First India-Jaipur Edition-21 May 2021

JAIPUR l FRIDAY, MAY 21, 2021 l Pages 12 l 3.00

India misses

Rajiv THE COMPASSIONATE WIZARD

RNI NO. RAJENG/2019/77764 l Vol 2 l Issue No. 343

Aditi Nagar

O

n his 30th death anniversary the nation misses Rajiv Gandhi more than ever before.

As we mourn our dead battling Covid 19 pandemic, feel helpless, we miss Rajiv Gandhi.  We miss his modern outlook, progressive views and scientific temper.  We miss his youthful energy & charm.  We miss his reassuring calm, his composure and confidence on the steering.  We miss his inclusive approach, his empathy for the poor and the deprived.

 We miss his sensitivity. His ability to both reach out and open himself.  We miss his ability to inspire.  We miss his healing touch.  We miss his humility to course correct and learn from his mistakes.  We miss his commitment to the principles he lived and died for.  We miss his leadership, especially in the Congress party which is at crossroads.

His apparent heir and a young and dynamic Rahul Gandhi is yet not certain to take over the command and challenge of leading the party in such critical times.

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PERSPECTIVE

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JAIPUR | FRIDAY, MAY 21, 2021

DRAGON SMILES IN NEPAL, BUT FROWNS IN BANGLADESH

02

IN-DEPTH

NEW SCOURGE BEGINS TO TAKE A TOLL

T

GOPAL MISRA

The writer is accredited as a Journalist of Long and distinguished service with the Press Information Bureau of the Information and Broadcasting Ministry

T The Chinese proxies and diplomats openly worked to ensure Oli’s ascendency to power in 2018, by uniting different communist factions under the banner of the Nepal Communist Party (NCP). In April 2020, NCP suffered a serious internal rift as rival factions within the party threatened to unseat Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli

he Chinese president, Li Jinping, must have been quite pleased with his country’s charismatic ambassador in Kathmandu, Hou Yanqi, for ensuring that Prime Minister, KP Sharma Oli, is reappointed as the prime minister, though he already had lost majority in Parliament.

On the other hand, there was a sharp reaction of the Bangladesh foreign minister, AK Abdul Momen, on the Chinese warning that if Bangladesh joins the four country strategic alliance, QUAD, would harm its ties with China. Momen stated that the question of being an ally to the QUAD would be his country’s own decision, and he also cautioned foreign envoys in Dacca not to indulge in “undiplomatic” public statements Momen was responding to the ‘unsolicited advice’ of the Chinese ambassador in Dacca, Li Jiming, who warned

WHO’S TO BLAME FOR TRAGEDY AT SEA

Bangladesh not to consider joining the Quad grouping and said doing so would “damage” relations between the two countries. The Quad strategic alliance comprises USA, India, Australia and Japan, which the Chinese believe is a front against its activities, though vehemently denied by its members, in the South China Sea and Indian Ocean.

The Bangladesh Government has asserted that as a sovereign country, “it would determine the course of its foreign policy in the interest of the people. Momen has also asked the foreign envoys deployed in Dacca should follow the restraints expected in diplomacy.

On the other hand Hou Yanqi, who herself is an artist,a glamorous folk singer and earlier had been deployed in Islamabad, is known for meddling in the internal affairs of Nepal.

Flouting the traditional norms of diplomacy, she has successfully performed Li JInping’s direction that Oli should not be replaced by any national coalition alliance comprising the non-communist Parties like Napali Congress or the Samajbadi Party.

The Chinese proxies and

I

ndia’s Met Department had issued a warning about the “extremely severe” cyclone Tauktae which was to lash Mumbai and other areas in Maharashtra before moving on to Gujarat. The warning was passed on to the BMC. Following the warning fishing boats were ordered to return to the safety of ports. In the cyclone-hit Arabian Sea there was barge P305 working for the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation’s rig at Bombay High. It had 261 people aboard of whom 186 have been rescued. Another 100 were stuck on the rig. Because of the cyclone barge P 305 sank. Indian Navy ships INS Kolkata and INS Kochi spearheaded the

Oli’s ‘mis-governance” and too much tilt towards China enraged the top leaders of the party, Pushpa Kamal Dahal and Madhav Kumar Nepal. In spite of Hou Yanqi’s meetings with various political leaders, Oli lost majority support in Parliament; he advised the President to dissolve the Hosue and order fresh polls diplomats openly worked to ensure Oli’s ascendency to power in 2018, by uniting different communist factions under the banner of the Nepal Communist Party (NCP).

In April 2020, NCP suffered a serious internal rift as rival factions within the party threatened to unseat Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli. Oli’s ‘mis-governance” and too much tilt towards China enraged the top leaders of the party, Pushpa Kamal Dahal and Madhav Kumar Nepal. In spite of Hou Yanqi’s

Sequence of events as reported show that the Coast Guard had sent two advisories to ONGC and Defence Advisory Group’s Flag Officer saying that all offshore vessels in the high sea area of Mumbai should return ashore rescue operation. They recovered 26 bodies and are searching for another 49 missing.

It has to be seen if ONGC will take responsibility for this life-snatching lapse. Sequence of events as reported show that the Coast Guard

meetings with various political leaders, Oli lost majority support in Parliament; he advised the President to dissolve the Hosue and order fresh polls. The Supreme Court set aside the presidential order and asked the president to appoint a new prime minister, who is able to seek majority support. Since the Chinese diplomacy succeeded in ensuring that none should be able to seek a majority in the House, Oli has now been sworn-in for the next 90 days.

Interestingly, while the Bangladesh foreign minister did not take Chinese interference in the internal affairs of his country, Nepalese Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali has stated that Hou’s meetings with political leaders were part of China’s efforts to strengthen Kathmandu’s fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the series of meetings with specific ruling party leaders, namely those who were at obvious loggerheads with Oli, clearly demonstrates the Chinese concerns about the weakening of its grip on Nepali politics.

he second and more vicious wave of Covid-19 has just started to relent when another scourge has emerged to create panic among the people. As the name suggests Mucormycosis or black fungus is a fungal disease. The mould ‘mucor’ is found almost everywhere--- in soil, air, plants, rotting fruits and vegetables. It can be found even in the nasal passage and mucus of healthy people. Black fungus may prove fatal for diabetics who are given steroids, a life-saving medication for high-risk Covid patients or those on immune-suppressants. It targets sinuses, the brain and lungs.

With rising cases of black fungus in the country, the Central government has advised states to declare Mucormycosis an epidemic under the Disaster Management Act. State governments are also not leaving anything to chance and are ensuring hospital beds and medicines for patients of black fungus.

Although fatalities are still low, experts have to keep a sharp eye on the deadly fungus.

SPIRITUAL SPEAK You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions.

—Bhagavad Gita

TOP TWEET Prakash Javadekar @PrakashJavdekar

Indian companies have placed orders for importing 6 lakh vials of Amphotericin- B, the drug used to treat Mucormycosis (#BlackFungus) Also, 5 more Pharma companies have got new Drug approval for producing it in India within three days.

Rajnath Singh @rajnathsingh

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHOR ARE PERSONAL

had sent two advisories to ONGC and Defence Advisory Group’s Flag Officer saying that all offshore vessels in the high sea area of Mumbai should return ashore. The Coast Guard also issued two warnings. The Union Petroleum Ministry has ordered an inquiry to find out if successive warnings were taken seriously and the sequence of events which led to about several ONGC vessels with almost 600 men aboard stranded in rough waters.

Rescue in turbulent seas is quite a feat in itself. A ship can roll 45 degrees on either side, a frightening proposition even for the hardened sailors. While the inquiry’s findings will have to be awaited, the Navy deserves a salute in appreciation of its work.

I am aware of the scale of devastation caused by #CycloneTauktae and adverse conditions in which Search & Rescue Ops have been conducted by @ indiannavy & @IndiaCoastGuard. Many precious lives have been saved by the daring action taken by the Navy in rescuing crew of barge P305.

Vol 2 Issue No. 343 RNI NO. RAJENG/2019/77764.

Printed and published by Anita Hada Sangwan on behalf of First Express Publishers. Printed at Bhaskar Printing Press, D.B. Corp Limited, Shivdaspura, Tonk Road, Jaipur. Published at 304, 3rd Floor, City Mall, Bhagwan Das Road, C-Scheme, Jaipur-302001, Rajasthan. Phone 0141-4920504.

Editor-In-Chief: Jagdeesh Chandra responsible for selection of news under the PRB Act

SENSEX FALLS 337 PTS, NIFTY HOLDS 14,900

JAIPUR l FRIDAY, MAY 21, 2021 l Pages 12 l 3.00

RNI NO. RAJENG/2019/77764 l Vol 2 l Issue No. 343

Mumbai: Sensex ended 337.78 points lower at 49,564 and Nifty declined 124 points to 14,906. Top Sensex loser was ONGC falling around three per cent, followed by Sun Pharma, PowerGrid, Axis Bank, HDFC Bank, Bharti Airtel and Kotak Bank. M&M, IndusInd Bank, Titan, L&T and Bajaj Finserv were among the top gainers rising up to 2.36 per cent.

STALIN SEEKS RELEASE OF RAJIV CONVICTS

OUR EDITIONS: JAIPUR, AHMEDABAD & LUCKNOW

DECLARE BLACK FUNGUS EPIDEMIC: CENTRE TO STATES New Delhi: With mucormycosis adding to the health woes across states amid the Covid-19 pandemic, the Union Health Ministry has urged states and union territories to make the infection, also known as black fungus, a notifiable disease under the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897, stating that it is leading to prolonged morbidity and mortality amongst Covid patients.

In a letter, the ministry said that a new challenge in the form of a fungal infection namely mucormycosis has emerged and is reported from many states amongst COVID-19 patients, Turn to P6

NO SIGHT

OF RELIEF!

