarakhand Chief Minister Tirath Singh well with the seers and 'teerth-purohits' who !43!& Leader Abdul Mannan, Left Rawat on Friday decided to remove the man- felt their traditional rights over the temples ithout causing any major Legislature Party Leader Sujan agement of 51 temples from the control of the had suffered because of it. They had Wdamage to the religious ith instances of violence Chakrabarty, CPI(M) politburo Char Dham Devasthanam Board and recon- also complained that the state government place in South Kashmir district Wincreasing with every pass- member and former MP Md sider its formation. had not taken them in confidence before tak- of Shopian, the joint team of ing phase in the ongoing eight- Salim, BJP MP Locket Chatterjee "I have decided to take out of the ing such a major decision, directly affecting security forces on Friday elim- phase elections in Bengal, the who is contesting from Chinsura, Devasthanam Board's ambit 51 temples them. inated two more terrorists in (%% ; %% Election Commission of India former India cricketer Manoj which had been brought under it," Rawat Despite repeated assurances by former Jan Mohalla area while chief "% $ has upped the number of securi- Tewari who is contesting from Rawat told reporters after a meeting with seers Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat that commander of Alqaeda-linked ty forces for the fourth phase of Shibpur, senior journalist during the ongoing Kumbh Mela here. enough safeguards had been taken in the law Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind along Imtiyaz Shah, who was active Tral. Today, early morning a polling on Saturday. Rantideb Sengupta and He added that the government will also bill to protect the rights of 'teerth-purohits', with his associate were neu- since April 2019, was killed. cordon was launched in an Accordingly about 80,000 cen- others. review the decision to form the Board. the priests in the state, including those in tralised in a separate encounter “In Shopian operation we open area where Imtiyaz along tral forces would man the conduct Meanwhile, electoral vio- Set up during former Chief Minister Uttarkashi, were agitated over the issue. at Nowbugh, Tral in Pulwama had to be very patient. We fol- with his aide were killed,” he of elections at 12,310 polling station lence continued in different parts Trivendra Singh Rawat's term, the Some of them even approached BJP leader district,taking the total tally of lowed all SoPs. We allowed the said. From of the seven slain in 44 seats spread across five dis- of Bengal with two TMC sup- Devasthanam Board was assigned the man- Subramanian Swamy who later moved the terrorists killed in the last 24 Moulvi of the local masjid in terrorists, the IGP said seven tricts in North and South Bengal. porters, one from Nandigram suc- agement of 51 temples of the state, including Uttarakhand High Court challenging the gov- hours to seven. which terrorists were hiding, to AK-rifles and two pistols were Elections will be held in cumbing to their injuries on the four famous Himalayan shrines of ernment's decision to take over the control Four soldiers including one persuade terrorists to surrender recovered. He said that in the Coochbehar and Alipurudar dis- Friday. Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and of temples. army officer received injuries in twice in the night. We also Shopian operation sanctity of tricts in North Bengal and South 24 There was midnight bedlam at the overnight gunfight. brought the brother of a ter- the masjid was maintained and Parganas, Howrah, and Hooghly in Chetla are in posh South Kolkata Earlier three terrorists were rorist. His request for surren- the place of worship suffered the southern part of the State. barely a km away from Chief killed in Jan Mohalla on der was also turned down. We minimum damage. Little more than 1.15 crore Minister Mamata Banerjee’s resi- $- : / % %%$%@= Thursday evening. brought the parents of terror- The IGP identified the voters would decide the fate of 373 dence where hundreds of TMC '## (6(? him to 14-day judicial custody. All these terrorists had ists in the morning, but ter- slain terrorists of Shopian as candidates including 50 women on and BJP supporters fought with Vaze was questioned for the third con- taken shelter inside a local rorists refused to surrender,” Muzamil Tantary who had Saturday. About 69 lakh men, brickbats leaving quite a few of fter having been in the NIA’s custody for secutive day in connection with allegations mosque forcing the security the IGP said, adding that in the joined militancy in August 56.94 lakh women and 293 mem- them injured. Anearly four weeks, Mumbai’s suspended of corruption made by Mumbai’s former forces to exercise maximum Shopian gunfight no IED, no 2019, Adil Lone who picked up bers of the Third Gender would Alleged TMC men attacked police officer Sachin Vaze was on Friday police commissioner Param Bir Singh against restraint while neutralising explosives and grenades were arms in July 2019, Younish exercise their franchise in the vandalized and looted shops in remanded by a Special Court here to judicial the State’s former Home Minister. them in Jan Mohalla area. used. “We used tear smoke Ahmed Khanday, who joined fourth phase of elections. Kasba area in south-eastern custody till April 23 in the twin explosive The Bombay High Court had on April 5 Religious leaders and fam- shells. In the ensuing gun- terrorists ranks in November Among the notable people Kolkata, sources said adding the laden SUV planting and alleged Manshuk ordered a “Preliminary Enquiry” (PE) by the ily members including par- fight, five terrorists were last year and Basit Bhat who whose luck would be tested on attackers were asking the people Hiran murder cases. CBI into Singh’s allegation that the then State ents were taken inside the killed—two from Hizbul picked up gun in June last year. Saturday are Bengal Education to remain indoors on the polling Special Judge P. R. Sitre sent Vaze to the Home Minister Deshmukh had asked Vaze mosque to pacify the terrorists Mujahideen, one from LeT He said the fifth terrorist has Minister Partho Chatterjee, day. Elsewhere acting on secret Taloja Central jail on a day when he in February to "collect" a staggering Rs 100 to lay down their arms but they and two from AGH. All were not been identified yet. Union Minister and Asansol MP information the police recov- allowed the CBI – which is conducting a crore per month from bars, restaurants and refused to obey. categorized terrorists.” Similarly, the IGP said one of Babul Supriyo who is contesting ered a drum full of bombs at Preliminary Enquiry (PE) against other sources. Briefing the media about He said that two terrorists the slain terrorists of Tral gun- against powerful Bengal Minister Bhangore in eastern fringes of Maharashtra’s former Home Minister Anil On Thursday, the Supreme Court dis- two separate gunfights, IGP including the AGH chief fight was identified as Imtiyaz Arup Biswas, former Bengal Kolkata where the TMC and ISF Deshmukh in the alleged corruption case missed petitions filed by the MVA govern- Kashmir Vijay Kumar said that Imtiyaz Shah had fled from the Shah, the chief of AGH, who Minister and turncoat BJP leader are facing each other. At – access to diaries belonging to Sachin Vaze ment and Deshmukh challenging the High in two different encounters Shopian encounter site during was active since April 2019, and Rajib Banerjee, Hooghly MLA Dubrajpur in Birbhum district and convicted constable Vinayak Shinde Court order instituting a “preliminary one at Jan Mohalla, Shopian the initial cordon after throw- was tasked to target Amarnath and minister Becharam Manna two hands of a person was blown that were recovered earlier by the NIA. inquiry” by the CBI into the allegations of cor- and another at Nowbugh, Tral ing grenades. “We developed Yatra in the Tral area. The iden- who is contesting from Singur, up when he was making bombs. Earlier, the NIA did not press for the ruption made by the former police commis- in Pulwama district, seven ter- the lead and found that the duo tity of Imtiyaz’s aide is being Howrah TMC leader and minis- He had been hospitalised, sources extension of Vaze’s custody when it produced sioner against the former State Home rorists including AGH chief had fled to Nowbugh area of ascertained. ter Arup Roy, Bengal Opposition said. him before the special NIA court which sent Minister. ( 8-9 *& % ()) ' 2 $3 . &6<<= % & =73 >378 From page 1 +++ AIUDF sources said the candidates would visit Ajmer Sharif during their stay. They will be provid- # /12013 Commandant, Lt Col Gaurav Hamal, Lt From page 1 ed with separate mobile phones so that others can- 9 Col Gyan Ranjan Sahu and the Academic Till now this blood clotting issue was not contact them, sources said. hundred years ago, Rajwara Camp in Head Prashant Kumar Sharma decided to not being investigated by Indian officials. The AIUDF is not taking any chances given past '## (6(? the number of cases, the “active ADehradun, which then trained young keep the wheels of RIMC turning without In fact, out of the 617 instances of severe experiences. In the last Manipur elections, the cases” shot past one lakh mark to princes, had to shut down due to the a squeak. This needed access control, keep- and serious AEFI, 492 have so far been clas- Congress had bagged 28 of the 60 seats and the BJP he “active cases” in Pune, which touch 1,00,051. Similarly, 43 more Spanish flu pandemic. The 138-acre cam- ing the routine close to normal, being med- sified on the basis of their severity, by the had won 22 but it managed to cobble up the num- Tis the country’s worst Covid 19- deaths were recorded taking the total pus today is home to Rashtriya Indian ically and administratively prepared and AEFI Secretariat of the Immunisation bers as some MLAs defected and form the affected city, breached a grim land- number of deaths to 8575. Military College (RIMC), which probably also assuage fears of the parents. Since the Technical Support Unit at the Union Government. Congress’s chief whip in the Rajasthan mark of one lakh, even the infections A day after the new cases in is the only boarding school in the coun- staff and faculty residing outside the cam- Health Ministry. Similarly, 124 of the 180 Assembly, Mahesh Joshi said, “We will take care of in Maharashtra shot up further to a Maharashtra dropped to 56,286 from try to remain completely functional dur- pus were asked to stay out, the College was deaths have so far been classified for their people coming here. We don’t know from which polit- staggering 58,993 on Friday, as 301 the previous day’s record tally of ing the complete Covid 19 pandemic. run on a skeleton staff, but all tasks were cause. ical party they belong but there are around 20 peo- more succumbed to the pandemic in 59.507, the daily infections in the state “As the news of the pandemic broke last executed with the same efficiency. Of these 124 deaths, more than 63 ple who have contested in the ongoing assembly elec- various parts of the State. jumped further to 58,993, while the spring, famous schools in the Doon valley To ensure social distancing, classes (nearly 51 per cent) have been categorised tions in Assam from Opposition camp. The Congress The situation in Pune, where a deaths dropped to 301 from the pre- shut down it was different at RIMC, which were held in open spaces, the syllabus was as being caused due to acute coronary syn- will bear all their expenses. Till BJP is at the Centre, substantial number of cases is being vious day’s tally of 376. is a functioning military unit in addition completed in time and the exams for the drome (a range of conditions associated there will always be a possibility of buying MLAs.” reported on a daily for nearly one With 58,507 fresh infections, the to being a residential school,” says Sidharth Spring Term 2020 conducted efficiently with sudden, reduced blood flow to the Assam, where the BJP came to power in the last month, worsened further, as an total caseload in the state climbed Mishra, publisher of The Rimcollian, the and progress reports made well within heart), or heart attacks. Another 11 deaths elections, has completed the electioneering process alarming 10,083 cases were reported from 32,29,547 to 32,88,540. alumni newsletter of RIMC, which has car- time. Meals in Cadets Mess were staggered, (12 percent) are due to strokes. in three phases between March 27 and April 6. The on Friday, taking the total number of Similarly, with 301 new deaths, the ried a detailed report on the humungous dished out in the lawn as a buffet, ensur- But now possible links of blood clot- results will be declared along with the poll results in infections in the city to 6,29,174. total Covid-19 toll rose from 57,028 exercise in its March 2021 edition. ing social distancing and minimal inter- ting and vaccination, if any will be closely West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and With the substantial increase in to 57,329. The team led by Col Ajay Kumar), the action with the waiters. investigated, said the sources. Puducherry.

