First India-Jaipur Edition-07 August 2020

OUR EDITIONS: JAIPUR & AHMEDABAD

CORONA

27°C - 34°C

ALERT JAIPUR l FRIDAY, AUGUST 7, 2020 l Pages 12 l 3.00

COVID-19 UPDATE

WORLD

7,13,895 1,91,15,474 CONFIRMED CASES

DEATHS

MAHARASHTRA 16,792 DEATHS 4,79,779 CASES

TAMIL NADU 4,571 DEATHS 2,79,144 CASES

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RNI NO. RAJENG/2019/77764 l Vol 2 l Issue No. 62

INDIA

41,631 20,24,502 DEATHS

CONFIRMED CASES

DELHI 4,059 DEATHS 1,41,531 CASES

RAJASTHAN

757

DEATHS

KARNATAKA 2,897 DEATHS 1,58,254 CASES

48,996

CONFIRMED CASES

GUJARAT 2,579 DEATHS 67,811 CASES

BSP MLAs MERGER: GEHLOT GOVT GETS A BREATHER FROM RAJ HIGH COURT

No final judicial order on BSP MLAs likely before Aug 14!

CJ led division bench disposes petitions by BSP and BJP Aditi Nagar & Nizam Kantaliya Jaipur: Inspite of Rajasthan High Court’s exceptional decisive mood to bring the entire issue of 6 BSP legislators to a logical conclusion, according to legal experts, there is no possibility of a final

TRAGEDY STRIKES

judicial order on the issue of the merger of BSP MLAs before August 14, the day when a special Assembly session begins.

It clearly indicates that in absence of a final judicial judgement to order a stay on the voting rights of these MLAs in the Assembly,

all 6 MLAs will be free to exercise their vote on the floor of the House in favor of Gehlot government, if it comes to a trust vote.

In this way, division bench’s Thursday order is being considered as some sort of a relief to the Ashok Gehlot government.

The bench was headed by Chief Justice Indrajeet Mahanty and also having Justice

Prakash Gupta as another colleague judge.

The only exception to this situation can be when all judicial proceedings in this case in HC and even in Supreme Court are disposed off before August 14 and BSP MLAs are debarred from participating in the trust vote exercise and Gehlot government is virtually reduced to a minority, but this looks a

CM Ashok Gehlot

distance possibility because going by the principal of natural justice, no judgement is likely to be passed without hearing viewpoint or side of 6 BSP MLAs and this mandatory service of notice will be a very difficult exercise. According to sources, all 6 BSP MLAs, who are camping at a Jaisalmer hotel at the moment, are being shifted to some

other ‘unknown destination’, where the concerned district and sessions judge (as order by CJ bench) will not be able to trace and serve them the notice even through a ‘reluctant’ local police. Notably, the division bench had specifically asked Jaisalmer and Barmer district judges to ensure the timely delivery of notices, taking the help of local SP. Turn to P8

8 KILLED IN AHMEDABAD RBI keeps repo rate HOSP ICU BLAZE; 2 HELD unchanged at 4 pc

CM Vijay Rupani orders IAS officers to probe incident, fire likely caused by short-circuit Gargi Raval Ahmedabad: Eight COVID-19 patients died and several others were injured after a massive fire broke out in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of privately owned Shrey Hospital in Navrangpura area of the city around 3.30 am on Thursday. More than 40 survivors have been shifted to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (SVP) Hospital.

LB Zala, Assistant

Commissioner of Police (ACP) (B-Division) said that the hospital’s trustee Bharat Mahant and a ward boy had been detained by Navrangpura police.

Rajendra Asari, JCP, Sector 1, Ahmedabad, said, “Eight people have died in the fire incident. Other patients have been shifted to a safer place. We are taking the help of fire and forensic experts in the investigation. A thorough investigation will

be conducted.”

Ahmedabad Fire and Emergency Services personnel rescued at least 40 patients and one paramedic from the fire, which occurred on the fourth floor of the designated COVID-19 hospital.

Fire Officer Rajesh Bhatt said, “When our team reached the hospital, the ICU had already been gutted. The eight patients who died in the fire included five male Turn on P6

COMPENSATION ANNOUNCED PMO INDIA @PMOINDIA Ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh each from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of those who have lost their lives due to the hospital fire in Ahmedabad. Rs. 50,000 each would be given to those injured due to the hospital fire. Saddened by the tragic hospital fire in Ahmedabad. Condolences to the bereaved families. May the injured recover soon.

Spoke to CM @vijayrupanibjp Ji and Mayor @ibijalpatel Ji regarding the situation. Administration is providing all possible assistance to the affected.

Top: Inside visuals of Shrey Hospital after a major fire broke out in it, in Ahmedabad on Thursday; Above: Relatives mourn the death of their near ones.

—PHOTOS BY HANIF SINDHI

AMIT SHAH @AMITSHAH Deeply anguished by the loss of lives due to a tragic fire accident at a hospital in Ahmedabad.

My condolences and thoughts are with the affected families in this hour of grief. Praying for the speedy recovery of those injured.

AHMED PATEL @AHMEDPATEL Distressed to learn about the tragic incident at Shrey Hospital,Ahmedabad My thoughts & prayers are with the victims & their families in this hour of grief The local administration must provide necessary assistance and thoroughly investigate the cause of this fire

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia amount of Rs2 lakh to the families of all those who lost their lives in the fire from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund. Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani has announced an ex gratia amount of Rs 4 lakhs each to the families of the eight victims who died in the fire at Shrey Hospital in Ahmedabad, said the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) on Thursday.

The CMO added that Rs 50,000 would be given to those injured in the incident.

GDP growth seen negative in Financial Year 2021 Mumbai: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Thursday kept the key repo rate unchanged at 4 per cent in view of rising inflation and faint signs of economic growth amid the gradual lifting of coronavirus (COVID-19) countrywide lockdown.

The central bank’s monetary policy committee (MPC) began its three-day meeting on August 4 and maintained the stance as accommodative. It also kept the reverse repo rate unchanged at 3.35 per cent. Repo is the rate at which RBI lends funds

to commercial banks when needed. It is a tool that the central bank uses to control inflation.

While there are some signs of a pick up in ac-

tivity due to the staggered easing of a lockdown, there is a large degree of uncertainty amid a surge in virus cases.

Turn on P6

BCCI-Vivo part ways: IPL ‘20 Murmu is new CAG, Mumbai: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and Vivo Mobile India Pvt Ltd have decided to suspend their partnership for Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2020, an IPL media advisory confirmed.

The BCCI on Thursday suspended the IPL title sponsorship deal with Chinese mobile phone company Vivo for the event’’s upcoming edition Turn on P6

Sinha is J&K LG New Delhi: Girish Chandra Murmu, the former Lt Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, has been appointed the new Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG). Murmu will be replacing Rajiv Mehrishi, a 1978 batch IAS officer of the Rajasthan cadre, as the CAG. Mehrishi

GC Murmu

will be turning 65 on August 8.

Earlier, Manoj Sinha replaced Murmu as the L-G of J&K. P5

REVIEW MEETING OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND PANCHAYATI RAJ DEPARTMENT

Strengthen rural economy: Gehlot’s plain talk to babus UPA govt schemes like MNREGA and Rajivika a boon, connect more people with them Naresh Shrma Jaipur: Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has said that due to the Covid-19 pandemic, a major employment crisis has arisen in cities as well as in villages. “In order to strengthen the rural economy, effective im-

plementation of schemes related to village development should be ensured.

Schemes like the Mahatma Gandhi NREGA scheme and the National Rural Livelihoods Mission, started during the UPA government, have proved to be a boon

CM Ashok Gehlot held a review meeting of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Department where Rajeeva Swarup, Kuldeep Ranka, Mahendra Soni, Rajeshwar Singh and others on Thursday.

in this challenging time of Corona spread,” Gehlot said and asked officials to provide employment to more people by connecting them with these schemes.

Gehlot held a review of the Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Department through video conference at the Chief Minister’s residence on Thursday. District and block level officers of Rural Development and

Panchayati Raj departments of all 33 districts were also involved in the conference. The Chief Minister held direct communication with Zilla Parishad CEOs and other officials including ACEO regarding the schemes related to rural development.

The Chief Minister said that the National Rural Livelihood Mission has played a good role in providing employment Turn on P6

RAJASTHAN JAIPUR | FRIDAY, AUGUST 7, 2020

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‘CM is a magician & nation will witness his magic on Aug 14’ After 8 days of shifting to Jaisalmer, some MLAs went sightseeing accompanied by mins Jaisalmer: The state government which was earlier working from Hotel Fairmont in Jaipur has now shifted its base to Hotel Suryagarh in Jaisalmer for more than a week now.

UDH minister Shanti Dhariwal who reached Jaisalmer after initiating far-reaching changes in building bylaws in consultation with senior UDH officers in Jaipur said in his trademark style that CM is a magician and the country along with the state will witness his magic on August 14. Dhariwal also said that Jaisalmer seems to be adding beauty to itself every year as the tourists love the architecture here.

Meanwhile, on Thurs-

First India Bureau Jaipur: The hearing in the infamous 2013 ambulance scam has been deferred till September 8.

The court excused the personal appearance of Ravi Krishna s/o former central minister Vayalar Ravi, Amit Antony s/o former central minister Alex Antony, Shweta mangal d/o Rajendra Mangal and company GM Kamal Saini on their application through their counsel deferred the hearing till September 8 as it also awaits the High Court judgment.

Shanti Dhariwal and Sanyam Lodha talking to media in Jaisalmer on Thursday.

day, Congress MLAs who have been camping in fortified Suryagarh came out of the hotel after eight days, however, only selected ministers have the permission to venture out of the hotel.

Ministers who reached Jaisalmer on Wednesday moved out for sightseeing and were accompanied by MLAs Sanyam Lodha, Mevaram Jain, and Rohit Bohra.

The ministers and

MLAs first went to see the famous Patwon Ki Haveli and then reached the Jain temple in the fort. They were mesmerized by the architecture of the temple.

Meanwhile, Barmer

Examples set by CM causing tension to BJP leaders: Singh Ashwani Yadav Jaisalmer: BSP MLAs facing a legal challenge to their merger with the Congress have expressed faith in the judiciary. They said that they supported the Congress for good work and development of Rajasthan.

MLA Sandeep Yadav said that every MLA’s first priority is to solve problems of people in his constituencies and for the development of the area. “We have hopes with CM Ashok

Lakhan Singh

Gehlot’s government that is why we joined the Congress,” he said.

MLA from Nagar Wajib Ali said that the BJP is clearly afraid and panicked. He claimed not to have received notices.

“Everyone knows our whereabouts and whom are we meeting. What is

the problem in serving the notice? It will come and we are sure of getting justice,” he said.

According to Ali, the legal process was followed and the speaker approved the merger but the haste was shown by them (BJP) showed that their conspiracy is weakening. He said that the BSP is being used by the BJP in its conspiracy.

“The BJP is worried.

The examples set by the CM are causing tension to the BJP leaders,” Lakhan Singh, MLA from Karauli said.

Sachin Pilot & his supporters should apologise: Raghuveer

Raj records 26% rain deficiency

Rajiv Gaur

Jaipur: The monsoon has been weak ever since its entry in the state this year. According to IMD, the state is overall 26% deficient in rainfall this season if compared with its average share every season.

Western Rajasthan is falling short by 16% while it is 31% short for the eastern part of the state. So far the monsoon has been kind to the Churu district which has received 25% more rains than average rainfall.