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HORROR STORY CONTINUES: AFTER COVID, NOW BLACK AND WHITE FUNGUS DISEASES CREATE HAVOC After Raj, Telangana declares Black Fungus as epidemic, UP CM puts docs on high alert COLLECT DATA ON CHILDREN: PM

WHAT’S LETHAL

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday urged district officials to collect data on children being infected with COVID-19. He also urged the district officials to guard against Covid vaccine wastage, saying “even single dose going waste denies someone protection shield.” Modi in an interaction with DMs also underlined concerns about the threats it poses to the youth and children.

l White Fungus is considered more dangerous than Black Fungus because it affects lungs as well as other parts of the body incuding nails, skin, stomach, kidney, brain, private parts and mouth

PROVIDE FREE EDU TO KIDS ORPHANED BY COVID: SONIA New Delhi: Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi on Thursday in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked him to provide free education to children, who have lost either both or the earning parents to Covid-19. She suggested central Navodaya Vidyalayas across the country for the purpose.

CORONA CATASTROPHE

AEROSOLS CAN TRAVEL UP TO 10 METRES, CENTRE’S NEW ADVISORY

INDIA

2,76,110

New Delhi: Cautioning people to maintain social distancing to prevent the transmission of the Covid-19 virus, the office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India on Thursday said that aerosols, one of the key transmission mode of the SARSCoV-2, can travel in the air up to 10 meters.

While sharing a set of guidelines called “Stop the Transmission, Crush the Pandemic”, the panel said, “Always Remember: People who show no symptoms can also spread the virus.” While stating that proper ventilation can prevent the spread of the virus, the panel added, “Running air conditioners while keeping windows and doors shut, traps infected air inside the room, and increases risk of transmission from an infected carrier to others.”

new cases

3,874

new fatalities RAJASTHAN

7,680 new cases

127

Attendants check on a Black Fungus infected patient at Mucormycosis ward of government ENT hospital in Hyderabad. —PHOTO BY PTI

new fatalities

One nation, all humiliation: Mamata Chief Ministers sit like puppets, not allowed to speak at Covid meet with PM Kolkata: Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of bypassing the federal structure and humiliating Chief Ministers of states at a meeting today.

The Prime Minister, she said, did not offer any financial support or even allow any Chief Minister to speak.

“This was not a oneway communication... it was one way humilia-

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused the Prime Minister of being “arrogant” and “casual”.

SHE HIJACKED PM MEET, SHAMEFUL’: SUVENDU Kolkata: The Bengal Chief Minister had “once again shown her total disinterest in administration” and politicized the PM’s meeting with District Magistrates, said Suvendu Adhikari, using the word “shameful” for his former mentor.

HC DEFERS HEARING IN NARADA CASE tion... One nation, all humiliation,” said Banerjee who was part of

RAJASTHAN TAKES TOP POSITION IN VACCINATION OF ABOVE 18 YEARS

Jaipur: Even the shortage of vaccine in Covidhit Rajasthan has not stopped the state from achieving the top rank in the vaccination in the age group of 18-44 years on Thursday. The vaccination is being done from the state quota from May 1. Health Minister Dr Raghu Sharma informed that the total number of vaccinations in the age group of 18-44 years has reached 10,61,212 till 4 pm on Thursday as per the Covid portal.

Whereas, Maharashtra ranks second in this age

Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Thursday urged President Ram Nath Kovind to accept the recommendation made by the state government in 2018 and remit the life sentences of the seven Rajiv Gandhi assassination case convicts and direct their immediate release. Convicts have been undergoing “agony of imprisonment” for 3 decades, he said.

group followed by Gujarat at number three and Uttar Pradesh attaining the fourth spot. Under the ongoing vaccination for the last 4 months, 1.5 crore doses have been given so far, Dr Sharma added. When it comes to totality in vaccination doses Maharashtra is at the top with 2,00,41,648 vaccinations. On attaining this feat, Dr Raghu Sharma congratulated departmental officers on this success and expressed gratitude for their tireless work in these testing times.

several meetings on Covid and had skipped a few.

Turn to P6

Kolkata: The Calcutta High Court on Thursday deferred hearing in the case filed by CBI against bail given to the TMC leaders arrested by the agency in the Narada sting tape case ‘due to unavoidable circumstances.’

WHITE FUNGUS

l Doctors said that white fungus also infect the lungs and an infection similar to COVID-19 is detected when HRCT is performed on the infected patient

WHAT’S MYLAB

COVID HOME KIT l The ICMR has approved the country’s first self-testing kit for home use for suspected Covid-19 patients l Mylab, a Pune-based pharma company, has designed this kit. The principle it follows is of rapid antigen test, where a nasal swab sample is tested for the virus and gives results within 15 minutes l Its efficacy is not 100% and has chances of false negatives even if a person has Covid-19

FLAME OF TRUCE RISES AMIDST BLAZE OF ISRAEL, HAMAS ROCKETS Tel Aviv: Israel unleashed another wave of airstrikes across the Gaza Strip early Thursday, killing at least one Palestinian and wounding several, and Hamas fired more rockets, even as expectations rose that a cease-fire could be coming.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pushed back against calls from the US to wind down the Gaza offensive, appearing de-

Hoards of Palestinian supporters gather to pray during a demonstration against Israel’s violence in Gaza City. termined to inflict maximum damage on Hamas in a war that could help save his political career.

Still, officials close to the negotiations say they expect a truce to be announced in the next 24 hours.

GEHLOT’S EXCELLENT COVID MGMT COMES AS A SANJEEVANI FOR ALL!

CM’s decisions have become a precedence in the country and are being followed by other states First India Bureau Jaipur: The decisions taken by Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot for covid management have become precedence in the country which are being followed by other states.

Right from imposing lockdown to free treatment, the decisions

were first taken by Gehlot. Expensive injections used in corona treatment are free in government hospitals while for free treatment, the state government has introduced CM Chiranjeevi Health Insurance Scheme.

After Rajasthan, Goa and Madhya Pradesh

CM TO REVIEW DRINKING WATER SUPPLY TODAY Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot will hold a meeting on Friday to review the drinking water supply. Contingency plans for the water supply in the summer season will be discussed in the meeting which will be attended by PHED minister BD Kalla, ACS Sudhansh Pant and other officers of the department.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot

governments took decisions to give financial assistance. Later, the UP government followed Rajasthan.

Apart from free treatment and other decisions, the Gehlot

government also took the responsibility of funerals of those who died due to corona infection. The state also took a lead on decisions on black fungus.

Turn to P6

RAJASTHAN JAIPUR | FRIDAY, MAY 21, 2021

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04

15 JANUARY 1932-19 MAY 2021

PREZ, PM CONDOLE PAHADIA’S DEMISE Rajasthan govt observed one-day state mourning as a mark of tribute to former CM Jagannath Pahadia who died on Wednesday due to Covid New Delhi: President Ram Nath Kovind expressed his condolences on the death of former Chief Minister of Rajasthan Jagannath Pahadia on Thursday.

“Saddened by the demise of Shri Jagannath Pahadia, former Chief Minister of Rajasthan. The voice of the underprivileged, popular public servant and skilled administrator, Pahadia also made a distinctive contribution to nation building as Governor and Union Minister.

My condolences to his loved ones”, the President tweeted.

The 89-year-old Jagannath Pahadia passed away due to COVID-19 on late Wednesday night.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot also expressed their condolences on the death of Pahadia on Thursday.

Remembering the former chief minis-

ter’s long political and Chief Minister of Raadministrative career, jasthan. Pahadia in his PM Modi said Pahadia glorious public life, made noteworthy con- discharged the constitributions to further tutional obligations of the Governor and Unsocial empowerment.

“Saddened by the de- ion Minister with full mise of former Ra- devotion and dignity. jasthan CM, Shri Jag- My humble condolencannath Pahadia ji. In es to the bereaved his long political and families and coladministrative career, leagues. om Shanti!”

Pahadia was the he made noteworthy contributions to fur- CM of Rajasthan from ther social empower- June 6, 1980 to July 14, ment. Condolences to 1981. He was also the his family and sup- general secretary of porters. Om Shanti,” the All India Congress Committee from PM Modi tweeted.

Vice-President M 1988-89.

—ANI Venkaiah Naidu on Thursday condoled the demise of Jagannath Pahadia who died of coronavirus in Gurugram.

Naidu tweeted, “I am saddened by the demise of Jagann a t h Pahadia Ji, former Jagannath Pahadia

PAHADIA CREMATED WITH STATE HONOURS

F

ormer Rajasthan CM and ex-governor of Bihar and Haryana, Jagannath Pahadia was cremated with state honours on Thursday in Gurugram. At the funeral, both his daughters, Shivani and Himani, grandson Arjun Pahadia and other family members were present. Chhatarpal Yadav, Special Secretary of Tourism Minister represented the Government of Rajasthan. On his death, the Rajasthan government on Thursday announced a day of state mourning and a holiday in government offices. Born in Bhusawar in Rajasthan’s Bharatpur district, Pahadia was the first Dalit CM of Rajasthan from June 6, 1980 to July 14, 1981 and was also the first CM to implement complete prohibition in state.

Gehlot, Council of mins pay tributes to Pahadia

Patna: Expressing deep sorrow over the death of former Bihar Governor and former Rajasthan Chief Minister Jagannath Pahadia, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced one day state mourning on Thursday. In his condolence message Kumar said that Pahadia was a prominent leader and was governor of Bihar from March 3,1989 till February 2, 1990. He served the nation for long term as chief minister, central minister and as governor, said Kumar. Kumar said that the state on Thusrady observed one day state mourning as mark of respect to Pahadiya. condolences on the demise of former CM Jagannath Pahadia.

Assembly Speaker Dr CP Joshi too expressed condolences on the de-

mise of Pahadia.

Medical and Health Minister Dr Raghu Sharma too expressed deep condolences on the demise.

Vasundhara Raje @VasundharaBJP

First India Bureau

In Beawar (Ajmer), all the family members of Satyanarayana Sharma have not only got corona vaccinated, but have also set an example of inspiration for other families by putting a banner written ‘Vaccinated Family’ outside their house.

Jaipur: Another feather gets in the crown of Chief Whip and Hawa Mahal MLA, Dr Mahesh Joshi as Rajasthan’s first new oxygen generation plant will soon be set up at Gangauri Hospital.

The 1000 LPM plant will be set up courtesy of NHM and DRDO. Chief whip Dr Mahesh Joshi gave instructions to visit the hospital and start the oxy-

RATHORE INTERACTS WITH EX-ARMYMEN First India Bureau Jaipur: BJP National Spokesperson and Jaipur Rural MP Colonel Rajyavardhan Rathore interacted with the former soldiers of the Jhotwara Assembly of Jaipur Rural in their parliamentary constituency through audio conferencing on Corona disaster management on

Thursday. During the conference, he inquired about the spread of corona infection in the area and gave necessary guidelines after listening to the suggestions made by the former soldiers.

