First India-Jaipur Edition-20 August 2020

OUR EDITIONS: JAIPUR & AHMEDABAD

CORONA

23°C - 31°C

ALERT JAIPUR l FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2020 l Pages 12 l 3.00

WORLD

COVID-19 UPDATE

7,93,808 2,27,28,240 DEATHS

MAHARASHTRA 21,359 DEATHS 6,43,289 CASES

CONFIRMED CASES

TAMIL NADU 6,239 DEATHS 3,61,435 CASES

RNI NO. RAJENG/2019/77764 l Vol 2 l Issue No. 75

INDIA

54,963 29,03,676 DEATHS

KARNATAKA 4,429 DEATHS 2,56,975 CASES

CONFIRMED CASES

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RAJASTHAN

921

DEATHS

DELHI 4,257 DEATHS 1,57,354 CASES

66,617

CONFIRMED CASES

GUJARAT 2,853 DEATHS 83,262 CASES

A WORLD WE HOPE TO EXPLORE AGAIN! While the coronavirus pandemic has greatly affected travel plans worldwide but our desire to see the world is nevertheless undiminished. We hope to explore again as soon as it is safe to do so.

This photo by Annapurna Mellor, of mesmerising, dramatic mountains and Buddhist Thiksey Monastery in Ladakh region, can all but cure the wanderlust blues till we are free of the pandemic!

CONSTRUCTION BEGINS

Ram Temple: Only stones to be used

INDIA’S COVID COUNT BREACHES 28L MARK 29.1% developed antibodies against COVID-19

New Delhi: Only stones will be used for building the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and it will stand for over 1,000 years, said Champat Rai, the general secretary of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust, on Wednesday.

Rai, who is also a senior functionary of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), said the country’s best

minds from IIT-Chennai and the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI) are involved in the construction process of the temple.

While Larsen & Toubro is broadly looking after the construction of temple, IIT-Chennai has been consulted for testing soil strength and CBRI services are being used to make Turn to P6

New Delhi: India’s coronavirus tally breached the 28 lakh cases mark with 69,652 COVID-19 cases reported in the country in the last 24 hours, informed the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

With the latest spike, the total cases stand at 29,03,676 which is inclusive of 6,86,395 active cases while 977 deaths due to COVID-19 were reported in the last 24 hours in India taking the number of deaths to 54,963, it added. The number of cured/discharged/ migrated patients in the country stands at 20,96,665.

A total of 29.1 per cent people in the national capital have developed anti-bodies against COVID-19, according to the second serological survey conducted earlier this month.

“The second serological survey which was conducted between 1-7 August shows that 29.1 per cent of people have developed antibodies against COVID-19. A

total of 15,000 samples were collected during the survey,” said Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain.

As per the Ministry, Maharashtra—the worst affected state from the infection -- has a total of 1,56,920 active cases, 4,37,870 patients have been cured/ discharged/migrated while the state’s death toll stands at 21,359.

Tamil Nadu has a total of 53,860 active cases, 2,89,787 patients have been cured/ discharged/migrated and 6,239 deaths.

Andhra Pradesh’s active case tally stands at 85,130 while number of cured Turn to P6

Indore cleanest city, Surat & Navi Mumbai grab 2nd & 3rd spots New Delhi: Indore is India’s cleanest city in Swachh Survekshan 2020, the fifth edition of the annual cleanliness survey of the country.

The city has bagged the spot fourth time in a row. Gujarat’s Surat is on second spot and Maharashtra’s Navi Mumbai is on third. “ H e a r t i e s t congratulations! Indore is India’s cleanest city 4th year in a row. The city & its people have shown exemplary dedication towards cleanliness.

Congratulations to MP CM @ChouhanShivraj people, political leadership & Municipal Corporation for this s u p e r l a t i v e performance,” Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs,

JAIPUR’S RANK IMPROVES! Jaipur: Three cities of Rajasthan including state capital Jaipur have secured places with improved ranking in the top 50 clean cities of the country.

Jaipur, Jodhpur and Kota have ranked 28, 29 and 44. These were at 44, 246 and 302 positions earlier. The ranking of Rajasthan also improved from 11th to 9th place. P3 Hardeep Singh Puri said in a tweet.

The Union Minister also congratulated Jalandhar Cantt for being India’s cleanest cantonment in Swachh Bharat Survekshan 2020.

Turn to P6

INAUGURATION OF INDIRA RASOI YOJANA ON SADBHAVNA DAY

Our scheme reflects the sensitive thinking of government: Gehlot Raj government to provide full meal for only Rs8 to 4.87 crore poor and needy individuals yearly Naresh Sharma Jaipur: Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot inaugurated the state government’s ambitious scheme ‘Indira Rasoi’ on Thursday for providing full meal in just Rs8 to the poor and needy people with utmost respect and a sense of service towards them.

The scheme, started in the name of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, will benefit about 4.87 crore people as they will get fresh and nutritious food every year.

Gehlot inaugurated 325 kitchens through video conference on Thursday out of 358 Indira kitchens starting

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot inaugurates 325 Indira kitchens through video conference on Thursday.

in 213 urban bodies across the state. The remaining kitches will begin by 31 August.

“A great leader and former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi gave the slogan of ‘Gareebi Hatao’ for the welfare of poor, backward, deprived and helpless people. She started the 20-point program, launched a successful campaign like Green Revolution to make India self-sufficient in the field of food grains.

In her memory, the state

government has launched this scheme.

This plan reflects our sensitive thinking,” Gehlot said.

On this occasion, the Chief Minister also spoke to representatives and beneficiaries of voluntary organizations operating the Indira Rasoi which has been started in Jodhpur, Jaipur, Rajsamand, Ganganagar, Sirohi, Bharatpur, Kota, Banswara and other places. The beneficiaries expressed happiness

over the introduction of the scheme and said that while one can get bread for Rs. 10 in the market, providing a meal for only 8 rupees through this scheme reflects the welfare spirit of the state government.

The Chief Minister expressed gratitude towards voluntary organizations supporting this scheme and said that Indira Rasoi is a major step towards realizing the resolve of ‘Nobody sleeps hungry’.

Turn to P6

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IN MEMORY OF THE YOUNGEST PM OF INDIA!

‘It was due to Rajiv Gandhi, India is called a modern nation’ Rajiv Gandhi is father of I-T

Jaipur: Birth anniversary of former PM Rajiv Gandhi was celebrated at PCC on Thursday.

PCC chief Govind Singh Dotasara offered floral tributes to late Rajiv’s picture. Former PCC chief Sachin Pilot, chief whip Mahesh Joshi, ex MP Ashk Ali Tak, Mumtaj Masih, Pukhraj Parashar, Archana Sharma, Jyoti Khandelwal, Giriraj Garg, Randeep Dhankar, Rajendra Chodhary, Gopal Singh Idwa, Mahesh Sharma, Rajesh Chodhary, Prashant Sharma, Rupesh Kant Vyas along with other Congress leaders were present on the occasion.

The Congress leaders remembered the former PM as a leader who gave the country a new direction, brought down the

Govind Singh Dotasara pays tribute to Rajiv Gandhi in PCC on Thursday.

Govind Singh Dotasara, Sachin Pilot, Ashk Ali Tak, Jyoti Khandelwal.

The birth anniversary of Rajiv Gandhi was celebrated as ‘Sadbhavna Diwas’ in the state secretariat on Thursday.

The staff members of DIPR took an oath executed by the additional director Rajpal Singh Yadav along with Prem Prakash Tripathi, Arun Joshi, Shivchandra Meena, Mahesh Chand Sharma & Ashok Kumar Guraba and others.

DGP lauds teams in handling of corona pandemic First India Bureau Jaipur: DGP Bhupendra Singh invoked his department to keep on the diligence and alacrity they have displayed in the corona times. Addressing the police department through its official fb page, Twitter handle and other social media platforms Singh stressed his team to keep on contributing to the war against corona apart from their routine law & order duties.

He personally thanked police personnel for displaying sensitivity and sympathy towards the infected while discharging their duty.

DGP Singh called the police department’s contribution in containing corona spread equivalent to a holy ceremony. He emphasized that every policeman should take this service above his personal tiredness, inconvenience and pressure. DGP Bhupendra Singh also cautioned the policemen of taking all possible safeguards against Covid-19 while discharging their duties.

He asked everyone to take special care while

revolution in India, says CM

—PHOTO BY SANTOSH SHARMA

First India Bureau

DGP Bhupendra Singh

ACCOLADES

discharging duties to police outposts/stations and meeting complainants, witnesses, accused & other visitors .

DGP Bhupendra Singh asked his team to take proper and prompt action against people not following guidelines and breaking law.

voting age to 18, ushered in the computer revolution, strengthened the Panchayati Raj and many such mile stone works.

Both Doatasar and Pilot said that no matter what criticism is made but the fact is that it was Rajiv Gandhi due to whom India is called a modern nation today.

Gehlot cancelled his programme at eleventh hr due to some exigency.

CM Gehlot & BD Kalla inaugurate the Design Conclave while Rajeeva Swarup looks on.

Naresh Sharma Jaipur: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, on Thursday, remembered late Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and stressed that he will always be remembered as father of Information revolution in India and the architect of reforms in Panchayati Raj and democratic reforms. Ge-

hlot in remembrance of his mentor, inaugurated the Design Conclave 2020 program jointly organized by the arts, literature and culture and information technology departments of the state government. “He gifted computers to the country a decade and a half before the beginning of the 21st century and through the 73rd and

74th constitutional amendments, amended the process of formation of Panchayati Raj and local body institutions to make them more progressive and effective,” Gehlot said.

B.D. Kalla, also remembered the late PM for Rajiv-Longowal pact for providing water to the Ravi-Beas rivers in Rajasthan.

Meat shops & slaughter houses to be shut on Aug 22, 23 & Sept 1

Poonia gears up for Assembly session, jots issues dealing with peoples’ concern

First India Bureau

Aishwary Pradhan

Jaipur: All the meat shops and slaughterhouses will remain closed on Paryushana Parv, Samvatsari and A n a n t Chaturdashi in Pramod Jain Bhaya the state.

Director of local self government department Deepak Nandi informed that the meat shops and slaughterhouses will remain closed on Paryushana Parv on August 22, Samvatsari on August 23 and Anant Chaturdashi on September 1.

The demand was raised by the Jain community people and Gopalan minister Pramod Jain Bhaya had requested the department for the same by writing a letter recently. In the letter, Bhaya had said that the community people have expressed their desire and requested that the meat shops and slaughterhouses should be closed on these days.

Bhaya, said that Bhado is a significant time period for the Jain community. these occasions have special religious importance therefore it should remain closed.

Jaipur: BJP state president Satish Poonia said that the opposition will raise important issues including the situation in parts of the city after heavy rainfall, inflated power bills in the assembly session.

Poonia said that many vehicles are still buried, houses are filled with soil, roads are blocked which reflects the government’s failure in making arrangements.

He said that inflated power bills have haunted people in the state, farmers are affected due to locus attack, corona has posed a great challenge and government proved weak to manage.

On Indira Rasoi scheme which was introduced on Thursday by chief minister Ashok Gehlot, Poonia said that the government has just renamed ‘Annapurna’ yojna which was started by former BJP government.He said that the government should give a logical answer that why it took more than one and a half year to rename a shceme.