Jodhpur: Senior Congress leader and CWC member Raghuveer Meena on his way to Jaisalmer stopped at Jodhpur. Meena is to be part of the discussion on the Congress strategy for the assembly session on August 14. While speaking to First India, he expressed confidence on the stability of the state government. He said that the government has the support of 102 MLAs and the gov-

Raghuveer Meena and Suresh Vyas in Jodhpur on Thursday.

ernment will prove it on August 14. Reacting to the return of dissidents in the party he said that CM Ashok Gehlot has on record said that if the dissidents are forgiven

Jhalawar: 5-yr-old girl raped by teenager: Cops First India Bureau Kota: A five-year-old girl was allegedly raped by a boy aged around 16 while she was visiting her maternal grandparents’ house for Rakhi in Jhalawar district, police said on Thursday.

The incident took place in Ghantoli area on July 30 and the complaint was lodged by the girl’s mother on Wednesday, they said.

The boy, who is a relative of the survivor, is yet to be detained,

Ghantoli SHO Bannalal said. The medical examination of the girl was conducted on Thursday and later in the day her statements was recorded before a magistrate, the station house officer said.

The girl, who came to Ghantoli with her mother, has alleged that the teenager tempted her with toffees and took her to his house in the neighbourhood and raped her, Bannalal said citing the complaint lodged.

by the high command then he will welcome them with open arms.

Meena said that Sachin Pilot and his supporters should apologize.

Raj HC issues notices to HRD ministry, others First India Bureau Jaipur: Rajasthan High Court on Wednesday issued notices to Union HRD ministry, National Commissioner for Protection of Child Rights Delhi, and education department of Rajasthan in a PIL related to school education.

Petitioner Shailesh Nath Singh urged for reimbursement of fees of all students studying in non-government schools by the government this year.

MLA Mevaram Jain attacked BJP and said BJP is expert in levying false allegations and diverting the attention of people. He expressed confidence that the state government would complete its tenure of five years.

MLA Rohit Bohra denied the allegations of restrictions on Congress MLAs in Jaisalmer. He said the state government was fully active. He said that apart from the hectic schedule of CM, which is there for all to see, even the rest of the ministers are doing their job. He said the ministers were giving instructions to their officers through VC. Bohra said the dawn of August 14 will usher in a new morning for the state.

First India Bureau

High Courts cannot ignore Supreme Court’s rulings: MLA Lodha

Jaipur/Jaisalmer: Higher education minister Bhanwar Singh Bhati has said that if the need arises then the government will prove its majority in the assembly. Bhati said the Congress MLAs are residing together in Jaisalmer at their own wish to reply to the conspiracy of the BJP. Minister said that the upcoming assembly sessions will have many issues like locusts, corona, etc to be discussed in the house. Bhati also said that Congress MLAs will defeat the conspiracy being hatched by BJP in cahoots with big money bags. Bhati said the ambitions of some people have outgrown the nation itself.

AICC co in-charge of the state Vivek Bansal said that our erstwhile colleagues have turned greedy for power.

Jaipur: Independent MLA Sanyam Lodha said that the High Courts cannot ignore Supreme Court’s rulings. If not today, then tomorrow they will have to follow orders by the apex court.

The MLA from Sirohi also accused the BJP of toppling democratically elected governments in the states. “The BJP will have to give an answer for its actions in the house as well as outside,” he said.

Lodha said that the court doesn’t have the right to deprive a person of voting rights. In fact, this kind of intention itself is illegal. He said that public representatives are responsible for development in their respective constituencies. They have to get things done which can only be done by co-

First India Bureau

operating with the government. “What is objectionable in it,” he asked.

Reacting to reports of Pilot group shifting base to Gujarat, Lodha said that they are under the tutelage of BJP. They may go to Delhi or Gujarat but it would be better if they came home.

Accusing the BJP of bringing down elected governments in the states, he said that the ruling party at the centre has been shamelessly pulling down governments using money and muscle power.

UNITED COLOURS OF CONGRESS —PHOTOS BY SANTOSH SHARMA

Ambulance scam: Hearing deferred till September 8

—PHOTO BY SANTOSH SHARMA

Laxman Raghav

Min Bhati is confident of Cong’s victory

02

Women MLAs apply ‘mahendi’ on their hands to celebrate ‘Kajari Teej’ at Hotel Suryagarh in Jaisalmer on Thursday.

First India Bureau Shanti Dhariwal and Sanyam Lodha along with other leaders at Patwon ki Haveli in Jaisalmer on Thursday.

Tikaram Jully takes a morning walk on Thursday.

Women MLAs along with Rajasthani folk artists Sandeep Yadav offers prayers to Lord at Hotel Suryagarh in Jaisalmer.

Hanuman on Thursday.

ACB court returns SOG case files to CMM court Om Prakash Sharma Jaipur: The SOG is already under scanner for first registering FIR in haste and arresting three persons and 2 days later it found that sedition charges weren’t applicable and sent the files to the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) and now it has been given a jolt by the court also.

The ACB court returned the case files to

CMM court citing the matter to be out of its jurisdiction area.

Earlier, Judge Upendra Sharma had asked for the status report while extending the judicial custody of accused Sanjay Jain.

ACB told the court that it has received the case files but no investigation officer has been appointed for the case yet and it is yet to ascertain that any crime under Anti-cor-

Prashant Bairwa reading First India newspaper on Thursday.

ruption Act has happened or not. It came to notice of the court that SOG is functioning under the DGP and the IO could send the files to ACB only through the DGP. It was noticed that any higher officer of the SOG could have investigated the case and even if the crime did actually take place the charge sheet had to be presented in trial court only.

COVID-19

IPL franchises begin quarantining and testing Naresh Sharma Jaipur: A day after a few of the IPL owners had a meeting internally to discuss the Standard Operating Procedures draft sent by the tournament’s governing council, it appears that the teams have begun activating their own protocols prior to departure to the UAE for IPL 2020. Mumbai Indians have started quarantining their Indian players in a hotel, with regular

Covid-19 tests scheduled. Players who complete their quarantine will then be allowed to train at their facility in Navi Mumbai.

Rajasthan Royals too plan to conduct Covid-19 tests for their players and support staff over the next 2 weeks, prior to their departure to Dubai. Another franchise has asked their Indian players to home quarantine - as a precaution - while simultaneously initiating tests.

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1,151 NEW CORONA CASES, 12 DEATHS IN RAJ Last 24 hours took the total tally of state to 48,996 and death toll to 757; 18 army personnel at Itrana military cantonment tested positive First India Bureau Jaipur: The state reported 1,151 new cases of corona in the last 24 hours taking the total to 48,996 along with 12 deaths. Till now, 757 people have died of the disease. Bikaner reported five deaths, two deaths were reported from Dholpur while one death each from Jaipur, Jhunjhunu, Nagaur and Jodhpur. Alwar added maximum 204 new cases followed by 140 from Jodhpur, 130 from Kota, 109 from Jaipur, 92 from Bhilwara, 82 from Udaipur, 71 from Bikaner, 67 from Ajmer, 40 from Bharatpur, 36 from Ganganagar, 22 from Chittorgarh, 21 from Tonk, 19 from Dungarpur, 17 from Banswara, 16 from Rajsamand, 15 from Jhalawar, 13 from Bundi, 12 each from Jhunjhunu & Pali, 4 from Dholpur, 3 from Hanumangarh, 2 from Dausa and one

SETTING EXAMPLE

Prepare all hospitals to take Covid-19 patients, says Birla First India Bureau Kota: Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla chaired a meeting to take stock of the coronavirus situation in Kota-Bundi area. Birla expressed concern on the rapid rate in which the infection is spreading in the area.

The meeting was attended by Divisional Commissioner Kailash Meena, Kota Collector Ujjval Rathore, Superintendents of Police of Kota and Bundi along with principal of medical College Dr Vijay Sardana and OSD to the speaker Rajiv Datta. The Lok Sabha speaker instructed the officers to research the history of each positive patient to break the coronavirus chain.

Expressing concern

Health Department officials were seen collecting samples for covid testing near Hawa Mahal and Albert Hall in Jaipur on Thursday.

—PHOTO BY SUMAN SARKAR

each from Baran, Karauli and Jalore.

The cumulative district wise tally of the corona positives on Thursday is as follows – Ajmer 2,305, Alwar 4,843, Banswara 240, Baran 227, Barmer 1,618, Bharatpur 2,798, Bhilwara 893, Bikaner 2,351, Bundi 250, Chittorgarh 354, Churu 716,

Dausa 341, Dholpur 1,409, Dungarpur 680, Ganganagar 314, Hanumangarh 237, Jaipur 6,146, Jaisalmer 217, Jalore 1,228, Jhalawar 719, Jhunjhunu 656, Jodhpur 7,623, Karauli 376, Kota 2,466, Nagaur 1,596, Pali 2,891, Pratapgarh 194, Rajsamand 698, Sawai Madhopur 280, Sikar 1,223, Sirohi

Nat’l handloom day event to be held via VC First India Bureau

TALKING BIZ RCA president Vaibhav Gehlot chairs meet in RCA office on Thursday. He later tweeted a photo captioned, “Discussed various topics with GS Sandhu, Advisor RCA and other officials in RCA office today!

Jaipur: National handloom day will be celebrated by ministry of textile via VC all over India. In Rajasthan, Weavers Service Centre, Jaipur will be celebrating at its office at Kamdhenu Complex.

The programme will be inaugurated by Chief Guest MP Ramcharan Bohra, along with Archana Singh, Commissioner of Industries.

912, Tonk 346 and Udaipur 1,518 along with 189 from other states and countries.

The epidemic has entered the gates of Itrana military cantonment of Alwar. 18 army men tested corona positive. The cases surfaced after random sampling was demanded by the army officers.

Rajasthan HC transfers 3 dist & session judges Nizam Kantaliya Jaipur: Rajasthan High Court has transferred three district and session judges. Registrar has issued order according to which district judge Suryaprakash Kakda who was presiding officer in JDA appellate tribunal has been transferred to Hanumangarh as district & session judge.

Churu’s district & session judge Ayyub Khan has been shifted to JDA

Three municipal officials held taking `85K bribe Naveen Sharma

PAYING TRIBUTES BJP National V-P Om Prakash Mathur reached Jaipur on Thursday and visited RSS member late Jaibahadur Singh Shekhawat’s house to meet his family to condole his demise.

Jaipur: ACB team from Jaipur caught three local municipal employees accepting a bribe of Rs 85,000.

Cashier Yashodanandan Sharma, revenue Inspector Sanjiv Kumar, JEN Virendra SINGH and middleman Anup Singh were arrested by the team led

by ASP Sanjiv Nain.

The EO of the municipality Manisha Yadav is under suspicion and is

being interrogated.

ACB acted on the complaint of municipality contractor Kapil Sharma who was demanded a bribe at the rate of 8% for clearing his pending bills worth Rs 14 lakh.

Kapil had already paid Rs 30,000 as advance. The ACB team from Jaipur also included DSP Chitra Gupta, Inspector Meena Sharma and SI Anju and under monitoring of ACB DG Alok Tripathi and ADG Dinesh MN.

‘Cong flouted corona norms at PCC event’ First India Bureau

Jaipur metropolitan second as director Law. And, presiding officer of Rajasthan Waqf tribunal Jaipur metropolitan first Archna Sharma has been appointed presiding officer in JDA appellate tribunal.

Jaipur: A complaint was filed in a lower court against newly appointed state PCC president Govind Singh Dotasra, CM Ashok Gehlot and others for not following social distancing when Dotasra took charge in the PCC office recently. The complaint filed by one Omprakash Solanki, alleged that corona guidelines during the ceremony.

HANUMAN BENIWAL @hanumanbeniwal

over the rising number of corona cases he said now apart from government hospitals and Covid dedicated hospitals, the option of taking over the private hospitals should also be considered so that there people and officials won’t face problem in future.

He took feedback on the steps taken by the health officials and the administration to contain the infection.

Due to the prayers and blessings of the public and the treatment imparted by the doctors, para medical staff, my #COVID19 Test report came negative today!