During the conversation, many ex-servicemen told how they are creating awareness for preventing infection in their localities.

TOOLKIT CONTROVERSY

Cong has exposed itself by defaming PM: BJP First India Bureau Jaipur: Lashing out at Congress for filing a police complaint against BJP leaders on toolkit issue, Leader of opposition Gulabchand Katria on Thursday said that Congress has been exposed and the public will teach the party a lesson.

He said that it doesn’t matter if the Congress leaders go to a police station or court because they have been exposed

FIR NOT REGISTERED

Ramlal Sharma

and the public will now teach them a lesson.

Kataria was reacting to the police complaint

filed by Congress leader Jaswant Gurjar against BJP on the Congress toolkit issue.

Saddened by the demise of Shri Jagannath Pahadia, former Chief Minister of Rajasthan. His contribution in the development of the country and Rajasthan will always be remembered. Pray to God, comfort the departed soul, and provide strength to the family to bear the brunt.

It is deeply sad to hear about the demise of Shri Jagannath Pahadia Ji, Ex-CM of Rajasthan, Ex-Central Minister and Ex-Governor. It is a great loss to the nation. May his soul rest in peace and may God give his family the strength to bear the loss.

Dr. Raghu Sharma @RaghusharmaINC Saddened by the demise of former Governor and former Chief Minister of Rajasthan Shri Jagannath Pahadia.

I pray to God to provide support to the family to suffer.

Vasundhara Raje @VasundharaBJP Saddened by the demise of former Chief Minister of Rajasthan Jagannath Pahadia.

Pahadia ji served the country and the state selflessly while holding various constitutional posts including the Chief Minister, Governor and Union Minister. God bless the departed soul.

Raj to get first new oxy generation plant at Time Gangauri Hosp due to Mahesh Joshi’s efforts

R-L: Lal Chand Kataria, Dr Raghu Sharma, Pratap Singh Khachariyawas, Pramod Jain Bhaya, Govind S Dotasra paying tributes to ex-CM Jagannath Pahadia on Thursday.

BIHAR CM CONDOLES DEMISE; observes 1 day state mourning

Avinash Pande @avinashpandeinc

TWEET

First India Bureau Jaipur: Rajasthan council of minister on Thursday expressed condolences on the demise of former CM Jagannath Pahadia. The members of the council paid tributes to Pahadia by keeping twominute silence.

In the meeting presided over by CM Ashok Gehlot, a resolution of condolence was also passed. “Rajasthan will observe one day of state mourning in honour of former CM Jagannath Pahadia and the national flag will be flown at half-mast. All govt offices to remain close today. His last rites will be performed with full state honour”, Gehlot said in a tweet.

“Pahadia made significant and unforgettable contributions for the upliftment and welfare of scheduled castes and tribes, backward classes and deprived sections of society, ‘’ the resolution stated. Governor Kalraj Mishra also expressed

Ajay Maken @ajaymaken

BJP chief spokesperson Ramlal Sharma said that during the pandemic, Congress

party is engaged in a campaign to tarnish the image of the PM instead of helping people.

“Cong leaders are only thinking on how to tarnish the image of the PM. By social media posts, they are trying to mislead people and tarnish the image of the govt of India,” he said.

Sharma said that filing a police complaint against BJP on the Toolkit case shows that the Congress party has lost all its morality.

Dr Mahesh Joshi at Gangauri Hospital in Jaipur on Thursday.

gen generation plant as soon as possible.

Earlier, Mahesh Joshi held a meeting with the officials and dis-

cussed in detail where ADM City, Hospital Superintendent, Smart City officials, NHM, PWD, JVVNL and oth-

SCENIC VIEW

er officials were present.

The oxygen plant in Gangauri Bazar Hospital will prove to be a milestone and a large number of Covid and other patients will get a breather with the plant. From the proposed oxygen generation plant, surplus oxygen can also be distributed to other hospitals which will reduce the pressure of patients on major hospitals including RUHS and SMS.

—PHOTO BY HIMANSHU SHARMA

Majestic view of of the Aravalli peak and Ana Sagar lake in Ajmer on Thursday.

Jumbo cause! Poonia writes to CM, demands aid for mahouts First India Bureau Jaipur: BJP state president Satish Poonia has demanded financial assistance for elephant rearers saying that due to restrictions imposed in the state to prevent due to the pandemic.

He said that elephant riding has been stopped in Amber from April 17 due to which the families rearing elephants are facing a livelihood crisis.

“It costs about Rs. 3,000 per day per fe-

male elephant for food, medicines, maintenance etc. and because of the prevailing situation, the families are facing hardship. The livelihood of elephant owners has been severely affected due to

the closure of elephant rides and they are finding it very difficult to raise their family,” he pointed out. He demanded from the chief minister to provide financial assistance to the families.

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05

COVID POSITIVE ON COVID

BLACK FUNGUS STATE’S SECOND COVID WAVE

KILLS 2, INFECTS MANY

ONE PERSON DIED IN UDAIPUR WHILE JAIPUR REPORTED ONE DEATH First India Bureau

T

wo persons who were suffering from black fungus infection have died while several other cases of infection have been reported in different parts of Rajasthan. One person died in Udaipur while Jaipur reported one death. Gaffar Mohammad, a resident of Gulabpura town of Bhilwara, was referred to Udaipur district hospital two days back where he died. He was suffering from covid infection and black fungus. In Jaipur, Rameshwar Prasad, a teacher from Ajmer, died during treatment in Jaipur. Many other cases were reported in other districts including Kota, Jodhpur, Sikar and Chittorgarh. Kota has so far reported 50 cases. At present, six are under treatment. A board of 10 doctors is treating the patients. In Jodhpur, 14 patients have been diagnosed with the infection. A team led by Dr Mahendra Chauhan and Dr Bharti Solanki are performing opera-

MANY ADMITTED IN SPL WARD AT SMS

day after Mucormycosis (black A fungus), which is primarily affecting people recovering from

Covid, has been declared an epidemic in Rajasthan. Currently, the state has around 100 black fungus patients and a separate ward has been made at SMS.

RURAL AREAS TOO SEE RISE IN CASES

M

any cases were reported in other districts including Kota, Jodhpur, Sikar and Chittorgarh.

Kota has so far reported 50 cases. In Jodhpur, 14 patients have been diagnosed with the infection. Two persons are suffering from infection in Sikar while in Chittor, seven suspects have been reported. tions on the patients. Report of seven patients is awaited. Two persons are suffering from the infection in Sikar while in Chittorgarh, seven suspects have been reported. They have been referred to Udaipur. Doctors had to remove the eye of one of the patients.

VACCINATION DRIVE!

SHOWS SIGNS OF SLOWDOWN First India Bureau Jaipur: Covid report for the last one week fetches good news and a ray of hope for the Rajasthan state facing the wrath of the second wave. In the last one week, the state has witnessed a slowdown in the number of active patients of Corona by more than 58,000.

Due to the rising numbers of infection, at one point the number of active patients reached nearly 2.25 lakh, which has now dropped to about 1.5 lakh. This is because the number of positive patients has come down to half, i.e. from 15,000 to 8,000.

Moreover, the number of patients winning the battle of Corona continuously sees a rapid increase. In the last week, 83,855 new positive cases were recorded as per the government figures,

HELPING HANDS FOR ‘RAJ BHOG’!

STATE LACKS PLANNING ON VACCINATION: RAMLAL

State Chief Spokesperson & MLA Ramlal on Thursday questioned the state BJPSharma government regarding vaccination. He

said that in the vaccination campaign being carried out by the government there are several areas where it lacks.

The first thing is that the vaccine is not being applied every day. However, the people of rural areas sit with hope everyday but go empty-handed due to limited doses in stock.

desivir injections in the state. Saraf said that the police held 3 doctors & other healthcare workers in total 74 arrests in 32 cases. Saraf questioned the govt that these people have knowingly played with lives of patients so why such generic cases on them?

NOW FOCUS BEYOND CITIES...

Collector Nehra plans strategies to contain Covid spread in rural areas First India Bureau Jaipur: The impact of the coronavirus is increasing in Jaipur rural areas. District Collector Antar Singh Nehra took stock of the health arrangements in the rural areas and the arrange-

ments being made to control the spread of coronavirus.

He started his inspection from Dudu where he also interacted with the patients admitted here after taking stock of the Covid

7,349 127

RECOVERED

TOTAL

IN A DAY

ACTIVE CASES

1,43,974

STATE LOGS FALL IN NEW CASES IN A WEEK

Day

not able to get the investigation done. AntiCovid teams in rural areas are engaged in preventive measures and vaccination. After the figures of the infected were revealed, the collector has again directed to strengthen the door-to-door survey by creating three-level teams. In rural areas, 21 community health centres are being made Covid consultation and care centres.

2 also help with med equipment in Kota

3

coaching to Covid affected families & gives 50M for relief

RECOVERED

7,45,873 16,705

while the ones who defeated Corona stood at a promising 1.38 lakh approx. However, the death

On LS speaker Om Birla’s request, Allen to provide free

Monitor Lizard caused panic in the Radha Soami Covid centre; forest dept rescued, quarantined Lizard in a

4

Angry over bike challan, youths brawled with cops in Jaipur; case registered against 5 under IPC Sec 186 State govt ordered to vaccinate all teachers, staffers of Edu dept on priority considering

5

NGO for 14 days

Deaths Positive Active

Rajasthan Technical University contributes Rs 1 crore to CMRF for vaccination; will

1

doses of Covaxin reached state

DEATHS IN A DAY

6 them as ‘Frontline Workers’

16 May

156

10290 1,94,382

13 May

159

15867 2,11,889

17 May

157

11597 1,76,363

14 May

155

14289 2,12,753

18 May

146

8398

1,59,455

15 May

149

13565 2,08,688

19 May

139

9849

1,53,126

toll from the deadly disease has been an alarming 1061. According to the doctors, in the com-

ing days, the numbers of corona positive patients will come down further along with a drop in the

marketing and selling products higher than MRP. During this inspection, they filed charges against 14 shopkeepers and collected a penalty of Rs. 55,000. Naveen Jain, Secretary, Dept of Consumer Affairs said that they confiscated masks, oximeters etc & imposed fine on them.

virus is incessantly spreading in the rural areas. All the schemes of the government are failing as medicines and medical facilities are lacking. Even the probable third wave is posing a huge threat to the kids. So what is the government doing?

