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Israel-Lebanon conflict:On the eve of the somber anniversary on October 7, Israel bombs Lebanon; Hezbollah responds
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October 7, 2024 – A Day of Escalating Tensions in the Middle East
In a fresh flare-up of violence on the eve of a somber anniversary, tensions between Israel and Lebanon escalated on October 7, 2024. The Israeli Air Force launched airstrikes on positions in southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah military installations. The strikes were reportedly in response to missile fire from Hezbollah towards northern Israel earlier in the day, marking another episode of the ongoing hostilities between the two parties.
The Anniversary: A Grim Reminder
This date, October 7, holds significant weight in the history of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It marks one year since the 2023 Gaza war, which saw hundreds of civilian casualties and widespread destruction. The war left a deep scar on the region, and today’s anniversary serves as a grim reminder of the unresolved tensions and the fragile peace in the Middle East.
Israeli officials stated that the airstrikes were a “defensive measure” aimed at neutralizing Hezbollah positions from where the rockets were launched. The attack came amidst heightened security measures and increased military presence along Israel’s northern border.
Hezbollah Responds
In retaliation, Hezbollah launched a series of rockets into northern Israel, further intensifying the already volatile situation. Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that their Iron Dome missile defense system successfully intercepted most of the rockets, but damage was reported in some northern towns, leading to the temporary closure of schools and the evacuation of residents to bomb shelters.
Hezbollah, in its statement, condemned Israel’s aggression, claiming the right to defend Lebanese sovereignty. The group’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, issued a stern warning to Israel, vowing to retaliate for any further attacks.
Impact on Civilians
As both sides engage in military exchanges, the civilian population bears the brunt of the violence. In southern Lebanon, reports of destruction and casualties began to surface as the bombings damaged homes and infrastructure. Civilians in northern Israel, too, were advised to stay indoors, with emergency services on high alert.
International humanitarian organizations expressed concern over the rising casualties and the potential for this localized conflict to spiral into a wider regional confrontation. The United Nations has called for immediate de-escalation and a return to diplomatic dialogue to avoid further bloodshed.
Regional and Global Reactions
The flare-up has sparked international concern, with the United Nations and major world powers urging both sides to exercise restraint. The U.S. and European Union issued statements calling for calm, emphasizing the importance of avoiding further escalation on a date already charged with historical significance.
The Arab League condemned Israel’s airstrikes and expressed solidarity with Lebanon, urging the international community to hold Israel accountable for what they called “aggression” against Lebanese territory. Iran, a key supporter of Hezbollah, also voiced its backing, calling for the Lebanese resistance group to defend itself against Israeli provocations.
A Fragile Peace Under Threat
As the region reflects on the events of October 7, 2023, the renewed hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah underscore the fragility of the peace along Israel’s northern border. The tensions between the two have simmered for years, with occasional escalations often leading to full-scale confrontations.
This latest outbreak of violence, occurring on such a symbolic date, adds another layer of complexity to the already strained relations. As international actors call for calm, the fear of an all-out conflict looms large.
#HezbollahResponse #IsraelLebanonConflict #MiddleEastTensions #AirstrikesOnLebanon
China
India-China Border Disengagement: Troop Withdrawal Process Completes in Depsang and Demchok; Diwali Brings Sweet Exchange Tradition
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Indo-China Border, 30 October, 2024 : In a significant move towards de-escalation, the process of troop withdrawal along the India-China border, particularly in the Depsang and Demchok sectors, concluded on Wednesday. As the Indo-China Diwali Celebration will be held on Thursday, Indian and Chinese soldiers will partake in the tradition of exchanging sweets, symbolizing a step forward in diplomatic and military relations. Ground commanders are also scheduled to meet soon for discussions on patrolling protocols to ensure sustained peace and stability in the region.
India-China Border Disengagement: Troop Withdrawal Marks Milestone in De-Escalation
The prolonged standoff along the India-China border, specifically in eastern Ladakh’s Depsang and Demchok areas, has been a point of contention for over four years. After intense negotiations spanning two years, both nations have agreed to withdraw their troops from disputed zones, reinstating the April 2020 status quo.
Key Dates in the Troop Disengagement Process
- October 18, 2024: Initial reports confirm troop withdrawal in Depsang and Demchok, returning both armies to pre-2020 positions. The arrangement allows patrolling to resume within areas that both nations had patrolled pre-2020, reducing chances of further conflicts.