Soon, I will return to serve you, after I get back to full health and get the permission from the doctors

5-yr jail for commercial tax officer for graft First India Bureau

Kota: Kota ACB special court Judge Pramod Kumar Malik sentenced five years of imprisonment and a penalty of Rs 50 lakh to Mohanak Swarnkar, the Assistant Commercial Tax Officer of Kota, for misusing his position and not presenting the correct evidence on his property.

Swarnakar had earned Rs 20,12,513 in running Vaidya Income

through corruption.

Collector has ordered to seize three immovable properties purchased by Swarnakar, from the proceeds of corruption. Swarnakar, who held the post of Assistant Commercial Tax since the year 2003, was appointed as Commercial Tax Inspector in 1979 and promoted as Assistant since 1997.

He has been punished under Section 13 (1), 13 (2) Prevention of Corruption Act.

Civic official, 2 others held by ACB Kota: A municipal officer has been arrested in Kota district while allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 1 lakh, police said on Thursday.

The anti-corruption bureau later also arrested two others, including Sourabh Sharma, the son of the Ramganj Mandi municipality board chairman, for alleged involvement in the bribery case, the police said.

Municipality executive officer Pankaj Kumar Mangal (37) demanded Rs 4 lakh for

sanctioning approval for construction work in the town, according to a complaint by a resident of the town on July 16, Kota (Rural) inspector Vasudev Singh said.

The complainant had paid Rs 1.50 lakh to Mangal, following which he did sanction

the approval for construction, but later mounted pressure to pay the remaining amount. He eventually got the construction site marked ‘red’ and stopped the work over non-payment of the remaining bribe money, On the verification of

the complaint, a trap was laid on Wednesday night and Mangal was arrested from his residence while accepting a bribe of Rs 1 lakh. One of Mangal’s companions, Bhawani Singh, attempted to burn the colour-coated bribe currency, but the ACB personnel nabbed him before he could burn the currency. Singh and Sharma were also arrested. The action took place under the monitoring of ACB DG Alok Tripathi and ADG Dinesh MN. —PTI

Sportsmen winning medals in LOCAL BODY POLLS: BJP ready

2016 may get out of turn govt jobs to jump fray, Cong wants 3 mths Vikas Sharma

HAILING LORD RAM MLA Kalicharan Saraf and his family lighted earthen diyas at his home on the occasion of foundation stone ceremony of Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

Jaipur: CS Rajeeva Swarup chaired an inert- departmental empowered committee meeting to discuss the selection of agencies for the construction of new medical colleges in the state. The committee decided to to involve agencies like NBCC, HSCC and RSRDC. The meeting was attended by Secretary (Medical Education), Vaibhav Galriya, ACS (PWD) Veenu Gupta,

Rajeeva Swarup

ACS (Finance) Niranjan Arya, PS (Medical & Health) Akhil Arora, PS (DoPT) Roly Singh, PS (Energy) Ajitabh Sharma, PS (PHED) Rajesh Yadav and Commissioner (Medical Education)

Shivangi Swarnakar and other officers.

Meanwhile, Sportspersons, who won medals before 2016, may get out of turn government employment in Rajasthan, the Chief Secretary issued directions to amend the rules during a committee meeting. The draft of the amendment will be prepared by the Departments of Personnel and Sports which would be approved by the Chief Minister and cabinet, the sources said.

Dr Rituraj Sharma Jaipur: State Election Commission may soon decide whether to hold elections for 129 urban local bodies amidst corona epidemic. State Election Commissioner Prem Singh Mehra chaired a meeting with representatives of political parties.

MLA and chief spokesperson of BJP Ram Lal Sharma said that if the commission is prepared to hold the elections then BJP is

ready for it but they don’t want polls at cost of people’s lives. Sharma added that if the elections are held then it should be ensured that corona guidelines are fully implemented.

While Congress representative Satyendra requested to postpone the elections for three months.

SEC Mehra said that there was no surety that the situation would be better after three months but the constitutional provisions clearly demanded local body elections. The commission is soon expected to take a call.

Chief Election Officer Shyam Singh Rajpurohit was also present in the meeting.

PERSPECTIVE JAIPUR | FRIDAY, AUGUST 7, 2020

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INDIAN UNIVERSITIES DIDN’T NEED NEP TO CHANGE THINGS, BUT FEARED UGC TOO MUCH DINESH SINGH Former Vice Chancellor, University of Delhi

T

If implemented properly, we should expect nothing but good outcomes from the recommendations in NEP 2020 that pertain to higher education.

However, a word of caution is in order. Not ensuring the spirit of the NEP vision can also cause a lot of harm. One of the most important of these dangers relates to the training and orientation of the teaching faculty

here are two very striking reasons that compel me to discuss several features and recommendations of the recently announced National Education Policy, or NEP 2020, by the Narendra Modi government. While one of them is a personal success story, the other is an academic puzzle in the form of agencies like UGC that have for long been the bane of Indian universities. Let’s start with the latter one.

As I understand, nearly all the features of the NEP 2020 in the context of higher education could have easily been introduced by any central university without a push from the government. These universities have had all the powers and regulatory bandwidth to implement the policy recommendations as suggested under the NEP ‘umbrella’.

In such a scenario, it’s worth examining why this did not happen and what it portends for India’s education system.

THE FAILURE OF UGC There are two compelling factors why Indian universities couldn’t do what a national policy is now trying to achieve. The first is the dark shadow cast by agencies such as the University Grants Commission (UGC), which deter any experimentation.

Over the years, the UGC has acquired all kinds of strange and counterproductive powers that often run against the grain of the Acts and Statutes of a university.

These actions hamper free thinking in universities, and there is micromanagement to the extreme. We need not look any further than the issue of how universities will handle examinations during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. If our universities do not have the requisite wisdom and wherewithal to deal with such straightforward situations, how will they impart any useful

knowledge to their students?

The matter has gone to the ridiculous length of being taken up by the Supreme Court of India.

Contrast this with the ways adopted by the highly regarded universities of the West, which have often been cited in the debates engendered by the NEP. All prominent universities have taken decisions within the confines of their own realm and environment. So why have Indian universities not been able to do so?

Of course, the NEP 2020 has warranted the creation of an overarching and solitary agency — the National Higher Education Regulatory Council (NHERC) — which carries the spirit with which the UGC was initially created. But it also carries much more in terms of its ambit as the new regulatory body. If it stays the way it has been envisioned, a lot of good will flow through the actions of the agency. If it falters the way the UGC has over the past decades, the NHERC can cause enormous damage.

Thus, it is incumbent on the government of the day to ensure that institutions do not degenerate over time. However, in the current context, it shall be unfair to lay the sole blame for the sorry state of affairs on the doorstep of the UGC.

TEACHING STAFF IN INDIAN UNIVERSITIES HAVE BEEN SCHOOLED IN TRADITIONAL MANNER AND DO NOT GRASP MEANING AND IMPORTANCE OF TRANS-DISCIPLINARY EDUCATION, PROJECTBASED LEARNING, AND HOW KNOWLEDGE CAN BE LINKED TO ENTREPRENEURIAL ACTIVITY

THE FAILURE OF UNIVERSITIES A great deal of responsibility also lies with India’s universities and with those who head them. I have repeatedly underscored the need to put in place processes and measures that ensure the selection of only high-quality leadership for our universities. If we do not do this, then no amount of policy making will get us anywhere.

In any case, with policies, there are other dangers as well. Sometimes, a policy can create many pitfalls such as a ‘one size fits all’ prescription. They can also bind us to a path that may need to be changed or corrected in the light of new learning.

None of the much vaunted institutions of learning — such as Harvard University, Stanford University and the Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine — have gotten where they have

riding on the back of a centrally crafted policy. In fact, Harvard University began to acquire its hallowed aura only when the local government — in 1870 — relinquished control of the now famed university.

A PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENT The thing about good policies is that formulating them is like winning half the battle — the only thing left for the complete victory is to implement them. This brings me to the first — personal — reason why I am also delighted at, and therefore welcome, the Modi government’s NEP 2020.

As it so happens, most of the features that pertain to higher education in the NEP are a near verbatim reproduction of the essential features of the four-year undergraduate programme (FYUP) envisioned and implemented at the University of Delhi when I was its Vice Chancellor. I am

thus quite enthused by the recommendations of the NEP. I say this with much conviction because if implemented in the right manner, they should help bring about significant all-round improvement. The results and feedback from the time we ran the FYUP have strengthened our belief on its value and strength. Unfortunately, after an excellent run for a year, the FYUP was rolled back under a UGC directive that carried no justification.

However, and propitiously, what has gone largely unnoticed is the fact that we ran in parallel, and without interruption, an even more strengthened version of the FYUP at the Cluster Innovation Centre (CIC). That programme runs to this day. The CIC was created during my time as the Vice Chancellor under very airtight conditions, and it remained impervious to the assaults of the UGC.

CIC, A SUCCESS STORY The first bunch of graduating students have now spread their wings far and wide.

They are not just employed at top corporate institutions such as Google but have also succeeded as entrepreneurs.

There is much evidence from recent times. A United States and Delhi-based startup, Delightree, founded by two of our CIC graduates who sowed

Even before Hiroshima, people knew atomic bomb

M

ilton Rothmar, an American Army corporal stationed in Italy, got the news about the Hiroshima bombing from the Armed Forces newspaper Stars and Stripes. He wrote: “The headline said ‘Atomic Bomb.’ To a person who has been raised on stories such as The Final War, this was both a terror and a hope. Man could use this to destroy everything.”

But Rothmar couldn’t suppress his excitement at the prospect that atomic energies might be put to less destructive purposes: “Goddam but it is thrilling to hear the words ‘atomic energy’ used on the radio like they were talking about the latest model car.

I feel like shouting to everybody ‘I told you so!’”

His reaction, written down the very day he

heard the news, might seem oddly prescient: how did he so quickly understand all the implications and possibilities of what was supposed to be a topsecret weapon?

The answer is that he had been thinking about them for years – and so had many other Americans. The sudden appearance of a real atomic bomb was shocking, but its nature – and the implications of its use – had been talked about for decades. People grappling with the news of Hiroshima did so less by learning new information than by remembering things they had long known.

FASCINATED BY RADIOACTIVITY American newspapers were blaring headlines about Hiroshima within hours of the attack. They

were based on an announcement from President Truman that began by describing the astonishing magnitude of the explosion – 2,000 times bigger than anything that had gone before – before explaining that this was possible because the bomb in question “is an atomic bomb. It is a harnessing of the basic

power of the universe.”

The surprisingly effective secrecy surrounding the Manhattan Project meant that few were expecting an atomic bomb to appear during the current war. Many who helped make “Little Boy” – the bomb dropped on Hiroshima – possibly never knew what they were working

on. But what Truman meant by “atomic bomb” was common knowledge.

Long before August 6 1945, the public had a clear (and surprisingly accurate) idea of the kind of destruction that a bomb based on the liberation of nuclear energies would be capable of. So many writers explored the idea that the

early 20th century is sometimes called the “Radium Age” of science fiction.

Prominent scientists wrote popular books on how to experiment with radioactive substances at home. It was a concept as widely known as the Star Trek warp drive might be today.

The result was an intense public fascination with nuclear energies.

Crowds thronged museums to get a glimpse of a speck of radium, thrilled by what newspapers said was a fantastically powerful substance that “leaked” through radioactivity only a tiny fraction of the energy it stored. The great question of the age was whether scientists could find a way to tap that remaining energy, and – if they did – whether they could control it. Opinions varied.

FOR FULL REPORT LOG ON TO WWW.THECONVERSATION.COM

its seeds while still studying with us and who completed the four-year UG programme at the CIC, has raised $3 million from Accel and some other venture firms in the US. Another very thriving startup is TNine Infotech — named after the classroom where it was conceived at the CIC. Equally heartening is the highly innovative startup, Precisely, which is being run successfully by the current students of the CIC in cooperation with some of its former students. The quality and amount of research papers produced by the undergraduate students has been very impressive. For instance, a number of currently enrolled students at the CIC have produced a mathematical model of the manner in which they expected the coronavirus to spread in India. Their model has so far predicted with more than 95 per cent accuracy the spread of the coronavirus in the country.