Care Centre. Nehra instructed the officers to identify the corona symptoms and give further impetus to the door-to-door survey campaign. Jaipur rural area has a population of 35 lakh. Due to the limited availability of RT-PCR machines at only a few health centres, many people w e r e

TOTAL DEATHS

districts of Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Kota, Sikar and Alwar with a maximum of 30,363 active cases being from Jaipur. Banswara, Dholpur, Jalore and Pratapgarh have less than one thousand cases. On Thursday, less than 100 cases were reported in 10 out of 33 districts.

health minister and MLA Kalicharan Saraf expressed his worries over the increasing black Former marketing of oxygen cylinders and Rem-

CONCERNED ABOUT THE CORONA CASES IN JAIPUR RURAL, CM GEHLOT HAS INSTRUCTED ALL THE OFFICIALS INCLUDING THE COLLECTOR TO FOCUS EXCLUSIVELY ON RURAL AREAS

8,97,193 7,680

he legal metrology dept inspected 18 ix districts where the number of active cases T medical stores and 25 grocery stores on S51 percent is high are being focused by the government.

Thursday to curb illegal activities like black of the active cases are from the six

TAKE STRINGENT ACTION ON HOARDERS: SARAF TO GOVT

Mahant Kailash Sharma of Moti Dungri Ganesh temple to support with one month’s ration for Rajbhog to 150 temples of Devasthan.

Consignment of 2 lakh Covishield doses arrive Jaipur from Pune; earlier, 25,000

CASES IN A DAY

STORES SELLING GOODS ABOVE MRP FINED IN STATE

Khan, ex-Public Works Minister, questioned the state government over the increasing coronaYunus virus cases in the state and said that the

Rajendra Rathore @ Rajendra4BJP Be it the last pandemics or this time, every epidemic has taught us one thing. Constant change in our ways of dealing with epidemics, constant innovation is very important. It is expert in virus mutation, in changing the format, so our methods and strategies should also be dynamic.

TOTAL CASES

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

STATE GOVT TO FOCUS ON SIX WORST-HIT DISTRICTS

YUNUS QUESTIONS GOVT ON COVID SPREAD IN RURAL AREAS

Covid-19 vaccination camp was set up at the RTO in Jaipur on Thursday; 250 transport officials & families got the jab here.

COVID-19 UPDATE

death rate. The doctors are considering this downfall of corona figures as the peak.

CENTRAL GOVT OKAYS JABS FOR LACTATING WOMEN

entre has directed to vaccinate breastfeedCmendation ing women as well based on the recomof NEGVAC. Central Medical Secy Rajesh Bhushan writes to Chief Secretaries of all the states. In the letter, the expert group has been quoted saying that women who breastfeed can also be vaccinated. Centre has also issued norms that positive patients can take 2nd jab after 3 months of recovery.

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06

Educate kids orphaned due to Covid-19: Sonia to PM The Congress chief also recalled how creation of Navodaya Vidyalayas was her husband & Ex PM Rajiv Gandhi’s most significant legacies New Delhi: Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi on Thursday wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting him to provide free education at Navodaya Vidyalayas to children who lost either both parents or an earning parent to COVID-19.

"Amidst the devastation caused by the pandemic and the heart-

Sonia Gandhi

wrenching tragedies being faced by affected families news of young children losing one or both parents to COVID-19 are the most poignant. These children are left with the trauma of loss and no support towards a stable education or future," the letter said.

"As you are aware, one of my husband Rajiv Gandhi's most signifi-

IMPORTANT SUGGESTION: RAGA TWEETS SONIA GANDHI'S LETTER TO PM

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi has tweeted a letter written by his mother & party chief Sonia Gandhi asking PM Modi to provide free education to kids orphaned by COVID-19. “Children are amongst worst hit by Covid trauma, many having lost their parents to dreadful situation. Congress President makes an important suggestion to safeguard their future & provide them free education at NVs. It’s high time GOI listened!”

Rahul Gandhi

cant legacies is the network of Navodaya Vidyalayas. It was his dream to make highquality modem education accessible and affordable to talented youth, predominantly from rural areas.

There are now, as you know, 661 such schools across the country," it further said.

"I am writing to request you to consider

providing free education at the Navodaya Vidhyalayas to children who have lost either both parents or an earning parent on account of the COVID-19 pandemic. I feel that as a nation, we owe it to them to give them hope for a robust future after the unimaginable tragedy that has befallen them," the Congress leader concluded. —ANI

PINARAYI VIJAYAN SWORN IN AS 49 bodies found after barge CM OF KERALA FOR 2ND TIME CYCLONE TAUKTAE

sinks; search ops continue

—PHOTO BY ANI Crew rescued by Indian Navy from Barge P305 off the coast of Mumbai, walks out of INS Kochi after arriving in Mumbai on Wednesday.

Mumbai: At least 49 personnel onboard barge P305 that went adrift in Cyclone Tauktae fury before sinking in the Arabian Sea are dead, Navy officials said. So far, 186 of the 261 people who were on board the barge and two others on tugboat Varaprada have been rescued. Search operations are underway for over 35 people still missing.

The Navy on Thursday, launched a fresh aerial search & rescue mission, deploying helicopters to scour the waters off Mumbai coast 4 days ago. Indian Navy ships worked through the night, using searchlights to trace any movement in the pitch dark waters to look for survivors. The search operations would continue for another three days at least, Indian Navy Commodore Ajay Jha said.Navy ships INS Kochi, INS Kolkata, INS Beas, INS Betwa, INS Teg, P8I maritime surveillance aircraft, Chetak, ALH and Seaking helicopters are involved in SAR operations. Another Navy

Rajnath lauds armed forces, ICG, for their search, rescue ops

Rajnath Singh

New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday lauded the efforts of the armed forces and the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) in conducting search and rescue operations in areas affected due to Cyclone Tauktae.

The Defence Ministry’s statement

said, “He (Singh) commended the Indian Navy and the ICG for saving the lives of several people stranded at sea, while hailing the Indian Army for deploying its columns in affected areas and Indian Air Force for transporting personnel of NDRF.” —PTI

BARGE P305 INCIDENT MVA SEEKS PETROLEUM MIN PRADHAN’S RESIGNATION Mumbai: The Maharashtra Congress demanded the resignation of Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on moral grounds over the death of 37 personnel on board a barge that sank in the Arabian Sea, and termed it as a “manmade tragedy”. State Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant demanded action against all those endangering the lives of workers who were on the barge.

ship INS Talwar was the ‘On Scene Coordinator’ off Gujarat coast and assisted Support Station 3 and Drill Ship Sagar Bhushan, which were being safely towed

back to Mumbai by ONGC support vessels.

Ministry of Petroleum announced a high-level inquiry into ‘lapses & gaps’ in the system.

Rahman Shaikh,

barge’s CE said, everyone onboard could have been saved had many of life rafts not had punctures & Captain taken cyclone warnings seriously.

—PTI

MLA Hemram Choudhary has sent a resignation to the assembly speaker while another MLA Vedprakash Solanki has also expressed resentment and demanded decentralization of power.

Dotasra spoke to both the legislators on phone and then briefed the chief minister about it.

Sources said that Gehlot is not taking the steps and statements of both the MLAs seriously because they had turned

rebel last year also.

The PCC president also briefed the chief minister about the programme to be held on May 21. Apart from it, Dotasra also discussed covid situation in Sikar.

Meanwhile, in another development on Thursday evening, former minister and MLA Vishvendra Singh, who is also from Pilot camp, held a virtual meeting with Gehlot.

Although, discussion through VC is claimed to have been

on covid situation in Bharatpur but the meeting is considered to be important in view of the ongoing internal developments within the Congress party.

On the other hand, Gehlot talked to MLA Zahida Khan and took feedback about the corona situation. She briefed the chief minister about the status of covid cases and demanded to set up oxygen generation plants in Kaman and Pahari area.

Thiruvananthapuram: CPI(M) veteran Pinarayi Vijayan, who led the Left Democratic Front (LDF) to an unprecedented consecutive victory in the April 6 assembly polls, on Thursday took oath as Chief Minister of Kerala for the second time along with 20 ministers.

Governor Arif Mohammed Khan administered the oath of office to 77-year-old Vijayan and ministers in a low-key function at the Central Stadium here, which was held completely in accordance with the COVID protocol. It is the Marxist veteran's second stint in the top office.

While 15 ministers including the CM took oath in the name of the Indian Constitution, five took it in the name of God. Representative of the Indian National League in the CPI(M)led ministry, Ahamed Devarkovil, took oath in the name of Allah.

The ceremony began after the Governor reached the venue at 3.30 pm and concluded at 4.50 pm.

—PTI

Pinarayi Vijayan takes oath as the Chief Minister of Kerala for the second consecutive term, at a ceremony in Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday.

—PHOTO BY PTI

NarendraModi @narendramodi "Congratulations to Shri @vijayanpinarayi Ji on taking oath as CM and commencing his second term in office," the Prime Minister tweeted. Vijayan was sworn in as Chief Minister by Governor Arif Mohammad Khan for second term in office at a function in Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday.

Veena George takes an oath of the Health Minister of Kerala, in Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday.

—PHOTO BY ANI

VEENA GEORGE TAKES OATH AS KERALA’S HEALTH MINISTER

Pathanamthitta: Journalist-turned-politician and twotime Aranmula legislator Veena George took oath as Kerala’s health minister on Thursday. She is among the 11 women MLAs elected to the Kerala Assembly and is also the first woman journalist-turned-politician to get the ministerial berth in the state. George worked as a journalist and news anchor in various Malayalam news channels like Kairali TV, Manorama News and Reporter TV for a career spanning 16 years.

—PTI

Police seeks five more days of Kalra’s ‘Ensure market processes are custody in black marketing case not undermined’ New Delhi: The Delhi Police on Thursday, asked a court to grant five more days of custody of businessman Navneet Kalra to interrogate him for allegedly hoarding life-saving oxygen concentrators and selling them at inflated prices in black market.