Targeting Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his comments that BJP and RSS control Face-

‘Community centres should be free from scheme execution’ First India Bureau

Satish Poonia

Ramlal Sharma writes to PM First India Bureau Jaipur: BJP MLA and chief spokesperson Ramlal Sharma has written a letter to prime minister Narendra Modi for drawing his attention towards the water scarcity issue of the state.

He said that a cambook, Poonia said that he has objection if the new generation posts on the social media.

On Priyanka Gandhi’s quote in a book that she agrees that a non-Gandhi should lead the party, he said

paign to create water ponds should be started in rural areas. it’s coming “late” but “not” better.He also said that law and order situation in the state has deteriorated and mass suicides are happening but the government is not bothered.

Jaipur: BJP has accused the Ashok Gehlot government of presenting Annapurna scheme, which was started by the former BJP government, with a new name.

Former minister Arun Chaturvedi said that the Congress government soon after the formation discontinued the Annapurna scheme under which people were provided nutritious meals and breakfast on cheap prices. He said that the government has now relaunched the scheme under a new name of Indira Rasoi after one and a half years.

Accusing the government of doing injustice with labourers during the corona pandemic, Chaturvedi said that if the state government had not discontinued the old Annapurna Yojana, then lakhs of people would have availed cheap food during the pandemic.

“The Annapurna Yojana provided breakfast and lunch and under the Indira Rasoi, there is no provision of breakfast,” he added.

Arun Chaturvedi

SCHEME RENAMED

He also said that no basic infrastructure was developed for the scheme and places like community halls or Ren-basera (shelters) have been used for this.

The former minister demanded a provision of breakfast in the scheme and said the community halls and buildings should be free from the scheme execution.

Royals sets it rolling for bio-secure game

Special screening of public to to prevent Covid, says Raghu

Naresh Sharma

Vikas Sharma

UAE CALLING IPL 2020

New Delhi: Rajasthan Royals, Kings XI Punjab and Kolkata Knight Riders on Thursday arrived in the UAE for the IPL beginning September 19, setting the ball rolling for an event that many thought would not take place amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The players, who were already tested multiple times before departure, will now undergo a six-day isolation period

with testing on day 1, 3 and 6. If they clear all the tests, they will be eligible to enter the tournament’s bio-bubble and start training.

Subsequently, the players and support staff will be tested every fifth day of the tournament.

All three teams posted pictures of their players and support staff before departure.

The Royals squad was fully covered in protective gear. Defending champions Mumbai In-

Robin Uthappa shows RR mask while departing,

dians, Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore will

arrive in the UAE on Friday while the other two teams, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Delhi Capitals, will land over the weekend. Sixty games will be played over 53 days across three venues -- Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. In 2014, UAE had hosted the IPL partially due to the general elections in India. The postponement of the T20 World Cup in Australia created a window for the IPL, which was sup-

posed to take place in March-May before the BCCI postponed it indefinitely due to the pandemic.

The 13th edition of the IPL will be played for 53 days, from September 19 to November 10, across three venues -- Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Dubai.

The final match is scheduled to be played on a weekday, i.e. Tuesday, for the first time in the history of the T20 tournament.

Jaipur: Encouraged by continuous decline in covid-19 mortality rate, state health minister Raghu Sharma on Thursday said that the government’s determination is to bring down the rate to zero and increase the recovery rate. The current fatality rate is 1.3%.

“The government is committed to prevent any kind of human loss and to keep people

Raghu Sharma

healthy. For this, the referral system is being further strengthened by doing special screening

of the general public along with the vulnerable groups that includes sick people, children, elderly people and pregnant women to prevent them from corona,” the minister said.

He said that the teams of the health department will keep special focus on the vulnerable groups and two health workers will be deployed on duty on every 100 houses. Mobile vans for ‘Free Medicine Scheme’.

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03

Jaipur, Jodh, Kota in top 50 clean cities

SWACHH SURVEKSHAN AWARDS 2020: RAJ ALSO IMPROVED ITS RANKING, GOING FROM 11 TH POSITION TO 9TH THIS YEAR Abhishek Srivastav Jaipur: Three cities of Rajasthan including the state capital have secured places with improved ranking in the top 50 cities of the country in the latest annual cleanliness survey. The Centre announced the results on Thursday in which Jaipur, Jodhpur and Kota have ranked 28, 29 and 44 respectively. The cities earlier were at 44, 246 and 302 positions, respectively.

The ranking of Rajasthan also improved as it climbed from 11th

ACB arrests JEN of JMC, `9L seized from house Naveen Sharma Jaipur: ACB arrested a JEN of JMC accepting a bribe of Rs 9,000.

Complainant Kamlesh had applied to JMC planning cell for the lease documents of his house.

Lanning cell JEN Ankur Mishra demanded Rs 30,000 in lieu of giving a positive survey report.

Kamlesh agreed to it and filed a complaint to ACB. ACB team under ASP Pushpendra Singh Rathore under the directions of DP Alok Tripathi and ADG Dinesh MN verified the case by giving the accused the first instalment.

Later Mishra asked the complainant to come near Khaitan hospital on Sikar road and make the balance payment of Rs 9,000, ACB caught him red handed.

Mishra was taken to Vidyadhar Nagar police station.

ACB is interrogating him. They suspect some more accomplices from the planning cell.

Rs 9 lakh have been recovered from the accused’s house so far. Accused had cleared RAS mains earlier.

to 9th place.

The Swachh Survekshan Awards 2020 -- the fifth annual cleanliness survey of the country -- were announced by Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri at a ceremony in New Delhi, where 129 awards were given in different categories.

A total of 4,242 cities, 62 Cantonment Boards and 97 Ganga towns were surveyed, and 1.87 crore citizens participated in the exercise.

Indore was adjudged India’s cleanest city for

—FILE PHOTO

Jaipur, Jodhpur and Kota have ranked on 28th, 29th and 44th position respectively this year.

First India Bureau

First India Bureau Jaipur: Rajasthan reported 690 fresh COVID-19 infections and five deaths due to the disease on Thursday, taking the caseload to 65,979 and the number of fatalities to 915, according to an official report.

Three deaths were reported from Jaipur and one each from Ajmer and Bikaner.

Ajmer recorded the maximum number of fresh coronavirus infections at 138.

Bhilwara district reported 106 fresh cases, followed by Alwar 100, Jaipur 99, Udaipur 82, Nagaur 50, Bundi 38, Jodhpur 36, Chittorgarh 22, and Pratapgarh 19 cases.

A total of 50,393 COVID-19 patients have recovered and there are 14,671 active cases in the state at present.

Meanwhile Covid-19

—FILE PHOTO

JAL SHAKTI MINISTER TESTS POSITIVE

has travelled from the Rajasthan High Court to the sessions court in

the capital. Seven sessions court employees have been diagnosed

with corona positive.

All the work in the session court has been suspended till 21 August. Corona seems to have struck the judiciary on Independence day as most cases have surfaced in the HC and lower courts after that.

The Maharaja College will remain closed today after one corona positive surfaced in the campus.

So far 51190 corona positives have turned negative after treatment and 50560 patients have been discharged from various hospitals in the state. As of now there are 14508 active patients in the state and the number of corona positive migrants stands at 9088.

Maharaja College will remain closed today. This decision was taken after a positive case was found in college premises on Thursday.

Jaipur: Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has instructed, appealed and suggested to the general public to effectively follow health protocols to prevent the spread of Corona. He directed the police and administrative officials, on Thursday, to take strict action against the violators of the protocol under the Pandemic Act. Gehlot also directed to give additional honorarium to the doctors and nursing workers, working diligently in ICUs and wards of Covid Care Hospitals.

He held a detailed discussion with experts on the corona situation at CMR on Thursday. “The state government will not compromise with the rules to protect the life of the common man and all in the state will have to follow the rules of health security,” Gehlot stressed.

Recovery rate in Raj at 76.53%, Govt employees union 5 dists moving towards 100% set terms for pay cut First India Bureau Jaipur: Even as the number of corona positive cases is constantly rising in Rajasthan, the recovery rate is also improving and nearly half of the districts have recorded recovery of more than 80 percent.

Five districts have 90%recovery rate and 11 districts have more than 80%.

Bhilwara model was

appreciated due to its ruthless containment method and now the state is doing well in recovery of patients.

Five districts are fast moving towards complete recovery and showing better results.

The recovery rate is 96.3% in Jalore while Churu, Jhunjhunu, Pali and Sirohi too have 90.2, 91.4%, 91.2% and 90.6% rate respectively.

Ajmer, Barmer,

Bharatpur, Dausa, Dungarpur, Jaisalmer, Jhalawar, Nagaur, Rajsamand, Tonk and Udaipur have more than 80% recovery rate.

The state has the recovery rate of 76.53 %.

Health minister Raghu Sharma said that Rajasthan was the first state to implement lockdown and efforts were made since beginning to contain the spread of the virus.

Dr Rituraj Sharma Jaipur: Government employees union office bearers met CS Rajeeva Swarup and other senior officers to discuss the financial situation of state.

The senior officers said that the govt employees may have to contribute in form of a pay cut and asked the union representatives for their cooperation.

Ravi Katara

Jaipur: Apna Sansthan on Thursday set up a ‘Rasoi Ki Bagiya’ in RSS office. The initiative is being undertaken in 12 districts to create awareness and to push Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.

The sansthan representatives under guidance of RSS Goseva pramukh Shankarlal set up the ‘bagiya’.

Shankarlal said “Everyone needs to work for environmen-

with less than one lakh population, Banswara was climbed from 33rd postion to 11th this year.

The ranking of Udaipur also went from 137th position to 56th position whereas Ajmer jumped from the previous 266th position to 178th in the latest survey.

Hanumangarh rose to 309th rank this time, from 314th of last year.

In the cantonment board category, Ajmer was ranked 33rd while it was on 56th last year.

Nasirabad cantt also ranked 60th.

State reports 690 fresh corona More honorarium to doctors cases, 5 deaths in last 24 hours on night shift, orders CM

The union leaders asked the govt to stop the cuts being made under the fifth schedule and demanded to make changes in the 9,18,27 year schedule of the existing promotion scheme and adopt the four promotions in life time tenure formula. The leaders said if the govt agrees to their demands then they would provide full cooperation.

‘Rasoi Ki Bagiya’ set Four killed as Illegal mine collapses up at RSS office in Jpr Aishwary Pradhan

a fourth consecutive year while Surat and Navi Mumbai grabbed the second and third positions respectively, As a result of the state government’s drive for cleanliness, Jaipur, Jodhpur and Kota found place in top 50 cities this time.

Jodhpur has been adjudged as the ‘Fastest Mover Big City’ in the survey, while Dungarpur got ‘Citizen Feedback Award’ under the category of cities with population less than one lakh.

Among the cities

tal protection under the present circumstances.” Swant Ranjan, the all India Baudhik Pramukh of RSS, informed about the importance and use of medicinal plants. The sansthan planted ‘bagiya’ at the residences of Rajsamand MP Diya Kumari and MP Ramcharan Bohra.

Hindu Jagran Manch’s secretary Murlimanohar, Ashok Sharma, Hanuman Sharma, Manoj Sharma were also present.

Baran: Four labourers engaged in illegal sand mining were killed when a portion of mine collapsed on them in Baran district of Rajasthan on Thursday.