WORD OF ADVICE If implemented properly, we should expect nothing but good outcomes from the recommendations in NEP 2020 that pertain to higher education. However, a word of caution is in order. Not ensuring the spirit of the NEP vision can also cause a lot of harm.

One of the most important of these dangers relates to the training and orientation of the teaching faculty.

The teaching staff in Indian universities have largely been schooled in the traditional manner and do not grasp the meaning and importance of trans-disciplinary education, project-based learning, and how knowledge can be linked to entrepreneurial activity. The NEP recommends establishing a National Professional Standards for Teachers by 2022 and their education, as reported by Hindustan Times, “will be gradually moved into multidisciplinary colleges and universities by 2030”.

Clearly, the NEP has all the ingredients of transforming India’s education system but implementation is the key.

And therein lies the danger..

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHOR ARE PERSONAL

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TWEET Dharmendra Pradhan @dpradhanbjp Health and well-being of our citizens is a top-most priority of the #ModiGovt. I am sure this timely assistance and our united efforts will soon bear fruitful results for the country.

P. Chidambaram @PChidambaram_IN We must all raise our collective voice and demand that Ms Mehbooba Mufti be released forthwith and all those placed under house arrest be allowed the freedom they are entitled to under the Constitution.

Spiritual SPEAK

In my heart I store up your words, so I might not sin against you.

—Psalms 119:11

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INDIAN SECURITY AGENCIES SEEK SATELLITES FOR KEEPING CLOSE EYE ON CHINESE MILITARY MOVES

New Delhi: Seeking to keep a closer eye on the activities of the Chinese military both near the Indian territory as well as in its depth areas all along the 4,000 kilometre Line of Actual Control (LAC), the Indian security agencies feel there is a requirement of four to six dedicated satellites which can help them keep a check on the adversary's moves. The need has been felt after the Chinese Army in the garb of an exercise in the Xinjiang region on its side of the LAC mobilised more than 40,000 troops along with heavy weaponry and artillery and started rushing them towards Indian territory and transgressed into Indian territory at multiple locations surprising the Indian formations located in Leh including the 14 Corps headquarters.

"To improve the coverage of the activities of the Chinese troops and forces in both near

Document admitting Chinese intrusions vanishes from Defence Ministry site

A banner erected by the Indian Army near Pangong Tso lake near the India China border in Ladakh.

BACKED BY US, INDIA WARNS CHINA OVER KASHMIR INTERFERENCE Washington/New Delhi: The government warned China against attempts to interfere in India’s internal affairs after Beijing unsuccessfully initiated a discussion in the UN Security Council on J&K. In a statement issued by MEA, the government said that this Indian territory and in their depth areas, there is a need for four to six dedicated satellites with very high-resolution sensors and cameras giving ability to

was not the first time that China has sought to raise a subject that is solely an internal matter of India. “As on previous such occasions, this attempt too met with little support from the international community. We firmly reject China’s interference in keep a close watch even on the movement of small objects and individuals," defence sources told ANI. The capability and assets would also help

our internal affairs and urge it to draw proper conclusions from such unfructuous attempts.”

“The US will remain steadfast in support of India’s efforts to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity,” the letter addressed to EAM, S Jaishankar said. the country to reduce dependence on foreign associates to keep a watch on Chinese and other adversaries, they said.

The Indian Armed

New Delhi: China intruded into Indian territory in eastern Ladakh in early May, the Defence Ministry acknowledged in a document showing on the news section of its website since Tuesday. Two days after it was put up on the Ministry of Defence website, the page is missing.

"Chinese aggression has been increasing along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and more particularly in Galwan valley since May 5, 2020. The Chinese side has Forces already have a few military satellites which are used for keeping a close watch on the adversaries but there is a need to further strengthen that capabil-

transgressed in the areas of Kungrang Nala, Gogra and north bank of Pangong Tso Lake on May 17-18," the ministry said in the document under the title "Chinese Aggression on LAC", in the "What's New" section on its website.

The document said ground level interactions were held between the armed forces of both sides to defuse the situation. A Corps commanders' flag meeting was held on June 6. "However, a violent face-off inciity, the sources said.

At the moment, Chinese troops have transgressed into Indian territory in Finger area along the Panging Tso lake where they are re-

‘Why is the PM lying?’ It's important Japan, India expand asks Rahul Gandhi our trade, business relations: Goyal

New Delhi: After the Defence Ministry's acknowledgement of Chinese troops transgressions into the Indian territory in different parts of Eastern Ladakh, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi asked why the PM was lying over the issue.

"Why is the PM lying?" a tweet by the Wayanad MP, which also had an English newspaper's article over Defence Ministry's acknowledgement embedded, read. Gandhi has time & again raised the issue, especially since Galwan valley clash which led to 20 Indian Army personnel losing their lives in a violent face-off with Chinese troops. Defence Ministry acknowledged Chinese transgressions in Indian territory in different parts of Eastern Ladakh —ANI

Priyank Gandhi Vadra @priyankagandhi Saifuddin Soj Sahab has played a big role in strengthening the Indian democracy.

By treating him like a prisoner, the BJP government is crushing democracy.

For the past one year there is tyranny in J-K. I want to remind the government that India is democractic republic,” Vadra’s tweet, which has also had a picture of Soz standing inside the boundary of his house with barbed wire fences on them.

‘NO COUNTRY CAN RUN ON HATRED’

New Delhi: It is important that Japan and India expand their trade and business relationships and the current partnership will expand through the proposed India-Japan Industrial Competitiveness Partnership, said Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry.

"Japan is one of our most trusted trading partners, fourth-largest contributor of FDI (foreign direct investment).

The current partnership will expand

fusing to disengage completely and want to create an observation post at Finger-5. In Gogra area also, they are maintaining some elements.

REMEMBERING SUSHMA SWARAJ

PM shares his speech from 2019 prayer meet

Japan is one of our most trusted trading partners, fourth-largest contributor of FDI. The current partnership will expand through proposed India-Japan Industrial Competitiveness Partnership, which was discussed during the meeting with Japan Minister Hiroshi San. —Piyush Goel, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry

through proposed India-Japan Industrial Competitiveness Partnership, which was discussed during the meeting with Japan Minister Hiroshi San," said Goyal while addressing the Digital Edition of

Make in India, Japan Roadshow 3.0.

"It is important Japan and India expand our trade and business relationships. Together, I have the confidence that we will come out successful in all mat-

ters," he added.

Goyal said as India is opening up for business, both the Centre and states are making strong policy decisions to help investors take advantage of growth opportunities. —ANI

IN THE COURTYARD

ED raids 17 places in Rs 177 cr J&K Bank loan fraud case New Delhi: The Enforcement Directorateis conducting searches at 17 locations in Punjab, Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir, including inthe premises of former J&K Finance Minister and senior NC leader Abdul Rahim Rather's son Hilal Ahmed Rather.

The searches are in connection with its

dent took place between the two sides on June 15, resulting in casualties on both sides."

Subsequently, said the document, a second corps commander level meeting took place on June 22 to discuss the modalities of de-escalation.

"While engagement and dialogue at military and diplomatic level is continuing to arrive at mutually acceptable consensus, the present standoff is likely to be prolonged," the ministry said. —ANI

Because of the lack of clarity about the Chinese activities, the Indian side took time to build up its numbers in Ladakh and additional forces had to be pumped in from adjoining areas and reserve formations were also moved there.

The Chinese have created a similar build up all along the LAC opposite Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh but the Chinese troops there are in depth areas. In the Ladakh sector, the Defence Ministry has now admitted that the Chinese troops have transgressed into Indian territory at multiple locations.

The Chinese had started the conflict with India on May 5, when they marched into the Galwan valley in very high numbers and tried to change the status quo on the LAC but the Indian forces managed to handle the situation well. —ANI

SC adjourns Vijay Mallya’s plea seeking review of 2017 order New Delhi: The SC adjourned to August 20 hearing on a plea filed by fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya seeking a review of its May 2017 order holding him guilty of contempt for

transferring USD 40 million to his children in violation of the court's order.

A bench of Justice UU Lalit and Justice Ashok Bhushan adjourned the matter for August 20. —ANI

probe into the Rs 177 crore J&K Bank loan fraud case, a top ED official said.

ED has registered a case of money laundering on the basis of a CBI FIR and a charge sheet. The CBI had registered the case on March 4. Rather was arrested by the anticorruption branch of the J&K Police on January 16. —ANI

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Sushma Swaraj. —File Photo

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday remembered former Union Minister Sushma Swaraj on her first death anniversary.

Sushma Swaraj, who was External Affairs Minister in the first Modi cabinet, had passed away after a prolonged illness on August 6, last year.

Sharing the video of his speech at a prayer meet in her memory, PM Modi said that Sushma Swaraj served India selflessly and was an articulate voice for India at the world stage.

“Sushma Swaraj was a multifaceted personality and we, Karyakartas of the BJP have seen very closely what a great personality she was,” the PM had said in 2019 speech.

NARENDRA MODI @narendramodi Remembering Sushma Ji on her first Punya Tithi. Her untimely and unfortunate demise left many saddened. She served India selflessly and was an articulate voice for India at the world stage.

AMIT SHAH @AmitShah Tributes to Sushma Swaraj ji on her punyatithi.

Sushma ji was a towering figure of Indian polity, an outstanding parliamentarian and a brilliant orator who dedicated her entire life in the service of the nation. Her ideals will continue to inspire the generations to come.

Minister Manoj Sinha Kejri visits minor sexual assault victim Ex-Union appointed new J&K Lt Governor New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday visited the 12-year-old girl at AIIMS on Thursday, two days after she was allegedly sexually assaulted and attacked in the national capital’s Paschim Vihar area.

Kejriwal told reporters that the government will make sure that those found guilty will get strict punishment.

“I have spoken to the Police Commissioner.

The police are trying to nab the accused. The govt will ensure strict

Police are trying to nab the accused. The govt will ensure strict punishment for the accused. Govt will provide Rs 10 lakh to her family members.

—Arvind Kejriwal, Delhi CM

VICTIM IS CRITICAL, SAYS DELHI CM

punishment for the accused. The govt will provide Rs 10 lakh to her family members,” he told reporters.

Kejriwal said, “The condition of the girl is very serious and she has grave injuries.

She is unconscious.

She was admitted in a very bad condition and is very critical. It will be observed in the next 24 to 48 hours whether she comes out of danger. Hope she recovers soon.”

Earlier, expressing his shock over the inci-

dent, the CM said, “The news of a violent crime with a 12-year-old girl has shaken the soul from inside. Criminals should not be allowed to roam around freely. I am going to AIIMS in a while to know the condition of the victim.”

Meanwhile, Congress workers staged a protest at AIIMS against the Delhi Govt over crime against women in the national capital.

Delhi Police had registered a case under the relevant sections after it came to light. —ANI

New Delhi: Former Union minister Manoj Sinha has been appointed as Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor, a day after GC Murmu abruptly resigned. A Rashtrapati Bhawan communique on Thursday morning said the outgoing lieutenant governor's resignation has been accepted.

Murmu resigned on Wednesday night, exactly one year after the state of Jammu and Kashmir was downgraded and sliced into

two Union territories, the other one being Ladakh. Sinha was a minister in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government between 2014 and 2019 and has handled key ministries

like Telecom. He was BHU student union president leader and has won Lok Sabha elections twice from Ghazipur in eastern UP. He, however, lost the 2019 polls.Union minister Jitendra Singh, meanwhile, praised Sinha and said he carries with him "a rich combination of both political as well as administrative experience.”