The Crime Branch produced Kalra before Metropolitan Magistrate Akanksha Garg of Saket Court at the end of the three days of his police custody.

The accused has also

Navneet Kalra

filed bail application in the case, which will come up for hearing along with the application of police seeking his further remand.

During a recent raid,

524 oxygen concentrators were recovered from Khan Chacha, Town Hall, and Nege & Ju restaurants owned

by Kalra.

The missing restaurateur was arrested from Gurgaon on May 16 night and formally arrested the next day.

During the 3- day custodial probe, the police took Kalra to the three upscale restaurants owned by him in Khan Market and Lodhi Colony. He was also taken for mandatory medical examination.

—ANI

Nirmala Sitharaman

New Delhi: Addressing a virtual event to commemorate 12th annual day of (CCI), FM Nirmala Sitharaman said," Competition Commission will ensure that market process should never get undermined because it is very critical considering postpandemic revival. —PTI

FROM PG 1 Gehlot’s excellent...

Rajasthan is the first state to declare the black fungus disease a pandemic. After Rajasthan, Gujarat, Assam, Punjab, Telangana, Haryana and Tamil Nadu have also announced it a pandemic.

Meanwhile, After two MLA of Pilot camp came out in open against the Congress government, PCC president Govind Singh Dotasra met chief minister Ashok Gehlot at his residence on Thursday.

Gehlot assured her to approve both the plants.

Declare black... especially those on steroid therapy and deranged sugar control.

“This fungal infection is leading to prolonged morbidity and mortality amongst COVID 19 patients,” Joint Secretary in the health ministry Lav Agarwal said in the letter.

The treatment of this fungal infection requires multidiscipli-

nary approach consisting of eye surgeons, ENT specialists, general surgeon, neurosurgeon and dental maxillo facial surgeon, among others, and the institution of Amphotericin-B injection as an antifungal medicine.

“You are requested to make mucormycosis a notifiable disease under the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897, wherein all government and private health facilities, medical colleges will follow guidelines for

screening, diagnosis, management of mucormycosis, issued by the MoHFW and ICMR.

One nation...

“Is the Prime Minister so insecure that he didn’t want to listen to the Chief Ministers?

Why is he so scared? If he didn’t want to hear the Chief Ministers why call us? He let some District Magistrates speak and insulted the Chief Ministers,” said Banerjee, who came to power in Bengal for a

third straight term recently after an all-out battle that was seen as a direct fight between her and the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister, she said, never asked about the availability of beds, vaccine or oxygen or about the status of the black fungus infection in Covid patients.

“We are embarrassed, ashamed,” she repeated, pointing out that she had gone to meeting prepared to flag several issues.

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court YARD

Pak refugees approach High Court, seek vaccination Jodhpur: Pak refugees have approached the Rajasthan HC seeking intervention of the court for getting vaccinated for protection from corona infection. Hearing their petition, a division bench of justice Sangeet Lodha and justice Rameshwar Vyas issued notices to the central, state government seeking replies. Pak refugees live in Jodhpur, Barmer, Ajmer, Jsailmer on short term visa and they do not have the documents of the government of India. Since Aadhar card is mandatory for the vaccination, they are not able to get vaccinated.

Prajapat encounter: Family demands CBI probe

Asaram seeks bail, High Cout to hear case today

Jodhpur : The case of smuggler Kamlesh Prajapat encounter in Barmer has reached the HC. Demanding the CBI probe, family members of the Kamlesh, pleaded before the court that it was a murder committed the police. Family members also demanded Rs 5 crore compensation. Hearing the case, Rajasthan High Court Judge Vineet Mathur has issued notices to all the parties in this case. The next hearing of the case will now be on July 9.

Jodhpur: Admitted in AIIMS for Covid treatment, Asaram bapu has now filed an application for bail in the Rajasthan HC due to his decreasing haemoglobin. Asaram’s petition is to be heard on May 21. In the petition, he has said that his health is deteriorating. So he should get a bail immediately.

Asaram’s petition had to be postponed as holiday was declared in the high court on Thursday due to the demise of former CM Jagannath Pahadia.

NOSEDIVE!

CORONA PANDEMIC HAS TAKEN A HUGE TOLL ON AVIATION SECTOR AS NUMBER OF AIR TRAVELLERS HAS COME DOWN SIGNIFICANTLY AND FLIGHT OPERATIONS HAVE ALMOST COME TO A STAND STILL First India Bureau Jaipur: Corona pandemic has taken a huge toll on the aviation sector as the number of air travellers has come down significantly and the flight operations in several airports in midsized cities are on the verge of completely stopping.

Jaipur airport is witnessing a similar situation. In the last one week, the number of flight operations is not even able to touch the double digit.

On an average, only 6 to 8 flights have been operated from Jaipur airport since May 10.

On May 19, Jaipur airport operated only 4 flights whereas before the corona epidemic, the airport operated an av-

THE STATUS OF FLIGHT OPERATIONS ON 18 MAY

Cochin Airport

4 flights 9 flights 10 flights 12 flights

Jaipur Airport

7 flights

Ahmedabad Airport Goa Airport Pune Airport

erage of 65 flights daily.

The situation is turning so bad that airports in cities like Ahmedabad, Pune and Goa are witnessing very few passengers.

The passenger load at Chennai and Kolkata has also reduced significantly.

The pandemic has created worrisome conditions for the en-

Case registered against Kota Heart Hospital administration Kota: The case of black marketing of Remdesivir injections in the state and the death of a female patient is getting heated up. Victim Maya’s son Punit has filed a case in the Jawahar Nagar police station against Kota Heart Hospital administration, nurses and doctors for fraud. The police have filed a case against hospital authorities on charges of fraud and non-willful murder. The deceased’s son Punit said that they fully trusted the hospital authorities during pandemic but they cheated us.

Group clash: senior cops visit Chhabra Baran: Jaipur CBCID DIG Anil Tank and SP Sunil Bishnoi on Thursday visited Chhabra after a group clash which led to tension in the area. During their visit, both officials investigated this matter and also inspected the victims shops. They visited Aliganj Bazaar and Lota Bheru and several other places.

Sanitary worker held for bribe, three absconding Jhalawar/ Rajsamand: The ACB on Thursday arrested a sanitary worker in Rajasthan’s Jhalawar district for accepting a bribe of Rs 1,05,000 while three others are absconding, officials said. Another sanitary worker, an executive office and a junior engineer posted in the Bhawani Mandi municipality who were also alleg-

edly involved in the bribery are absconding, they said, adding that efforts are underway to nab them.

Homeguard in ACB net: In Rajsamand, border homeguard of Mines and Geology, Rajesh Kumar was arrested by ACB for taking a bribe of Rs 20,000 for allowing a gravel-filled dumper to pass in Rajsamand district. —PTI

Stepfather burns minor boy with cigarette butts in Sirohi First India Bureau Sirohi: Sirohi Child Welfare Committee on Thursday received a complaint about a stepfather burnt his minor son with a cigarette butts. Ratan Bafna, the chairperson of the Child Welfare Committee took prompt action and informed the police.

Members Shashikala

PALI POLICE WORK OUT MURDER CASE

Mardia and Prakash Mali interrogated the minor child and his aunt and uncle Shehzad

Khan. He said that the child came to their house in Rampura at around 10 pm, and he was crying.

Advocate Lalit Sharma’s father passes away

RP Sharma

First India Bureau Jaipur: The cremation of Rajendra Prasad Sharma, the father of advocate and journalist Lalit Sharma was held in his ancestral village Girdharpura in Dausa district on Thursday. 70-year old Sharma died due to cardiac arrest on Wednesday morning.

His elder son Lalit lit the funeral pyre and the cremation was conducted as per the Covid protocol.

The condolence meeting will be held on Friday from 12 pm to 4 pm in Girdharpura.

BENEVOLENCE OF LEADERS’ SONS IN CORONA PERIOD!

T

he sons of senior leaders in the state have taken up the task of serving the people during the corona crisis and they are towing the lines of their parents in this direction. PCC Chief Govind Singh Dotasara’s son Abhilash Dotasra is active in Sikar active. He is extending help through a Charitable Trust made in the name of his grandfather.

Sagar Sharma, son of health

minister Dr. Raghu Sharma, has not left Kekri for a single day and is in touch with the public

to provide all possible health services. Maheep Poonia, son of BJP state president Satish Poonia, is active in extending help in his father’s constituency Amber. Rohit Joshi, son of Chief Whip Dr. Mahesh Joshi, has organised blood donation camps and mass kitchens. Rohit Joshi is also a member of PCC. —First India Bureau

FLIGHT OPERATIONS ON 19 MAY Ahmedabad Airport 17 Goa Airport Pune Airport Cochin Airport Jaipur Airport

tire aviation sector and there are very few bookings of passengers therefore the airlines are forced to cancel most of the flights.

The situation is not likely to improve in the near future. Barring major cities, the flight services are likely to be discontinued completely due to low passenger load.

flights 6 flights 12 flights 13 flights 4 flights

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport of Ahmedabad is the seventh largest airport in the country and before the corona epidemic, there were about a dozen flights departing every hour from there. About 150 flights used to operate from the airport but on May 18, only 4 domestic flights took off from there.

07

LENDING A HELPING HAND DURING HARD TIMES First India Bureau Jaipur: Politicians, companies, social organisations and activists have extended helping hand to assist Covid patients and others during the pandemic.

Genus power infrastructure Ltd handed over 10 oxygen concentrators to Energy Minister BD Kalla in the presence of Jaipur DISCOM MD Naveen Arora, technical director Ajeet Saxena.

Senior vice president of the company

Ranjeet Singh Rathore and Sankalp Tekani were present on the occasion.

Union Minister of state and Bikaner MP Arjun Ram Meghwal made available 5 oxygen concentrators and 150 cannula to the government hospital in Anupgarh in Sriganganagar.

Donor Mohit Chhabra, MLA Santosh Bawri, Nagar Palika chairperson Priyanka Bailan handed over the concentrator and other equipment.

ANNOUNCE PULSES STOCK: FOOD DEPT TO TRADERS First India Bureau Jaipur: Apprehending a rise in the prices of pulses, the food department has issued an order for traders to announce pulses stocks to prevent possible hoarding.