The incident occurred when the victims were digging sand along the banks of Parvati river and a portion of the mine they were working in, collapsed on them.

Four of the labourers who were buried under the sand have died and as many were admitted

Rescue force, police and district administration at the site.

to Atru hospital.

Police and district administration officials rushed to the spot on receiving information

and rescue operation was started. Police said that nearly a dozen labourers were working in the illegal sand min-

ing and they got trapped after the portion collapsed.

“Four labourers have died and the rescue operation is continuing to find our more victims, if any,” police said.

Former BJP MLA Rampal Meghwal targeted the state government and mines minister Pramod Jain Bhaya, who is from Baran district, over the issue of illegal mining.

He alleged that sand mafias have no fear and openly do illegal mining in connivance with officials.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot

CM said that action should be taken against the organisers as well as those who participated in it, for not following the rules laid down by the government regarding marriages and other social events. Gehlot told health officials that it is state government’s prority to save the life of every citizen. “No lacunae should occur in the care towards patients. There is no shortage of resources. Special monitoring should be conducted by senior doctors of patients during night shift,” Gehlot

instructed.

Expressing concern over the increasing number of patients of Corona during the last 15 days, Gehlot said that the State Government has strengthened the infrastructure of health services in far-flung hospitals and more resources are available for it when needed. “Now the only option to stop the spread of corona infection is that the common people, while defending themselves, strictly follow the rules of health safety suggested by experts,” he stressed.

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IN-DEPTH

AIRPORT LEASING CRONYISM: KERALA

NURTURING A KASBA: FOR A BETTER RURAL AND URBAN LIFE

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ith Union cabinet giving its approval to lease out Thiruvananthapuram, Guwahati and Jaipur airports to Adani group which will now develop, maintain and maintain the three airports on a public private partnership model for 50 years, the corporate house from Gujarat now has six airports under its belt. In February it had signed an agreement with the AAI for managing three other airports–Ahmedabad, Lucknow and Mangalore.

Only Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi and Rajiv Gandhi International Airport at Hyderabad are operated by the GMR group and Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport Terminal 2 has been developed by GVK group.

GMR group entered airport business in 2000 and is counted among world’s top five airport developers. Adani group is a late entrant to the show with aspirations of becoming lead actor.

It was the highest bidder for five airports on the basis of the per passenger fee, the deciding factor for bids. Concessionaire will pay the per passenger fee to AAI. Downside of this will be the high development charges which passengers may have to shell out. With privatization of six other airports–Amritsar, Varanasi, Bhubaneswar, Indore, Trichy and Raipur–on anvil, port to airport conglomerate could emerge as a monopoly in the sector. Does this smell of cronyism? At least, Kerala government thinks so. The state’s finance minister Thomas Isaac alleged that Kerala government’s proposal was not considered although it had matched Adani’s offer. It is “brazen cronyism”, he charged.

MEENAKSHI HOOJA The writer is a Retd IAS officer and former Member, Central Administrative Tribunal

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BJP STOOPS TO A NEW LOW IN TN

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eligion is one brahmastra in arsenal of BJP to win elections. The other weapon which is used by all political parties is to stoop to depths of indecency and targeting opposition leaders below the belt and take the political discourse to embarrassing new lows. One may recall that Daya Shankar Singh, BJP’s vicepresident in UP, had called Mayawati a ‘prostitute’ just before the state elections in 2017. Fearing backlash from Dalits, he was suspended.

Though his suspension was revoked after polls.

Unfortunately, while party may not succeed in discrediting their political rivals, they do betray mindset of some of it’s own leaders.

Party’s target is its ally in TN, AIADMK. In an oblique reference to Jayalalitha’s rule, BJP leaders accused ruling party of being used to ‘hiding behind a saree’. Party’s tirade is headed by IT cell chief Nirmal Kumar and national secy A Raja. Kumar called AIADMK leaders ‘impotent’. He said they ‘regained their potency after meeting their leader in Delhi’. On his part, Raja called BS Yedyurappa ‘potent’ for allowing Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. The vicious remarks are aimed at killing two birds with one stone. First is to consolidate votes on religious lines and the other is to weaken E Palaniswamy led faction. Whatever the reason, political narrative must be dignified.

Most of these small towns have a College, schools, Hospitals and other medical facilities, Banks, various Govt & private offices, parks, cinema hall, markets and shops for items of daily need including agri items

hen we talk of urbanisation, we often have in mind the picture of Metropolises, State capitals and other big cities including those which are the Divisional and District headquarters. But beyond these are a large number of what are called small and medium towns which serve as headquarters of the offices of the Sub Division, Tehsil and Panchayat Samitis. There are even some Panchayats which almost look like Kasbas and have urban characteristics.

Presently there are a large number of Municipalities covering most of these smaller urban entities. Many of these small towns and kasbas function like Growth centres and are often a good link between the villages and rural areas in the jurisdiction of the Tehsil/Panchayat Samiti and the bigger cities. For example the Municipal Headquarters of Thanagazi has connectivity with the villages in the Thanagazi Panchayat Samiti and Tehsil as well as with the District Headquarter, Alwar. It is also well connected by road with the Capital city of Jaipur.

Most of these small towns have a College, schools upto 12th level, Hospitals and other medical facilities, Banks, various Government and private offices, parks and playgrounds, cinema hall, markets and shops for items of daily need including agriculture items. Quite often some industries and factories are located nearby. The living style is urbanised with earmarked colonies and residential areas. They have a sizable population of about 1-1.50 lakhs.

Many people from the nearby villages frequently come to do their shopping, and traders from bigger cities bring their wares for selling and also source some special items. Some of these towns , especially those on the highways are major centres of truck stoppages and repairs and eating places like dhabas mushroom in numbers. In a way they are ever growing.

Despite these developments there are many missing links. In the first place

there aren’t enough systems of drainage and garbage removal; scientific waste management systems and water treatment plants or systems are not there. The drainage system is not very effective, leading to Naalis clogged with waste matter.

The supply of electricity and more often water is not reliable.

Overall the Bazaars and the market roads are very frequently encroached and traffic movement within the lanes is very difficult, almost chaotic with deafening sounds of horns blowing at the same time. In general the lack of upkeep is evident with a few exceptions.

In this case one can refer to the city of Dungarpur, which is a study in contrast.

Though it is a District Capital, but having a population of just about 60,000 people it comes in the category of small municipalities. The efforts put in by the Municipal council have shown very impressive results. It got the third rank in 2019 at the All India level under the Swachh Abhiyan. Truly it’s clean roads and colonies, treated water, gardens and the mind blowing Gap Sagar and other facilities are a treat for the mind as well as for living. So improvements are possible and feasible, though proper mobilisation and utilisation of resources is essential.

Despite these developments there are many missing links. In the first place there aren’t enough systems of drainage and garbage removal

As we establish democratic traditions, Governance is best when there is people’s participation. At the same time, Municipalities also need funds for their various activities.

While they get their finances from the various Schemes of the Government and through the recommendations of the State Finance commission and have their own revenues too, but there is always a need for more, especially for some specific local activities.

In this context the NGOs and

Will millennials and zoomers save the future?

A

ll of you young people who served in the war. You are all a lost generation.” This famous phrase is credited to Gertrude Stein by Ernest Hemingway, who popularized it in the epigraph to his 1926 novel “The Sun also Rises.”

The phrase encapsulates the feelings of a generation, disillusioned by the civilizational breakdown witnessed during the Great War, the loss of faith in the ideals and values that had marked their pre-war youth, which left them empty and cynical. In Europe, many of them would ultimately find a new purpose in the ranks of Mussolini’s squadristi, Hitler’s Sturmabteilung and the various fascist movements that sprang up in their wake — with disastrous results.

04

It might appear preposterous to compare today’s younger generations, millennials and zoomers (aka Generation Z), to Hemingway’s cohort of young women and men on both sides of the Atlantic. And yet there are good reasons to presume that today’s younger generations are going to be as deeply, if not more, scarred — socially, economically and psychologically — by COVID-19 as the Lost Generation was by World War I.

FORETASTE OF THINGS TO COME The travails of COVID-19, as has been frequently noted, are just a foretaste of things to come. The combination of climate change and the destruction of natural habitats has made the outbreak of infectious diseases spreading from animals,

Hope rests on younger gens to provide vision and energy to meet numerous challenges that threaten to overwhelm humanity.

such as bats and birds, to humans increasingly likely.

As a landmark study published in Nature put it a decade ago, “mounting evidence indicates that biodiversity loss frequently increases disease transmission.” Or, to put it differently, “current evidence indicates that preserving intact ecosystems and their endemic biodiversity should gener-

ally reduce the prevalence of infectious diseases.”

Unfortunately, the opposite has been the case. The current rate of extinction is “tens to hundreds of times higher than the average over the past 10 million years — and it is accelerating.” By now, humanity, which accounts for not more than a small sliver of life on this planet, is responsible for the loss of more than 80% of all wild mammals and half of all plants.

The consequences are potentially catastrophic.

For the moment, concerns about global warming and the rapid loss of biodiversity has been overshadowed by the all-consuming issue of COVID-19. And for good reasons. The novel coronavirus has severely disrupted life as we have come to know and expect it.

And there is no end in sight.

Its social, economic and psychological consequences, in addition to its impact on public health, has been profound and far reaching, particularly for the younger generations. Millennials, already pummeled by the fallout from the Great Recession of 2008, have been hit hard once again. For zoomers, the generation born between the mid-1990s and the early 2010s, COVID-19 is likely to be the formative experience shaping the rest of their lives.

For both generations, the economic impact of pandemic has been disastrous. Already last year Annie Lowrey wrote that millennials were “likely to be the first generation in modern economic history to end up worse off than their parents.”

FOR FULL REPORT LOG ON TO WWW.FAIROBSERVER.COM

the Corporates, and particularly those who have a link with that town or Kasba, can play a vital role in contributing to improving the quality of life.

The Municipalities can prepare a plan, something almost like a wish list, in the areas and places where they require support in cash or kind and which they are not able to fund from their own resources. Under the Corporate Social Responsibility ( CSR) those who want can contribute accordingly. The voluntary organisations or citizens groups can also come forward. As the support would be given in a planned and coordinated manner it will have an effective outcome, and have a multiplier effect. This would also provide them satisfaction and joy. Such voluntary effort can appropriately be called Nurturing a town/Kasba on the lines of Adopting a village, a concept and practice prevailing since long in the field of Rural Development.

Such contributions and efforts will make small urbanised areas better places to live in and at the same time achieve the twin objectives of reducing pressure on the bigger cities and metros and the linkages with the rural areas of panchayats and villages of the hinterland areas will also have a more vibrant life.

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHOR ARE PERSONAL

Top

TWEET Dharmendra Pradhan @dpradhanbjp Congratulations to the people of Odisha for spearheading Hon. PM Shri @narendramodi’s #SwachhBharat abhiyaan.

Bagging 2 National Awards in the #SwachhSurvekshan2020 is a testimony of each of our citizens towards making our state clean, green and beautiful. Kudos!

Piyush Goyal @PiyushGoyal Railways successfully conducted RO-RO trial service between Tokur in Karnataka & Shoranur in Kerala. This will enable enhanced transportation of vegetables, rubber, coconuts, textiles & plastics.