Queen on a visit to Jallianwala cessful British Indians in 2009: lent and in 1930, when he was " +++ Bagh in Amritsar where the “There’s a lot of your family in eight years old, his mother ! royals laid a commemorative tonight.” was committed to a secure wreath at the site associated Ten years earlier, while psychiatric centre after suffer- with General Dyer’s orders to inspecting a factory in ing a nervous breakdown, a From page 1 sanitisation. The increase in the number the Peltzman Effect, published From page 1 open fire on a large Baisakhi Edinburgh and coming across story most recently covered in Similarly, in the case of While it is a known fact of people being inoculated in the ACP Journals on March During his 1961 visit to gathering in April 1919. an old-fashioned fuse box, he the Netflix series ‘The Crown’. Covid-19, vaccines are giving a that vaccines neither give gives rise to a “misplaced sense 2. “Consciously or not, even India, he was pictured with the As someone known for his said: “It looks as if it was put in When Philip left school in sense of security, which has led immediate protection or full of security in “herd immunity” those who have not received a Queen and the Maharaja and gaffes, among his many infa- by an Indian.” Scotland, Britain was on the to an increase in risky behav- protection (against infection or long before widespread immu- Covid-19 vaccine may forgo Maharani of Jaipur with a dead mous ones includes his query It had become common verge of war with Germany and iour. Such behaviour includes death), the sense of security, nity is truly present,” said doc- masks and social distancing if eight-foot tiger he had shot of the death toll at the practice for the UK media to he joined the Britannia Royal low adherence to preventive unfortunately, starts much ear- tors from New York they know that others are while on a hunt. It happened to Jallianwala Bagh massacre. regularly compile a list of the Naval College in Dartmouth, measures like mask usage, lier, even before the actual University’s Langone Health receiving the vaccine,” the doc- be the same year he became “Two thousand? It wasn’t, was Duke’s many gaffes, many of the UK’s naval academy. He social distancing and hand injection. in a comprehensive review of tors added. president of the World Wildlife it,” he questioned, as he passed which were believed to have went on to serve with distinc- Fund UK. by a plaque at the memorial, been made in a light-hearted tion in World War II, seeing He also shot a crocodile which read “This place is sat- vein. military action for the first time addressing a rally at Jamalpur create anarchy by provoking of Joy’ & we will also work to and mountain sheep on that urated with the blood of about Philip was born on June 10, in the Indian Ocean. +++ in Burdwan East, however, the general public into attack- transform it into ‘City of trip but it was the photograph two thousand Hindus, Sikhs 1921, on the Greek island of When King George VI remained defiant saying she ing the forces prompting the Future’. We will make an Rs of the tiger that caused ripples and Muslims who were mar- Corfu, the youngest child and paid an official visit to the naval would continue to criticise the CPF to fire in self defence 22,000 crore Kolkata around the world. tyred in a non-violent struggle”. only son of Prince Andrew of academy in July 1939, Philip From page 1 Central forces till they did not generating, in turn, a sympa- Development Fund for infra- Later in life, he went on to “That’s wrong. I was in the Greece and Princess Alice of was charged with entertaining He added the way she was stop working for the BJP. thy wave for the Trinamool structural strengthening. reinvent himself as an envi- Navy with Dyer’s son. That’s a Battenberg. That heritage made his young daughters, Princesses appealing to minority voters “I always respect the Congress. Shah also rolled out plans ronmentalist and “champion of bit exaggerated… it must him a Prince of Greece and Elizabeth — later to be Queen to come together and vote for Central forces. They are not The Commission earlier for North Bengal, particular- the natural world” as UK Prime include the wounded,” he is Denmark, but the following — and Margaret. He made an the TMC “indicates that their bad people. The problem is sent her a notice for making ly its biggest city Siliguri say- Minister Boris Johnson reported to have said. year the family was expelled impression on the then 13- minority vote bank is also with the people up there who communal remarks during ing the BJP Government referred to him in his tribute on Among his other gaffes from Greece after a coup and year-old Elizabeth and the cou- slipping away.” are controlling them … I will campaigns when she asked would work towards con- Friday. During Prince Philip’s included a quip at Indian-ori- a British warship carried them ple were to later get married Earlier the ECI sent a continue speaking against the the Muslim voters to unite structing a metro railway in last visit to India to mark the gin entrepreneur Atul Patel to safety in Italy with baby after a courtship through let- second notice to the Chief CPF until they stop working and vote for her. To that let- North Bengal city. “We will 50th anniversary of indepen- during a Buckingham Palace Philip. ters. Minister for using “provoca- for the BJP. Once they stop ter, Mamata said, “Send 10 consider constructing Metro dence in 1997, he joined the reception for hundreds of suc- His childhood was turbu- The erstwhile Prince of tive and intemperate lan- doing that, I will salute them. notices to me but I do not services in Siliguri besides set- Greece and Denmark became guage” against the Central I do not care about your care,” asking why you do not ting up a IT park here. We will a naturalised British subject, forces which it said had been (EC’s) show cause letters.” send notices to Narendra also release a fund of Rs 100 formally joined the Church of “working diligently” since the The Chief Minister said Modi who is making state- crore for a tea park” he said in England and gave up his for- 1980s towards conducting responding to the EC notice. ments dividing the Hindus addition to making a number eign titles. On his wedding day, free and fair elections. “You are working at the and Muslims regularly? Why of other promises. November 20, 1947, he was Referring to the Chief behest of the BJP. I wonder don’t you send notices to the Shah on Friday took part made Duke of Edinburgh, aged Minister’s allegations that the why there is no MCC viola- BJP leaders (read Suvendu in two roadshows at Jagatdal 26. Central forces were dancing tion when the PM campaigns Adhikari) who called the and Madhyamgram in North The couple’s marriage was to the tunes of the Home on polling days,” Mamata Muslims of Nandigram 24 Parganas. to last 73 years, during which Minister and that they were said. Pakistanis…” the Queen described him as trying to influence the voters Attacking the CPF, Chief Back in Kolkata Shah who her “strength and stay”, and into voting for the BJP the Minister had earlier asked on Friday reiterated that his they had four children — the Commission faulted her for the women supporters of her party would win 63 to 68 seats eldest and heir to the throne making “... prima facie, com- party in a public rally to out of 91 that went to polls in Prince Charles, Princess Anne, pletely false, provocative “gherao and blockade the the first three rounds said Prince Andrew, and Prince and intemperate state- Central forces which are Bengal would get its due after Edward. He is also survived by ments,” with an intention “to working in favour of the the BJP would come to power eight grandchildren and 10 berate and vilify Central Home Ministry …while the winning more than 200 seats. great-grandchildren. Paramilitary Forces during women will keep them captive He said that the endeav- As the Queen’s consort, the electoral process.” She the others can go and cast ours to make Sonar Bangla his primary function was to said such remarks were “caus- their votes … do this every- Abhiyan would commence support his wife and he accom- ing extreme demoralisation where so that your voting from Kolkata pledging once panied her extensively along- amongst ranks and file of rights are not wasted.” again Rs 22,000 crore devel- side his own royal charities and these forces....” The BJP leadership saw in opment package for the city. patronages until his retirement Mamata who was her statement an attempt to “Kolkata will remain the ‘City from royal duties in 2017.

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Raghav Chaddha was also pre- have tested positive. The hos- apprised that out of the 37 doc- He expressed serious con- !B 7 " C sent in the meeting. pital can reach out to the Delhi tors who tested positive, most cerns over the spike in Corona Kejriwal said, government at any of them are asymptomatic and positive cases in the last few /12013 residence, where he inquired "Our doctors have point, if and when have been recommended home days. Delhi has been observing about the health of the 37 doc- been at the forefront required, and we will isolation. 4-5 doctors, who a spike in the number of elhi Chief Minister Arvind tors appointed at the hospital of fighting provide them with all have observed serious symp- Corona positive cases, with DKejriwal on Friday met the who have tested positive for Coronavirus. I pray the help possible." toms, have been admitted to 7,437 people testing positive chairman of Sir Ganga Ram Corona. for a swift recovery of During the meet- the hospitals and are taken care against 91770 tests being con- Hospital, Dr DS Rana, at his Rajendra Nagar MLA all the doctors who ing, the CM was of. ducted on Thursday. ! % -%9: ( #$%% % %$%=75A -. 0" teachers in different districts pling drive carried out by the &$'# (%''$!$)*% 6767( tested positive for coronavirus. health department for the /12013 Government school stu- schools. he Haryana Government dents from several districts Earlier, the state govern- 23-year-old man was inspect the situation today and Thas decided to shut schools had recently tested positive for ment had allowed classes from Ainjured after he was shot at have been apprised by the for classes 1 to 8 till April 30 in coronavirus infection after 3 to 12 to open in phased man- by an alleged criminal in north- president and secretary of the view of the Covid-19 situation. which these schools had been ner with the prior consent of east Delhi's Dayalpur area. Mandi and found not even a This was announced by closed until further orders. parents. The victim has been iden- single counter of the FCI. The Haryana chief minister The students who were Meanwhile, the state is wit- tified as Sahil, a resident of Centre should stop harassing Manohar Lal Khattar on Friday. asymptomatic too had tested nessing a surge in the cases of Nehru Vihar area. farmers and purchase food Khattar was present in positive during a random sam- COVID-19. According to a senior grains by setting up counters in Gurugram on Friday to chair police official, Sahil had sus- mandis.” an annual meeting of the tained a gunshot wound in his To resolve the matter, he Gurugram Metropolitan left leg and was admitted to the will hold a meeting with senior Development Authority Jag Pravesh Chandra Hospital. officials of FCI in Delhi (GMDA). “Initially, Sahil accused two Secretariat on Saturday, he "We are monitoring the other persons for the incident, /12013 said. situation in the state and are but when he was examined in “It is highly unfortunate focusing on testing instead of detail upon being discharged elhi Agriculture Minister that such a system has been 'Night curfew' or 'Lockdown'. from the hospital he told that DGopal Rai on Friday visit- created to trouble farmers. I In the coming days the gov- a person named Farooq was ed Narela Mandi after receiv- would like to say to the union ernment will increase testing at behind the whole episode,” ing a series of complaints from government that today farmers the market places, malls, bus said the senior police official. farmers of the food grains not are fighting for their rights and stands, railway stations to curb “Farooq is a criminal of the being procured at ‘Minimum they know that once the three infections. We don't need to area whose motive was to Support Price’ (MSP). farm laws are implemented, panic in view of the surge in implicate others in the crime. The Minister visited mandi they will have to face a lot of Covid-19 cases. We should On Thursday around 5 pm, to check the situation on trouble. Today a farmer is work hard to fight against Farooq allegedly shot at Sahil ground and found that FCI did being sent from one place to Covid-19 and need to follow and later informed the police not even set up a counter another for MSP. No purchas- covid guidelines," Khattar said. himself. A case has been regis- there. ing was done in the godown till The decision comes after tered and probe is underway,” Rai said “We decided to today,” he added. many school students and said the senior police official. #$'+,-- !$'$) !./$)

/12013 was waiting near Chirag Delhi caught the monkeys from back seat and demanded nab the culprits,” said the DCP. had committed the robbery bus stand with their two mon- Tughlakabad Fort jungle money from him. When the “Further, relevant provi- earlier and could commit fur- he Delhi Police has arrest- keys when the police team around three months ago. The advocate took out the wallet, sions of the Wildlife Protection ther thefts. We acted upon the Ted two men for allegedly nabbed them on Thursday. matter came to light on March the duo robbed him and Act, 1972 were added against information and apprehended using monkeys to threaten and “The two monkeys have 2, when an advocate from escaped,” said the DCP. the accused in the case. The them along with the two mon- rob people in south Delhi's been deposited with Wildlife Khirki Extension reported that “A case was registered team scanned through several keys,” said the DCP. Malviya Nagar area. SOS centre.The accused, , along three men carrying monkeys under Indian Penal Code CCTV footages and conduct- “During interrogation, the The accused duo, Balwan with their third associate, Ajay surrounded them and force- Sections 392 (punishment for ed raids in and around duo confessed to their involve- Nath (26) and Vikram Nath used monkeys to threaten peo- fully robbed Rs 6,000 from robbery) and 34 (acts done by Delhi based on inputs from ment in the incident along (23), who are residents of ple and rob them of their valu- him,” said the DCP. several persons in furtherance sources and informers,” said the with their associate Ajay who Okhla Mor in the city. ables,” said the DCP adding “When the lawyer was sit- of common intention) at DCP. is absconding. The arrested According to Atul Kumar efforts are being taken to catch ting in an auto-rickshaw, the Malviya Nagar police station “On Thursday, a police accused are being further inter- Thakur, the Deputy hold of Ajay, who is still duo made the monkeys sit and since it was a peculiar inci- team got a tip-off that two men rogated for their other Commissioner of Police absconding. inside the vehicle with one in dent involving monkeys, a ded- with monkeys were present at involvements if any,” the DCP (DCP), South district, the duo “The accused men had the front and the other at the icated team was constituted to Chirag Delhi bus stand who added. , -'% ' *."

/12013 pm, her daughter was playing after the patient recovered, he with other children in a park in lost his job and was in a finan- he Delhi Police has arrest- front of her house while she cial crisis. When he approached Ted five people, including a was busy with household work Mahesh for help, the latter couple, in connection with the and subsequently, she went offered him Rs 50,000 if he alleged kidnapping of a three- missing. could arrange for a child aged year-old girl in outer Delhi's “A case was registered and up to five years,” said the DCP. Raj Park area. while scanning through the “When Mahesh was ques- 4%$"%B , % ,0. $ - The accused have been footage obtained from over 50 tioned, he disclosed that Ram 4% B / 4 identified as Ravi (26), his wife CCTV cameras, the police Prasad, who also works as a Santosh (25), Mahesh (25), noticed a couple carrying a ward boy with him at the hos- Guddan (26) and Ramprasad child. The couple were identi- pital, asked him to arrange for (36). Police said that the child fied as Ravi and his wife a child for adoption for his sis- -:** ( was safely recovered and hand- Santosh and they were nabbed ter Guddan, who is separated ed over to her parents. An on April 7, but the child could from her husband and is under /12013 According to Deepak relevant sections of the IPC has amount of Rs 84,500 was also not be found at their resi- mental depression. Mahesh Yadav, the Deputy been registered at Mandawali recovered from the accused,” dence in outer Delhi's made a plan to kidnap a child 23-year-old man was shot Commissioner of Police Police Station and a probe into said police. Mangolpuri,” said the DCP. through Ravi and Santosh and Adead by two unidentified (DCP), East district, Farman the matter is underway,” the According to Parvinder “During interrogation, demanded Rs one Lakh for the assailants in east Delhi's was shot at by two unknown DCP said. Singh, the Deputy Santosh told the police that he same from Ram Prasad. After Mandawali area. assailants on Thursday. Police said the CCTV Commissioner of Police had got a job as a patient the girl was kidnapped, she was The deceased has been “The man was taken to a footage of surrounding areas is (DCP), Outer district, on attendant at a house through handed over to Guddan in identified as Farman, a resident nearby hospital, where he died being checked to ascertain the Tuesday, the victim's mother Mahesh, who works as a ward exchange for the promised of the Welcome area. during treatment. A case under identity of the accused persons. reported that at around 8.30 boy at a private hospital, but cash,” said the DCP.