Environment minister Prakash Javadekar also congratulated Sinha. —Agencies

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06

Centre releases Rs 890. 32 Cr COVID-19 package to 22 States & UTs for Emergency Response & Health System

GOVT STRENGTHENING COVID 19 TESTINGS New Delhi: The Central Government on Thursday released Rs 890.32 crores as the second installment of the COVID-19 Emergency Response and Health System Preparedness Package to 22 States and Union Territories (UTs).

“As part of this package, States/UTs have been strengthened with 5,80,342 isolation beds, 1,36,068 oxygen supported beds and 31,255 ICU beds. Also, 86,88,357 testing kits and 79,88,366 Vial Transport Media (VTM) have been procured by them. As many as 96,557 human resources have been added in the States/UTs and incentive has been given to 6,65,799 human resource. The package has aided provision of mobility support to 11,821 staff,” the health ministry said.

The first instalment of Rs 3,000 crores was released in April 2020 to all States/UTs to ramp up testing facilities, conduct activities with procurement of essential supplies. —ANI

India ramps up testing labs, access anywhere within 3 hrs

A health worker collects swab sample from a child at Ajmeri Gate in New Delhi.

Recovery rate reaches a record high of 67.62% New Delhi: The recovery rate has reached a record high of 67.62 per cent amongst COVID-19 patients and the Case Fatality Rate (CFR) stands at 2.07 per cent , said Union Health Ministry on Thursday.

“The total recoveries of COVID-19 patients have jumped to 13,28,336 with 46,121 COVID-19 patients being dis-

charged in the last 24 hours,” Ministry said in a statement.

The actual the active cases of the country is 5,95,501 is 30.31 per cent of the total positive cases. The active cases have seen a significant drop from to 30.31 per cent . The count includes 5,95,501 active cases and 13,28,337 cured patients. —ANI

—PHOTO BY PTI

East Asia on Thursday, the minister said that India’s proactive and graded multi-level institutional response to COVID-19 made it possible to have very low cases and deaths per million. The minister said the daily handling capacity of COVID-19 cases in hospitals has increased to almost 35 times. —ANI

New Delhi: India has ramped up its COVID-19 testing facility from one lab in January this year to 1,370 labs today and citizens anywhere can access a lab within three hours of travel time, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan has said.

Addressing a virtual meeting of regional directors of WHO, South-

HOME MIN SHAH RECOVERING WELL, SAY HOSPITAL SOURCES

CPM LEADER SHYAMAL CHAKRABORTY DIES OF CORONA

New Delhi: Amit Shah’s health is constantly improving, informed sources from Medanta Hospital. He was admitted to the hospital after testing positive for COVID-19 and is undergoing treatment.Besides, congratulatory messages have been pouring in to him for the Bhumi Pujan ceremony of the Ram Temple.

Kolkata: Veteran CPM leader Shyamal Chakraborty passed away on Thursday.

76-year-old had tested corona positive and was admitted to a private hospital.

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee condoled the death of veteran leader. “Saddened at the passing away of the veteran leader, former Mem-

A team of doctors too extended their greetings to Shah on the occasion. Although, he couldn’t be a part of the historic moment, he witnessed the programme on television.

ber of Parliament and former Bengal minister Shyamal Chakraborty. My condolences to his family, friends and supporters,” Banerjee said in a statement. —ANI

Plasma therapy trial did not show clinical benefits

New Delhi: The trial conducted by AIIMS for convalescent plasma therapy on COVID-19 patients did not show much clinical benefit in reducing fatality risk caused due to the virus.

“These are initial analyses. There were two groups of 15 patients each on whom a randomised control trial was done to know the effectiveness of plasma therapy. One group received standard treatment protocol while the other group received convalescent plasma therapy along with standard treatment. It was noted that mortality was similar with no much clinical benefits,” Dr Randeep Guleria, Director AIIMS. —ANI

16 NDRF teams pre-positioned in CBI registers case against Rhea Maharashtra, PM assures support Chakraborty and five others SUSHANT SINGH RAJPUT DEATH

New Delhi: After getting the notification from the Government of India, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Thursday registered case against Rhea Chakraborty and 5 others.

The investigating agency booked 6 accused and others in sections including criminal conspiracy, abetment of suicide, wrongful restrain, wrongful confinement, theft, criminal breach of trust, cheating and criminal intimidation. CBI said it is also in touch with Bihar Police. “A case is, therefore, registered under section 341, 342, 380, 406, 420, 306, 506, 120B IPC against (I) Rhea Chakraborty and her family members (2) Sh. Indrajit Chakraborty (3) Sand-

hya Chakraborty, (4) Showik Chakraborty, (5) Samuel Miranda,

(6) Shruti Modi & others and entrusted to Anil Kumar Yadav, Ad-

ditional SP, CBI, ACVI, SIT, New Delhi for investigation,” read from content from FIR

by CBI. In S C, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the central govt, submitted before a singlejudge bench of Justice Hrishikesh Roy that the Centre has accepted the Bihar government’s request recommending a CBI inquiry into the Sushant death case. —ANI

Bihar police submits report to IG Patna: A team of four officers of Bihar Police probing the Sushant Singh Rajput death case in Mumbai, have reached Inspector General Central office to submit a report on the case on Thursday. These police officers have returned to the state

from Mumbai earlier on Thursday while the Patna (Central) Superintendent of Police (SP) Vinay Tiwari still continues to be quarantined in Mumbai.

The officers refrained from speaking about the findings of the case. One of the police officers, on arrival at

the Bihar airport, said that BMC never called to support us but have received great support from their seniors.

“Now when the case is with CBI, things would be confidential, we will be sharing our findings with them,” the other police officer added. —ANI

Mumbai: Due to the evolving situation of incessant rains, 16 teams of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been prepositioned in Maharashtra, said the NDRF. “Five teams in Mumbai, four teams in Kolhapur, two teams in Sangli, and one team each in Satara, Thane, Palghar, Nagpur, Raigad,” said NDRF. Meanwhile, different parts of Maharashtra are facing severe waterlogging and flood-like situation following incessant rainfall.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted “generally cloudy sky with Heavy rain” in Thane on Thursday.

Vipin Sharma, Thane Municipal Corporation said, “Thane Municipal Corporation area has been receiving very heavy rainfall since the past three days, received 149 mm rainfall on August 5. We are alert. Assistant and Deputy

A tree falls on a car due to strong winds & heavy rainfall in Mumbai on Thursday. —PHOTO BY ANI

Commissioners, the fire brigade are on the field.

I appeal to residents to not step out of houses unnecessarily.”

IMD has also predicted intense rainfall over Mumbai over the next three hours. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday assured all support to Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray regarding the situation in Mumbai and surrounding areas due to heavy rainfall. —ANI

BIHAR FLOODS: NDRF & SDRF DEPLOYED AS TOLL REACHES 19 Patna: Over 30 teams, including those of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and SDRF have been deployed to tackle the floods which have affected multiple districts in Bihar, according to the Disaster Management department of the state government.

According to the data

released by the department on Wednesday, 16 districts in the state have been affected by the rising waters. This has resulted in the loss of 19 human lives and affected a combined population of 66,60,655. A total of 12,202 people have been shifted to relief camps. —Agency

FROM PG 1 Strengthen rural... opportunities in every village through selfhelp groups. “Besides promoting these groups, the formation of more self-help groups should be encouraged under this scheme.

Also, to make them strong, their products should be marketed better. In this era of Covid, they can also be added to online platforms like e-market,” Gehlot instructed. He also said that there are complaints of delay in development works under MLA Local Area Development Program and MP Local Area Develop-

ment Program. “To overcome this, their administrative and financial approvals should be issued in a fixed time of 45 days. He said that an online portal should be prepared for effective monitoring of these programs.

Also, their regular monitoring should be ensured,” Gehlot directed officials.

During the meeting, the matter of non-payment of honorarium to about 26 thousand panchayat assistants was brought before the Chief Minister. Gehlot immediately directed the Additional Chief

Secretary (Finance) Niranjan Arya to issue a sanction of Rs 100 crore with immediate effect.

The Chief Minister also directed to create new posts of Village Development Officer and Block Development Officer for the newly formed 1456 new Gram Panchayats and 57 new Panchayat Samitis in the state. He also instructed to issue approval for construction of an electric crematorium at the earliest.

Gehlot held a detailed review of other schemes related to rural development and panchayati

raj including Prime Minister Housing Scheme, Swachh Bharat Mission, National Rurban Mission Scheme, and others.

BCCI-Vivo... amid soaring Sino-India diplomatic tensions.

The BCCI sent out a one-line statement without giving any details to say that Vivo will not be associated with the IPL this year.

“Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and vivo Mobile India Pvt Ltd have decided to suspend their partnership for IPL in 2020,” release stated. —ANI

RBI keeps...

“The MPC voted unanimously to leave the policy repo rate unchanged at 4 per cent and continue with the accommodative stance of monetary policy as long as necessary to revive growth, mitigate the impact of COVID-19 while ensuring that inflation remains within the target going forward,” said RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das. The headline inflation has breached the 6 per cent level, beyond the comfort level of the central bank. The RBI is tasked with keeping inflation at 4 per cent in

the medium-term with a 2 percentage point leeway on either side.

8 killed... and three female patients. The fire was likely caused by a short-circuit and a spark blazed the entire ICU unit in a couple of minutes.”

Several officials including the Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) Rajiv Kumar Gupta, State Principal Secretary (health) Jayanti Ravi, Ahmedabad Municipal Commissioner Mukesh Kumar visited the hospital early on Thursday morning. After the police conducted

a primary inspection of the fire site, officials of the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) collected relevant samples and the hospital was sealed.

Addressing the media, Ahmedabad COVID-19 nodal officer Rajiv Kumar Gupta, said, “Eight patients have unfortunately lost their lives in the fire that started at 3.30 am in Shrey Hospital.

Chief Minister Rupani has ordered an inquiry into the incident, to be led by additional chief secretaries of the state home department and the urban development

department.”

Meanwhile, CMO said that the probe will be conducted by two IAS officers—ACS Home Sangeeta Singh and the ACS in the Urban Development Department Mukesh Puri.

Both officials have been asked to submit a report within three days.

They held a meeting with officials of local civic body AMC at the Riverfront office in the presence of Chief Fire Officer Mehrnosh Dastoor. After concluding the meeting, the two senior bureaucrats then visited Shrey Hospital on Thursday afternoon.

NEWS JAIPUR | FRIDAY, AUGUST 7, 2020

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Rajasthan outcry

PADHARO MHARE DESH

THE FOOTFALL OF TOURISTS WHICH USED TO BE IN ONE DAY DURING NORMAL TIMES PRIOR TO CORONA HAS BEEN RECORDED IN ONE MONTH, WHICH REFLECTS THE FEAR AMONG THE TOURISTS, WRITES NIRMAL TIWARI

l “Padharo Mhare desh” is what Pink city is really dying for these days, post lockdown, as the number of tourists arriving is not matching to the expectations of tourism industry’s stakeholders

SHOCKING SCENARIO

8

major monuments and museums in city

5,269 tourists visited these in one month

24 other 19,326 major monuments tourists visited in state

3,537 tourists visited

the sites in same period

l A MARGINAL INCREASE WAS WITNESSED AFTER THE ARRIVAL OF MONSOON BUT STILL THE NUMBER OF FAR LESS THAN THE EXPECTATIONS

various places in the state

12,665 tourists in Jaipur alone in July

8,806 1,684 visitors in June visited Chittorgarh Fort 3,531 tourists at Amber 601 5,667 tourists visited tourists at Nahargarh

LIVELIHOOD AT STAKE

l Like other industries, global corona pandemic has badly hit the tourism sector of the desert state also and despite opening of monuments and tourism sites, the arrival of tourists is very grim

Alwar

l THIS NUMBER USED TO BE IN A SINGLE DAY PRIOR TO CORONA, ACCORDING TO STAKEHOLDERS

l OUTSIDE THE STATE CAPITAL, THE MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TOURISTS VISITED JHALAWAR’S GAGRON FORT

EFFORTS TO IMPROVE GRIM PICTURE

10 lakh people associated directly and

l Government machinery is also making tireless efforts to bring the industry back on track after directions from chief minister Ashok Gehlot and they are trying to restore the ecosystem so that the upcoming tourism season starting from September gets more tourists

indirectly with the state’s tourism sector which includes vendors, hawkers, guides, folk artists, hotel and resort owners who are dependent on tourism

07

l Jaipur is one of the distinguished tourism spots in the world which never witnessed this situation before, be it the spread of swine flu, zika virus and many more virus attacks but none of them could affect the tourism industry like covid-19 has done l The state government closed all the tourism spots and monuments on March 18 in the wake of coronavirus spread which caused losses of millions of rupees to the industry. The monuments were reopened on June 1 and hotels, restaurants were also opened from Jun 8 but the situation did not go well due to lack of tourists

INFOGRAPHIC: VINOD KUMAR SHARMA

Chaudhary: Cong Corona effect: With deadline extended govt and its politics twice, dismal show of I-T returns so far I-T RETURNS FILED IN LAST FEW YEARS will soon end in Raj Kashiram Chaudhary

Barmer: Union minister Kailash Chaudhary on Thursday said the Congress government in Rajasthan, led by Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, would collapse and its countdown has begun.