Food Secretary Naveen Jain said that by amending Schedule 2 of the Rajasthan Trade Goods (License and Control) Order 1980 issued under the Essential Commodities Act 1955, whole or

pulses like urad, moong, arhar, lentil, moth, cowpea Rajma, gram, peas and other pulses have been added in the schedule.

The secretary said that the actual final stock of pulses available with the sellers, mill owners, traders and importers of pulses till May 20 will have to be announced by May 21. All dealers of pulses have to maintain the stock register in the prescribed form.

Many people approach life as if it a problem to be solved, but it is not so- life is an experience to be learnt from, with all its joys and sorrows.

—Jagdeesh Chandra, CEO & Editor-in-Chief, First India

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2ND FRONT JAIPUR | FRIDAY, MAY 21, 2021

50-BED TEMPORARY COVID-19 CARE CENTRE SET UP @ AJMER

Health Minister Dr Raghu Sharma virtually inaugurated the Centre on Thursday

RAJIV’S DEATH ANNIV Cong to give 10L masks

Dr Raghu Sharma

First India Bureau Ajmer: A 50-bed temporary Corona Care Centre was started by the Dargah Committee at Kayad Vishramsthali in Ajmer.

Health Minister Dr Raghu Sharma virtually inaugurated the Centre on Thursday.

The Centre has 10 oxygen concentrators, 5 multipara monitors

Vasudev Devnani, Anita Bhadel, Brijlata Hada, Neeraj Jain, Amin Pathan and others attended the virtual inauguration ceremony.

and other necessary medical equipment.

The chairman of Dargah Committee Amin Pathan handed over the cahrge of the Centre to district administration and assured that the committee would provide the necessary materials if needed for the Centre in future also.

MLAs Anita Bhadel and Vasudev Devnani,

Union Min Gangwar inspects facilities at ESIC Med College

Santosh Gangwar and Baba Balaknath visit the ESIC Medical College, Alwar on Thursday.

First India Bureau Alwar: Union Minister for Labour and Employment Santosh Kumar Gangwar on Thursday, inspected ESIC Medical College in Alwar.

The hospital was to be inaugurated on Thursday, but due to the demise of former Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Jagannath Pahadia, the inauguration was postponed and the Minister only conducted an inspection of medical facilities at the hospital.

He also held a meeting with the officers and gave them neces-

sary directions. He said that the government wants to start the Medical College, which presently, is being operated as 'Covid dedicated' Hospital, as soon as possible.

Alwar MP Balak Nath said that the Medical College Hospital will soon have 300 beds out of which, 200 will be allotted solely to be used as oxygen and ICU beds.

Minister of State for Labour Tikaram Jully, MLA of Alwar city Sanjay Sharma and other officers were also present on the occasion.

Municipal Corporation Mayor Brijlata Hada, Deputy Mayor Neeraj Jain and others also attended the virtual inauguration ceremony. Union Minority Affairs Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi was also scheduled to attend the function through video conference but he could not join due to a technical problem. He sent his message to Pathan.

Jaipur: Congress will distribute face masks, sanitizers and food packets to needy people in Rajasthan under a campaign which will be launched on Friday on the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. A symbolic inaugural function will be held at PCC, where the party’s state president Govind Singh Dotasra will launch the campaign.

As part of the campaign, Congress MLAs will also give two ambulances in their constituencies from their fund. This decision to run the campaign was taken in a virtual meeting of the State Congress held recently. More than 10 lakh face masks will be distributed across the state.The target of distributing the masks has been given to the leaders and workers of party on behalf of AICC General Secretary in charge Ajay Maken.

Govt releases EOI for Covid vax, 2 firms submit tenders First India Bureau Jaipur: Rajasthan government has released the global Expression of Interest (EOI) for procuring Covid vaccines to be administered to 3.25 crore people in the age group of 18- 44 years of age.

Three firms have shown interest in vaccine supply.

The government will buy one crore doses of vaccine through this tender, floated by the Medical and Health department, so that the first dose of vaccine can be administered to the maximum number of beneficiaries of this age in a short time.

Source said that two firms have submitted tender documents for the supply of Sputnik vaccine manufactured in Russia and for the vaccine developed by AstraZeneca –UK and Oxford University.

The tenders will be opened on May 21.

08

People in state are happy with Gehlotled govt: Maken First India Bureau Jaipur: In an indication that the Congress High Command is not very serious on the resignation submitted by MLA Hema Ram Choudhary, AICC General Secretary Ajay Maken appreciated the works of the Ashok Gehlot government and said that people of the state are standing with the government.

In an interview to a national newspaper, he said that the results of the recently held bypolls on three assembly seats in the state showed the support of the people. He gave credit for the victory of the party on seats to the Gehlot government and party organisation. On the resignation rendered by Choudhary, Maken said that it is an internal matter of the party.

“We will sit together and sort it out,” he said.

Maken termed the

Ajay Maken

former deputy CM Sachin Pilot as an asset and ‘Star Campaigner’ for the party. However, he said, the party does not take decisions according to anybody’s expectation. He said that earlier senior leader Ahmed Patel died, then by-elections were held and now due to the ongoing Corona pandemic,hence, significant political decisions cannot be taken under these circumstances.

Maken said that the Congress party has done well in the assembly byelections and elections of local bodies which means that people are happy with the work of the Congress government led by Gehlot.

Admn reshuffle: Govt transfers 6 IFS officers

Protect villages from virus: Birla to Corona warriors

Jaipur: 6 IFS officers were transferred and one officer was removed and put under Awaiting Posting Orders (APO) status in Rajasthan on Thursday.

Vijai N was transferred to the post of Chief Conservator of Forest- Departmental Operation Scheme and P Kathirvel was made Conservator of Forest (Eco- Tourism). Both the officers were awaiting posting orders.

Kathirvel was also given additional charge of Conservator of Forest (Protection) Jaipur.

Sunil Kumar, who was Assistant Conservator of Forest (Tonk), was shifted to Pratapgarh as Deputy Conservator of Forest. Pawar Sagar Popat, Abhimanyu Saharan & Rangaswamy E were transferred as Dy Conservators of Forest to Jaipur (wildlife), Bharatpur & Bikaner respectively.

Uma Ram Chaudhary, Chief Conservator of Forest (departmental operation scheme) was put under APO status.

Kota: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Thursday, interacted with ‘Corona Warriors’ in the villages of Kota-Bundi constituency through Video Conference and motivated them.

The LS Speaker said that they have to protect the villages from the Corona infection just like soldiers defend borders of the nation.

Birla said that the goal of every Corona Warrior should be to

First India Bureau

Om Birla is scheduled to visit his constituency, Kota on May 25.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla interacts with Corona Warriors deputed at villages of Kota-Bundi districts via VC on Thursday.

create awareness about the protection from Corona. He said that maximum people should be made aware on how to adopt and practice Covid appropriate behavior.

“Every life is precious and the Corona Warriors should ensure

that anyone having symptoms, must consult a doctor and undertake treatment for the infection,” Birla said.

Senior doctors including Dr Saket Goyal and Dr Brijmohan trained the Corona Warriors during the VC. On the other hand, Birla will visit his constituency on May 25.

He was scheduled to visit earlier, but his visit was postponed due to the lockdown. The lockdown is scheduled to end on May 24.

Admn is helping people under CM’s able leadership: Lodha First India Bureau Jaipur: Senior MLA Sanyam Lodha has praised Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and the administration, saying that these people are toiling day and night in the Corona crisis. In an all-party virtual meeting held recently with Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, he said that Chief Minister Gehlot is pro-

tecting the people and the entire administration is devoted to help people during these trying times.

Commending the Collector of Pali and Sirohi, Sanyam Lodha said that these officers provided all possible assistance during the Corona crisis, whenever they were contacted over phone or via message. Lodha added that he fell

Sanyam Lodha

short of words about the promptness with which the administration is taking care of the people in this difficult time under the able leadership of CM Gehlot.

He also praised the work of the Collectors of Jaipur and Udaipur divisions.

Sanyam Lodha himself has stood shoulder to shoulder with the people of his

region during the Corona crisis for the past one and a half years. He is constantly in touch with Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, Health Minister Dr Raghu Sharma and UDH Minister Shanti Dhariwal to strengthen the medical infrastructure in Sirohi. Everyone is working as a team to overcome the Corona crisis in the state.

COMBATING COVID-19 CRISIS

Bikaner Collector briefs PM Modi on Covid management via VC Laxman Raghav

PM Narendra Modi & CM Ashok Gehlot along with Collectors from Raj during Covid-19 VC.

Bikaner: The District Collector of Bikaner Namit Mehta on Thursday, briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Covid management and ground situation during a Video Conference with him.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot also attended the Video Conference wherein, Modi held dialogues with District Collectors from various states on Covid management. From Ra-

jasthan, Namit Mehta informed the Prime Minister in detail about the works being done to handle the pandemic and break the chain of virus in Bikaner.

Mehta said that the number of sampling for Covid testing was increased and effective contact tracing was conducted to break the chain of virus. To make people aware about Covid appropriate behavior, a campaign was run with the assistance

The Collector also mentioned that nursing students were engaged as ‘Oxygen Mitra’ of NCC, scouts and guides and various social organisations.

He said that lockdown has been in force since April 19 and action on those violating the norms is being taken.

Briefing him about

the medical facilities, the Collector said that the number of beds was increased from 350 to 1,000 out of which, 600 beds are related to high flow oxygen.

The Collector also mentioned that nursing students were engaged as ‘Oxygen Mitra’ and optimum and rational use of oxygen was ensured and all these efforts brought down the requirement of 4.3 cylinders per patient to 2.3 cylinders per patient.

He said that Covid infection has spread in rural areas in the second wave. In view of the possibility of a third wave, advance preparations are being made.

The Prime Minister also spoke to the Collectors of selected districts of Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Kerala, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh etc. Besides, Collectors of Pali, Udaipur, Kota and Sri Ganganagar also participated in the Video Conference.

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09

JAIPUR, FRIDAY MAY 21, 2021

I met Gaurav Gaur, Director Elite Miss Rajasthan, he is my mentor who not only believed in me but helped me tap my potential. He showed me the right path and guided me at every step of my journey so far. I can’t be more grateful to him.