/12013 ing, staff of Begumpur police ment of youth who participat- station in coordination with ed in police patrolling during elhi Police Commissioner members of public got installed evening and night hours for 20- DSN Shrivastava on Friday around 400 CCTV cameras in 25 days,” said the PRO. presented “Certificate of 2019-2020. Inspector Jai “The police team of Excellence” to Station House Bhagwan, SHO Begampur also Begumpur police station has Officer (SHO) of Begumpur took an initiative to involve also taken several initiatives to police station, Inspector Jai good Samaritans and youth in promote community friendly Bhagwan, for being selected as order to control crime,” said policing like Child friendly the best police station of Delhi Bsiwal. room, redressing the com- among top 10 police stations of “A gang of snatchers and plaints of vulnerable sections India 2020. robbers was apprehended by on a priority basis and stringent “The ranking is done on team of Begumpur police sta- action against gangsters and the basis of prefixed parameters tion actively involved in com- property offenders while being by the Ministry of Home mitting crime in Sector 37, accessible for public,” said Affairs annually, and are con- Rohini through active engage- Biswal. ducted to incentivise effective functioning of police stations and bring healthy competition among them,” said Chinmoy Biswal, the Public Relation Officer (PRO) of Delhi Police. Begumpur falling under the analysed the CCTNS (Crime racks, separate rooms for “The surveys were con- jurisdiction of Begumpur and Criminal Tracking women constable, safety and ducted across the country, and police station and recorded Network and Systems) entries security of armoury and other the police stations were select- citizens’ feedback. They also and Records of Police Station. parameters as per the standards ed based on data analysis, noticed checking being con- They visited the Malkhanas as for best police station, and direct observation and public ducted at the pickets and well as inspected the basic adjudged Begumpur as the feedback. The survey team observed the actual on ground amenities for visitors, waiting best police station in Delhi,” also randomly visited various situation,” said Biswal. areas, toilets, drinking water, Biswal added. areas -- Rajiv Nagar, Jain Nagar, “The survey team further public facilitation desks, bar- “To bolster effective polic- !"#!# D9- 5B 2 /12013

ormer Congress president /12013 or has he already taken one in tracing & treating. Rahul the central Government, has FRahul Gandhi on Friday many of his undisclosed trips Gandhi’s problem is that he accused the Modi-Government wrote to Prime Minister aking a swipe at Congress to foreign locations but does- doesn’t understand all this and of showing bias against non- Narendra Modi, demanding Tleader Rahul Gandhi for n’t want to disclose?”, Tweeted his ignorance is compounded BJP-ruled states in the supply of an immediate moratorium on saying that country is witness- Prasad in an aside. by his arrogance”, said the BJP vaccines. Maharashtra is the Covid-19 vaccine exports and ing “vaccine starvation”, Senior “After failing as a part-time leader. worst affected State in the coun- opening up of the vaccination BJP leader Ravi Shankar politician, has Rahul Gandhi Prasad denied charge of try with the highest positive to “everyone who needs it”. Prasad on Friday said it is not switched to full-time lobbying? shortage of vaccine in the cases in the country. Rahul also asked for a pro- India that is facing vaccine star- First, he lobbied for fighter Congress-ruled states. The charge was denied by vision of a direct income sup- vaccine procurement and dis- “Was the export of vaccines community and vaccine vation but “Shri Gandhi is plane companies by trying to “Rahul Gandhi must know Union Minister Pralhad port to the vulnerable sections tribution. also an ‘oversight’, like many suppliers worked overtime to facing attention starvation.” derail India’s acquisition pro- that shortage in Congress-ruled Javadekar on Thursday when he amid the disastrous second His suggestions came a other decisions of this govern- develop a solution but their Former Congress presi- gramme. Now he is lobbying states is not of vaccines but of said 23 lakh does were available wave of Covid-19 in India, as day after Prime Minister Modi ment, or an effort to garner efforts are undermined by the dent has in a letter to Prime for pharma companies by ask- basic commitment towards with the Maharashtra govern- he extended his support to the said vaccines will have to be publicity at the cost of our own Centre’s poor implementation Minister demanded that export ing for arbitrary approvals for health care. ment on a daily basis and the vaccination programme. “I prioritised due to limited sup- citizens,” he asked. Stressing that and ‘oversight’,” he said. of vaccines be immediately be foreign vaccines”, said the “He should write letters to latter needs to efficiently dis- humbly request you to provide ply and lamented that some his party supports a well- Lamenting that the vaccination halted “amidst domestic short- Union minister. his party’s Governments to stop tribute them in the State, he vaccine suppliers with neces- people were playing politics on planned, universalised and drive is slow, Rahul Gandhi ages”. Prasad claimed that Rahul their vasooli ventures & con- said. sary resources to increase man- the issue. Questioning the speedy vaccination drive, he claimed at the current rate, it Hitting back at the does not have proper under- centrate on administering the The second surge in ufacturing capacity and place Government for permitting said, “Our vaccination pro- would take years to inoculate 75 Congress leader, Prasad standings of the strategy that lakhs of vaccines they r sitting Coronavirus cases have made it an immediate moratorium on large-scale exports of vaccines, gram has to move beyond an per cent of the population. accused Rahul of lobbying for needed to be adopted to upon”, said the Minister. more so necessary that a major- vaccine export,” Rahul Gandhi he said, “While our nation is individual’s “This will have catastroph- pharma companies “by asking counter the Coronavirus pan- Amidst the talk of shortage ity of the population of all age said in his letter to the Prime facing vaccine starvation, more picture on the vaccine certifi- ic effects and will gravely decel- for arbitrary approvals for for- demic in the country. of vaccine supply in the coun- groups get the vaccine jab as Minister. than six crore doses of vaccines cate, towards guaranteeing erate India’s economy,” he eign vaccines.” “Fighting a pandemic is try and it’s supply to foreign soon as possible and that would “Open up vaccination to have been exported.” maximum vaccination.” added. “Why has Rahul Gandhi not a one trick game. Apart nations, Maharashtra Shiv Sena require an uninterrupted sup- everyone who needs it,” he The Gandhi scion alleged Expressing concern over Hours after Rahul wrote to not yet taken vaccine? Is it an from vaccination, there needs headed Government which is ply of vaccine does and speedy demanded, seeking fast-track- that the state governments the rising cases of the coron- the PM, hitting back, senior oversight or he doesn’t want it to be adequate focus on testing, currently draggers drawn with reduction in their wastage. ing of approval of other vac- were repeatedly highlighting avirus, the former Congress Ravi Shankar Prasad took to cines as per norms and guide- vaccine shortages only to chief said that over the last year, Twitter to counter Rahul’s alle- should write letters to his party’s starvation but Gandhi is facing many of his undisclosed trips to fighter plane companies by try- lines. He also asked the Prime receive intemperate statements the country suffered irrepara- gations and mentioned, “Rahul governments to stop their “attention starvation”, Prasad foreign locations but doesn’t ing to derail India’s acquisition Minister to double the central by the union health minister. ble losses, made tremendous Gandhi must know that short- ‘vasooli’ (extortion) ventures said. want to disclose?” he posed. programme. Now he is lobby- allocation for vaccine pro- He accused the health minister sacrifices, and yet, it is under a age in Congress-ruled states is and concentrate on adminis- “Why has Rahul Gandhi “After failing as a part- ing for pharma companies by curement from the existing of targeting Opposition-ruled renewed attack by this virus. not of tering the lakhs of vaccines they not yet taken vaccine? Is it an time politician, has Rahul asking for arbitrary approvals 35,000 crore and give State states and undercutting coop- “This is unfortunate con- vaccines but of basic commit- are sitting on,” he said. oversight or he doesn’t want it Gandhi switched to full-time for foreign vaccines,” Prasad Governments a greater say in erative federalism. sidering our scientific ment towards healthcare.” “He India is not facing vaccine or has he already taken one in lobbying? First, he lobbied for said. ! , # $ %& - 93< 3E< D- . 2 $ 8 = $ $"% %% % "" - % ' 2A: ) $ # /12013 /12013 of the high-level Group of have been supplied to 25 coun- /12013 Ministers (GoM) on Covid-19 tries under commercial con- espite Assembly polls, o fresh Covid-19 case has through a video link, he said tracts, 1.04 crore doses have Dthree States—West Bengal, he Election Commission Bengal Chief Minister’s barbs Nbeen reported in 149 dis- more than 9.43 crore vaccine been sent to 44 nations as Tamil Nadu and Assam has T(EC) has sent a notice to and false accusations are vili- tricts in a week, while eight have doses have been administered in grants, and 1.82 crore to 39 managed record sowing of West Bengal Chief Minister fying the very forces “who not registered any new infection the country till Friday morning. countries under COVAX,” summer kharif crops — rice and Trinamool Congress have been rendering a yeoman in a fortnight, Union Health More than three crore vac- Vardhan was quoted as saying and pulses—so far. Of the total leader Mamata Banerjee for service since late 80s, election Minister Harsh Vardhan said on cine jabs have been adminis- in a statement. 38.80 lakh hectare area sown her “highly objectionable” after election, and have made Friday even as ten States — tered to senior citizens, the The Minister said that there under rice acorss the country, statements about Central para- a commendable contribution Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, health minister said. has been no fresh COVID-19 West Bengal contributed 10.42 military forces on election especially in ensuring area Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Karnataka, “India has also supported case in 149 districts in the last lakh hectare under rice plan- duties in the State saying her domination and causing deter- Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil the global community through seven days. Eight districts have tation; Assam 2.61 lakh hectare remarks are demoralising the rence for anti-social hooligans Nadu, Gujarat and Rajasthan — ‘Vaccine Maitri’, under which not reported any fresh case in and Tamil Nadu 1.76 lakh personnel. Among the state- also the Hon’ble CM of West in berating and demoralising by their sheer presence, there- have shown a steep rise account- 6.45 crore doses of COVID-19 the last 14 days, no new infec- hectare. ments cited by the EC in its Bengal, to berate and vilify the Central para-military by playing a major role in ing for 83.29 percent of the new vaccine have been sent to 85 tion in three districts in the last Similarly, in oilseed culti- notice was her appeal to Central Paramilitary Forces forces, who often played a sig- assisting the ECI to conduct infections. countries. 21 days and none in 63 districts vation, West Bengal reported women voters to “gherao” during the electoral process, nificant role in assisting the free, fair, transparent and Chairing the 24th meeting “While 3.58 crore doses in the last 28 days. 2.61 lakh hectare while Tamil Central forces if they caused are causing extreme demoral- concerned state government accessible elections”. Nadu 0.61 lakh hectare. disturbance to voting. The isation amongst the ranks and and governments of union ter- Making it a point to record Sowing of summer crops is in Chief Minister has been asked file of these forces…” ritories in restoration of law its appreciation of the Central full swing despite an increase in to respond to the notice by 11 The EC said it found and order and/or as and when forces, EC said they have the number of Covid-19 cases, am on Saturday. This is the sec- Banerjee statements to be in requisitioned by the State invariably done commendable 8P2A/ 3& with the area expanding by ond time that a notice has been violation of the Model Code of Governments etc. in their day job on the duties assigned to 16.4% from last year to 6.78 issued to Banerjee by the poll Conduct as well as Sections to day functioning also. them in all sectors, to the million hectares. body. 186 (voluntarily obstructing “In fact, Banerjee is spar- extent of laying down their As per data released by the The EC said prima facie, public servant from discharg- ing no effort to ensure that a lives, the most recent being the ( Ministry of Agriculture on the completely false, provoca- ing public functions), 189 deep wedge and drift is creat- tragic episode of Bijapur, Friday, total summer crops has tive and intemperate state- (threat of injury to public ser- ing amongst them which is Chhattisgarh. “It also needs to been sown on 67.87 lakh ments by Banerjee attempted vant) and 505 (making a state- bound to have serious conse- be placed on record that they # /12013 maybe kept open for private vis- groceries, medicines and veg- hectare area against 58.26 lakh to berate and vilify central ment with intent to incite any quential damages after the and many other ministries its and adoration. Jammu and etables, will remain closed till hectare during the corre- paramilitary forces during the class or community of persons process of election is over. It is and departments of the Union s the daily caseload has Kashmir has imposed night April 30. Cinemas, multiplexes, sponding period of last year, electoral process. Citing state- to commit an offence against extremely unfortunate that the government and departments Abreached the one lakh mark curfew in eight districts includ- theatres, video parlours, clubs, thus increase in total summer ments by Mamata, the notice any other class or community) political battles are thus sought of state governments assist the for the fifth consecutive day, ing Jammu, Kupwara, Anantnag swimming pools, sports com- area coverage by 9.61 lakh said: “...prima facie, complete- of the Indian Penal Code. to be fought in this manner ECI for the conduct of elec- Karnataka and Himachal and Srinagar till further order. plexes, auditoriums, water hectare compared to corre- ly false, provocative and intem- The EC notice said “It is instead of being fought in the tions. But the praiseworthy Pradesh on Friday joined the list The UP Government has parks, salons, beauty parlours sponding period of last year in perate statements made by more than obvious that Ms campaign trail,” it said. role of central forces in ensur- of 15 States and Union announced night curfew in and spas will remain shut dur- the country. Ms. Mamata Banerjee, Mamata Banerjee, Chairperson The notice issued on ing free, fair, transparent and Territories which have imposed Gautam Budh Nagar, and ing the period. Restaurants and Sowing reported under Chairperson of AITC, who is of AITMC, has been consistent Thursday night said the West accessible elections merits a restrictions in the form of night Ghaziabad from 10 pm to 5 am bars will also remain closed Pulses 8.68 lakh hectare against special mention,” it stated. curfews , weekend lockdown till April 17. except those that are part of a 5.72 lakh hectare area of last In a strongly worded and related curbs to combat the Madhya Pradesh hotel but round-the-clock take- year i.e. increase in area cov- notice, the poll body deemed rapid transmission of coron- Government imposed a night aways have been allowed. erage by 2.96 lakh hectare. the statements made by the avirus infections. curfew in all “urban areas” of the In Gujarat, the Rupani Area coverage under Coarse TMC supremo on March 28 Karnataka has imposed state. Tamil Nadu government Government has imposed a Cereals reported on 10.86 lakh and April 7 as an attempt to corona curfews (night curfews) has barred all religious events curfew from 8 pm to 6 am in 20 hectare area against 8.54 lakh “berate and vilify Central in Bengaluru, Mysuru, and festival-gatherings have cities of the State. The restric- hectare area of last year i.e. Paramilitary Forces during the Mangaluru, Kalaburagi, Bidar, been barred till further orders. tions were earlier in force from increase in area coverage by electoral process.” This, it adds, Tumkuru, Udupi-Manipal till The Chhattisgarh govern- 9 pm to 6 am in Ahmedabad, 2.33 lakh hectare in the coun- was “causing extreme demor- April 20 while Himachal ment has announced a lock- Surat, Vadodara and Rajkot try. Area coverage reported alisation amongst the ranks Pradesh has closed all education down in the Raipur district cities in Gujarat. The cities under Oilseeds 9.53 lakh and file of these forces.” institutions till April 20. with effect from April 9 to 19. where the curfew is being hectare area against 7.96 lakh The EC notice said a del- Chhattisgarh’s Raipur has been Fearing another lockdown, imposed are Ahmedabad, Surat, hectare area of last year, thus egation of TMC leaders had in complete lockdown for 10 many migrant workers and Vadodara, Rajkot, Jamangar, increase in area coverage by alleged during the days. Bihar has closed all schools their families have started pro- Bhavnagar, Junagadh, 1.57 lakh hectare. Area cover- Commission’s visit to West for a week. According to ceeding to the hometowns. Gandhinagar, Anand, Nadiad, age reported under Rice on Bengal in February 21 that Pratyaya Amrit, Principal Secy The Chandigarh adminis- Mehasana, Morbi, Dahod, 38.80 lakh hectare area against Border Security Force person- (Disaster Management),Bihar. tration has announced a night Patan, Godhra, Bhuj, 36.05 lakh hectare area of last nel were intimidating villagers all shops are permitted to open curfew in the city from 10 pm Gandhidham, Bharuch, year i.e. increase in area cov- living along the border to vote till 7pm. Restaurants, Dhabas & to 5 am until further notice. Surendranagar and Amreli. The erage by 2.75 lakh hectare. for a particular party. The EC hotels are exempted & can Punjab has declared a series of Government has also banned Summer crops are planted said the delegation was asked function on 25% seating capac- restrictions including night cur- political or social gatherings till during March-May, the inter- to give empirical evidence of ity. Cinema hall, public trans- few across the whole state -- up April 30 and has further vening period between rabi the allegation, but it did not do portation can function on 50% from the earlier 12 districts -- reduced the number of guests at and kharif season which starts so. occupancy. from 9 pm to 5 am. All politi- a marriage ceremony to 100. with monsoon in June. “The In an election rally on Maharashtra, Delhi, cal, social, cultural or sports Government offices will remain trend of summer sowing Thursday, Mamata claimed Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, gatherings have been banned for closed every Saturday and progress is very good as on that central forces on poll duty Chhattisgarh, Chandigarh, now. The MP Government also Sunday in April. date. Besides, the prospect of in West Bengal were working Uttar Pradesh, Jammu Kashmir, announced a lockdown in Odisha has extended the rabi crops is also very good in under the instructions of the Odisha, Rajasthan, Punjab, urban areas of all districts on night curfew from 10 PM to 5 the country. There is no impact Central Government. Mamata Karnataka and Tamil Nadu are every Sunday till further orders. am in 10 districts which include of COVID-19 pandemic situ- also accused the forces of com- among those states and UTs Delhi government has Sundergarh, Bargarh, ation on progress of area cov- mitting atrocities on villagers which have been forced to rein- imposed a seven-hour night Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, erage under summer crops in and harassing women. troduce lockdown-like curbs. curfew from 10 pm to 5 am, till Balangir, Nuapada, Kalahandi, the country,” officials said. Addressing a public meeting Through the week, weekend April 30 to curb the spread of Malkangiri, Koraput and Harvesting of wheat and Alipurduar district, the TMC lockdowns have been imposed the coronavirus cases in the Nabarangpur. other rabi crops have been boss also accused the Election in parts of Maharashtra and national Capital. People will Rajasthan has also imposed completed in 65.05 per cent of Commission of turning a blind Chhattisgarh, while Delhi, require a soft or hard copy of the a night curfew and ordered the the total 697 lakh hectares eye to the “excesses” of the Punjab, major cities in Gujarat, e-pass to travel during curfew closure of multiplexes, gymna- sown area during 2020-21 rabi CRPF, CISF, BSF and the ITBP. Madhya Pradesh and urban hours. The e-pass can be siums till April 19. The night season, according to data The poll body on areas of Rajasthan have obtained from the Delhi gov- curfew will remain in force released by the agriculture Wednesday issued a notice to announced night curfews. ernment’s website from 8 pm to 6 am. Dining at ministry on Friday. Harvesting Mamata for “openly demand- Almost all states have limited www.delhi.gov.in. Punjab has restaurants and hotels during of rabi (winter) crops begins ing votes on communal the capacity of restaurants and extended night curfew across the curfew hours has been pro- from March. The main rabi grounds”. The Trinamool bars and banned public events. the state till April 30. hibited but home delivery of crop is wheat. Congress (TMC) chief has In Karnataka, all the public Maharashtra Government food has been allowed. Wheat crop has been har- been directed to explain her religious services in Churches, has imposed a night curfew Karnataka announced night vested in 135.85 lakh remarks within 48 hours of Chapels & institutions of from 8 pm to 7 am till April 30. curfew in six cities including hectares,43.02 per cent of the receipt of the notice, failing Bangalore’s Urban & Rural dis- There will also be a weekend capital Bengaluru and Mysuru estimated total cultivated area which the commission would tricts of Archdiocese will be sus- lockodown all through the even as Tamil Nadu banned on of 315.77 lakh hectares during take a decision without further pended from 7th to 20th April. month. All shops, malls and all religious gatherings from the rabi season of the 2020-21 reference to her. However, Churches/Chapels markets, except those selling April 10 till April 30. crop year (July-June). * !"#!# +