With this, he said, the Congress’s politics too would come to an end in the state.

Chaudhary, who is on a three-day visit to his parliamentary constituency Barmer, said the state government has lost the confidence of people and the chief minister has to confine MLAs to hotels.

“The Gehlot government will fail to prove its majority in the floor test in the Assembly.

Not only the people of Rajasthan have lost faith in the government, ministers and MLAs too are not happy with the chief minister,” he said.

Interacting with the locals of Lakha, Jhin-

Kailash Chaudhary

jhinyali, Devikot and other villages of Jaisalmer, the Union minister of state for agriculture said the Centre has introduced many schemes and programmes for public welfare.

He also pointed out that the provisions of Article 370 of the Constitution were abrogated in Jammu and Kashmir and the foundation for the construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya was laid during the rule of the current government.

—PTI

Jaipur. The Corona pandemic has hit the world economy hard and India could be no exception to it. This is being reflected in the income Tax returns filed so far.

Centre on its part tried to stimulate the economic activities in the country by announcing a 20 lakh crore economic package. With the economic package into its implementation for almost two months now it is almost clear that the derailed economy is yet to come back on track.

This is being instantly proved by the income

tax returns filed so far.

The four months of the financial year have witnessed a sharp drop in the number of I-T returns in the state. At an average there are

around 40 lakh I-T returns filed every year for which the last date was 31 July 31.

The corona induced lockdown for two months forced the I-T

department to extend the last date to file the returns till November 30, 2020.

I-T sources say the extension of the last date is one big reason for less number of returns filed so far and the number of returns will increase significantly in October.

The I-T department too had to change its working due to less number of I-T returns by reducing the number of cases taken for scrutiny. The I-T department had selected only 0.13% cases for scrutiny in 2017-18 and the same trend is expected to continue this year as well.

‘Gram panchayats to have Nandi Gaushala’ First India Bureau Jaisalmer: Mining and Gopalan minister Pramod Jain ‘Bhaya’ has said that every gram panchayat will have a Nandi Gaushala. The gopalan minister said that the state government has started process of setting

up Nandi Gaushala first at district headquarter followed by panchayat headquarter and then every gram panchayat.

Bhaya also said that the government was contemplating hiking financial grants to gaushalas.

On Ram temple, the minister said that he

Pramod Jain ‘Bhaya’

welcomes construction of grand temple for Lord Ram but this matter

should be kept away from the politics.

Pramod Jain Bhaya’s love for cows is not a secret. Even in Jaisalmer, he visited gaushala, performed pooja and checked management of gaushala. He also gave instruction for providing fodder and water to cows.

‘RAJIV-RAHUL’ KEEPING CONG FLOCK TOGETHER!

I

n the political parlance, two names, whenever uttered bring about an image of the Congress party in our minds. These words are Rajiv and Rahul. While Late Rajiv Gandhi was transforming the nation, his son Rahul, is also working at his own pace in the political arena. One would fathom that with all the Gehlot supporting Congress MLAs camped in Suryagarh hotel in Jaisalmer, the mention of Rajiv and Rahul in the political discussions would be a given thing. However, there is yet another Rajiv-Rahul duo that has been carrying out the same work the political Rajiv-Rahul duo have

had to do, ie keeping the Congress flock together! Well, this Rajiv-Rahul duo hail from the IPS stock and are charged with ‘fortification’ of the Congress ‘stronghold’. The duo has been working relentlessly on a 24/7 hour mode. Interestingly, while in the political family Rajiv is elder to Rahul, among this duo, it is Rahul who is ‘senior’ to Rajiv. As SP, Rahul Prakash has been doing an exemplary job and keeps an eagle eye on the activities at Suryagarh whereas four years junior to him is Rajiv Pachar and since he

has served in Jaisalmer, knows the area and its ‘political environment’ too. Notably, CM Ashok Gehlot trusts both the officers as they are one of the most updated officials in the district.

—Laxman Raghav

ONLY PILOT, NO ONE ELSE, AS CM

O

nly two days before, one of Rajasthan’s leading newspaper carried Pilot camp MLAs’ unconfirmed view that they are ready to sacrifice Pilot camp’s stand to

Disciplinary action by BSF against doctor over death of 160-kg jawan Jodhpur: The Border Security Force (BSF) has ordered disciplinary action against a doctor of the force for alleged lapses in declaring a jawan weighing 160 kg fit for undertaking a physical fitness course during which he died, officials said on Thursday.

Constable Vinod Singh, 45, died on July 17 after he “felt giddiness in the evening hours near his barracks” at the BSF subsidiary training centre in Jodhpur.

BSF Director General (DG) S S Deswal had ordered an immediate inquiry into the incident.

“Disciplinary action has been ordered against a doctor of the force after preliminary enquiry was completed recently in a case related to the death of a jawan at a training centre in Jodhpur,” a senior officer said. “Further process to fix accountability is under progress,” he said.

The BSF had earlier said that the jawan was “a low medical category

Sachin Pilot as the Chief Minister, provided Congress high command agrees for a third choice (other than Gehlot and Pilot). Now in this context, speaking to First India a Pilot camp MLA has claimed that none of their camp members have been approached or have spoken to the high command. “Any third person is not an option for us for the position of Chief Minister. We only want Sachin Pilot as CM, the MLA said. Denying moving to Gujarat, the MLA said, “Where we were earlier, we are camping still at the same place,” the MLA said. Interestingly, the group is now planning to release an official statement on Friday through a video message.

—Naresh Sharma

person having weight of 160 kgs with a BMI of 52.98”.

“However, it has been found that the deceased constable was declared fit for the fitness course.

An inquiry has been ordered to ascertain the circumstances under which the individual was declared fit for the course,” it had said.

Singh, working as a water carrier in the 114th battalion of the force, had joined the Jodhpur-based training centre to undergo a physical fitness course on July 15. These fitness courses have been initiated by DG Deswal, who has ordered that all fat and obese personnel in the force should be identified and sent for physical training.

—PTI

Do not focus on the fears in your mind. Focus and be led by the dreams in your heart.

2ND FRONT

—Jagdeesh Chandra, CEO & Editor, First India

POSTAL REG NO. JPC/010/2019-21

JAIPUR | FRIDAY, AUGUST 7, 2020

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Questions raised over MHTR staff after 2 cubs go missing Wildlife enthusiasts have demanded suspension of entire monitoring team for laxity Nirmal Tiwari Kota: The situation in Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve (MHTR) is yet to return to normal. In a span of a few days, two tigers have died and two tiger cubs, one each of MT-2 and MT-4, have gone missing. Questions are being raised by wildlife enthusiasts whether the missing tiger cubs have died of hunger or are killed by some other animal.

Notwithstanding the tragedies, senior forest officials have been talking of relocating new tigers in the MHTR. But the question is, will it serve the purpose unless MHTR staffers, whose alleged carelessness resulted in deaths and missing tigers, are replaced. Or, just a cou-

Cubs of Tigress MT-2 in the Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve.

ple of efficient officers would be able to handle things.

Even if the officers are replaced, will the MHTR be able to get rid of its image as den of

death for tigers. The fundamental requirement is to take tough actions.

Meanwhile, wildlife enthusiasts have demanded truth about the missing ti-

—FILE PHOTO

ger cubs irrespective of the fact that they are alive or dead. The wildlife lovers have also demanded suspension of the entire monitoring team and

accused them of being careless.

It worth noting that in November last year, some poachers had entered the MHTR through Gagron range.

They were caught but somehow managed to get bail. This incident brings forest staff under suspicion.

MHTR’s former DCF Mohan Raju was always accused of playing favouritism among employees. He allegedly listened to only those who he liked. However, when senior officials reached there for inquiry after the death of tigers, the carelessness of monitoring team came to light.

Experts suggest strict action against guilty staff and replacement of the entire staff at the MHTR.

ACHIEVEMENTS OF JAL SHAKTI MINISTRY AVINASH PANDE @avinashpandeinc My heartfelt condolences on passing away of Former CM & PCC President of Maharastra, Shri Shivajirao Patil Nilangekar. May his soul Rest In Peace.

Those who knew him well will greatly mourn his passing.

Best wishes to all the women on Kajri Teej. May all the sisters and their family be happy forever.

Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat presented a copy of the booklet detailing the achievements of Jal Shakti Ministry in past one year to President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu on Thursday. The Ministry of Jal Shakti is providing 90 per cent funds to Himalayan and northeastern states and 50 per cent funds to other states to take up rural drinking water supply projects, the statement said. Shekhawat said that PM Narendra Modi had pledged to deliver tap water in every house of the country and to fulfill this promise, Jal Shakti Ministry was formed.

No final judicial order on BSP...

From P1 It had also ordered to publish these notices in the local papers of Barmer and Jaisalmer districts. Disposing of a petition filed by Bahujan Samaj Party, which was represented by advocates Satish Mishra, Satpal Jain, Dinesh Garg and Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Madan Dilawar, represented by senior advocate Harish Salve and advocate Ashish Sharma, the division bench said that notice, issued earlier by a single judge

bench of Justice Mahendra Goyal, should be delivered to all six former BSP MLAs, by August 8.

Notably, during Thursday’s hearing, the Assembly Speaker was represented by Kapil Sibal, Salman Khurshid and Prateek Kasliwal. It means that the single bench may not be able to take a final call on the issue of staying their voting rights on August 11, a date which has been finalised by the CJ-led bench.

The next two days, Au-

gust 12-13, are holidays and the topic itself ends here. Now, there are two possibilities i.e. all BSP MLAs are allowed to vote in the session and Gehlot emerges as a clear winner and the second chance may be that any judicial authority, may be High Court or Supreme Court, advises Assembly Speaker to postpone the date of session by a week or so, so that a final call on the voting issue could be taken by HC or SC during this period.

So there is a mixed feeling in both Gehlot and Pilot camps and no one really knows which way the situation will take a turn. But this is certain, that the issue of voting rights of BSP MLAs will be a major deciding factor in the likely victory of Gehlot government in the Assembly. However, apart from a keen and curious Pilot camp, the top leadership of Congress and BJP in New Delhi are keeping their fingers crossed on the semifinal outcome on August 11.

Aditi Nagar

E

ven in the worstcase scenario, there is no danger to Ashok Gehlot government, even if on August 11 the Rajasthan High court stays merger of Bahujan Samaj Party in Congress. The division bench has only desired order on stay application, and not desired final verdict in the BSP merger case.

If the merger is stayed, that would signify that BSP legislature get revived in Rajasthan Vidhan

Raje ‘chapter’ on hold, for now!