WORK HARD,

DREAM BIG

Himakshi Choudhary is the talk of the fashion and modelling world and has an aesthetic to die for! City First caught up with this young talent from Sikar, Rajasthan to find out about her journey so far!

MITALI DUSAD

mitalidusad01@gmail.com

H

imakshi Choudhary aspires to be a source of inspiration for everyone who likes fashion and modelling and those who want to embrace this world. When asked about her journey, she said, “Since my childhood, I was passionate about creating an identity of my own. I started surfing online about a career in the modelling industry. I was

fascinated by a model, Himanshi Khurana and dreamt of meeting her often. One day, I came across some shoot in Delhi, I told my parents about it and to my surprise, they agreed and were happy with my interest in this field.” She further added,” I can’t be more grateful to my parents, my sister Gayatri, cousin brother, Yatin and my family for having immense faith in me. A few months later I found out about Elite Miss Rajasthan and appeared for the auditions. I was shortlisted amid the top 20 contestants and since then there was no looking back.”

“I met Gaurav Gaur, Director Elite Miss Rajasthan, he is my mentor who not only believed in me but helped me tap my potential. He showed me the right path and guided me at every step of my journey so far. I can’t be more grateful to him”, Himakshi said. On her achievements, she said, “I bagged the first runner up of Miss Glare India 2021 in ‘Glareorbit’, a beauty pageant in Kanpur along with pocket FM Radio. “ Himakshi’s confidence and the way she embraces her natural looks has helped solidify her as a role model for girls and young women.

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JAIPUR | FRIDAY, MAY 21, 2021

10

Do Not Forget The Endangered In

THIS PANDEMIC Out of about four hundred wild mammals in India, over a hundred of them are found in Gujarat!

NIELEESH SSHUKLA The writer is Joint Director of Information, Government of Gujarat, Gujarat Bhawan, New Delhi

N

STEPS TO BE TAKEN FOR THE CONSERVATION OF WILDLIFE ARE

Some of the laws should be made to ban the killing or capturing of endangered animals or birds. It should be made a punishable offence.

Such laws should be enforced strictly and should not remain on paper only.  Indiscriminate killing of wild birds and animals, whether are in abundance should not be allowed by the forest authorities.  A more number of National Parks and Sanctuaries should be established for preserving 

tect these animals. Except for some NGOs and animal/bird lover, no one cares about our rare species. The natural balance of Earth will be disturbed if certain species will not exist. In name of development we have destroyed forests, cut the mountains, put waste in rivers and sea, increasing natural calamities in the form of flood, cyclone, earthquake, scarcity. Who has to face the brunt now? Nature teaches us that everyone’s existence and contribution is valuable, however micro in size it is. The need of the hour is to spread awareness about the endangered species and collectively find ways to restore the balance.

India once boasted of rich biodiversity, but now it is facing threat as a result of large-scale manmade landscape modifications and over-exploitation of resources causing loss of degradation of natural ecosystem/habitat.

FA CE OF TH ED AY

o matter where you are or what you read or whoever you talk to, the only topic of discussion these days are viruses and now more recently fungi. The self-centred mankind has never really cared about anyone else but themselves. It is bewildering how a tiny microorganism, not even visible to the naked eye has played havoc across the globe in such a way that mankind is struggling to find a way to deal with it. We are scared, yes all of us are scared and there is no denying it. We are scared today because our lives are no more in our total control and we are in danger or should I say endangered? The human race, the highest member of the food chain had never imagined itself to be in such a situation?

National Endangered Species Day is celebrated each year on the third Friday of May across the world to raise awareness about the endangered species of flora and fauna.

This year, it falls on 21st May 2021. This day helps us review how many animal species are under the threat of extinction and how the drastic effects of climate change are disturbing the once peaceful ecosystem. Since coronavirus has gripped the entire world, our focus is more on saving mankind, and we have completely forgotten its impact on different species of the ecosystem.

This day allows us to be more aware of the conservation of endangered species and learn about the different steps the country is taking to properly pro-

Compared to other states, Gujarat is blessed with not just diverse flora and fauna but an adaptable climate for the protection of rich biodiversity. From the semi-moist forests in South Gujarat to the saline deserts of Kutch, and marine habitats in the Gulf of Kutch, Gulf of Khambhat and the Arabian Sea to the hills in the eastern parts of the state, all represent its richness as well as geomorphological and habitat diversity which presents a very diverse flora and fauna, including mammals.

India is a mega-biodiverse country and Gujarat has a major contribution to it.

Out of about four hundred wild mammals in India, over a hundred of them are found in State.

In Gujarat, twenty animal species in endangered category namely Black Mahaseer, Golden Mahaseer, Leatherback Sea Turtle, Green Sea Turtle, Indian White-backed Vulture, Long-billed Vulture,

YOUR DAY Horoscope by

Saurabbh Sachdeva

Red-headed Vulture, Steppe Eagle, Greater Adjutant- Stork, Greater Indian Bustard, Lesser Florican, Sociable Lapwing, Spotted Greenshank, Forest Spotted Owlet, Dhole, Caracal, Blue Whale, Fin Whale & Indian Wild Ass. Wild mammals in India are protected under Wildlife Protection Act 1972.

Their hunting/killing trapping and tradeoff of their body part are prohibited. Killing or trapping of such mammals results in severe punishment, including imprisonment. Despite these measures, it is a matter of concern that the number of these mammals are decreasing which has resulted in an imbalance in the ecosystem.

Conservation of Wildlife is necessary to recognize the importance of nature and other wildlife species.

It is important to protect the endangered plants and animal species along with their natural habitat. The main concern is to pre-

ARIES

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

A family youngster is likely to do you proud. A business trip is indicated and will achieve much.

Your strategy to promote yourself on the professional front will bear fruits.

You may need to speed up things on the academic front to remain ahead.

Something special awaits you.

You will manage to achieve what you had aimed for on the academic front. A celebration can find you in your element today. Praise and honour are likely to greet you in something that you have managed to achieve. You will be a pillar of strength to a friend or associate.

Good performance on the academic front will help enhance your reputation at work. Some favourable developments on the social front are foreseen. Buying new furniture or a major appliance is possible. With good networking, a prized posting can be yours.

You are likely to take up someone’s cause and earn appreciation from all quarters on the social front. Remaining on the good side of those who matter on the academic front will help you achieve much.

Good tidings of your well wishers will keep you going.

MAR 21 - APR 20

APR 21 - MAY 20

MAY 21 - JUNE 21

JUNE 22 - JULY 23

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

SCORPIO

A new deal is likely to come through and give you a taste of success. Those fond of travelling may get their chance soon. This is the time when you enjoy yourself with a new group of friends or colleagues. A change of job is likely to give you better salary and perks.

You will have to be more focussed on the academic front. You may get busy organising something on the social front. You may need to put your ideas into action, if you want to prove yourself. A party may be thrown in your honour at work. Your good performance will be noticed.

Excellent opportunities may knock at your door.

Professionals will be able to give their best in a new situation. Financially, this day may prove lucky for you, so go ask for the raise that is keeping you on tenterhooks. Don’t take any chances with your health today.

Success is foretold on the academic front. Your reputation is likely to boost your image on the social front. On the work front, you will manage to keep your superiors in good humour. This is an excellent day to spend time with family. Good planning will help complete tasks.

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

AUG 24 - SEP 23

SEPT 24 - OCTOBER 22

OCT 23 - NOVEMBER 22

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

PISCES

Your performance at work will be commendable. Your own happiness is in your hands today. Spouse may need her space, respect that. This is a favourable day for completing pending jobs. Financially, no problems are foreseen. It is best to avoid outside food.

Your desire for an exciting time on the social front is likely to be fulfilled today.

Those looking for buying a house can get a good bargain.

Appreciation is in store for some homemakers. A professional victory is yours if you play your cards well today.

Getting into a favourable situation on the academic front is possible. Good luck promises to brighten your day. Some positive changes can be expected on the home front. This seems a good day for job seekers. New avenues for earning open up as you get more determined.

You may wait for someone’s invitation for a trip. Your professionalism in handling problem areas will be appreciated. Tenant troubles are foreseen for some house owners.

You will find family life more than fulfilling. A senior is likely to put in a good word for you to the higher ups.

NOV 23 - DEC 22

MALENY RATHJE, Blogger

serve the habitats so that future generations of wildlife and even humans can enjoy them.

Wildlife consists of flora and fauna, i.e. plants, animals and microorganisms which are not domesticated by humans. On the other hand, conservation is preserving and protecting wild plants, animals and their habitats. Therefore, we can say that the conservation of wildlife is necessary to recognize the importance of nature and other wildlife species.

the natural habitats of wild animals and birds throughout the country.  Government should conduct a periodic survey in all the forests regarding the conservation of wildlife. They should know the population of all the species of wild animals and birds so that they can be helped during the time of floods and famines and any disasters.  Special attention should be paid even by us also to the conservation of endangered species of wild animals and birds to prevent their extinction altogether.

DEC 23 - JAN 20

JAN 21 - FEB 19

FEB20 - MARCH 20

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GRATEFUL

JAIPUR | FRIDAY, MAY 21, 2021

Reliving Memories with Reunion

T

M

odel Kaia Gerber, who is the daughter of Cindy Crawford, said she is grateful to her mother for letting her make fashion mistakes. “The best style advice my mom has given me is less is more. She also let me make fashion mistakes, which I appreciate a lot. I think the biggest mistake that I made was trying to dress up a lot. When I was off duty, when I first started modelling, I was wearing heels all the time and full looks that lasted one season,” Gerber said. Sometimes, I will see a picture of my mom and I think it’s me. This happened the other day. I posted a picture in this Marc Jacobs plaid dress, and she texted me and she’s like, ‘Kaia, I swear to God, I had that dress in the nineties’, and she sent me a picture, and it was the exact same dress. —Agency

11

Courteney Bass Cox, Matt LeBlanc, Lisa Kudrow, Matthew Perry, Jennifer Aniston and David Schwimmer

he creators of ‘Friends: The Reunion’ have finally released the trailer for the much-anticipated special, featuring the star cast as they relive their memories from the iconic sitcom. The trailer was released on HBO Max’s official Instagram account, allowing fans of the famous sitcom to relive their favourite moments from the show.