1+% ' $$1. '% 5 " 8&0 # % 5 " 5 /2/ ,< ;-/2 9 4% % % ;% % & 0& 1& & !,- 233 O * 5 - 6*5-7 - 6 -7 O # 2 S 8 2 " 1 ,9 # B " : ( O O aving been slaves for ( * the better part of a 9 - ( millennia, we tend *5- - to have a heightened instinctH for survival that is best ,9 S reflected in our hypocritical - *5- behaviour. It is no surprise P Q ,9 then that, by and large, our , 1 - adherence to principles, rules ,9 ( and regulations is inversely proportional to the impact that - 1 # they might have on our lives, 2 $ 1 1 preferring them to be applica- # P=4( ( ble only to others and not us. Q " # 2 Take Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s attitude ,9 towards the alarming spike in 52* 3 =4 COVID cases. He is unable to see the dichotomy of, on the # P3 Q *$ one hand, publicly berating State Governments and citizens 1 $ ,9 S for not adhering to basic pre- P Q *2 $ ,9 .44 cautions, while simultaneously : ,9 # ( rushing off to address election rallies. Rallies that are conducted with tens of thousands of 2 , 62,7 % ( + attendees without masks, O P Q packed together like sardines. 5 8 * *5- " ( The truth is that not just falling victim to the virus. While the Supreme the world both tolerance and O 1 * him or his associates are being They and their families are in Court’s emphasis on gender universal acceptance. We hypocritical but other politi- effect being sacrificed on the issues is to be applauded, it believe not only in universal 2, % S 5 8 * S cians as well, regardless of party altar of greed and personal would truly have credibility toleration, but we accept all # 2 5 ( affiliations. All those associat- aggrandisement. and value if its own actions religions as true. I am proud 5 ed with the ongoing State elec- Undoubtedly, it also reflects were consistent in this regard. to belong to a nation which 2 8 tions are guilty of such irre- poorly on the intellectual, By some accounts, there are has sheltered the persecuted sponsible behaviour. This non- administrative and profes- only two women judges and the refugees of all reli- *5- - sensical behaviour has been sional abilities of the Election among the 34 that constitute gions and all nations of the 2, % * ( aggravated by the utter lack of Commission which can the Supreme Court and it has earth.” 1 % *$ * 1 political will on the part of lead- come up with no better 03@ 231 had only eight women judges Despite the fact that 1 # + * ers across the country in their method to conduct elections &1@(@2133 since its inception. Modi sees himself as a devot- > S refusal to stop religious and cul- other than stretching them to Even the military has not ed follower of the Swami, he tural events, be it events like eternity. ?1 47?1)4(1 been able to avoid this per- has never let compassion or ? # ( % Holi or the Kumbh. Of course, politicians and 71/42/10 nicious trend and its leader- empathy get in the way of Their fear that they would Government officials are the ship seems to have lost its realpolitik. For all intents be held responsible if they cur- easiest to point fingers at, but #43&)/ 4/1 way in this regard. By stating and purposes, we are now tailed mass gatherings is not others too are as much to &/&1@233 that China has not occupied involved in an intense zero ! difficult to understand because, blame for the hypocrisy that our territory in Eastern sum game where the winner in their view, their career and abounds. The Supreme /1A171A17?1 Ladakh, despite knowing it takes all and losers are shown reputation as politicians are at Court, for example, has 31017%&& well that we can no longer the door; where only the stake. Sadly, while they may recently pointed to the delay patrol areas up to our claim ends matter, not the means. well be, or become, renowned in giving women permanent 71E671&1 lines, the Army chief has low- What he and those who fol- politicians, one thing they will commissions in the military, ?)!?4/1&4 ered his image and credibil- low him have yet to realise is never ever be is leaders. That blaming it on systemic bias ity. In addition, he has caused that all this can only get you requires the backbone to take within the Ministry of &!10$$)63& grievous damage to the so far and at the end of the difficult decisions, sometimes at Defence. While there certain- 01)4/ Services’ reputation. day you have no choice but great personal cost, when the ly is some truth in what it The reason for where we to pay the piper. occasion so demands. says, it is a complicated issue, 4(1&(1& are today is not very difficult (The writer is a military Obviously, the most affect- especially the impact of to diagnose. Interestingly, in veteran, who is a Visiting ed are not just those attending women in combat roles. 71&#174/3 1893, Swami Vivekananda Fellow with the Observer such gatherings, who may be More importantly, the mili- )4& 21/&1 while addressing the first Research Foundation and there “voluntarily”, but public tary’s only job is to win wars World’s Parliament of Senior Visiting Fellow with servants compulsorily co-opted and keep us safe and it is by 4))4/4 Religions meeting at Chicago The Peninsula Foundation, for duties such as crowd control no means an equal opportu- 01(/0 said: “I am proud to belong Chennai. The views expressed and security, who are now nity employer. to a religion which has taught are personal.) ##. #/##-!#/. SOUNDBITE (,2 %" %% $ ( )4A0*;< Sir —It’s good that the Supreme Court has !"#$ "! ' dismissed a plea filed by former % Maharashtra Home Minister Anil % ' ?" # ? Deshmukh, challenging the Bombay High ' Court’s order that had allowed a prelim- ' % " )4A0 F % / % inary CBI probe against him. The apex )$ $"$ ' court also dismissed a similar plea filed by L7 the Maharashtra Government in the same * case. * )4A0*;< 2 Delivering its order, the Supreme " %&6 * G&' O Court said the people involved in the mat- C "" # 7 " !O % ter do require to be investigated by an inde- 6 1 "6 & "1 H *+,-(./ pendent agency. “What has been direct- & % ed by the High Court is a preliminary inquiry, and we are not inclined to inter- & " " C S ( fere,” the court said. Deshmukh resigned "" B % not because of his morality but he was ;%: , $,$ )4A0*;< % C # compelled by the circumstances. His res- & K( 0 ignation came hours after the Bombay 6 ( % C ( High Court ordered a CBI probe into the allegations of extortion against him, in B O ' "" 6* what is the most high-profile casualty so * ; ,,,"* %( # far in the sensational Sachin Vaze-Antilia 'C "" " explosives case. The high-voltage events in " " %0 " * "" %C Maharashtra started with the discovery of "" % %2 an explosives-laden vehicle outside the res- $) 3)+ C S idence of billionaire Mukesh Ambani, ' % S gathered momentum with the alleged <,) except announcing a “strict lockdown” the IPL extravaganza has seen many K) J* ( murder of the man in possession of the car, over the weekends. The Government has episodes and, this time round, the sec- 0 and who had reported it stolen, Mansukh also enforced a night curfew in the State ond wave of COVID-19.With such Hiran, and took a surprising turn with the from 8 pm to 7 am daily when only essen- obscene amounts of money, this has " 1 arrest of a politically connected assistant tial services will be allowed to function. become the norm. All are waiting for the inspector of police Sachin Vaze in the However, private and public transport will big event and everyone wants to play in explosives case. continue to operate but rickshaws, taxis the IPL if it is held twice in six months. # 2 3434 Maharashtra’s Maha Vikas Aghadi and private vehicles can run with only 50 The game of cricket is a religion. The IPL "" % (MVA) Government, in an attempt to per cent seating capacity. extravaganza has become hotter during " ( manage the fallout, transferred Mumbai Further, newspaper printing and dis- the summer months and the floodlights Police Commissioner, with Deshmukh tribution can continue, provided the ven- will add to the already hot stadiums. The "" ' % clearly articulating that the move was dor is vaccinated. The Pimpri-Chinchwad IPL is nothing but a glorified way of mak- " $?&)<>$<:, ( prompted by his mismanagement of the Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has ing easy money and the gentleman’s game K(" # case. A miffed Singh wrote to the chief decided to keep all inoculation centres in of cricket is brought into disrepute. The minister, alleging that Deshmukh instruct- its areas closed due to a shortage of doses. IPL 14 is commencing as a Friday feature " ( " # ed Vaze to run an extortion racket. The BMC on Thursday released a state- and television sets are ready to show the Abhishek Singh | Varanasi ment, saying it had around 50,000 doses big event to the cricket lovers across India #) ( left for Friday. and the world. " % * K Bhagwan Thadani | Mumbai GK Ramani | Mumbai ! 2 O O Sir — With Maharashtra witnessing an B % increase in the daily COVID-19 cases, the S ( " 2 5 ,> State Government was left with no option Sir — The slam-bang league is back and % $ $,,$,):)$$; *<) K ?@ "" !"#!# 1