Aishwary Pradhan Jaipur: One of the most anticipated meeting on which almost entire Rajasthan BJP had been a close watch, the meeting between national party president JP Nadda and two time chief minister of Rajasthan Vasundhara Raje, could not be convened. Raje had been called to Delhi after Nadda personally phoned her following which Raje left for Del-

hi by road from Dholpur.

However, in the meantime, Union Home Minister Amit Shah tested positive for Corona and was sent in quarantine and since Nadda had also met Shah a few days earlier, the party chief went into selfisolation. This was the reason why the much awaited Nadda-Raje meeting could not be.

Although personal

meet is one thing, Nadda makes it a point to keep the ‘conversation channels’ open with other senior party leaders and therefore time and again Nadda keeps taking feedback on Rajasthan, specially from Raje, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Satish Poonia and other party leaders.

The anticipation and excitement around the meeting was due to the point that it is believed in the saffron party,

Vasundhara Raje

that Raje is upset, primarily with the formation of new party working committees, among various other issues. There is curios-

ity among partymen if Madam’s ‘complaints’ could be addressed at Nadda’s level, however, political observers claim that with the cur-

08

May Lord Ram be kind to Cong MLAs, says Poonia First India Bureau Jaipur: State BJP president Satish Poonia took to Twitter to corner Ashok Gehlot led government and said, it seems that the people camping in Jaisalmer are annoyed with Lord Ram otherwise what is the reason that even Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi conveyed their devotion on Twitter but state Congress leaders didn’t bother to even post any symbolic picture.

He took a dig at camping MLAs and tweeted that they had time to post selfies, cooking session pics, sporting activities and even namaz photos but Lord Ram was forgotten. He mockingly wished for Lord Ram to be kind to them.

Speaking to media at the BJP headquarters, he said the state government is scared and insecure and doesn’t trust its own people. Poonia said CM Gehlot has been talking about unity in the party, democracy and morality but now slowly everything is being exposed.

He said media reports claim that the Congress MLAs aren’t allowed to meet and talk to each other, jammers have been installed and they can’t access social media. He alleged that all the Congress MLAs at Suryagarh are suspicious characters for the CM and therefore are under scanner.

Replying to questions Poonia asserted that the Congress was breaking up and their ministers were targeting BJP, it

State BJP President Satish Poonia paid floral tributes to former External Affairs Minister late Sushma Swaraj on her first death anniversary at BJP head quarters in Jaipur on Thursday.

Poaching threat corners BJP? Aishwary Pradhan

I

s the BJP going Congress way?

Does the saffron party feel ‘threat’ of poaching of its legislators?

Highly placed sources in the BJP reveal that even the BJP MLAs could be sent in ‘fortification’ either on Friday or Saturday. The BJP leadership is trying to bring all its legislators at one spot and

would be better if they put their house in order.

He reminded of Rahul Gandhi’s forgotten promise of loan waiver and also demanded the resignation of Gehlot reminding him of his statement while justifying section 124A in FIRs calling his government a u-turn government. Poonia also called the govt a fail-

Lucky Gehlot!

CM Ashok Gehlot

Sabha. In that case, as per Rajasthan Vidhan Sabha rules, the whip will be issued to MLAs of BSP, while the leader of the legislature party, elected by their MLAs. In no case

BSP party president or any other authority, who is not a member of Vidhan Sabha from BSP, can issue any binding whip. Legally directions of any such per-

in this connection they could be sent to any BJP ruled state for training or for keeping them in fortification. The BJP President hinted on such a development and there was word late in the evening that MLAs from region far away from Jaipur have been alerted.

There is a buzz that Gehlot camp is trying to make ‘inroads’ into BJP camp! ure in handling the corona situation.He said, all the government is worried more about saving the chair rather than the lives of people.

Poonia later tweeted while taking a dig at the govt that it had all the ingredients of Bollywood blockbuster like illegal phone tapping, misusing SOG and ACB, Camping at 5 star hotels etc.

son is of no value and has no legal effect. All six MLAs are with Ashok Gehlot and even any stay will not change their loyalty. Legal expert Advocate AK Jain says that there is no chance that at interim stage any court may restrain any MLA from voting in Vidhan Sabha, as a member of Vidhan Sabha has absolute right to vote and participate in Vidhan Sabha proceedings unless he ceases to be a member of Vidhan Sabha.

As Nadda goes into self-isolation after Shah tests Corona positive, may meet Vasundhara today or tomorrow! rent situation of politics in Delhi, it appears to be highly improbable, and therefore the ‘Rajasthan chapter’ will be ‘solved’ at the level of Narendra Modi - Amit Shah only.

However, Nadda’s opinion will be extremely important in this chapter. Interestingly, the ‘top leadership’ of the saffron party has been trying to ‘handle’ the ‘Vasundhara Factor’, and in this connection, there was word a few

months back that Raje had been given the offer of being appointed as Governor of MP or HP. But Raje straight away declined the offer as she is not keen to leave Rajasthan at this stage.

And therefore, it is believed that once Shah returns from hospital after defeating Corona, would the ‘Rajasthan chapter’ be addressed in its entirety.

Meanwhile, in an important development,

Raje held one-on-one discussion with BJP Organization General Secretary BL Santosh for nearly one and half hours, and appeared to be quite content after the meeting.

The duo spoke at length about the state’s politics and Corona among other issues. Notably, Santosh is considered close to both Modi and Shah and plays an important role in certain critical political matters.

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09

JAIPUR, FRIDAY AUGUST 7, 2020

MATCHMAKING!

People in India still seem intrigued by the idea of arranged matchmaking- let’s find out why!

RASHI CHAUDHARY cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

G

iven the current climate, marriages might seem like a thing of the past.

However, the popularity of the Netflix original ‘Indian Matchmaking,’ has got everyone envisioning their special day. It appears that despite the drawbacks and the seemingly emotional toll the union takes on everyone involved, people still seem intrigued by the idea of arranged matchmaking.

It makes one wonder how, despite changing times and increased acceptance of love marriage, what is making adolescents so drawn to the idea of an arranged marriage?

Until a couple of decades ago, the words love marriage couldn’t even be uttered in the household with-

out warranting a thrashing.

Growing up, children knew that the person they were going to marry would be someone their parents chose for them and that they wouldn’t have a say in the matter. This made love marriages seem forbidden and intriguing and what in turn gave rise to its appeal. As a result, young adolescents were drawn to the concept of love marriage as a way to rebel against their parents, and the society they grew up in. On the contrary, in the 21st century, the wide acceptance of love and marrying for it, has made the whole concept unattractive and vanilla.

If not appeal alone, the popularity of “no strings attached” relationships and the distraction that is social media interfering with normal communication, a long-lasting relationship seems almost impossible to achieve.

Teenagers are only interested in having fun and view baring their emotions as a sign of weakness. This generation of commitment-phobic individuals, unable to sustain meaningful relationships, has hence decided to place their bets on arranged marriage as the only way of finding a long-lasting partner.

The author is a student at Boston University, majoring in Communications.

Sponsored by First India News International Pvt. Ltd.

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ETC

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JAIPUR | FRIDAY, AUGUST 7, 2020

‘THE JUBILEE KUMAR’ beatable with 100 percent box office success. Dil Ek Mandir, Dhool Ka Phool, Arzoo, Sangam, Mere Mehboob, Suraj, Ganwaar, and many more were the addition to his volley of non-stop blockbusters. Kumar also starred in Punjabi films like Teri meri ek Jindari. People crowned him Jubilee Kumar as his multiple films completed more than 25 weeks at the box office. Kumar was awarded a Ph.D. During his lifetime, he was known for not taking any medication. He surrendered before cancer on July 12, 1999, just 8 days before his 70th birthday. He received many awards like National Honor by Late Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru, special Shastri National Award and the Justice of Peace honor. He was also honored with the prestigious Padma Shri Award in 1969. He was also a man of sound investment sense, and rapidly became one of the richest men in the industry.

GURMAN SINGH cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

V

eteran Actor and Superstar Rajendra Kumar were one of the most talented actors of the Hindi cinema. Kumar was not inclined towards playing hero roles and hence, he started his film career as an assistant director to H. S. Rawail in films like Patanga, Sagai, Pocketmaar. Rajendra Kumar made his debut with a small role in Jogan that featured actors Dilip Kumar and Nargis. Later, he got a break in 1955 film Vachan, the film was a silver jubilee hit and he was titled as ‘A Star is Born’. He got further success with his supporting role in Mehboob Khan’s blockbuster film Mother India in 1957 in which he played Nargis’s character’s son. His first major success as a romantic leading man was in Amit Saxena’s musical Goonj Uthi Shehnai (1959), co-starring Ameeta. Rajendra, was slowly tiptoeing his way to stardom, became the next best option after Dilip Kumar for

the industry that wanted a reasonably priced star with the same ability to move the viewers. He appeared in over 80 movies. Between 1959 and 1966,

Rajendra Kumar had such a Midas touch that almost any film he touched turned box office gold, and especially from 1963 to 1966, when he was un-

FA CE OF TH ED AY

Whenever this song plays Kaun Hai Jo Sapnon Mein Aaya, it always reminds me of actor Rajendra Kumar sitting in a car, mesmerizing us with his romantic appeal. He acted in diversified subjects including the relationship of poets in the film Palki, patriotic subject matters in the film Dharti, the role of dacoits in Gora Aur Kala. —KUNAL SENANI

YOUR DAY Horoscope by Saurabbh Sachdeva

Rajendra Kumar

ARIES

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

There is a happy atmosphere at home today and you will simply relax and breathe fresh air. You may be willing to transform your house by reconstructing but pandemic situation could become a hindrance. Your cards shows a promising health.

Seniors from your family office will be highly impressed with your ideas on the new project and your strategies on how to go about it. You will benefit from healthy eating so try it. You will take some time off from work to spend quality time with your children.

You are craving for a change as you are bored of your current routine in life.

You will get in touch with your lost relatives and things will be better than ever before. Returns from property business will help you in investing in other businesses to cope up with pandemic losses.

Some relative may visit your house for something important. Those looking for suitable accommodation will surely find one. On academic front, you mostly like to be friends with known personalities but remember a true friendship is not based on any motive or factors.

MAR 21 - APR 20

MAY 21 - JUNE 21

JUNE 22 - JULY 23

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

SCORPIO

You are a responsible professional and people like you for your optimism. You are turning into this health conscious person and people around you will love this new you.

Investments are under your control and you have worked very hard to be at the current position.

You have taken fitness as a challenge and you will shock everyone with your dedication and results.

Spiritual awakening is on the cards so follow any path which leads to your enlightenment.Your work contribution on professional front will give your image a must needed boost.

You will make profits as far as earnings are concerned.

You have a good married life where the foundation is built from trust and respect.

Managing an organisation is not a child’s play and you are doing a commendable job. You will find yourself free of pain that you had.

You will have fun at home today. You will do incredibly well in academics and your parents couldn’t be more proud. You have started devoting more time to your spouse and you both are closer than ever. Calm and slow music makes you think deeper.

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

AUG 24 - SEP 23

SEPT 24 - OCTOBER 22

OCT 23 - NOVEMBER 22

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

PISCES

Exercise routine has proved to be very beneficial for health. You may crave for something that isn’t good for you so please resist your temptations. You are a rising star on academic front and your hard work is your biggest asset. Your lover want to you do decide about your future.

Don’t let a simple discuss with parents become an argument. You may finally get the scholarship that you have been replying on for your building your future. In social events, you used to be in spot light for your fashion sense and confidence but all that’s is a things of the past for now.

You will pass the interview but do the job only if that’s what you want to do in your life. You are energetic and always walk the extra mile when you get your mind onto something. You will be part of a big social event but via video call . Exquisite site will catch your attention for a new house.

You are very happy with yourself and that’s what keeps your parents smiling. You will have a lot of fun on romantic front. Your parents will help you in times of financial crisis be rest assured but first you must try on your own to get out of it, remember there is a way.