Spiritual SPEAK

Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

—Galatians 5:25

Vol 2 Issue No. 75 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: Jagdeesh Chandra, responsible for selection of news under the PRB Act

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RAJIV GANDHI’s BIRTH ANNIVERSARY

INCREDIBLY PROUD TO HAVE HIM AS MY FATHER: RaGa New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi visited Delhi’s Veer Bhumi Rajiv Gandhi Memorial and paid tributes to his father and former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his 76th birth anniversary on Thursday.

The Congress leader tweeted he was “incredibly lucky and proud” to have him as his father, adding that “he was a compassionate and loving human being”. “We miss him today and everyday,” the tweet further read.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tributes to the former PM. Rajiv Gandhi took over the charge of the Congress in 1984 following the assassination of his mother and then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. He became India’s youngest Prime Minister at the age of 40. He served as the sixth PM of India. He was assassinated during an election rally in Tamil Nadu by a Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) suicide bomber in 1991. —ANI

India keeps watch on seven Chinese military air bases New Delhi: Even as the tensions on China border continue over territorial issues, Indian agencies are keeping a close eye on the activities of the People’s Liberation Army’s Air Force (PLAAF) spread all along the Line of Actual Control with India opposite Ladakh in the north to Arunachal Pradesh in the Northeast. “We are keeping a close watch on the Hotan, Gar Gunsa, Kashghar, Hopping, Dkonka Dzong, Linzhi and Pangat airbases of the PLAAF in the Xinjiang and Tibet region and all of them have been highly active in the recent times,” government sources told ANI. The Chinese PLAAF has upgraded a number of these bases in recent times including the construction of hardened shelters, extension of runway lengths and deployment of additional manpower to carry out more operations. —ANI

NARENDRA MODI @narendramodi

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi pays tribute to his late father and former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his 76th birth anniversary, as it rains at Vir Bhoomi in New Delhi on Thursday. —PHOTO BY PTI

‘India won’t be able to provide jobs to its youth in coming future’ New Delhi: Asserting that a large number of small and medium businesses will shut down after the moratorium period, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said the country will soon not be able to provide employment to its youth for the first time in its history.

Gandhi, in a virtual press conference, said

“What will happen in the country then? The country will not be able to give employment to its people. India will not be able to provide employment to its youth in the coming time. This will happen for the first time in the history of our country. This has never happened in the last 70 years,” he said. —ANI

Manjhi-led HAM-S quits Grand Alliance in Bihar ahead of polls Patna: Former Bihar CM Jitan Ram Manjhiled Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) quit the Grand Alliance, but preferred to remain mum on future tie-up with any party or grouping. “HAM will no longer be a constituent of the grand alliance. The party has decided to leave mahagathbandhan,” party spokesman Danish Rizwan told reporters.

The decision to walk

Jitan Ram Manjhi

out of the five parties opposition coalition in Bihar was taken at the partys “core committee” meeting convened

RAHUL GANDHI @RahulGandhi Rajiv Gandhi was a man with a tremendous vision, far ahead of his times. But above all else, he was a compassionate and loving human being. I am incredibly lucky and proud to have him as my father.

We miss him today and everyday.

IN THE COURTYARD Plea seeks clearance of fees of panel of govt advocates New Delhi: Taking note that a good amount of counsels representing the government in legal matters are facing undue financial hardship due to long pendency of their professional fee, an advocate has moved Delhi High Court seeking direction to immediately clear the pending professional fee bills of panel advocates of government. A division bench of Chief Justice DN Patel and Justice Prateek Jalan has scheduled the petition, filed by lawyer Piyush Gupta through advocate Kapil Goyal, to be heard on August 25.

The petition seeks directions to Delhi government and other concerned authorities to file detail status reports, specifically clarifying on what grounds and since when professional fee bills of empanelled lawyers are kept pending.

It also seeks to impose a heavy penalty upon the respondents if the directions issued by this court vide its order dated September 3, 2015, were not complied with strictly in future. —ANI

Kupwara: Six terrorists have been killed in the past four days in Kashmir, out of which four were in the top ten wanted list, said Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) Dilbag Singh on Thursday. “In three operations over the last four days, six terrorists were killed, out of them, 4 were part of top ten in the list of terrorists in Kashmir. These

or not. For the country, we will move forward with the vision of Rajivji and Soniaji. The family is always there to support not only the party but everybody in the country.

Whatever decision is taken, the Congress party will do best it can for the country and the citizens,” he said when asked about Party’s furure President.

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday, refused to entertain a plea filed by senior lawyer Prashant Bhushan seeking to defer the hearing on his sentence in a contempt of court matter, in which he was held guilty, till a review petition is filed & decided.

A three-judge bench of the apex court, headed by Justice Arun Mishra, was hearing arguments on the quantum of sentencing and a petition filed by Prashant Bhushan seeking to defer the hearing on sentencing.

Advocate Dushyant Dave, appearing for Prashant Bhushan, said that he is entitled to file a review in 30 days and added that conviction and sentence are two separate issues.

“It is a constitution of my right. This is a very fundamental question we are seeking from this court. Conviction and sentence are two separate issues.

My appeal is very correct under judicial review and the sentence can be deferred,” Dave

at Manjhis residence, Rizwan said. The development comes months before the state is expected to see polls in October-November. The party, however, did not announce as whether it would merge with any other party or become part of some other alliance. The party has authorised its president to decide future course of action that included decision to join any alliance, Rizwan said. —PTI

FAMILY PAYS LAST RESPECT TO MUSIC MAESTRO PT JASRAJ Mumbai: Last respects to the doyen of Hindustani Classical music Padma Vibhushan Pandit Jasraj, who passed away in New Jersey on August 17, were paid on Thursday.The family members of the music maestro bid a farewell, and paid their last respects to him at their residence in Mumbai city. The acclaimed Indian classical vocalist died of a cardiac arrest in his New Jersey residence at the age of 90. The legendary musician was in US when the coronavirus-induced lockdown was enforced in India.

We will be fair to you, whether or not you are fair to us... Even if we punish you, it will not be activated given effect till the decision of review.

We will be fair to you. We feel you are trying to avoid this bench.

—Arun Mishra

Supreme Court Judge

submitted.

The bench said that the judgement is only completed after the sentence. “We assure you that punishment won’t be there, till you file the review petition,” Justice Mishra said. —ANI

Neasden Temple marks it’s silver jubilee.

The Temple has been at the forefront of many community service initiatives. It has brought people together and inspired them to work for humanity. When I was Gujarat CM, I had the honour of visiting the Temple.

Dilbag Singh

radicalised many youths,” Singh told reporters here.

“In the operations at

Prashant Bhushan

NARENDRA MODI @narendramodi

‘PAK MILITANT KILLED IN KUPWARA’

operations are commendable and will certainly be a relief for people as Sajjad Haidar

Contempt Case: SC asks Bhushan to reconsider remark

DOWN THE MEMORY LANE...

‘6 terrorists killed recently include most wanted’

WILL BE COLLECTIVE DECISION: VADRA ON CONG’S FUTURE PREZ New Delhi: Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s husband Robert Vadra said that it will be the party’s collective decision regarding the future president of the Congress.

“It’s a party’s decision.

The party will decide collectively. The family will work together whether if someone is president

“The unorganised sector is responsible for 90 per cent employment in the country. Who are these people? These are small and medium businesses, farmers. Narendra Modi has destroyed this system now. Now you will see, as soon as the moratorium period ends, companies will fall one after another.”

On his birth anniversary, tributes to former Prime Minister Shri Rajiv Gandhi Ji.

05

Kreeri, Baramulla, the top Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) commander of north Kashmir, Sajjad

Haider, along with his Pakistani counterpart Usman and a local accomplice Anayatullah were killed. Two-three groups used to work in the area, Sajjad’s another friend, Naseeruddin alias Abu Saad, was also handling a group in the north Kashmir,” Singh said. Adding that success was because of the coordinated efforts of the Army, Police, among others.” —ANI

GOVT SANCTIONS 1.22 CR KISAN CREDIT CARDS: FINANCE MINISTRY New Delhi: A total of 1.22 crore Kisan Credit Cards (KCCs) have been sanctioned with a credit limit of Rs102,065 crore as on August 17, Ministry of Finance said here on Thursday.”In an effort to buffer the agricultural sector from the shock of COVID-19, a special saturation drive is underway to provide concessional

credit to farmers through Kisan Credit Card. As on August 17, 1.22 crore KCCs have been sanctioned with credit limit of Rs102,065 crore,” Finance Ministry said in a statement.The Ministry further said this will go a long way in reviving the rural economy and accelerating overall agricultural growth in the nation.

JADHAV SHOULD HAVE AN INDIAN LAWYER, SAYS MEA New Delhi:India wants Kulbhushan Jadhav to be represented by an Indian lawyer for filing a review petition against his death sentence in Pakistan, MEA spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said on Thursday.

“We are in touch with Pakistan through diplomatic channels. We believe, for a free and fair trial in keeping with the letter and spirit of

—FILE PIC

ICJ judgment in Kulbhushan Jhadav case, we have asked that Jadhav be represented by an Indian lawyer,” Srivastava said. —ANI

SATYA PAL MALIK TAKES OATH AS MEGHALAYA GOVERNOR Shillong: Satya Pal Malik took oath as the new Governor of Meghalaya here on late Wednesday evening. He was administered the oath of office

by Chief Justice of Meghalaya High Court Justice Biswanath Somadder. Malik served as Governor of Goa from November 2019 to August 18, 2020.

He also was the governor of Jammu and Kashmir from August 2018 to October 2019, and during his tenure that the decision to abrogate Article 370, which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir, was taken in August 2019.

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06

29.1% population has antibodies for Covid-19

The second serological survey in Delhi which was conducted between Aug 1-7 shows that 29.1% of people have developed antibodies against COVID-19 New Delhi: A total of Andhra issues 29.1 per cent people in the national capital guidelines for have developed antiGanesh Chavithi bodies against COVNew Delhi: Hailing the OVER 9L TESTS CONDUCTED IN 24 HOURS

‘Our med fraternity made nation proud’

ID-19, according to the second serological survey conducted earlier this month.

“The second serological survey which was conducted between 1-7 August shows that 29.1 per cent of people have developed antibodies against COVID-19. A total of 15,000 samples were collected during the survey,” said Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain. According to the Health Minister, if Delhi’s population is considered to be 2 crore, then about 58 lakh people have developed antibodies and they have recovered.

A release in this regard said the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi had commissioned a follow-up sero survey for evaluation of the prevalence and trends of the SARS-CoV-2 infection in the general population of Delhi.

“The sero Survey applied a repeated cross-

The North East district has shown 29 per cent, South 27 per cent while South East has shown 33 per cent prevalence of antibodies in the survey sectional study design, and the first round was conducted in the first week of August 2020.

The other two rounds are scheduled in the first weeks of September and October 2020,” the release said.

The survey was planned by the Government of NCT Delhi with technical support of MAMC, New Delhi and the sample size for the survey was calculated as 15000 (calculated using expected prevalence of the SARS-CoV-2-infection as 23.48 per cent based on NCDC Delhi serosurvey).

“The serosurvey has been implemented across all the 11 districts with the number of participants selected as per the population allocation to the size sampling method both at the district and ward level,” the release informed. —ANI

‘Sushant case politicised to ‘malign’ Mumbai Police’ Mumbai: The Shiv Sena on Thursday claimed the case of actor Sushant Singh Rajput’s death was politicised to ‘malign’ the Mumbai Police and the Maharashtra government.