1+% ' $$1. '% 5 " 8&0 # % 5 " 5 FIRSTCOLUMN & '" ;- &,# 3 3, ;3 , * '!2! # ' * +0% %

ne does not need to be a rocket scientist to know Pakistan Prime Minister Imran OKhan has robbed whatever little credibil- -0, ity civilian Governments in his country have, with his multiple policy flip-flops. Just like one ? does not need to be an astute political pundit to > ( know Prime Minister Narendra Modi is not like # former PM Rajiv Gandhi in wanting to leave con- ( @ ( tentious border disputes to the “wisdom of the 1 next generation”. If anything, PM Modi has enough political capital to push through a res- @ olution. Amidst the contrast in the two civilian leaderships of the hostile neighbours, how does one read the current India-Pakistan situation? # Is there any prospect of peace, given that even # baby steps like trade and resumption of sport- ? ( ing ties are not possible in the vitiated atmosphere? There are reasons to assume a positive movement will take place in the India-Pakistan ( ties, for three clear reasons. &1 First, the Pakistani economy cannot contin- ##1// # ue the status quo — of next-to-nothing trade with /$/&/ - - 2 ! - 1 ( ( India. Islamabad is on its 13th loan from the K!11/3@ International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the 62+-17 @ 1 - 6@1-7 AB4=/ 2&)10 economy is battling a crippling inflation. Adding ?@3(?0K to Pakistan’s economic woes is its surging (@A1 wheat imports. After years of being self-suffi- ?17/ cient, Pakistan is now being forced to import 4/&1 wheat to feed its people. Even if one discounts /0*#!&/ any comparisons with Bangladesh — which is )4/6/076(% growing at an impressive eight per cent with $4(1 higher Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and four 71#47&71 times more forex collections — Pakistan’s econ- &4?1 omy needs help. bearing on the India-Pakistan ceasefire) on Kashmir in return for has been the usual response. It is not for nothing that the Pakistani Army ?131A10 conundrum. If some reports are to continuing its important position Likewise, Pakistani Army’s insti- chief spoke about geo-economics in his much &12&0723 be believed, the withdrawal of the in determining Kabul’s future? tutional legitimacy has been cen- 4$&16 34.C $ talked-about speech on March 18. No amount US forces from Afghanistan could The answer to this is clear, but tred on the need to wage a war of jingoism can cover up for the present econom- $47)1$74( pave the way for a multi-nation its implementation will be decid- with India to “solve the Kashmir ic woes of Pakistan. The Pakistani Army under- $/&/ UN team to oversee that the ed by the fate of ‘informal’ talks issue”. If PoK becomes a Pakistani

stands this even more, given that it is one of the )4630#A1&1 nation does not fall into chaos. It between India and Pakistan. province, the pressure from key stakeholders in the economy. If it were not 2@$47 would be logical to assume New Nevertheless, it will be an impor- domestic constituents will be so # @1- A3AD.D ( for its obsession to ‘checkmate’ India, would the (63&*/&4/6/ Delhi’s inclusion in the same, tant choice to make for all deci- intense that both the sides will not @ .( C 343. Pakistani economy — with its excessive defence &1(&44A1711 since the US has always favoured sion-makers in Pakistan (which be able to make any forward spends — be in such a mess? Opening up trade &&&1/&4/ India to play a larger role. Such an may or may not include Imran movement, lest they be termed a ? .A.E. 2 with India will be the first set of the baby steps 041 outcome would be least desirable Khan). “sellout”. Given these complexities, C4 ( that are needed towards any normalisation. But /4&$33/&4 for Islamabad since it will under- Third, in July, some elements there is high chance that these more importantly, it will be vital for fixing )4%&24630 cut its geo-strategic importance in the Pakistani Army and the negotiations — being held behind # Pakistan’s economy. ?134)3&4 and reduce its bargaining power civilian Government will rake up closed doors and outside the The worst of Pakistan’s economic mess is yet 6(1 with the US. the issue of integration of Gilgit- purview of formal diplomatic , to present itself, in the form of large payouts to /12013C It would not be out of the ordi- Baltistan and the Pakistan-occu- channels — would expedite any China. China has invested heavily in the China- nary to assume that some of the pied Kashmir (PoK) as the fifth outcome. $ F @ 2 # /)364//&1 Pakistan Economic Corridor, which is a vital part (1 /)1&1 backchannel lines of communica- and sixth provinces. Imran may India and Pakistan are not 1 of its Belt and Road Initiative. China is a rent- 632@ tion may include Afghanistan and not be able to resist the temptation doomed to live in hatred, hostili- % seeking country, not an aid-granting friend. And $A46710/0 the role both India and Pakistan to be seen as similar to Modi (post ty and tension. Despite false starts 0 @1- ( sooner than later, China will extract its pound &4#3@3717 would play in it. After all, Pakistan -abrogation of Article 370). This and multiple attempts by India — ( of flesh from Pakistan for the large amount of 7431 — which now has diminishing will quite naturally invite a strong which have been followed by ter- @ + funds it has invested in the strategically-locat- returns from its Kashmir rhetoric response from New Delhi, since ror attacks by Pakistan — Modi ed country. In fact, the few sane voices in the — has not been able to successful- the incumbent dispensation has may be keen to move ahead. ( Pakistani establishment must be wondering what ly rake up the support of global spoken about the will and deter- Right now, peace looks elusive, but ( would have been Islamabad’s relations with powers on the issue of abrogation mination to reclaim both these the peace process does not. By all ( Beijing if the former was not focused only on of Article 370. On the contrary, areas. If such a situation does arise, aspects, it is clear that the process its India hatred. It would have had normal ties Islamabad stands to gain signifi- it will limit the flexibility that can is thriving and may succeed in # 2 : @ * * with China and not become its vassal State — cantly by leveraging its role in be shown by the Indian side or its thrashing out some of the differ- only because it sought to undermine New Delhi. Kabul post-US exit. So will Imran Pakistani counterpart to move ences. A peaceful solution does ? % 1 % - In the process, though, it has become heavily The writer is a senior Khan (or his military bosses) want beyond the usual irritants. not need to decide the fate of the # indebted to Beijing. As the payments would start, journalist and Visiting to risk a larger play in Afghanistan Since August 5, 2019, the most complex geo-political prob- so would Pakistan’s economic headaches. Fellow at the United Services by holding onto the Kashmir Indian Government has made its lem of the subcontinent right Institution of India. The Second, the happenings in Afghanistan — views expressed are personal. issue? Or would they choose to stance clear — “all future discus- away; it needs to demonstrate the keenly watched by Islamabad — may have a show some positive gestures (like sions will now be only on PoK” will to do so. # * ( * @ 2 $ 6*2$7 POINTCOUNTERPOINT =4444 *2$ ( ( A # # # # # ( # 2 '( 7 3 # G # " # ( * 3( * ? % G L L# ## # #( # 5 Xxu9squqywyvysqxyvv xut s ut tu q usquqssuyruqtuqrqut tu Gyqv xuxuqxsqusuqy

he National to. Please recall those days mid of the entire healthcare The Act would regulate ifications for all these profes- framework for standardised Commission for Allied and remember the people system. and leverage the qualified sions. education and training. But Tand Healthcare who took care of you and According to studies, the allied and healthcare work- A National Allied and in India, there was an Professions Bill, 2020 who brought you out of your role of doctors, undoubted- force and ensure high-qual- Healthcare Advisory absence of a regulatory (NCAHP Act) has been illness. You may remember ly critical, varies between ity multidisciplinary care in Council to advise the nation- framework and lack of stan- passed by Parliament after a the name of the doctor. You 25 to 50 per cent in the entire line with the vision of the al commission with repre- dardised education curricu- long and anxious wait, par- may remember the name of healthcare chain. A wag said universal health coverage sentation from all the States lum as well as training for ticularly by the health profes- & & * ' the hospital. But do you also “doctor is next to God, nurse moving towards a more care is provided under the Act to these allied and healthcare sionals. The Act provides remember the name of the is next to the doctor and the -accessible and team-based enable adequate representa- professionals, a void now for regulation and mainte- persons who took your blood pharmacist is closest to the model. The Act would tion from all the States and removed. nance of standards of educa- samples, gave you physio- patient”, but there are many reform and regulate this Union Territories. Further, Also, the Act makes a tion and services by allied therapy, took your X-ray, others who are as vital and entire sector in order to give each State will have a sepa- significant shift from the and healthcare professionals, advised you on what you integral to this chain. In these professionals their due, rate State Council with four doctor-led model to a more assessment of institutions, should eat, checked your fact, these professionals are increase their employment autonomous Boards pertain- care-accessible and team- maintenance of a Central eyesight, assisted your doc- the bedrock of the complex The Act is a paradigm shift opportunities and, more ing to undergraduate educa- based model. The NCAHP Register and State Register tor or surgeon, looked into healthcare system. in healthcare delivery as it importantly, enhance their tion, post-graduate educa- Act, 2020, is a landmark and creation of a system to microscopes and bid you a After enacting the recognises the specialised dignity by recognising their tion, assessment, rating, legislation which will go improve access, research and farewell with a smile. Who National Medical skills and contributions of true worth, within the coun- ethics and registration. down in the history of development. are these people?” Commission Bill, 2019 — more than 56 types of the try and globally. The Act While doctors, nurses, den- healthcare revolution in Union Minister for They are varied health which was fiercely contested allied and healthcare profes- envisages the establishment tists and pharmacists in India. It will transform the Health and Family Welfare professionals — the lab tech- by a large body of medical sionals. The nation, nay the of a Central statutory body India are regulated through healthcare scenario and Harsh Vardhan explained The writer nicians, physiotherapists, practitioners, another trans- world, has witnessed the as the National Commission their respective regulatory make a paradigm shift in the the reasons and objects of the is a former radiographers, dieticians, formative piece of legislation, invaluable contribution of for Allied and Healthcare bodies, the allied and health- ministration of the entire Bill: “I would say that most Additional Secretary, record keepers, optometrists, the NCAHP Act, has been these professionals during Professions. care professions are still healthcare system and make of you must have paid a visit Lok Sabha. X-ray technicians, and many enacted which covers a wide COVID-19 as the frontline The commission will unstructured, and unregu- it efficacious. Apparently, to a hospital at some point of The views expressed more, who are a critical part range of healthcare profes- health workers who risked frame policies and stan- lated. India is on the course of time in your life and I wish are personal. of the healthcare system and sions which were unrecog- their lives every day fighting dards, regulate professional Globally, most of the wholesale health sector not, but you might have had the foundation of the pyra- nised or unregulated to date. the pandemic. conduct and prescribe qual- countries have a regulatory reforms. !"#!# $3