NOV 23 - DEC 22

NAGMA MIRAJKAR, Content Creator

APR 21 - MAY 20

DEC 23 - JAN 20

JAN 21 - FEB 19

FEB20 - MARCH 20

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TESTED +VE

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JAIPUR | FRIDAY, AUGUST 7, 2020

11

‘IT WILL BE AN ABSOLUTE HONOUR’ A

ctor Vaani Kapoor recently spoke about her interests to work in a biopic of astronaut Kalpana Chawla.

The ‘Befikre’ actor said, “I would love to do a biopic!

Kalpana Chawla is a huge role model for women around the world and anyone who has ever dreamt of being an astronaut. She’s an inspiration and her story is definitely the one to be celebrated and told. I would really really want to play her on-screen, it’ll be an absolute honour.” The 31-year-old star seems to be making her intent clear to do a project that was once rumoured to be looking for Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone to helm the affairs. The actor feels she would love to take the risk as an artist and try her hand at doing the biopic and also experiment with several genres in her career span.

Talking about the roles she has essayed on the big screen so far, Kapoor added, “I’ve tried to pick the best from what came my way and it feels amazing to have worked with some of the best in the industry. I have been able to get opportunities for roles so distinctive. From a small-town girl Tara in Shudh Desi Romance to a girl who’s French in Befikre, to an independent single mother in War, to a completely different era in Shamshera, it’s been pretty good.”

The actor added, “However, there are many more films one desires to be part of, genres like action, comedy, romcoms, drama, suspense, thriller, all and many more versatile roles to discover.” Vani Kapoor has got two major projects in the pipeline, including ‘Shamshera’ and ‘Bell Bottom’. —ANI

Disha Patani with her father

ollywood actress Disha Patani’s father and two other officers of the vigilance unit of the Uttar Pradesh power department, have tested positive for the Coronavirus.

Disha’s father, Jagdish Patani, is a deputy SP in the vigilance unit of the state power department here. Jagdish Patani and the two other officers were investigating a transformer scam. They had come to Bareilly from Lucknow. Following their corona test reports, the zonal chief engineer’s office has been closed for the next 48 hours. —Agency

STAR OF SKY

Vaani Kapoor

Late Sameer Sharma

‘Keep calm and wear a mask’

S

ameer Sharma, who has been a part of many popular shows including Yeh Rishtey Hain Pyaar Ke, Geet Hui Sabse Parayi, Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon, was found hanging from his kitchen ceiling on Thursday morning. The Police suspect that the actor committed suicide two days back looking at the condition of the body and no suicide note was recovered from the body, as per the report.

—Agency

L

eading by an example, actor Preity Zinta on Wednesday shared stunning pictures from a glamorous photo-shoot where the actor is seen sporting a face mask.

The ‘Kya Kehna’ actor put out several pictures of herself from the photoshoot on Instagram and urged people to wear masks and stay protected amid the coronavirus pandemic. In the captures, the ‘Dil Hai Tumhaara’ actor looks breathtakingly beautiful as she sports a pink dress off-shoulder dress with dangling threads while she ties her hair in a high pony, and lets her luscious curly locks loose. In the snaps, Zinta is also seen sporting a matching decorated mask, as she looks into the camera while striking a pose. The ‘Kal Ho Naa Ho’ actor accessorised her special look with diamondstudded dangler earrings, a necklace and a bracelet.

“Keep calm and wear a mask #projectsanity #Fashion #shoot #ting,” wrote the actor as a caption to the post.

—ANI

BEST COLLAB

... her post Selena Gomez and Taylor Swift

Preity Zinta

I

t’s hard to believe that Selena Gomez and Taylor Swift have never collaborated on a song together.

The best friends, whose friendship has lasted for more than a decade and counting, have proved time and again that they’re always going to be there for each other through thick and thin.

Moreover, Gomez and Swift are each other’s hype machines as evidenced by their social media love for their works as well as being the loudest cheerleaders during their award show performances.

During a surprise appearance on Twitch’s Animal Talking, Selena was asked about her dream Moreover, when it was noted that such a thick friendship would definitely lead to future collaboration, Gomez coyly teased, “You never know.”

—Agency

SADAK 2’s DATE OUT

M

akers of Alia Bhatt and Aditya Roy Kapur-starrer love saga -’Sadak 2’ - on Thursday announced that the much-awaited second instalment of the franchise will premiere on online video streaming platform Disney+ Hotstar on August 28.

Alia Bhatt took to Instagram to share a new poster of the film and to announce its release date. The poster features Bhatt, and Kapur walking beside Sanjay Dutt on a road leading to the mountains.

The poster features the three from their backs.

While Dutt is seen walking bare hands, Bhatt is seen carrying a bag on her back and Kapur is seen carrying a guitar on his back. “Sadak 2, the road to love streaming on @DisneyPlusHotstarVIP from 28 August.” Besides the three actors, the film also features Pooja Bhatt, who along with Sanjay Dutt, was in the first installment.

‘Sadak 2’ marks filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt’s comeback as a director after 21 years.

—ANI

‘Thank You, Next’

A

riana Grande might be blessing fans with a Sweetener Tour movie!

The new concert film will follow the 27-yearold on her big 2019 tour, starting with the release of her album

‘Thank U, Next’. There’s currently a bidding war for the rights to the doc, with Netflix and YouTube being among the top contenders.

“Ariana’s team are negotiating a huge deal between a number of big hitters, with Netflix and YouTube both showing interest,” a source told the site. “Netflix has put forward a starting offer of $5 million to get the rights. The deal is being negotiated by Ariana’s closest advisers, led by Scooter Braun.”

—Agency

Alia Bhatt Ariana Grande

CITY BUZZ www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia

TECHNOLOGY

JAIPUR | FRIDAY, AUGUST 7, 2020

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A DAY TO REMEMBER!

ENABLED LEARNING Jagdeesh Chandra felicitates Senior Editor Syed Umar and his team on the day of the Ram Mandir Janambhoomi Pujan.

Seen with them are (from left) Khushbu, Divya, Aditi, Anita and Nandini.

HAPPY B’DAY!

ANUBHA JAIN

Congress Leader Suraj Khatri celebrated his birthday on 6 August, Thursday.

Many leaders greeted him on his special day. We wish him all the best!

cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

I

ndia is still lacking behind on the digital front especially in the rural sector. Owing to the poor IT infrastructure, technology-enabled learning is yet a dream for many. To make the underprivileged people digitally equipped and to bring more transparency in the working culture, the “Sankya Vidya Foundation” (SVF) is bridging the gap of digital learning.

‘Sankya’ is a vision of five passionate Rotarians and IT industry veterans, viz., M.N.Suresh, Mohan Ramanathan, S.Jayaraman, Suresh Bhat, and Chander P.Mannar. While working as the senior manager in HewlettPackard, Mohan Ramanathan

THE HAPPENINGS!

noticed that with technological advancement, computers in absolutely perfect conditions were being discarded by the IT industry after every two to three years. The machines as garbage dumped in a warehouse with high paying rents. And then the idea germinated to inculcate technology in the domain of education. These IT Professionals use the discarded computer machines of HP, CISCO, Accenture, and TCS, etc.

The foundation at all India level provides the refurbished computer machines with the desired software installed to the needy students, skill develop-

In the memory of...

ment centers, NGOs, visually challenged people, and children with special needs through the service organization called “ROTARY”. Any cost towards this and the maintenance are generally sponsored by the Rotary. From logistics, installation to maintenance everything is being taken care of by the foundation and Rotary.

SVF is supporting blind people also and has given over 2000 laptops to them with specially designed ‘Text speech’ program installed. Through the ewaste management system SVF also suggests its beneficiaries about disposing of donated computers.

RAJASTHAN: On the 79th death anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore, a theatrical play ‘DAKGHAR’ will be screened on Jawahar Kala Kendra’s (JKK) Facebook page today at 7 pm. The play is directed by Sanket Jain and written by Rabindranath Tagore which revolves around a young boy who interacts with everyone passing by his window after the doctor has ordered him to be confined in the room.

It was the birthday of Deva Ram Saini, OSD to CM Ashok Gehlot on 6 August, Thursday, though he did not celebrate it as he has recently lost his father. He took blessings from his mother on this special day and spent the day at work as usual.

PROMOTE INDIGENOUS

WEAVERS T CITY FIRST

Amit Dhariwal, son of Shanti Dhariwal remembered his beloved mother on her fifth death anniversary with heartfelt words of love.

Amit Dhariwal

o celebrate the occasion of 6th National Handloom Day, a webinar on ‘Save the Weave’ featuring Smriti Irani, Union Minister of Textiles and Minister of Women and Child Development in conversation with Sadhguru, Fo u n d e r- I s h a Foundation is going to be organised today at 7.30 pm. The conversation is part of the ‘In Conversation with the Mystic series’ and will focus on national efforts to save the rich, unique weaves native to India. The session

Glorious Achievement CITY FIRST

J

aipur National University has brought glory to the state by securing All India rank 22 among the top Private Universities of India.

The ranking secured in a survey conducted by India Today on the Best Universities of India bears full testimony to the rich academic experience that the Univer-

sity provides to scholars that become a part of the beautiful, and vibrant campus.

The consistency in maintaining its ranks through the years contrasts with the loss of rank by many other institutes that were once deemed to be leaders in their field. The major

parameter leading to this notable rank is the governance of the University among various others things. Chancellor of JNU, Dr Sandeep Bakshi congratulated his team of academicians for their unfaltering commitment and expressed his hope that the coming years would witness even higher rankings and more exemplary contributions from all stakeholders.

will be moderated by Lavina Baldota, a patron of arts and crafts, who has been tirelessly working with the weavers to create exquisite handcrafted textiles.

Known as much for his sartorial sense as his wit and wisdom, Sadhguru has often spoken about synthetic textiles being one of the largest polluters. Last year, Sadhguru

launched ‘Save the Weave’, a movement to raise visibility and awareness about the art and science of the eco-friendly Indian weaves and the plight of the dwindling indigenous weavers. The campaign promotes natural-fibre clothing as a healthy and nonpolluting alternative to synthetics that can breathe new life into a dying craft. cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

RAJASTHAN: Jaipur Citizen Forum (JCF) is going to organise a webinar series ‘Hum Tum 11’ with Sister Shivani on 9 August at 5 pm. The session will be moderated by J.K Jajoo.

RAJASTHAN: The Global Teej Celebration organised by Rajasthan Foundation was held on Thursday, at 7:30 pm, in which Rajasthanis from England, Egypt, Netherlands, North America, and Dubai celebrated the occasion together virtually, with utter love and joy.

RAJASTHAN: Team Cybotians from RIET College, Bhankrota secured the first position in Smart India Hackathon 2020 which was organised virtually where the team presented the design of a Machine Learning Program to classify fake news circulation on social media platforms exclusively for Bureau of Police Research and Development. Being the winner, the team won a prize of Rs. 1 Lac.

MAHARANA PRATAP STATUE CITY FIRST

O

n the occasion of Bhoomi Pujan in Ayodhya, Bharati Shilpkala made the grand statue of Maharana Pratap which is going to be installed in Ayodhya next week. During the occasion, the lamps were lighted, a saffron flag was hosted and the prasad was distributed to celebrate the day. Many Rama devotees attended the ceremony. Sculptor Mahavir Bharti shared that the team of 15 people has worked continuously for 7 months to make a 12 feet statue of Maharana Pratap.

RAJASTHAN: FICCI FLO, Jaipur organised a workshop on ‘Past Life Regression’ on Thursday, where a spiritual scientist, Secretary of Association for Regression and Reincarnation Research, Dr Raajshekar Potluri was invited as a speaker to explain the theory of past life regression scientifically. The session was organised to enlighten the FLO members about the connection between science and the soul.