If the FIR registered in Patna was right, then if other ‘characters’ in the case who hail from other states file an FIR in West Bengal, will the Kolkata Police get power to investigate it? the Shiv Sena asked.

The Mumbai Police’s probe in the case was in the final stages when it was stopped and handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on recommendation of the Bihar government, the ruling party in Maharashtra said.

It is surprising that even though the court found nothing wrong in the Mumbai Police’s probe, the case has been handed over to the CBI, the Sena said in an editorial in party mouthpiece ‘Saamana’.

“Several criminal

It is surprising that even though the court found nothing wrong in the Mumbai Police’s probe, the case has been handed over to the CBI. —Shiv Sena

cases in Bihar were investigated by the CBI. How many real culprits did the CBI arrest so far? Sushant’s case was politicised only to malign the Mumbai Police and the Maharashtra government,” it said.

Rajput, 34, was found hanging at his apartment in suburban Bandra on June 14, and since then the Mumbai Police were probing the case keeping in mind various angles.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld the transfer of the FIR, lodged in Patna against actress Rhea Chakraborty and oth-

ers for allegedly abetting Rajput’s suicide, to the CBI. The apex court said the Bihar government is competent to transfer the case to the CBI for investigation. The Shiv Sena said the Mumbai Police were investigating ‘to unveil the mystery of why Rajput committed suicide’.

“It is an illusion that only the CBI or Bihar Police can unearth the truth. There is no harm in the CBI taking over any case from any state. But this would be an encroachment on the state’s rights,” it said. —PTI

toring will also be conducted to ensure complete transparency in the scheme. The food menu will be according to local taste rather than the same at all places,” Dhariwal said.

cay due to air, sun and water will not happen and temple will last for at least 1,000 years, he added.

The shrine will be built by adhering to the country’s ancient and traditional construction techniques. It will also be built to sustain earthquakes, storms and other natural calamities.

“For Mandir construction, copper plates will be used to fuse stone blocks with each other.

The plates should be 18 inches long, 30 mm wide and 3 mm in depth.

10,000 such plates may be required in total structure. We call upon

medical fraternity, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday said that they have all made the nation proud and shown to the world that India can be a trusted partner when it comes to global engagement and trade.

According to a release, speaking at the inauguration of CII’s 12th MedTech Global Summit here on Thursday, Goyal said that the pharmaceutical industry persevered to en-

Piyush Goyal

sure an adequate su1pply of medicines for India and the world. “The medical devices industry laboured and helped us indigenously pre-

Ram Temple... sure the building is earthquake-resistant, he told reporters here.

Around 10,000 copper rods are required for building the temple.

Since people want to be a part of the construction process, they can do so by donating copper, Rai said. Using only stones, it will be built in such a manner that de-

common man relentlessly through their commitment to ensure the safety and well-being of India,” the minister said. —ANI

‘Slight improvement in Pranab’s respiratory parameters’ New Delhi: There has been a slight improvement in respiratory parameters of former President Pranab Mukherjee, though he continues to be on ventilator support, according to the Army Research and Referral Hospital on Thursday.

The Army hospital, Delhi Cantonment said

that the Mukherjee’s vitals are stable and he is being monitored closely by specialists. “The respiratory parameters of Hon’ble Shri Pranab Mukherjee have shown slight improvement though he continues to be on ventilatory support. His vital and clinical parameters remain stable and are being

16 injured as bus carrying 45 passengers overturns Etawah: As many as 16 people got injured after a bus carrying 45 passengers overturned on the Agra-Lucknow expressway in Uttar Pradesh on Thursday morning.

The injured have been rushed to PGI Saifai for the treatment.

“16 injured after a bus carrying 45 passengers overturned on AgraLucknow Expressway.

Injured are being treat-

ed at PGI Saifai. The bus was en-route to Madhubani in Bihar from Delhi,” said Etawah SSP Akash Tomar.

No casualty has been reported so far.

—ANI

Pranab Mukherjee

closely monitored by a team of specialists,” the hospital said.

On Wednesday, the hospital had said that the former President

had developed features of lung infection leading to a decline in his medical condition.

The former President, who underwent life-saving emergency surgery for brain clot on August 10, had also tested positive for coronavirus during his visit to the hospital earlier. —ANI

Rupee skids 20 paise against USD Mumbai: The Indian rupee slid 20 paise to settle at 75.02 to the US dollar on Thursday, tracking weaker Asian currencies amid concerns over global economic recovery due to rising coronavirus cases.

At the interbank forex market, the domestic unit hit an intraday high of 74.93 and low of 75.05 against the US dollar. It finally ended at 75.02, down 20 paise over its previous

close of 74.82.

Forex traders said strong dollar, weak domestic equities and details of US Federal Reserve meeting minutes weighed on investor

sentiment. The US Fed’s policy making body has expressed concerns about the rising COVID-19 cases further impacting the economic recovery. —Agencies

Govt hikes aviation security fee from Sept 1 New Delhi: The Civil Aviation Ministry has decided to charge higher aviation security fee (ASF) from domestic as well as international passengers from September 1, senior government officials said on Thursday.

Making the air travel slightly costlier, the officials said the ASF for domestic flyers will be increased to Rs 160 from Rs 150 starting next month, and international passengers will pay 5.2 USD instead of 4.85 USD as the ASF

from September 1.

Airlines collect the ASF from passengers when they book their tickets and then give it to the government. The ASF is used to fund the

Shri Rambhakts to donate such copper plates to the trust,” Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra tweeted. —ANI

ed up to August 19 is 3,26,61,252 including 9,18,470 samples tested yesterday, said ICMR on Thursday. —ANI

India’s Covid... /discharged/migrated patients in the state stands at 2,18,311 and 2,820 fatalities.

Karnataka has 79,798 active cases; 1,56,949 cured/discharged/migrated patients and 4,201 deaths due to COVID-19.

Delhi has a total of 11,068 active cases, 1,39,447 cured/discharged/migrated patients and 4,226 fatalities.

Meanwhile, the total number of samples test-

Indore India’s...

The ancient holy town of Varanasi is rightfully the cleanest town on the banks of river Ganga, the Minister said in another tweet.

“Heartiest congratulations to PM Shri @ narendramodi Ji, who represents the city in Lok Sabha, for his visionary leadership which has inspired the people of the town for this achievement,” the Minister tweeted. —ANI

ATC ALERT TO AIRLINES

FROM PG 1 Our scheme...

“Participation of voluntary organizations in such schemes of public welfare is important.

Along with the efforts of the state government, the support extended by the voluntary organizations in providing food to the needy people with a sense of service is commendable.,” Gehlot said.

Meanwhile, Urban Development Minister Shanti Dhariwal said that fresh and nutritious food will be made available to people in Indira Rasoi Yojana. “Special attention will be given to the quality of food. In addition, online moni-

pare products required to fight COVID-19. Our doctors, paramedics and medical fraternity have made the nation proud by serving the

Amaravati: The AP Government on Thursday issued guidelines for the celebration of Vinayaka Chavithi on August 22.

The gover nment urged devotees to perform pooja at their homes. “When people visit market places for procuring certain things for celebrations in all such places public are advised to strictly follow norms,” the order read.

security arrangement at airports across the country.

The ministry had increased the ASF last year too. On June 7, 2019, the ministry said

domestic passengers would be charged Rs 150 instead of Rs 130 as the ASF and international passengers would be charged 4.85 USD instead of USD 3.25 as the

ASF from July 1, 2019.

The aviation sector has been significantly impacted due to the travel restrictions imposed in India and other countries. —Agencies

Vande Bharat: More than 1.1 mn stranded Indians returned home New Delhi: India has brought back more than 1.1 million nationals stranded around the world due to the Covid-19 pandemic through Vande Bharat Mission, the country’s largest repatriation programme.

Vande Bharat Mission is currently in its fifth phase, during which around 500 international flights and 130 domestic feeder flights have been operated.

The flights have brought back stranded Indians from 22 countries to 23 airports

across the country.

As of August 19, a total of 1.12 mn stranded Indians have been repatriated by different modes under this mission, external affairs ministry spokesperson

Anurag Srivastava told a weekly news briefing on Thursday.

“Around 375 more international flights are scheduled to be operated by the end of August,” he said.—Agencies

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RAMGARH DAM

CHOCKED TO DEATH

RAMGARH DAM RECEIVED WATER JUST FOR THE NAMESAKE DESPITE DELUGE IN JAIPUR AFTER RECORD RAINFALL ON LAST FRIDAY PROVING ALL GOVT CLAIMS ABOUT MAKING CATCHMENT AREA OF THE DAM A BLATANT LIE, WRITES ABHISHEK SRIVASTAV Jaipur: Once the main source of drinking water for Jaipur city, the Ramgarh dam has a catchment area spread across 759 sq Kms covering 158 villages of Jamwaramgarh, Amer, Shahpura and Viratnagar.

After the catchment area encroached in a big way the water supply to Jaipur was continued by bore wells dug in the catchment area till 2005.

The matter of encroachment in the

07

MINISTER YET TO CONDUCT FIELD VISIT  Since the matter of encroachment is pending in the HC so govt departments have been claiming various remedial measures to make the catchment area encroachment free during the last 15 years  The meager water

received by Ramgarh dam is testimony to the actual effectiveness of the measures taken so far. Last year there was an important meeting held chaired by UDH

minister Shanti Dhariwal

removed 144 farming related, 166 permanent/ temporary constructions, 6 illegal farmhouses along with 54 permanent constructions from 844 bigha land in 40 out of 42 villages under it

 It was announced that the minister would himself visit the affected area with the officers and get the encroachments removed  The minister is yet to conduct the field visit.

Although JDA had started the process of making area encroachment free under its jurisdiction after the meeting in September 2019

 JDA claims making 90% of its jurisdiction area encroachment free.

JDA had served notices to 33 permanent constructions situated near nullah passing through Jamwaramgarh. It is yet to take any action

 JDA claims that it has

Depts: 6, Result: 0

1985 when 72 million litres of

catchment area has been pending in the High Court as well.

The previous Ashok Gehlot government had submitted its report to the monitoring committee appointed by the high court.

Many encroachments were removed based on this report but the last few years have seen more construction obstructing the water in the catchment area.

These encroachments have virtually strangulated the dam.

water was provided to Jaipur by the dam daily

1) JDA – It is JDA’s responsibility to make the catchment area encroachment free 2) Administration – To remove squatters in 116 villages 3) Forest – 28,000 hectares land in catchment area belongs to forest department.

4) PWD – To remove/shift the roads & other constructions in the flow area 5) Irrigation – Land belonging to the department too has been encroached upon.

6) Revenue – To cancel land transfers, done in name of private persons, in the flow area lies with the department

HC judgment on Tharoor crossed the line, remove him: Vaibhav’s ‘rendezvous’ BSP MLAs merger Rathore shoots letter to Speaker Birla with Ambedkar during quick trip to Pokharan likely on August 24 Nizam Kantaliya Jaipur: Rajasthan high court is likely to deliver its judgment on petitions challenging the merger of six MLAs to Congress on August 24.