0/ " #./##!,0 > / / # # # 8P9 &)$ ? * *E 4 ' $%+$)# ;= K 39 ' "" 6B )$ $3$$ 0 # 34/04/ 3 O ! 3'"B 34/04/ driver that he was, he helped to ! $ % steer the royal family and the ndian doctors and nurses %! # :=** ritain mourned the death of monarchy so that it remains an Iare among 14,000 applicants 9- &2 BPrince Philip, the husband institution indisputably vital to from across the world that are of Queen Elizabeth II, on the balance and happiness of set to benefit from a one-year #' Friday as the BBC interrupted our national life.’’ fee waiver for visa extensions -,,- scheduled programming to Keir Starmer, leader of the announced on Friday for front- and the Home Office said it has ' O " broadcast the national anthem, opposition Labour Party, was line workers dealing with the extended the visas of more " *E% “God Save the Queen.” among the first to offer his con- Covid-19 pandemic. than 10,000 people across The flag at Buckingham dolences, noting Philip’s long The UK Home Office said the UK. Palace, the queen’s residence in Record of public service, that the free one-year visa The latest extension is '# '( B London, was lowered to half- first as as a naval officer dur- extensions will be automatically intended for doctors, nurses, ,& "+ /"O ( staff after the announcement of ing World War II then during granted to eligible overseas paramedics, midwives, occu- $ Philip’s death. The Royal more than 70 years of marriage health and care workers and pational therapists, psycholo- Family’s website featured a to the queen. their dependents whose visas gists and others to be able to -+" " black-and-white portrait of the “He will be remembered were due to expire before continue their crucial work in " % prince, also known as the Duke most of all for his extraordinary $" , P % / % %%- $ October 1. the fight against coronavirus as of Edinburgh. Prime Minister commitment and devotion to The extension will cover their visas will be extended for ' Boris Johnson said Philip The Queen,” Starmer said in a and hope, even as the world '" 30 healthcare professionals work- a year, free of all fees and -4 # “earned the affection of gener- statement. around them changed — most 9"# ing in the National Health charges, including the 7$C / ' ' ations here in Britain, across “For more than seven recently during the pandemic. Service (NHS) and the inde- Immigration Health Surcharge. ) " the Commonwealth and decades, he has been at her It was a partnership that " " pendent health and care sector, “Our overseas health and " around the world.’’ side. Their marriage has been inspired millions in Britain which includes a large number care workers make such a vital " “Like the expert carriage a symbol of strength, stability and beyond.” ./ / "R of Indian professionals. contribution to our health sys- " “The dedication and skill tem and have been a key part "" United Nations: UN Secretary 033 of overseas health and care of the fight against the pan- O General Antonio Guterres on workers who are leading the demic. They are protecting " " % Friday expressed condolences ormer US President George UK’s fight against coronavirus our loved ones and vaccinating % on the death of Britain’s Prince FW Bush has praised Prince is truly extraordinary,” said the public so that we can save Philip, saying the Duke of Philip’s devotion to worthy UK Home Secretary Priti Patel. lives and return to normalcy,” # ' # %. Edinburgh capably supported causes and to others, in a state- “Thousands of them have said UK Health Secretary Matt 3 '3 Queen Elizabeth II in her duties ment issued on behalf of him- helped save countless lives Hancock. ) 1" as sovereign for over 60 years. self and his wife, Laura. throughout this pandemic and “To help those staff from :,,,** ?/!4! royalties and overseas market- Philip, the longest-serving Philip died Friday at age 99. are now playing a vital part in overseas, we are extending " ' ing and sales. consort in British history, died “He represented the United the hugely successful vaccina- their visas to provide security " he latest US sanctions on The gems trade is impor- Friday at age 99. Kingdom with dignity and tion rollout. Our offer of free while they continue to tackle %/ J TMyanmar target an army- tant enough that coup leader “The Secretary-General is brought boundless strength visa extensions shows how our this virus,” he said. & controlled gems business rife Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing saddened at the passing of His and support to the sovereign. country values the contribu- The Home Office said that 1" with corruption and abuses and Myanmar’s central bank Royal Highness Prince Philip, Laura and I are fortunate to tions of these heroes,” she said. those benefiting from this that is one of the junta’s key governor were among the dig- Duke of Edinburgh, the hus- have enjoyed the charm and wit Periodic free visa exten- extension will need to complete " 3 % ' sources of revenue. nitaries who visited the open- band of Queen Elizabeth II of of his company, and we know sions for health workers have a simple online form to verify It’s unclear if the sanctions ing of a gems, pearls and jade the United Kingdom of Great how much he will be missed,” been announced since last year their identity, with employers 1" " ! will do much to close the taps emporium earlier this month in Britain and Northern Ireland. Bush said. at the peak of the pandemic asked to confirm eligibility. " ;= % of income and royalties from the capital, Naypyitaw. He extends condolences to Her gems sales. Some estimates say The U.S. and other gov- Royal Highness, the Queen, more than half of such trans- ernments have been ramping and to the people of the UK,” actions are not declared, even 2016-17 found that gems, up sanctions in response to the a statement released by the / though they are the country’s pearls and jade accounted for coup and a deadly crackdown spokesperson of the Secretary second biggest export after 13% of Myanmar’s natural on mass pro-democracy General said. PTI % natural gas and oil. resource revenues, with oil and protests. At least 598 protesters The rights group Justice for gas accounting for 87%. and bystanders have been killed Berlin: Nascent talks aimed at China and Russia. Myanmar on Friday urged the The sanctions announced by security forces since the " bringing the United States back Russian delegate Mikhail U.S. government to expand Thursday freeze any assets held coup and violence has spread into the 2015 nuclear deal with Ulyanov tweeted that partici- penalties to include the by the Myanma Gems from major cities to provincial Iran broke Friday without any pants had “noted with satis- Myanmar Oil & Gas Enterprise in the U.S. or in U.S. towns. immediate signs of progress on faction the initial progress Enterprise, which handles the jurisdictions and bar American Earlier, the administration the thorny issues dividing made.” country’s largest share of citizens from doing business of U.S. President Joe Biden Washington and Tehran, but “The commission will exports. with it. sanctioned Myanmar Ruby Washington: Democrats in with delegates talking of a con- reconvene next week in order “It is imperative that other The company oversees all Enterprise, Myanmar Imperial Congress are trying to pass the structive atmosphere and resolv- to maintain the positive countries follow suit in sanc- gemstone activities in Jade Co., and Cancri (Gems first major gun control legisla- ing to continue the discussions. momentum,” he said. tioning the key businesses Myanmar, also known as and Jewellery) Co. — other tion in more than two decades Two working groups that The talks took place with- enabling the Myanmar mili- Burma, the Treasury military-controlled traders of with the support of President have been meeting in Vienna out the United States, which tary’s criminal conduct,” said Department said in announc- gems and other precious Joe Biden, who said Thursday since Tuesday to brainstorm unilaterally left the nuclear the group’s spokesperson, ing the latest sanctions against stones. U.S. sanctions have also that it is “long past time” to do ways to secure the lifting of deal, known as the Joint Yadanar Maung. the military leaders who seized targeted two major military- so. But they are confronting a American sanctions and Iran’s Comprehensive Plan of Action, The most recent report power in a Feb. 1 coup. controlled conglomerates that potentially insurmountable return to compliance with the in 2018, under then-President from the Extractive Industries That includes control of also have stakes in mining and question over what rules should deal reported their initial Donald Trump. He embarked Transparency Initiative for permits for mines, collecting gems businesses. govern private sales and trans- progress to a joint commission on a campaign of “maximum fers, including those between of diplomats from the world pressure” by restoring previous friends and extended family, as powers that remain in the deal sanctions and adding new ones ? they seek Republican votes. — France, Germany, Britain, on Iran. AP / A bipartisan Senate com- " promise that was narrowly %A"2 defeated eight years ago was focused on expanding checks to sales at gun shows and on 3(?0 Interior despite sharp criti- the internet. But many cism by the Opposition parties 6 Democrats and gun control wo senior Federal Ministers which called it ultra vires of the advocates now want almost all Tin Pakistan Prime Minister fundamental rights. Washington: Declaring the sales and transfers to face a Imran Khan’s Cabinet have Coup-prone Pakistan has spike in gun violence in the US mandatory review, alienating voiced their opposition to a been under military rule for an “epidemic” and an “inter- Republicans who say extending controversial law which seeks almost half of its existence, with national embarrassment,” the requirements would tram- to criminalise any criticism or many governments deposed President Joe Biden has out- ple Second Amendment rights. ridicule of the country’s pow- before completing its term, lined actions to regulate certain The dispute has been one of erful armed forces with a two- mostly at the behest of the home-made firearms and several hurdles in the renewed year imprisonment or fine up country’s powerful armed pressed Congress to renew the push for gun-control legislation, to Rs 50,000 or both. forces. country’s long-expired ban on despite wide support for extend- The dissenting voices of Chaudhry was the first to assault weapons. ing the checks. A small group of Minister for Science and express his concern against Under mounting pressure senators have engaged in tenta- Technology Fawad Chaudhry the proposed legislation, call- to act after a spate of mass tive talks in the wake of recent and Minister for Human Rights ing it ridiculous in a tweet. shootings across America, mass shootings in Atlanta and Shireen Mazari came after a “Absolutely ridiculous idea Biden on Thursday said that Colorado, hoping to build on Pakistani parliamentary panel to criminalise criticism, respect whether Congress acts or not, bipartisan proposals from the endorsed the law on is earned, cannot be imposed he was going to use all the past. But support from at least Wednesday. on people, I strongly feel resources at his disposal as 10 Republicans will be needed The legislation was adopt- instead of new such laws, President to keep the American to get a bill through the Senate, ed by the National Assembly Contempt of Court laws should people safe from gun violence. and most are intractably Standing Committee on be repealed,” he said. PTI opposed. AP Minister for Human Rights Shireen Mazari retweeted Chaudhary’s tweet and then proceeded to add her com- 7 ments: “Totally agree. Cannot state it strongly enough.” The law, which aims to / % amend the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC), was introduced for dis- cussion by the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) law- 8% maker Amjad Ali Khan. However, difference erupt- Tokyo: Japan announced Japan’s national vaccination ed over the law between the 11- Friday that it will raise the coro- drive has lagged and most peo- member body after Pakistan navirus alert level in Tokyo to ple in the capital still have not Muslim League-Nawaz (PML- allow tougher measures to curb been inoculated as infections N) and Pakistan Peoples Party the rapid spread of a more con- have surged. The raised status (PPP) opposed the harsh pun- tagious variant ahead of the announced by Prime Minister ishment suggested in the bill. Summer Olympics. Yoshihide Suga will allow Tokyo’s governor to mandate shorter opening hours for bars and restaurants, along with punish- ments for violators and compen- sation for those who comply. The measures are to begin Monday and continue through May 11. Many of Tokyo’s cases have been linked to nightlife and dining, though they have recently spread to offices, elderly care facilities and schools, experts say. Suga also raised the alert level for Kyoto in western Japan and the southern island prefecture of Okinawa, where cases have surged in recent weeks. AP !"#!# 4

& R .!5 3 ' ' 9+: ;<=:> :99?'99 7 -/# 3 /12013 torical year for which government data is available. ndia’s fuel demand contracted by a massive 9.1 The demand contraction was led by diesel, /12013 enue breakup indicates 50 per Besides, an increase in Iper cent in the financial year ended March 31, the most-consumed fuel in the country. Diesel cent of the recovery is con- commodity prices should result the first in more than two decades, as a strin- consumption fell 12 per cent to 72.72 million spurt in volumes on a low tributed by three key verticals in contraction of margins gent lockdown imposed to curb the spread of tonnes while petrol demand shrank 6.7 per Abase, coupled with - automobiles, IT services and across key sectors, it warned. the pandemic pummelled economic activity, cent to 27.95 million tonnes. improvement in realisations construction.” “Margins in steel, cement government data showed on Friday. The government imposed a nationwide riding on higher commodity The report cited that con- and pharmaceuticals sectors, India consumed 194.63 million tonnes of lockdown at the end-March of last year, shut- prices, are expected to lift cor- struction-linked sectors such as which together account for 30 petroleum products in 2020-21 as compared ting down factories and businesses, halting most porate revenue by 15-17 per steel and cement are estimated per cent of aggregate Ebitda with 214.12 million tonnes demand in the pre- road transport, canceling flights and stopping cent year-on-year to Rs 6.9 lakh to have seen revenue rise 45-50 profits, are expected to contract vious year, according to the latest data released trains. The lockdown was lifted in stages begin- crore in the fourth quarter of per cent and 17- 18 per cent by 380 bps, 230 bps and 160 by the oil ministry’s Petroleum Planning and ning June. The GDP is estimated to have con- fiscal 2021, a Crisil Research on-year, respectively, buoyed by bps, respectively, on a sequen- Analysis Cell (PPAC). tracted by 7-8 per cent in 2020-21 after economic report said. higher realisations and vol- tial basis.” This the first time that the fuel consump- activity showed signs of recovery in last quar- & " # )(0 #()3" As per the estimates, the umes. “Despite this, fiscal 2021 tion has contracted since 1998-99, the most his- ter of 2020. K ) " 4 " double-digit growth comes However, the report said would see Ebitda profiles rise " -,;<*-, " after eight quarters of either that a cloud of uncertainty 12-13 per cent on-year over flat '' 1 0" 1 decline or single digit growth. continues to loom over con- revenues. Ebitda margins ( $ ! 0 G7%H B The estimates are based on sumer discretionary services. would reach a decade high of 0 G$ H( # )A4% an analysis of 300 companies, “Revenue for players in 22.2 per cent led by low com- ) ( 0 which account for 55-60 per sectors such as airline services modity prices in the first half " cent of the market capitalisa- is estimated to drop 30 per cent and fixed cost-reduction ini- % " " " tion excluding financial ser- on-year amid social distancing tiatives across companies for "% vices and oil companies of the and cut in discretionary the year.” Mumbai:Market benchmarks the 30-share BSE Sensex ended Reliance Industries, L&T and National Stock Exchange. expenses, especially travel bud- In addition, the report said nursed losses on Friday after 154.89 points or 0.31 per cent HDFC Bank. ( -- Crisil Research Director gets. that due to the second wave, three days of gains as the lower at 49,591.32. On the other hand, Sun D (3 Hetal Gandhi said: “The robust “Similarly, revenue for states are likely to mount par- unabated rise in COVID-19 Similarly, the broader NSE Pharma, HUL, Tech Mahindra, $3 3 O ' revenue growth rides on a low players in media and enter- tial lockdowns, keeping cases and localised lockdowns Nifty slipped 38.95 points or Dr Reddy’s and Titan were ;; ! base of the corresponding year- tainment is also expected to demand recovery uncertain in prompted investors to unwind 0.26 per cent to 14,834.85. among the gainers, climbing up " %$3 ago quarter, besides higher drop 10 per cent on-year due the near term. bets in banking, finance and Bajaj Finance was the top to 3.69 per cent. PTI K ! '? ' government capital expendi- to lower advertisement spends “Newer strains of the virus, infra counters. laggard in the Sensex pack, / 0" 3)0" ture, and higher realisations and suscriptions. That said, a scale of vaccinations and sub- A continuously depreciat- tumbling 3.12 per cent, fol- 3%& ;; ! amid a commodity upcycle, lower share of such sectors in sequent revival in demand ing rupee also sapped risk lowed by UltraTech Cement, , 7 : %& " among others.” the top 300 sectoral mix has would be among the key mon- appetite, traders said. NTPC, Axis Bank, ICICI $ ;; “A closer look at the rev- muted the impact.” itorables for fiscal 2022.” After a fluctuating session, Bank, IndusInd Bank, % :, ($+(- -4 $ $ & &* 4" $ -,-; *& " "" @ " ;,/ 1" )%& " " 4" $:A ! " Mumbai:The rupee depreciat- "" ' %& ed by another 15 paise against " " " -:+$-B the US dollar to register its fifth (" (01 4" % loss in a row on Friday, facing <%N+' $@-; headwinds on the economy 1 ' # P ;<=)=: front due to rising Covid-19 + ! " (6(? on the same day. cases.Tumbling to its weakest #* " <* * A ' /12013 melling the economy, the tar- (6(? The Maharashtra govern- level since November 4, 2019, 7 ;. get - called revised budget esti- he fresh restrictions ment earlier this week the rupee settled at 74.73 (&";%&' ncome tax and corporate tax mate - was lowered to 9.05 ssets under management Timposed in Maharashtra announced a slew of restric- against the US dollar. " 7 :%+ Icollections at 9.45 lakh crore lakh crore. Awith the mutual fund to contain the second wave of tions, including night curfews Besides concerns over " ( "% in the fiscal year ended March Central Board of Direct industry jumped a whopping Covid-19 are likely to impact and weekend lockdowns to COVID-19 resurgence, weak 31 exceeded the revised target Taxes (CBDT) Chairman P C 41 per cent in fiscal 2021 to Rs the festive season auto sales, as curtail the rapid spread of the domestic equities and strength- 7 ' 7 6E by 5 per cent but were 10 per Mody said his department has 31.43 lakh crore, despite a Navaratri and Gudi Padwa are pandemic. ening American currency also cent lower than the direct tax exceeded the revised estimate minor 1 per cent decline in falling in April, according to The state government has weighed on investor senti- ) L? ;. collections in the previous year, (RE) despite issuing substantial March, says a report.The 1 rating agency Icra. imposed stricter restrictions to ment.At the interbank forex " " M:M( tax department head said refunds in the 2020-21 fiscal per cent decline in assets on These two festivals account curb the rapid spread of market, the local unit opened %&( ( -,;< Friday. (April 2020 to March 2021). monthly basis in March was for a sizeable chunk of the Covid-19 infections. at 74.75 against the greenback ' :N." "%7 6%% 1 " ) The Government had pro- Direct tax collections, because of net outflows from annual vehicle sales across the Automobile dealerships, which and traded in the range of 74.53 ? " jected 13.19 lakh crore from which consist of income tax open-ended debt funds, even country, especially in are also covered under Shops to 74.96 during the day. ? * " direct taxes in the budget for and corporate tax, in 2019-20 though open-ended equity Maharashtra, it said. & Establishment Act might PTI % 2020-21 presented on February fiscal was 10.49 lakh crore. As funds for the first time in June Gudi Padwa, which is a have to remain shut till April 1 last year. per the provisional figures 2020 recorded net inflows, major festival of Maharashtra, 30, Icra vice president Ashish This was before pandemic released on Friday, collection in according to the industry data will be celebrated on April 13, Modani said in a statement on took roots; and post it pum- 2020-21 is 9.45 lakh crore. collated by Crisil on Friday. while Navrarati will also begin Friday. $( " ) *;< , 2 % " ( %% 6@'37 /12013 >$$:,&)"8-9 In keeping with COVID- /12013 ments and fair practices. G$,:),)<) 2,&$ 19 safety protocols, the inter- Bulk deposits, however, inister for Finance and ,$<,)$$&$ " actions were held virtually in outh Indian Bank’s total plunged 55 per cent year-on- MCorporate Affairs ,+ $:,$ six separate batches. Sdeposits stood at 82,710 year to 4,853 crore at March- Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday The finance minister also crore as of March-end 2021, end 2021. reviewed the progress of !,<&$ sought information on the slightly down from 83,034 Current account and sav- Covid-19 vaccination among gible officials,” the finance min- number of vaccinations that crore a year ago, data showed ings account (CASA) deposits the staff of her ministries and istry said in a tweet. had been administered among on Friday. were up by 18 per cent to urged officials to get themselves During her meetings with the eligible officials of the two Of this, the retail deposits 24,590 crore as of March and their family members vac- officials, she reiterated the ministries. were up by 15 per cent at 2021. The gross advances fell 8 cinated. Prime Minister’s call for a “During the interactions, 76,294 crore as against per cent to 60,385 crore, of “FM Smt. @nsitharaman nationwide vaccination festival Smt. @nsitharaman explained 66,457 crore, as per the provi- which corporate advances today held interactions with during April 11-14 and the importance of the sional data, released by the degrew by 21 per cent to officers and staff from Section appealed to all officials to #COVID19 vaccine and bank to comply with the Sebi 14,800 crore as of March Officers to Secretary level of all strictly follow COVID-19 safe- requested the officials to reg- norms on disclosure require- 2021. departments of @FinMinIndia ty protocols, including wearing ister on the Co-Win portal and and the Ministry of Corporate masks, sanitising frequently, get themselves and their fam- Affairs to review the progress and maintaining social dis- ilies vaccinated at the earliest,” of vaccinations among the eli- tance. another tweet said. - !"#!# $ %& '&( P& * &(& &( & +, %-( . , -,& / ' ,%' &( ,% , ./P L $ ( 6 (&& %122 2&2