Earlier, the special was delayed multiple times due to the production shutdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

—Agency

FIRST TIME

with sequels Poster of the film

‘Runaway Lugaai’

Raj and Krishna DK

T

he second season of their popular web series ‘The Family Man’ sure marks a first for the filmmaker duo of Raj and DK. “We have not been the ‘sequel kind of people until now. The Family Man season 2 is literally the first time that we are continuing something from where we stopped. We will have to get around to doing more sequels soon, I suppose,” said Krishna DK, who prefers going by the name DK in the professional circuit, about co-helming the extension of a story on screen for the first time.

—Agency

Kala Gerber

Sandeep Aur Pinky Faraar

THE

Eternals

S

alma Hayek will soon be seen in Marvel Studios’ The Eternals but the road to glory in Hollywood hasn’t been an easy one. In a recent interview, the 54-year-old actress recalled how she was dropped out of two big projects due to her heritage. Salma revealed that she was auditioning for the lead role in “two big comedies”. However, she was did not make the final casting cut because she is Mexican.

—Agency

Ruhi Singh

FOOD TO the Needy

...her post

Parineeti Chopra and Arjun Kapoor

A

Salma Hayek

rjun Kapoor and Parineeti Chopra’s edgy-thriller ‘Sandeep Aur Pinky Faraar’ started streaming from Thursday, on Amazon Prime Video.

The film, which was earlier slated to release in theatres in March, was postponed due to the rising cases of Covid-19 in the country. Produced, written, and directed by Dibakar Banerjee, the movie also stars Neena Gupta, Raghuvir Yadav, and Jaideep Ahlawat in pivotal roles.

—Agency

Every Life Matters iana Penty has come forward to lend a hand in the wake of the pandemic. She co-founded Every Life Matters with Ketto India, with the aim of raising funds for those in need of financial assistance for medical care while also highlighting the COVID-19 heroes’ efforts. “We need to do our best to support them in whatever way we can”, Penty posted.

—Agency

U

rvashi Rautela has now taken to the streets of the city to assist those who have been impacted by the devastating cyclone. She could be seen providing food to the poor and even feeding the animals through her foundation. She posted a series of ten photos on her instagram account for the same. Urvashi Rautela also donated 27 oxygen concentrators for Covid-Aid in Uttarakhand.

—Agency Urvashi Rautela

Snapped together!

D

Diana Penty

M

X Original Series ‘Runaway Lugaai’ is finally here and we couldn’t be more excited. This dramedy takes you on a hilarious ride along with Rajni (Naveen Kasturia) who is on a quest to find his ‘Lugaai’, Bulbul (Ruhi Singh) as she inexplicably vanishes without a trace after their wedding. What follows is an adventure that is heart-warming and humorous in equal parts.

—Agency

B Arjit Singh and late Aditi Singh

Sad Demise

B

ollywood’s renowned singer Arijit Singh, who is known for crooning several legendary songs, is making the headlines for unfortunate news as his mother has passed away in Kolkata. Arijit’s mother Aditi Singh has breathed her last after suffering from a cerebral stroke post her battle with COVID 19.

While she had tested negative for the deadly virus early this week, she had succumbed to the cerebral stroke late on Thursday.

—Agency

eauty mogul Kylie Jenner and rapper Travis Scott took some time out from their busy schedules to spend quality time with their daughter Stormi. The parents made it a field day for their little bundle of joy as they took her to the ‘Happiest Place On Earth’ -Disneyland. Kylie, Travis and Stormi were snapped sitting together on one of the m a n y Travis Scott and Kylie Jenner with their rides. daughter Stormi —Agency

Late Paul Mooney

Away at 79!

P

aul Mooney, a boundary-pushing comedian and lifelong writing partner of Richard Pryor, has died. His sage, incisive musings on racism and American life made him a beloved figure in stand-up world.

He was 79. Mooney died of a heart attack at his home in Oakland, California, his publicist Cassandra Williams informed.

—Agency

CITY

STAY MASKED

GET VACCINATED

BUZZ

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TEA-AMO

karishma.gwalani@firstindia.co.in

T

CHAI SUTTA BAR Chai Sutta Bar was founded in 2016 by Anubhav Dubey and Anand Nayak. In just 5 years the brand has expanded to over 65 cities in India and 3 countries (Nepal, Oman & Dubai) making a turnover of approximately 50 crores. The brand sells over 3 lakh Kulhad’s in a day across all outlets. Anubhav Dubey We employee over 100 plus differently-able labor and orphans at the CSB outlets across the country.

“We Indians have a significant number of consumers as well as producers of tea. The major reason for our preference for tea is that we are not lactose intolerant. Besides, the price of a cup of tea is very economic in comparison to other beverages.”

both big and small. It accompanies us through conversations, through relaxing evenings, in sickness, and in health.

Recognizing the long history and deep cultural and econom-

ic significance of tea around the world, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 21 May as International Tea Day, calling on FAO to lead the observance. While Interna-

MBA CHAI WALA ‘MBA Chai Wala’ was started by Prafull Billore in 2017. Now, the brand has 5 outlets in 4 States with the upcoming plan of opening 25 more.

Praful was just 20 years old when he started the business with just 8000 rs and now Prafull Billore the turnover of his business is 1.5 lacs per day.

“The consumption of tea was always there; however, it increased after various brands started offering it in cafes. The tea culture got popular on social media and the demand increased alongside. Next to water, tea is the most popular beverage in the world. Surprisingly, it even surpasses coffee!”

12

tional Tea Day can certainly involve paying homage to tea, we, at City First, brings to you the tales of those who have turned their love for tea into a business.

GULAB JI CHAI Chetan Singh is the third generation of Jaipur-based renowned Gulabji Chai Wale. The business was started by Late Gulaab Singh Ji in 1946 when the price of tea was just 5 paisa. The tradition of giving tea and bread to more than 200 homeless people, every morning, is still Chetan Singh being followed after all these years. Jaipurites love Gulabji Chai and the overall experience of it.

“The importance of tea has increased nowadays, mainly because of the inclination of youth towards tea-culture. The youth prefers to sit at tea cafe instead of pubs because of the affordability and tea tradition attached to it.”

—PHOTOS BY MUKESH KIRADOO

On International Tea Day, City First brings to you the tales of a few such tea startups that are brewing hope for the tea industry in India!

KARISHMA GWALANI

ea—what’s not to love about it? Tea, as a drink, has enjoyed great cultural importance throughout history. It’s a feature in social rituals

JAIPUR | FRIDAY, MAY 21, 2021

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!

IN THE PINK CITY!

Senior BJP leader Chandra Raj Singhvi and Premlata Singhvi celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary on Thursday with family members at their home in Jaipur. We wish them all the best!

HELPING HAND Cyclone Tauk-Tae brought a lot of rain on Jaipur, but the weather that followed was beautiful.

Mother Nature never fails to provide us with a sense of serenity, peace, and tranquillity. Here is a glimpse of Amer after heavy rains, which make it appear even more serene without human presence.

Dr Subhash Garg accepts the cheque CITY FIRST

G

—PHOTOS BY NAIM KHAN

DURING THE DAY! —PHOTOS BY HANIF SINDHI

GUJ: Members of the Indian Police Service and senior officers of Ahmedabad Police distributed food, clothes, water and Ration kit to people who were affected by cyclone Tauktae and lost their homes in different areas of Ahmedabad city on Thursday.

GUJ: Aam Aadmi Party Gujarat State President Gopal Italia was seen loading charger, power banks, electric Batteries, water, food in his car for the journey to Saurashtra, to help villagers affected by cyclone Tauktae on Thursday.

An appeal for humanity CITY FIRST

I

n the ongoing Corona wave, demand for including black marketing as a crime besides including LifeSaving Drugs and Equipment under the Essential Commodities Act has been raised.

Prem Bhandari of Jaipur Foot US has demanded strict punishment for such black marketers under Section 302 of IPC. He has also appealed to Bar Association that no lawyer should take up the case of any convict of black marketing. Also, in such cases, he demanded police and judiciary should take prompt action by way of submitting chargesheet within 15 days and trial should be expedited in virtual court.

He further demanded the Central Government extend sentence under the Essential

Prem Bhandari

Commodities Act to life imprisonment which would discourage those engaged in black marketing.

Bhandari said that on the lines of Kerala, the MRP of all equipment related to Corona prevention and treatment should be fixed.

It should be made mandatory to install oxygen plants in all major hospitals besides installing oxygen concentrators for every bed in small hospitals. Non-compli-

ance with these provisions should result in cancelling of hospital license.

Bhandari said all the instruments and medicines related to the treatment of corona be notified in the Essential Commodities Act and determine the rate of all such devices and medicines so that their black marketing was considered a criminal act.

Being a subject of Concurrent List, the state government

could also make laws.

Like the Kerala government, the Rajasthan government should also fix rates of all equipment related to the prevention and treatment of Corona and not wait for the Central government to take the decision.

Provision should also be made by the Central government to extend punishment described in the Essential Commodities Act from 7 years to life imprisonment. cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

iven the high speed of the second dangerous infection of the global pandemic Covid-19, continuous efforts are being made by the Rajasthan Technical University, Kota for its effective control and prevention. In the series of these efforts, under the direction of the Minister of Technical Education, Dr Subhash Garg, the Vice-Chancellor of RTU, Kota Prof. R.A. Gupta decided to give a donation of Rs one crore

to the Chief Minister Relief Fund by the University Finance Committee to provide financial assistance to the Government of Rajasthan to fight the epidemic.

Accordingly, a draft of one crore amount was handed over to Dr Subhash Garg by the University representative, to be deposited in the Chief Minister’s Assistance Fund.

Honourable Minister of Technical Education, Dr Subhash Garg, for this innovative initiative, has made the University be a leader in social services.

Black Fungus and Awareness

T

he second chapter of Forti’s webinar series is going to discuss Black Fungus on Friday, May 21 at 5 p.m, live on the Forti Rajasthan Facebook page.

Sunil Dhand (Director Diabetes Roshni), Dr Rishabh Jain (ENT and Head Neck Surgeon), and Dr Devishish Dubey (MD AIIMS New Delhi) will be discussing the symptoms of black fungus and notify the public.

—CITY FIRST