The single bench of the high court was scheduled to pronounce the judgement on August 17 but the work in the high court was suspended for four days after the corona positive case was detected on August 15.

The suspension of work has further been extended till August 21.

Cases which were listed for August 17 will now be taken up on August 24 and the bench is likely to pronounce the judgment.

Only virtual hearing will take place in the court till August 28.

BJP MLA Madan Dilawar and BSP had filed petitions in the high court against the merg-

Aditi Nagar

T

hey say in politics, what appears before the eyes, is a result of several permutations and combinations in the power tussle game, that happens behind the curtains.

And it certainly appears to be the case due to which the Congress party went to the drawing board to chalk out a plan and end the ongoing tussle between Gehlot and Pilot in Rajasthan.

Interestingly, while Rajasthan simmered in the political heat, its singe was being felt by Congress lead-

er of six MLAs- Sandeep Yadav, Wajib Ali, Deepchand Kheria, Lakhan Meena, Jogendra Awana and Rajendra Gudha- with Congress.

The arguments on the petitions were completed and justice Mahendra Kumar Goyal had started dictating its decision on August 14 but due to paucity of time, he posted the matter for August 17.

All the six had contested and won 2018 assembly elections on BSP tickets and they defected to Congress in September 2019.

New Delhi: After BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, party member Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore has shot off a letter to the Lok Sabha Speaker against Shashi Tharoor for speaking in public about his intention to summon Facebook officials without discussing the matter first in the parliamentary committee the Congress leader heads.

“Issuing statements as to who would be summoned and what would be the agenda of the meeting is absolutely uncalled for and is violative of the procedures of the Lok Sabha. The

proclivity of the IT committee chairman to speak to media first undermines the functioning of the committee members and the committee itself,” Rathore told reporters on Thursday. He is also a member of the committee which Tharoor heads.

He said he has written a letter to Lok Sabha

Speaker Om Birla in this regard. Rathore, a former Union minister, said the IT committee members have no issue on “summoning whosoever the committee feels needs to be summoned for the protection of the rights of citizens of our country” but added that the matter should be discussed

in the panel first.

Following a report in the Wall Street Journal which claimed that Facebook refused to apply hate speech rules to certain ruling party politicians, Tharoor had spoken about summing the company’s officials before the committee due to the “serious nature” of allegations.

He and Dubey, who is also a member of the committee and had come out strongly against Tharoor for his remarks, have filed breach of privilege petitions against each other with the Speaker.

—PTI

Chief Whip Joshi opens Rajiv Gandhi tourney Naresh Sharma Jaipur: Commemorating Late PM Rajiv Gandhi on his birth anniversary, Congress Chief Whip Dr Mahesh Joshi inaugurated the 30th Rajiv Gandhi Cricket Tournament began at KL Saini Stadium in Mansa-

Chief Whip Mahesh Joshi playing a shot after inaugurating 30th Rajiv Gandhi Cricket Tournament in Jaipur on Thursday.

rovar on Thursday.

Mohd Iqbal of Rajiv Gandhi cricket club has been organising the tournament every year.

Speaking on the occasion Mahesh Joshi said that late Rajiv Gandhi always thought of the youth and their development.

RCA President Vaibhav Gehlot addressing people after unveiling Ambedkar’s statue in Pokharan on Thursday.

Suryaveer Singh Pokharan: RCA President Vaibhav Gehlot inaugurated Ambedkar Bhawn built by the municipality at the cost of Rs 50 lakh during his one-day visit to Pokharan on Thursday.

He also dedicated an Ambedkar statue to the people on the ocassion.

RCA chief was welcomed by local MLA and minorities minister Saleh Mohammad.

There were many Congress workers to welcome Vaibhav Gehlot coming to Pokharan for the first time after becoming the RCA chief.

Vaibhav made Ambedkar Bhawan his

Age no bar, but in politics, caste ‘bar bar’! ers in Madhya Pradesh. How? Well, read on: Reliable input revealed that as the momentum developed and Gehlot appeared to be on top in the 35 day ‘war’, the Congress high command, by the 30th day, had made up its mind to give a royal ignore to the ‘Pilot factor’ and his issues towards his senior colleague and Chief Minister of Rajasthan.

While this was being considered as the ‘end of the line’ for Pilot, it

Priyanka Gandhi

Ashok Gehlot

Kamal Nath

Sachin Pilot

was a call to the high command from an old party loyalist who had been observing the developments from the sidelines till now.

Word is that Former Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh and old Congress loyalist Kamal Nath phoned party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi and what he told her forced the party to rethink on Pilot.

It is said that the ‘caste card’ came to Pilot’s rescue and Nath alerted Priyanka that

first stop after reaching the town where municipality chairman Anandi Lal Guchiya welcomed him. After this he went to Ambedkar circle where he unveiled a statue of Baba Sahab Bhim Rao Ambedkar.

Vaibhav thanked people for their support during the political crisis and helping in crushing the conspiracy against democracy. He assured people of the government’s continuous efforts towards development. He assured people of Pokhran of his personal support in future. Vaibhav said that Baba sahib will be remembered for ages for his work and life. if Pilot is removed from the party, the move could backfire on the party itself since many seats out of the 22 seats on which bypoll is scheduled in Madhya Pradesh are dominated by Gurjars, the community from which Pilot hails.

Apparently, this was a factor that put a sudden halt on Pilot’s ‘ousting process’ as Priyanka immediately phones Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot to speak with him and discuss on the issue.

Realising that it could have an adverse effect on the party, Gehlot, in interest of the party, gave his assent to Pilot’s ‘Ghar Wapsi’!

To succeed, your team must not only share your vision but live it and be as hungry for it as you are.

2ND FRONT

—Jagdeesh Chandra, CEO & Editor, First India

POSTAL REG NO. JPC/010/2019-21

JAIPUR | FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2020

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MLAs should’ve stayed in the house: BJP to absentees First India Bureau

BJP’S INTERNAL DISSENSION?

Jaipur: State BJP on Thursday sought explanation from four MLAs who were absent during the trust vote in assembly on Friday despite a whip. The MLAs were called to Jaipur on Thursday to give their explanation.

Sources said that the party has considered it a lapse on part of the MLAs. However, the party does not seem very keen on taking action.

Leader of opposition Gulab Chand Kataria said that the whip was issued to the MLAs asking them to remain present during the session but the four left the assembly after the house adjourned after obituary remarks. The session was reassembled at 1 pm but the MLAs- Gopi Chand Meena, Kailash

O

I-T dept: 19 officials transferred Dr Anita Jaipur: In a reshuffle, DG of Income Tax (Investigations) transferred 19 key officers in state.

Sitesh Verma has been transferred as Dy Director (HQ) in office of DGIT (Inv) in Jaipur, Ayushi Sharma will now be deputy Director (Inv) in office of Principal Director (Inv) Alwar while Devangi Swarnakar will be Deputy Director-1 Jaipur.

Rajesh Gupta has been posted as Addn Director-2 Jaipur, CP Sharma as Addn Director-3 Jaipur and Mehul Bharat Jain as Director (Inv) Udaipur. Other officials are Surendra Yadav as ADIT(Inv.) Kota, Kavita Mahipal Yadav as ADIT, Ajmer, Shankar Lal Verma as DDIT (Inv.)-I, Jodhpur, Prateek Sharma as DDIT (Inv.), Bikaner, Dheeraj Gupta as DCIT (BPU), Jaipur, GP Sharma as ACIT (HQ), Gurjas Kaur as ACIT,CC-2, Jaipur, Mamta Meena as DCIT, CC-3, Jaipur , RS Meena as ACIT, CC-4, Jaipur, Rajendra Kumar asACIT, CC-1, Jodhpur , Debbrata Dutta as DCIT, CC-2 Jodhpur, DM Nimje as ACIT, CC-2 Udaipur and Manmohan Kandpal as ACIT, CC-Ajmer.

MLAS’ EXPLANATIONS  Gopichand Meena said he had fallen sick therefore he did not stay in the house. He said he is still not well.  Harendra Ninama said he was not aware of the whip and left for assembly after the morning session.  Kailash Meena said that he had gone to take his vehicle which was under repair but he got stuck in heavy rainfall and could not return to the assembly.

He has also produced the repairing bill.

Gulab Chand Kataria

Meena, Harendra Ninama and Gotam Meena were absent.

Ashok Gehlot-led government had moved a motion of confidence on Friday and if the BJP would have demanded a division on the motion, 71 votes from BJP and RLP would be voted instead of total 75 votes (72+3) and the party could have faced embarrassment.

Kataria talked to the MLAs at his residence to find out the reasons. Lat-

 Gotam Meena said that the weather was bad and he got stuck due to the rainfall. He said that he is a dedicated party MLA and no one coaxed him.

er, the party’s state president Satish Poonia also spoke to them.

Poonia said that there is clear lapse as the MLAs should have stayed in the house but they were absent despite the whip. He said that

the party’s state unit is taking the matter seriously so that such incidents are not repeated in future. After the MLAs’ explanation, the decision is to be taken after the consultation of state president Satish Poonia,

leader of opposition Gulab Chand Kataria, deputy leader of opposition Rajendra Rathore and general secretary Chandrashekhar. The party leaders are also brainstorming on whether the MLAs were coaxed.

08

Raje takes jibe at Cong govt over Indira Rasoi Aishwary Pradhan Jaipur: Former CM Vasundhara Raje took to Twitter to show a mirror to the state government on the launch of Indira Rasoi. In her first tweet Raje said, the Gehlot government hadn’t walked even one and half steps on the path of development in its tenure of one and half years, adding that all state government had done was to change the names of the welfare schemes started by the previous BJP government and hence, the people of the state have made up their minds to change the government itself. In her second tweet, Raje said, “we started Annapurna Rasoi with the noble intention of feeding everyone and if anyone wants to take credit for this scheme by changing its name to Indira Rasoi Yo-

Vasundhara Raje

jana, then it is of no use.” It is noteworthy that the Raje government had started Annapurna Rasoi scheme under which snacks and basic food were provided at cheap prices. Gehlot government had scrapped the scheme citing some follies in it.

Meanwhile, during the day, Raje continued her meetings at her Civil Lines residence. BJP MLA Subhash Poonia met the former CM on Thursday. Subhash Poonia had earlier gone to see Gulabchand Kataria

as well but Kataraia could meet him due to prior engagements. Poonia keeps a regular touch with the state chief Satish Poonia as well. There are reports of Rajput leader Giriraj Singh Lotwara meeting Raje on Wednesday while former state president and MLA Ashok Parnami also met her on Thursday. Both discussed issues related to the party organisation.

Former minister Dr Rohitashwa Sharma too reached Civil Lines and met the former CM. Sharma gave Raje feedback on the organisation. BJP leader Gaj Singh Alsisar, former minister Dr Jaswant Yadav also met Vasundhara Raje and gave feedback on the politics in Alwar. The delegations from Baran and Jhalawar also met the former CM during the course of the day at 13, Civil Lines.

TAINT NO BAR TO BE POSTED ON PLUM POSITIONS! Naresh Sharma

Jaipur: It seems that corrupt officials are the flavor of all seasons. At least that is what is being conveyed by reinstatement of the ‘out of jail’ Chief Engineer RK Meena on a plum post.

Meena was caught on charges of accepting Rs 10 lakh bribe in the infamous PHED bribery scandal. RK Meena, again, has been virtually handed over the keys to treasure worth hundreds of crores by posting him as chief en-

gineer for rural region.