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-2B, - .2 9#- 29$ /2$-2, 2>- - .>29 ,4 .2;$ 99 9# C ( '" & ( " * & " " % "'* "" * " 1 % * %? " ' " %7 ? "% O * %27B C % 2 N G(H ' "% ' ' ' % B %& 7 O" % "" ' N7 " * ' ' %O "" " C % ' % C '% C " % 7 % % O "" % % THERE IS HOPE 0B %2 :DB(H+A(D %2" % 2 % 2 we’ve been doing and the effect. But also a larger timescale and a larger space, predators back into the ecosystem and " what we can see is that we do already then it all balances out. But we’re not how we could learn from their journey treat nature in some ways, much better expecting nature to be still and to be and apply it to other places in the world "% % I than we did 50 years ago. And that’s calm. What nature needs to have is the where wolves are being tolerated, once because our understanding of nature is ability to make these changes because again, across Europe, for example. ,(D$. ::$ so much better now. And that’s what you that’s what it’s always done. And that’s can see in Episode Two: The science that what it needs more space for. So I think, What really drove you to this profes- he world is changing. And clear- we can do now is incredible. We under- to get us to get the balance with nature sion — wildlife filmmaking? ly, at this crucial turning point of stand how ocean currents work, how the right we just need to give nature more Well, I’ve been into nature since I Tour planet, three most important atmosphere protects our planet, how space. was a child. I’ve always spent a lot of things are: Awakening, understanding biodiversity is, so it’s sort of complicat- time observing, collecting bugs, bring- and changing. Giving us a deeper ed and interconnected. We didn’t know What are some of the incredible ing them home, much to my mother’s understanding of nature and our place these things 50 years ago, but we know things you learned about nature dur- horror. It must be genetic because it’s within it, Sony BCC Earth brings the them now. That means that we can ing the making of the show? been with me for a very long time. Also, Age of Nature. The show is a fresh look know better how to look after them. Well, I learned the term. For me, the I really enjoy storytelling — the tech- at our relationship with nature and how Going forward into the future with cli- biggest revelation was the term ‘nature’s nical aspect of filmmaking doesn’t we are beginning to restore the balance mate change, this is obviously the ability to store carbon forests’. It stores interest me so much, it’s simply telling of life on earth. Excerpts: some of the ways we can restore our unsustainable building practices, and let greatest challenge that humanity has that carbon with the strength of its bio- of stories. So to bring those two passions planet? nature do what it wants to do. ever faced. But nature can be a huge part diversity. So it’s not just planting trees, together, I entered into the world of What does the show Age of Nature I think giving space to nature is the of helping us cope with that because which as you know, a useful technical wildlife filmmaking. And I feel, one can- try to convey to the audience? most important thing we can do. It will How are the concepts of awakening, nature sequesters carbon. It’s the cheap- pump to pump the carbon down. But not make wildlife or nature-inspired Well, we wanted people to under- balance itself and take care of itself. understanding and changing est, easiest, most obvious way to help us the storage needs to happen in the soil, films without realising that there’s a big- stand a few fundamental things about Nature changes all the time and that’s explained in the show? reduce some of the carbon in the it needs to happen under the water in ger story to tell, and that our nature is nature. One is that we’re utterly depen- fine. But we just need to sort of leave it For us as filmmakers, we needed to atmosphere, which is something we the oceans. That can only happen if in a bit of trouble. We simply need to dent on it, whether you live in the coun- to get on with it. So if you give it an go back in time to explain how we’ve got need to do urgently. ecosystems are healthy and biodiversi- pay more attention to it, especially now. tryside of your farm or in a city, and you empty field, it will very quickly reseed to the point where we are today. And it ty — rich and strong. When we destroy drink water, breathe air, we’re all as a that field with plants and then the pol- hasn’t taken very long in the great his- Can you explain the importance of nature, when we trawl the ocean floor Any message you have for the Indian human species utterly dependent on it. linators will come and the birds will tory of the world where humans have balance of nature, and how humans without huge fishing trawlers, when we audience? And that nature is in a bit of trouble at come in and very quickly that empty only been distressing nature for relative- impact it? burn forests, when we plough, we Yes, I think there’s a lot of hope out the moment. I think that’s not new for field will be full of life again. So I think ly a couple of 100 years in Balance of nature is quite an inter- admit as much carbon as burning fos- there, and the narrative of climate anybody. But we’re almost at a tipping just to give it some space, an intensive way. So you esting term. I think nature is far from sil fuels. That was something that I did- change is frightening. It’s depressing. But point where if we don’t start to pay more take away our chem- can see the journey balance. It is wild, dynamic, moving and n’t know earlier. The other, probably the there’s hope in nature and everybody attention and look after nature better, icals, our intensive of what’s hap- changing all the time. It’s natural to have most interesting shoot I did was going can play their part, be it a small window we’re going to find ourselves living on farming pened there, fires and floods. It adapts quickly to all to film the ranches live with wolves box in a city or a back garden in a rural a very uncomfortable planet. The most prac- what the changes that happen across the plan- around the Yellowstone National Park area or when you’re farming. Nature will important thing is it’s not that difficult tices, et. And if you’re over in North America, and how they’ve be grateful for everything, even if you to help nature heal itself. The power of looking over learned to cope living with do your minutest bit. It will surely repay it is extraordinary. All we need to do is wolves, how they’re you one day by making a healthy plan- give it a little bit of space, make sure learning to accept et for us to live on. it has what it needs and nature (The show premieres on April 12 at will heal itself quickly. 9 pm on Sony BBC Earth.)

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.- )%+)%-'$ Q&% R A" //0#/0& '? 4 5. %$+%&* 6* )%)#%#$/) " ' #$%+%%!$,-$ !. ++'$5'%)) eteran producer Anand protagonist Vijay but he completely different AFTA-nominated actor Adarsh on a family vacation every year.” VPandit is a cinephile and played them the way from anything he has BGourav says a middle-class He continued: “We did not go storytelling through powerful only he can. As when he done before. Maybe, as a upbringing in smalltown abroad for those vacations but in performances is what has says, he is in a hurry to full-fledged action star Jamshedpur had its advantage. It India, as child, I have travelled every- always drawn him to the reach the top or when he in revenge mode. Or helped him experience a wider where, and I know how beautiful my world of cinema. His latest reminds industrialists maybe in a hyper real- perspective of life. country is. We went to Himachal release The Big Bull is now that by giving him ten ism mode that will Gourav has received a BAFTA Pradesh, we went to Goa and also streaming on Disney+Hotstar minutes, they can earn shock everyone. He nomination in the Best Actor cate- different places in South India. I felt and Anand looks back at the crores. This similarity often gave me chills gory for his starring role of Balram the diversity, and whenever we film’s journey with pride, espe- was not intentional. But while performing key Halwai in The White Tiger. Balram travelled by train, we would chat cially his lead actor Abhishek his character was simi- scenes from the film is a lower-class boy from the back- with fellow passengers and the Bachchan’s rivetting portray- larly driven, ambitious especially near the cli- waters of Bihar, who moves to journeys were filled with memory.” al. and unstoppable. Yet, he max.” swanky Gurgaon. Adarsh, who did “I know the advantage of being Pandit says, “I am glad played it with his trade- The Big Bull is his schooling in Jamshedpur, subse- middle-class. My spectrum towards that after all the challenges mark half smile, that directed and co-written quently relocated with his family in life is wider because I have interact- COVID-19 posed, the film has unmistakable twinkle in by Kookie Gulati and Mumbai. ed with people from different walks reached the audience. The the eye. He has revived produced by Ajay On the advantage of being back then or my father thought it of life. My compassion and empa- biggest highlight of the film memories of landmark Devgn, Anand Pandit, middle class, Adarsh said, “I think was an unnecessary expense. It thy towards other people and their for me is, of course, the per- performances from Vikrant Sharma and the fact that you do not get every- wouldn’t have been the same with condition is more. I value my priv- formance of Abhishek Hindi cinema, including Kumar Mangat Pathak. It thing in life that you want, and how a boy from a wealthy family. Not that ilege of having good food, going to Bachchan. He is a very differ- his own in Guru.” stars Abhishek Bachchan to deal with it (is an advantage). If I was upset or anything but we a good school, living in a good house ent actor and in a league of his Pandit hopes to along with Nikita Dutta, I give a small example, at the age of always knew what we could afford and everything that my parents have own. There are a few scenes in work with Abhishek Ileana D’Cruz, Sohum nine, if I wanted a pair of Nike shoes, and what we couldn’t. Having said given me. Honestly, I do not want the film where his character again. He says, “I want to Shah, Ram Kapoor and I wouldn’t get that because either that since my parents had a huge to change those values,” he summed has shades of Trishul’s iconic cast him in a role that is Saurabh Shukla. there was no showroom of Nike passion for travelling, we would go up. L$ !"#!# 66 (&& %122 2&2

op Gear S27 sees Paddy ( McGuinness, Freddie Flintoff Tand Chris Harris tackling the fastest, hottest, toughest top gear challenges to date: pushing their cars and themselves to the very limits of endurance. All because no one takes testing cars as seriously as Top Gear. And also because they really should have checked the small print of their contracts more closely before signing. From the brutal heat of the Ethiopian desert, the sweltering Borneo rainforest, the wilds of Iceland to the pedestri- anised shopping district of down- town Mansfield, the show is getting bigger than ever before. Excerpts: others’ driving styles? BBC Two, is it? This has got to be How did the chemistry between Chris: I would describe a more general show. That means the three of you begin? Paddy’s driving style as squeaky, fun and that’s what Fred and Chris: We had a little test late and I don’t mean the tyres. When Paddy bring. Frankly, they just last summer. We secretly went to an > - 9$;- <- 8 he’s excited, he gets quite squeaky. have to walk through the door in airfield with a couple of cameras But he and Fred are both amazing the morning, and I start laughing. and just messed about. It was a real- drivers. They wouldn’t be doing It’s an entertainment show, and ly good idea. It wasn’t a chemistry- ; 0 this unless they could drive. We’re those guys really know how to building exercise as much as a ques- a bit more rigorous about how we entertain. tion of: “How’s this going to play?” & screen test people now. If someone We had only met for about an hour. turns up and they are absolutely How does this series compare I thought: “They’re my heroes, I mustard on camera, but they can’t with previous ones that you have can’t be that offensive.” But then this really drive, they aren’t going to get been involved with? note came through from them say- 4*&4**&+0%/ 2&2 the job. It’s just not possible. You Chris: We are in a great place. ing: “Nothing is off-limits,” which can’t do that. It’s not safe. The prac- We are very happy. There’s a sense was very refreshing. That’s when I between us. We just clicked. Lamborghini. I can plug the gaps in inite article, and I don’t understand watching him getting strapped ticalities of filming mean you that anything is possible. From the knew we’d be fine. We hit it off their knowledge. Meanwhile, they what they’re on about. So some- into that because his feet don’t fit have to have cameramen near first time we knocked about, the immediately. So you’ve become close? can be funny, and occasionally just times you have to say: “Can you just into the pedal boxes. Most cars are you. You can’t be running people three of us have got on very well. It was quite clear from the Chris: Yes. They’ve both kick the hell out of me. That’s fine! leave it alone?” You should hear comfortable until you are about 6’3 over. You need a level of skill We have a really good laugh. beginning that the banter was pret- become massive mates of mine. them try and speak to people in or 6’4. A lot of sports cars are just behind the wheel. Both of these Paddy and Fred are very giving. ty good and that we had a very sim- This is quite strange for me, work- Do Paddy and Freddie some- Ethiopia — it’s a struggle at times. not designed for the larger gentle- two have it. I won’t say anything They don’t need to be as giving to ilar puerile sense of humour, and ing with two people that I have times gang up on you? Paddy always introduces himself by man. We drove a buggy in Iceland nicer than that, otherwise their me because they’re both super the motorcar is a very good medi- admired from afar for a long time. Chris: Yes. There is a danger saying: “Hi, I’m Paddy from Bolton”, at the weekend, and I just didn’t egos will swell. famous. But they’re both very um for that. It was immediately Paddy was in Phoenix Nights, which that with Paddy and Fred, it’s going which doesn’t mean very much know how Fred was going to fit. willing to have the mickey ripped apparent that it was going to be is in my top three programmes ever. to become a northern show. Even when you’re on the Eritrean border. His knees were touching the steer- Is it important that the show out of them, which is really impor- quite light-hearted. If there is some I still watch it religiously, and I’m though I’m the incumbent presen- ing wheel. I thought: “I’m not sure also appeals to non-petrol heads? tant. We call chemistry the ‘c’ word geekery that needs to be done, I can always quoting bad lines at him. I’m ter, I do sometimes feel that the Did Freddie also struggle to fit how that’s going to work.” But he Chris: Yes. With the changes in on Top Gear, and you can’t fake cover that off. But Fred and Paddy a complete cricket tragic. So I’m North has taken over. It’s a bit like in some cars? always manages to do it, and he media increasingly, if you want to that, can you? know more about cars than they let working with my heroes. But this is Game Of Thrones. Paddy and Fred Chris: Yes. Fred is not designed never complains about it. watch 40 minutes on the differen- (The show will air on April 10 on. They’re very modest about a comfortable place for me. I know get into this northern bickering for cars. There is a Lotus he drives tial of a BMW, that’s online. It’s not every Saturday at 10 pm on Colors that. I knew then that it would work a lot about cars. I can test drive a thing when they leave out the def- later in the series, and it was funny How would you characterise eight o’clock on a Sunday night on Infinity.) # " %#. %)$ %'$ )+$, (.)$ %7 + #%Q) ,$4 )#%$)#%)#$$-$# +$$$Q)-%/+%$8%7 +#$/ +$

hile the competition will Wheat up during the forth- coming episodes of Indian Pro Music League with all the teams putting their best foot forward, the ‘Wajid Khan special’ had many light moments with all the stars sharing some heart-warming anecdotes about the late musician. Sajid- Wajid’s mother, Razina, and Sajid’s wife, Lubna, also appeared on the show as special guests and a video tribute by them for Wajid had a very special revelation. Wajid’s mother revealed a time when the late musician was in dire secretly got all her tests done his time of need, then it is very work done, and was ready to they’d never turn up. I had need of a kidney. Being a dia- and gave him her kidney.” shameful. Thankfully, we were give Wajid her Kidney. I was never felt so helpless in my life. betic patient, she couldn’t Lubna added, “When I a match. Sajid, my mother, and scared, even my kids were That is when Lubna came to donate her kidney, but they heard that someone else can my children were very support- worried, but I am really proud me and said I want to donate were still hopeful of finding a also donate him a kidney, I did- ive, and I am happy I could do of what she did. At that time, my kidney to Wajid, which she match. However, as time went n’t ask anyone. I just got all my this for him.” none of our family members did. All I am trying to say by, they were losing hope, tests done. Before the last test, Delhi Jammers captain helped us. We had money, through this is that we all are especially with people cheating I told Wajid everything and Sajid mentioned, “Wajid was name, fame and we went to the blessed to have a family that them and not helping them out. told him that if we’re a match, unwell for two years and my best doctors, but we couldn’t loves us, and we don’t need That’s when Sajid’s wife Lubna we’ll go for a transplant. He was mother took care of him on a get the right donor. I can recall anything more than that in life. went behind everyone’s back very upset, but I told him one daily basis. We requested her to people taking money from me We should spend time with and gave her kidney to Wajid. thing that you’re very impor- go home and rest, but she saying that they will donate them, love them and be there As Razina revealed, “We tant to me, and that left him never left the room where their kidney but when the time for them always.” had asked all our relatives, speechless. The person who has Wajid was staying. There was came they just disappeared. I (Indian Pro Music League however, no one came forward. always stood by everyone, if his a time when my wife went to used to wait at the airport for airs every Saturday and Sunday But during that time, Lubna family doesn’t stand by him in the hospital, got all the paper- hours for people to come, but at 8 pm on Zee TV.) !"#!# #!,P &'

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)1// final over for a run and also became &/#!: the first bowler to pick up a five-wick- 1- . : B de Villiers rolled back the et haul against Mumbai Indians. 91$, :%%B-, 9 years with his beautiful yet bru- Reserve opener Chris Lynn (49 off :1J% .%%B-, 9 Atal assault as Royal Challengers 35 balls) partially made amends for his Bangalore pipped defending champi- part in a horrible mix-up that led to ons Mumbai Indians by two wickets in skipper Rohit Sharma’s (19 off 15 balls) a last-ball thriller in the Indian Premier run-out, by adding 70 runs in seven SUMMER SLAM League opener here on Friday. overs for second wicket with De Villiers smashed 48 off 27 balls Suryakumar Yadav (31 off 23 balls). MOTION PICTURE after RCB were down in the dumps at That stand was the platform that 106 for 5. Harshal Patel capped off his MI needed to fire during the back-end. dream day by scraping a single off the Fresh from his exploits for India, final delivery to reach the target of 160 Ishan Kishan blazed his way to 28 off in 20 overs. 19 balls but Harshal got a few wickets Haryana’s Harshal, an eternal in the final over to prevent MI from peripheral presence in the IPL, final- inflicting bigger damage. ly had his night under the lights with On a Chepauk track where a good 5 for 27, which helped RCB restrict MI score is anything in the region of 150, to 159 for nine. the total was certainly par for the MI again lost the first match as has course. been the tradition in the IPL but they Kyle Jamieson (1/27 in 4 overs) lost it to de Villiers, who changed the had an impressive IPL debut with his script in a space of two overs by attack- disconcerting bounce but the sea- ing the two MI spinners Rahul Chahar soned Yuzvendra Chahal (0/41 in 4 (0/43) and Krunal Pandya (1/25). overs) has clearly lost his bearings for His attack prompted Rohit Sharma some time now. to finish his best bowler Jasprit But Harshal, Chahal's Haryana Bumrah’s spell (2/26 in 4 overs) before teammate made it up with some accu- the final over, from which seven runs rate wicket-to-wicket bowling in the were required. 18th and 20th over. RCB were in control when Glenn Lynn, who looked shaky during Maxwell (39 off 28 balls) came in and the first few overs, stepped out to loft DB(D5 A " PD % 0 B upset leg-spinner Chahar’s line with a Chahal for a six over long-on and " % % 2 reverse-pull boundary. He repeated the another over wide of long-on off left 93E * B shot off the same bowler for a six and arm spinner Shahbaz Ahmed to get his got another maximum off Krunal rhythm back. #, 2;;-25 >-5 >2&. <2,9 , Pandya over long-on. This was after he called Rohit for 7 " 0 2 $ Skipper Virat Kohli (33 off 29 a non-existent single and then sent him " ? ! balls), who had launched into an back, only to find the skipper yards K experienced Marco Jansen in his first short of his ground. " %L4 " over, got a bit bogged down as the Suryakumar (31 off 23 balls), at the innings progressed. However, other end, took off from where he left M2 %L ? Maxwell's attack meant that Kohli against England as he clipped Jamieson '% 1%2 could take his time. for a boundary, punched Chahal " " %M It was MI’s strike bowler Bumrah, B %-%% , % %%9 A%% %"2 2 . " " @7@3 * through covers off the back foot and who came back for his second spell at then back-cut Dan Christian for > -, 9$,33, /82& -2 8 <$ the back-10 and removed the Indian short that ended Maxwell’s potential- After Jansen removed Shahbaz Earlier, Harshal produced a death another four. ? " captain with an angular delivery. ly dangerous innings as the ‘Big Show’ Ahmed, de Villiers announced his over masterclass, which kept the MI The pitch that looked slow during " )! K If that wasn’t enough, Jansen, the once again promised a lot but delivered arrival with a six and a boundary off total under check. the first four overs went out of the " #3%? * 6 feet 8 inch youngster, banged one little. Chahar. He picked up three wickets in his equation as runs came at a fair clip. " ;;40 &-, %& #3 " ( -,;<% 9 ;,25 8>29&8$233 &;. < % E /JC .$ " ' " #3 6! *& 1 (* 2 &"B B & )" " %)" !2 # " "0 " " &? ! ;, /J" ' " #3% D<"B<* VENUE: WANKHEDE STADIUM, MUMBAI 34/04/ es and a busy cricket calendar. But Khan is determined to 4-C ;$ 28/, , < ;- 8 &&-, ( # #1 eeking re-election next month, stage matches of the immensely -#/- #B! " 7 " 4$ !%)$ (# )'$ '' SLondon’s Mayor Sadiq Khan has popular T20 league in his country’s %#$) 9: vowed to work with cricket author- capital city and also sees plenty of " #3 -$%)) ))/ $ %%+ L M % +$$%'-$%/#!#) #$% $ !) ; ities and bring IPL matches to the benefits should his plans turn into British capital after the Covid-19 reality. “I will never stop banging the " ' ? ? &$'# % %') < pandemic has subsided. drum for investment in our city and 3 " '*' " ( Khan expressed his optimism bringing the Indian Premier League after the successful hosting of NFL to London would not only guaran- " " #$+ %%''5+$Q):& #8.P&#- " C &-,% )/ '') ''-$ %' Q) (National Football League) and ally placed to host IPL matches. tee a home crowd for every coun- &$'# % %')+$,$%$+ #%$) Major League Baseball (MLB) “The absence of Live crowds at try but boost tourism and generate /9; , D/ &;, #-;2;; ;$ matches in London. elite competitions has been hard for much-needed revenue to help get #$% $ !)-== $ # ')! " “This is part of my plan to build many sport-loving Londoners but our capital back on its feet,” Khan /12013 )%&-% " a better London after the pandem- I know we can build a better, more said. L M &$'# % %')+$,$%$+ ic,” Khan said in a press release. open and prosperous city after the NFL has a ten-year agreement %L C K n his first match as Delhi Capitals skipper, #$% $ !)-; “I know Londoners are hungry pandemic and see our capital con- to play matches at Tottenham " " " Rishabh Pant will be up against his mentor to see more of the likes of Virat firmed as the undisputed sporting Hotspur’s new stadium. I /$)% #%7%# % )! B %2 and talismanic former Indian captain Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rishabh capital of the world.” The IPL has been held outside "" "% Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s Chennai Super Pant and, with two of the world’s Taking IPL to England will pre- India in the past, with South Africa L " Kings in the IPL clash at Wankhede stadium greatest cricket grounds in Lord’s sent its own set of challenges, hosting it in 2009 and the UAE last %?' C " %M in Mumbai on Saturday. *4 and The Kia Oval, London is ide- including timing of hosting match- year amid the pandemic. In a battle between the past and present of Indian cricket superstars, both teams will look to start the new season on a positive note. %#$+% !#&# # Last year Delhi ended as runners-up )$+;>)%%%$%!$, while CSK finished second from the bottom. L -% .KB For Delhi, apart from Pant, the onus will :91?? 9= !),9@ be on the likes of Shikhar Dhawan and in-form .%#$),#$% $ !) Prithvi Shaw to give a good start. And to com- %+* ) ! $ $! %) (070 *$%'%+ +) 4%$'% “We have been very good pliment the Indian openers there’s Steve $,.9:%. recently, consistent,” he said. " Smith’s and Marcus Stoinis in the middle. %!% )&$'# % %')($$+)7) inedine Zidane on Friday “And not just with the ball, But they will miss the services of South )-$.$) #-%).% Zsaid that he hoped Lionel 32& >. we have improved defensively (070 African Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje on )$$@)%!% ) Messi and Sergio Ramos won’t too. We know that regardless of Saturday. The pacer duo is currently serving &$'# % %') have played their last Clasicos Atletico Madrid, whose defeat what we have done up to now, anchester United defeat- six-day mandatory quarantine. come the end of the season, with at Sevilla last Sunday allowed we will have to Med Spanish club Also, the positive corona test has doubts over the futures of the their rivals to move within play well Granada 2-0 in the first leg of already ruled out Axar Patel. Barcelona and Real Madrid touching distance of the sum- tomorrow.” their Europa League quarter- In the absence of these three, 6 14 captains ahead of a huge La Liga mit. final tie in Spain on Thursday, Chris Woakes is likely to lead encounter. Madrid are three while Arsenal conceded a the pace attack. While Both players’ contracts are points behind their city stoppage-time equaliser in a Ravichandran Ashwin will head # /#%&#%%#.%+$ up at the end of the campaign rivals in third, while sec- 1-1 draw at home to Czech the spin department. =?>)%%%$%!$, and Messi is yet to commit to a ond-placed Barca are a champions Slavia Prague. On the other hand, Chennai new deal with Barca after try- point closer, meaning a Marcus Rashford raced will be bolstered by the return of :<1>9 =? !),%).% ing to force an exit last summer. win for either side at on to a long ball sprayed Suresh Raina, who opted out of .%#$)($$+)9) When asked if Saturday’s Valdebebas will upfield by Victor Lindelof to last year’s edition due to -$.$#$,# clash in the Spanish capital knock Atletico off fire United in front at Los At Emirates, Arsenal’s Covid-19 related restric- would be the last of the pair’s the top for the Carmenes on 31 minutes poor league form under Mikel tions. He will bat at No -%).%)$$ careers at Spain’s top two clubs, first time since against a team enjoying a Arteta has left the Gunners 3. ;),&$'# Madrid coach Zidane said: “I December after brilliant debut European cam- with the Europa League as His return will % %') hope not”. ruthlessly chip- paign. their only hope of silverware give more stability to % “Sergio is not going to play ping away at what Bruno Fernandes con- this year, but the 2019 run- the Super Kings mid- tomorrow. It’s sad, but I really was a 10-point verted a late penalty after he ners-up were denied victory dle-order which has hope that he will stay here,” the lead in February. was caught off the ball by Yan at the Emirates following a the likes of Amabti partner Faf du Plessis at the Frenchman added of the injured Zidane, Eteki, with the Portuguese 94th-minute header by Tomas Rayudu, MS Dhoni. top. 35-year-old. whose team midfielder’s spot-kick squirm- Holes. Robin Uthappa In Moeen Ali, Zidane also said that he impressed in a 3-1 ing agonisingly through the Nicolas Pepe had come had a good domes- Ravindra Jadeja, Sam hoped Messi woud remain at Champions League hands of Rui Silva. off the bench to give Arsenal tic season with Curran and big buy Barca for the good of Spanish win over Liverpool However, Solskjaer will be the lead four minutes from Kerala in the Krishnappa Gowtham, CSK has football, joking “let him stay at this week, appeared without the suspended trio of time, only for Holes to nod in Vijay Hazare and good all-rounders. Barcelona — he’s doing very confident ahead of a captain Harry Maguire, Luke at a corner and extend Slavia’s he is expected to And ever-improving Shardul well there!” crucial fixture in his Shaw and Scott McTominay unbeaten run to 22 games, get the nod Thakur, who can also bat, and Barca and reigning champi- attempt to retain for the second leg at Old having already knocked out ahead of Ruturaj Deepak Chahar will lead the pace ons Madrid are both trying to his team’s league Trafford next week. Leicester City and Rangers. Gaikwad to attack. chase down league leaders title.