The posting of a suspended officer out on bail raises serious questions on the governance model being adopted in the PHED. The seasoned contractors of the department are already predicting calling it ‘Achche Din’ for them.

PHED, infamous for its die hard corrupt practices, is back in news for not only transferring engineers despite ban, but also deputing tainted officers on posts with evident and abundant chances

of corruption. Fresh cases relate to RK Meena and Subodh Jain.

In 2016, chief engineer RK Meena, Additional Chief Engineer Subodh Jain along with three others, were caught accepting bribes from SPML. Meena was behind the bars for a while but as soon as he and Jain came out on bail, they were deputed on plum postings by the ‘responsible’ of the department. Subodh Jain retired last month but RK Meena has been coronated as CE (Rural)

BD Kalla

which means he has say in PHED projects virtually in whole state. Even if the 200 MLAs have to get a hand pump installed in their constituency, then it will need

RK Meena

Meena’s approval.

When RK Meena was trapped in 2016, he was the junior most chief engineer handling projects worth Rs 22,000 crore. That sim-

Rajiv Gandhi provided new direction to India’s progress, says Ahmed Patel Cong senior RS member Patel said, “Rajiv Gandhi believed in firm real work on ground and not in gimmicks & publicity.”

Darshan Desai New Delhi: Congress’ senior Rajya Sabha MP Ahmed Patel on Thursday paid glowing tributes to former PM, late Rajiv Gandhi, on his 77th birth anniversary, stating that it was his vision that provided a new direction to country’s progress. Fondly remembering the late

PM, Ahmed Patel, who was also the political adviser of Rajiv Gandhi, tweeted, “Though Rajivji’s political life was short, but in that duration, he managed to give a new direction to the nation’s progress.”

“Re-dedicating ourselves to his ideals is the best tribute we can offer him on his birth anniversary,” he said.

Ahmed Patel

“He (Gandhi) believed that India’s unity was strengthened by her diversity,” Ahmed Patel added.

In another video

tweet in Hindi, the AICC Treasurer said, “Unlike now, Rajivji believed in decentralisation of power at the lowest panchayat level and contributed his might to vest power till the last man, by strengthening Panchayati Raj institutions.”

Gandhi was a visionary, Patel said, and added, “He put India on the path to modern growth.

Be it telecommunications, information technology, women’s empowerment through inclu-

sive reservation policy and in every other day.”

Taking a swipe at the present BJP-led Government at the Centre, without naming it, the Rajya Sabha member said, “Rajiv Gandhi believed in firm real work on the ground and not gimmicks and publicity.”

Patel said the present generation of youngsters as well as politicians and rulers should learn from Rajiv Gandhi’s policies “for a strong, modern and developed India.”

ply meant that Meena was responsible for 80 per cent of the PHED projects then. Meena went out accepting bribes in return of the projects. The bribe in one such project was said to be a whopping Rs 37 crore.

While the corrupt are their game again the investigation against them by ACB is pending. ACB had filed challan in the court on September 19, 2019 and requested for time to investigate further. The investigation is yet

pending under section 173(8). The investigation now may be an eye wash while all the accused are out on bail and no conviction has taken place. The return of the corrupt on plum post sends a clear message to all, PHED will work the way it has been irrespective of the govt in power, ie. may be Vasundhara or Gehlot!

One more surprising factor is how a clean and knowledgeable Kalla has become a silent spectator in this entire issue?

‘5 I’s to ensure parlpublic engagement’ First India Bureau New Delhi: LS Speaker Om Birla virtually participated in Panel Discussion on “Improving governance by bridging the gap between Parliaments and the People” during the ongoing Fifth World Conference of Speakers of Parliament (5WCSP).

Birla said that Parliament plays a proactive role in ensuring engagement with people. Birla said

Om Birla

that this involves the usage of five ‘I’s in the process: Interact, Inform, Involve, Imbibe, Improve. During the Conference, participants shared their experiences and views on a number of issues.

Govt rewards Abhay for diligent ‘War Room’ exercise in Corona clash Rajendra Chhabra Jaipur: It has been after much waiting that senior IAS A b h ay Kumar has

been given a ‘jump’ in his career as a bureaucrat. It would not be wrong to say that he has been given a reward for his patience since Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has given him the charge of an extremely important department like Home.

After a stint of four years, when he held the prestigious office of Secretary Finance till 2012, after which, for

the past eight years, Kumar was kept waiting on sidelines.

In the previous government and in the current government too, for three long years, Abhay continued to hackle through the state government’s agenda of load waiver to farmers in the Cooperatives department. But when the current dispensation gave him the responsibility for IT, Kumar left

ABHAY KUMAR TAKES CHARGE

S

his indelible mark on the department through his educational qualification and administra-

tive skills. On the basis of his M.Tech degree in communication and radar engineering, Abhay

took the IT department to new heights and when in March 2020, the state government formed a ‘War Room’ to control the Corona spread, Abhay was made its incharge owing to his specialised field.

It would not be wrong to say that the ‘War Room’ has played a huge role in ensuring that the Gehlot government receives applause in its fight against Corona in

the state. And behind the success of War Room is the proficiency, hard work and capability of Abhay Kumar.

The bureaucrat worked day and night for four months in the War Room and continued to hold updated information related to Corona.

The manner in which he devoted himself to this cause, proved troublesome for him since he suffered a heart at-

tack and had to undergo surgery and therefore was on a long leave.

Now that he has returned, the state government has given him a major job. Kumar will have to show the same performance in the Home department.

Moreover, he responsibility towards the DIPR, which he has been handling for the past ten months, has been kept intact with him.

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Ye Kaali Kaali Aankhein City First gives you a few tips and tricks to get the perfect smokey eyes for an indoor photoshoot, Zoom party, or just for a fun-makeup enthusiast who loves applying makeup!

NEHAL NAYAR

nehal.nayar@firstindia.co.in

S

ince the COVID situation is not going to come under control anytime soon, staying at home is the best way to take all the necessary precautions. But staying at home the entire day and not doing anything can be a bit stressful, and this is the reason why most of the people either started cooking, hosted Zoom parties, became influencers and what not.

There was a time when people used to crib while getting ready, especially women, because of the long process of decking up. But now, they look for reasons so get ready. Well, we have to accept the fact that even if we have to step out of the house, it isn’t going to be without a mask- so eyes are the ones that would be noticed the most. Why not make it worth it?

To make any outfit look bold and appealing, there is nothing better than opting for ‘smokey eyes’. This is the most timeless look and never fails to make any outfit look special. From leading Hollywood actresses to leading Bollywood actresses, everyone has gone ‘smokey’ for the most crucial and important events.

Most people often think that going for the smokey eyes’ look is really difficult, which as a matter of fact, is not.

You just need an eye shadow palette with three different shades and simple eyeliner to create this sultry yet sophisticated look. Here are a few tips to get the perfect ‘smokey eye’ look: 1. Take a light-coloured eye shadow and apply it all over your lid. Start at the lash line and go all the way up to your crease.

2. Take a deeper shade and apply it to your crease, as well as to the outer ‘V’ of the eye.

3. Apply the darkest shade to your lash line.

4. Line the rims of your eyes with a light liner and gently smudge it.

09

ETC JAIPUR | FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2020

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10

THE GREEK GOD OF B’WOOD

GURMAN SINGH cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

I

superhero with the kid-friendly alien series ‘Koi … Mil Gaya’ and the Krrish franchise strengthened his foothold in an industry that recognizes blockbuster success as the ultimate stamp of recognition.

Hrithik has got both emotional and physical intelligence and can display a range of varying emotions and movements almost at a whim. He does not take his talent for

FA CE OF TH ED AY

t’s been 20 years since Hrithik Roshan made his debut in Bollywood. Ever since his fan following has only gotten bigger. While he has seen the highs and lows in the film industry, he proved his mettle with his choice of roles.

The actor has made a place for himself in the industry. He marked his debut with ‘Kaho Naa... Pyar Hai’ in 2000 and the film was an instant hit at the box office. The super success was followed by critically acclaimed roles in movies like Fiza and Mission Kashmir in the same year. His turn as Hindi cinema’s most believable

granted or ever wing it on the sets.” Apart from these, Roshan has also acted in mega-blockbusters like Jodha Akbar, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Agneepath, the 2014 action comedy Bang Bang!, the 2019 biopic Super 30, and the 2019 action thriller War- He plays an Indian soldier who can flip and dance like a dream. The International author, Ben Brooks.

The book titled, ‘Stories for

YOUR DAY Horoscope by Saurabbh Sachdeva

boys who dare to be different’ has featured Hrithik’s struggles amongst the likes of esteemed personalities. The book discusses Hrithik’s journey, accounting for the obstacles that he had to face growing up as a child. Putting all the struggles together, namely, how he hated talking because of the stammering diction, leading a life with Scoliosis, a condition with a curved spine, and how he overcame each and every one of them with rigor and determination is what the book aims to put an across, bringing out the beloved actor as a true inspiration.

Hrithik Roshan also aided 100 background dancers in this difficult time. Several of them have traveled to their villages, while few are finding it difficult to pay rent and one dancer”s family has tested positive for Covid-19, Hrithik Roshan’s help to all of them has come at a very crucial time.

ARIES

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

You wish to do something but resources are a constraint, don’t worry you stars will solve this problem in near future. Emotional security is what your spouse needs from you so don’t act strange. Give yourself some time to heal. A decent behaviour will be rewarded in future.

Romance is all you will think about today. You are spiritual but for sometime you have been a bit distant from it all, try and introspect why.

There are chances of a change in job for some. Elegant fashion is a very prominent part of your personality.

Gains from parents is indicated.

You have such a lovely smile that’s warms your partner’s heart. You are someone who believe that one can have many true love. You want to explore a new field.

Achieving your goals sooner than expected is possible and you will surprise many around you.

Wedding bells for few. You will do anything to please your lover. Promises made with your parents must be kept. Revise your study material over and over gain to reach perfection.

You light up the room with your mere presence. You may invest in some business which involves metal.

MAR 21 - APR 20

MAY 21 - JUNE 21

JUNE 22 - JULY 23

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

SCORPIO

You will give some inspirational lecture to your kid today.You can expect some unannounced expenditure. Aspirations are good but overambitious nature is what you need to be aware of. You are your parents’ pillar of strength and they are very lucky to have you in life.

Your spouse can handle domestic matters better than you so have faith. You may adopt a pet. You will make a very good parent. Be kind enough to respond to someone who have questions for you, specially if thats your lover. Mysterious personality will walk into your life.

Stop worrying about people who judge you and misunderstands you. You love to play sports game.

Think twice before speaking. Your spouse will make you proud. Love marriage is on the cards. Today may be a wake up call for you. Love your life and be happy no matter what.

Self discipline is very important in life so make it part of your life and everything will change for you. Fooling anyone by making false stories is not who you are and do not forget that. Save money and save as much as you can, this money will be of big help in future.

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

AUG 24 - SEP 23

SEPT 24 - OCTOBER 22

OCT 23 - NOVEMBER 22

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

PISCES

You can expect a good news today related to your child.

You will crave for some tasty food today. An unexpected good news is on its way. You are a great friend and without expecting much from someone you always tend to give. You will be in a cheerful mood today and will make others smile too.

Some kind of celebration is indicated and you have an important role to play in it.

Someone of you may get blessed with a child soon. Students must not deviate from their must continue to be consistent. Let your performance speak and don’t waste time in proving your worth.

You can start a new business but you must be mentally prepared for the hard work and time consuming nature of it. Cheerful persona is what you are known for and people love to be around you. No one can beat you in financial management but you like to spend on accessories.

You need some me-time today so don’t hesitate in asking for some space from your spouse, it is absolutely normal and there is nothing wrong about it. Take a step forward in your love life. Getting into arguments in professional life is not a good thing to so keep that in check.

NOV 23 - DEC 22

SHIVANI SINGH, Model

APR 21 - MAY 20

DEC 23 - JAN 20

JAN 21 - FEB 19

FEB20 - MARCH 20

ETC JAIPUR | FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2020

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New Comic

F

FLICK

Vicky Kaushal

Manushi Chhillar

PERFECT PLACE

T

ormer Miss World turned actor Manushi Chhillar is all set to star opposite actor Vicky Kaushal for an upcoming comedy flick from Yash Raj Films.

According to a trade source, Manushi has been signed as the heroine of the film that marks ‘Uri: The Surgical Strike’ actor’s first comedy project. “Manushi has been signed opposite Vicky for the comedy that YRF is producing. Vicky and Manushi will be a very interesting pairing and definitely one of the youngest and freshest romantic jodis in Bollywood! This is Vicky’s first comedy film and Manushi will also be trying her hand in this genre for the first time,” a trade source said.

The trade source further revealed that the film is a part of bigger venture ‘Project 50’ by the Yash Raj Films and an official announcement for the same is set to follow in late September.

“The film is part of YRF’s Project 50 that is aiming to celebrate 50 years of Yash Raj Films. The official announcement of this film and the casting is set to happen on September 27th, when Aditya Chopra unveils the entire slate of the studio,” the source said.

“Adi is handpicking the projects that makes the cut for YRF Project 50 and he is very bullish on VickyManushi’s film. He is confident their pairing is going to work its magic on screen,” the source added.

The comedy flick will be Chhillar’s second venture in Bollywood. —ANI

RANDEEP TURNS 44

aylor Swift seems to be finally opening up about her personal life for the first time in a while. The Folklore singer released the lyric video for The Lakes, a bonus track on her latest studio album. Due to all of the songs about heartbreak on the album, some fans wondered if there was trouble between herself and her longtime boyfriend Joe Alwyn.

However, the new song seems to make several sweet references to the actor.

Taylor sings: “Take me to the lakes, where all the poets went to die / I don’t belong and, my beloved, neither do you / Those Windermere peaks look like a perfect place to cry / I’m setting off, but not without my muse,” in her song T h e Lakes.

—Agency

A

s Bollywood actor Randeep Hooda is celebrating his 44th birthday on Thursday, Bollywood celebrities and his legion of fans poured in wishes for the ‘Sarbjit’ actor on social media.

Friends from the Bollywood industry including Manoj Bajpayee, Kubra Sait, Mukesh Chhabra, and scores of his admirers extended lovely wishes to the ‘Highway’ actor on the micro-blogging site Twitter. “Happy birthday my friend!! Keep Shining!!!” wrote his co-star, Bajpayee. The duo has shared screen-space in 2018 released action-thriller ‘Baaghi 2’.

While his ‘Sultan’ co-actor, Sait extended “big humongous love” to the star.

One of his admirers posted a collage of pictures featuring Hooda in many of his film’s character role. Alongside the post, the user wrote: “Happy Birthday to one of my favorite actor Randeep Hooda He is one of the best versatile and underrated actor in present time”. hile another fan addressed him as the “real perfectionist of Bollywood”.

—ANI

Randeep Hooda

11

Artist Ram Kamath, no more

Ram Indranil Kamath

P

opular Mumbaibased artist Ram Indranil Kamath also known as Ramchandra passed away at the age of 41 on Wednesday, informed Matunga Police on Thursday.

According to a statement from Matunga Police Station, the painter was found unconscious in a bathtub at his Mumbai’s Matunga residence around 3 pm on Wednesday. Kamath was then immediately rushed to Sion Hospital where he was declared brought dead by the doctors.

—ANI

Pretty much in CHAOS

S

Matthew Perry and Courteney Cox

HBD, Funny Friend!

C

Taylor Swift

ourteney Cox is making us feel nostalgic courtesy her birthday wish for Matthew Perry. On the actor’s 51st birthday, Courteney pulled out a photo from the archives to wish her Friends co...her post star. Sharing the photo, Courteney wished her “funny friend”. She wrote, “Happy birthday to my talented, funny, friend!” and tagged his Instagram handle on the stories. The duo was set to reunite with other cast members for an unscripted Friends reunion. However, the reunion was delayed owing to the pandemic.

—Agency Ellie Goulding

inger Ellie Goulding says she spent her twenties pretty much in chaos. “The past five years have been really poignant in my life. I spent my twenties pretty much in mad chaos. I don’t remember much of it. I think I blurred a lot of it out,” she said.

“I’ve been around the world a few times. I played so many shows. I’ve been to cities I can’t even remember.

I can’t even think of all the countries I’ve been to at this point. I was on a constant roll. I was taking it for granted because I assumed it would just be my cycle forever, touring,” she added.

After her Delirium World Tour ended in 2017, though, the singer “went through quite a few changes” that led her to take “a bunch of time off ”. “I parted ways with my management, I moved to New York. I went through quite a few changes,” she recalled.

—Agency

CITY BUZZ JAIPUR | FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2020

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DESIGN EDUCATION

12

FACEBOOK POST!

Remembering Rajiv Gandhi

FOR FUTURE VINNY JAIN

O

ur life today is strongly influenced by the impact of fashion, and fashion designers play a major role in how we see the world in a day-to-day manner, as they consistently update new trends and develop the taste Vinny Jain of people.

In India, over the past few decades, the textile and garments industries have been flourishing due to technological and digital innovation. The changing and dynamic nature of the leading sector has evolved from the areas of design, textile, technology, retail business, communication, branding and management.

Considering the future in fashion one needs to remember that apart from the role of a fashion designer there are many more creative jobs. There are jobs in visual merchandising, pattern cutting, public relations, journalism and so on. All of these are crucial to fashion industry. For instance some universities are offering tie-ups with top brands to give students an opportunity to further achieve their career goals by involving them in live industrial projects.

Design is not about interacting with a computer, its about interacting with the world. To deal with the large complex problems, design education needs to change to include multiple disciplines, technology, art, social sciences, politics & business.

Connection with society or integrating the society with industry products can be based on natural Ingredients. The person designing a product should take care of the end result based on the following Ingredients: 1.Utilitarian Function 2.Cultural Style 3.Emotional Attitude cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

O

n Former PM Late Rajiv Gandhi’s birth anniversary on Thursday, Robert Vadra took to Facebook to share his wishes. He wrote, “You are remembered today on your Birthday, and everyday by all of us and by the country. Your vision would’ve taken the country to new heights, and made sure each person feels secure, no matter which race, religion, caste or creed. Happy Birthday... You are missed.”

—Vaishali

RESULTS ANNOUNCED CITY FIRST

J

awahar Kala Kendra (JKK) celebrated ‘World Photography Day’ on Wednesday by announcing the winners of the online photography competition –‘Lock-down at Home’. The competition was held from 1 August to 15 August. The winning entries were showcased in a virtual exhibition on the JKK Facebook page.

On the occasion, Minister of Art & Culture, Government of Rajasthan, Dr BD Kalla said that the competition received an enthusiastic response of a whopping 406 entries in two categories – ‘Open’ and ‘School Students’. The competition gave people an opportunity to participate by sending entries in 4 categories – Life, Rediscovering Nature, Senior Citizen and Portraiture.

This competition by JKK gave a platform to many to showcase their work.

He also wished all participants success in the future.

The overall winner in ‘Open Category’ was Tanvi Gupta and in the ‘School Students category’ was Goutam Jangid. Apart from this, in the open category for ‘Life’ subject the winners were – Piyush Dutt Mehta, Neeraj Chauhan and Nachiket Pimprikar. In the ‘Rediscovering Nature’ subject, the winners were –Aakash Gautam, Praveen Bhagat and Sheela Purohit. For the ‘Portraiture’ subject – Nachiket Pimprikar, Anshul Bandhiwal and Veenu Mittal were the winners. Whereas, for the

Photo by Tanvi Gupta

Photo by Goutam Jangid

‘Senior Citizen’ subject the winners were –Aditya Kumawat, Roushell Khan and Vishal P Mehta.

Similarly, in the ‘School Students Category’, Abeer Singh was the winner for the ‘Life’ subject. For the ‘Rediscovering Nature’ subject the winners were – Abhimanyu Singh, Aditi Chaturvedi and Prisha Poddar. Apart from this, Ariana Sahni and Ojashvi Pandey were the winners for the ‘Portraiture’ and ‘Senior Citizen’ subjects respectively. cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

DURING THE DAY! RAJASTHAN: On the occasion of the 13th death anniversary of writer and social worker Late Shakuntala Devi Talwar, Vikalp Natya Sansthan organised a poetry recitation programme on Thursday. Convenor, Ish Madhu Talwar welcomed the gathering and expressed his gratitude. Bollywood scriptwriter, Ramkumar Singh set the stage with his recitation followed by recitation of women poets like Uma, Yogita Sharma ‘Zeenat’, Chitra Bhardwaj, among others.

RAJASTHAN: On the occasion of Vishva Sadbhavna Divas, all the doctors and staff of Raajkiya Chikitsalya, Secretariat, Jaipur, led

by State Vice President of Nurses Association, Shriram Godara, Dr Sunil Poonia and Dr Sanjeev Solanki, took a pledge to serve all the COVID-19 infected people without discrimination.

The Institute of Company Secretaries of India signed a Memorandum of Understanding for instituting the ICSI Signature Award Scheme with Indian Institute of Management – Jammu.

The objective of the MOU is to facilitate a comprehensive partnership for imparting knowledge and skills in the areas of Joint Academic Research, Joint Workshops, Professional Development Programme for Company Secretaries, sharing resources and International Conferences.

DigiValet, a renowned guest experience company, has introduced ‘Thru’, a product that allows hotels to offer their guests the choice of a zero contact, zero wait and express checkin. The technology will allow guests to check-in at hotel rooms using their mobile device, thus ensuring that distancing norms are met and their entire experience comes without stress and is fully enjoyable.

HAPPY B’DAY!

IPS Dr Hawa Singh Ghumariya (left) and IPS Dr Vishnu Kant celebrated their birthdays on 20 August, Thursday. We wish them all the best!

GUJARAT: Workers were seen giving last touches to idols of lord Ganesha for the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Ahmedabad on Thursday. —PHOTO BY HANIF SINDHI

GUJARAT: An old man was seen worshipping early in the morning in the old city area of Ahmedabad on Thursday.

—PHOTO BY HANIF SINDHI

RAJASTHAN: A book named ‘COVID-19 Ke Maha Yoddha’ written by Dr Kamaljeet Kaur was published in Nagpur on 15 August. During the occasion, the author shared about her book and the contribution of all warriors during the pandemic. The book is a compilation of stories of many COVID warriors who are working in society and providing their services.