- October 21, 2024: A new patrolling agreement is reached between both countries, aimed at preventing incidents similar to the 2020 Galwan Valley clash.
- October 25, 2024: The disengagement process in eastern Ladakh begins, with temporary installations, including tents and military structures, being removed from the Depsang and Demchok regions.
Insights from the Foreign Minister on the Withdrawal Process
India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, emphasized that the withdrawal of troops is just a preliminary measure. Speaking on October 27, he stressed the importance of reducing tensions further, contingent upon China’s commitment to maintaining peace in the region. He reiterated that confidence-building measures would be essential for both nations to move toward a comprehensive border management system.
Focus on Border Patrolling and Security Protocols
Following the initial disengagement, ground commanders are expected to hold a meeting to discuss border patrolling protocols. Comprising officials from Brigadier and lower ranks, this meeting will address patrolling practices to manage the border effectively, focusing on assigning personnel to buffer zones, where neither side can patrol or engage directly.
The Background of the India-China Border Conflict
Since June 2020, tensions in eastern Ladakh have escalated, primarily due to incursions and the violent clash at Galwan Valley. The conflict, which tragically resulted in the deaths of 20 Indian soldiers, was a turning point, sparking both countries to strengthen their presence along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The violent standoff brought about a high-alert scenario, leading to several rounds of diplomatic and military talks aimed at stabilizing the situation.
A Turning Point in Depsang and Demchok
The agreement covers four key points within Depsang, permitting Indian troops to resume patrolling up to Points 10, 11, 11-A, 12, and 13. However, no decision has yet been reached on patrolling protocols for areas like Galwan Valley and Gogra Hot Springs in Demchok. Currently designated as buffer zones, these locations are inaccessible for direct patrolling by either side and serve as no-conflict areas to prevent any direct engagement.
The 3-Point Agreement: A Step Forward in India-China Relations
The disengagement process is anchored on three main points:
- Agreement During the BRICS Summit: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the BRICS Summit included talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Both leaders underscored the importance of peace along the LAC and agreed to uphold pre-existing border protocols.
- Restoring April 2020 Status on LAC: The agreement entails a commitment from both sides to respect the April 2020 status quo along the LAC in eastern Ladakh, with Chinese forces retreating from areas they had previously advanced into.
- Ongoing Dialogue and Cooperation: According to the Ministry of External Affairs, both nations will continue diplomatic engagement to resolve outstanding border issues, establishing a framework for long-term stability.
Strategic Insights: Implications of the Withdrawal Agreement
This new agreement is a pivotal moment in the India-China relationship, representing both nations’ commitment to peaceful coexistence along one of the most contested borders in the world. Military officials believe this move will establish a stronger framework for conflict prevention and bring a renewed sense of security to border communities.
Addressing Future Security Concerns
While the troop withdrawal and the patrolling discussions are a major step forward, defense analysts caution that unresolved issues remain. The buffer zones in Galwan and Gogra Hot Springs, for example, continue to be points of concern. Experts note that ongoing dialogue between ground commanders is crucial for establishing clear patrolling and engagement norms that both sides can adhere to in the future.
The Diwali Spirit: Symbolic Sweet Exchange Between Soldiers
The annual Diwali tradition of sweet exchanges between Indian and Chinese soldiers along the border has added significance this year. The gesture symbolizes a renewed spirit of goodwill and mutual respect, highlighting the hope for a peaceful and cooperative future.
The Path Forward for India-China Relations
The India-China Border Disengagement at Depsang and Demchok marks a significant milestone, yet it is clear that India and China will need to engage continuously to achieve lasting peace along their shared border. For many, the hope remains that this de-escalation will serve as the foundation for a stable and constructive relationship between the two Asian powers.
Crime and Law Enforcement
No Action Taken on FIR Filed by Lecturer Against School Principal for Abuse, 13 Days After Incident
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Biology teacher at Mahatma Gandhi Government School alleges abuse and harassment by the principal; seeks justice after no response from authorities
Karauli, Rajasthan, 29 October 2024 – Despite filing an FIR on October 18, 2024, alleging abuse and caste-based discrimination, Amritlal Meena, a biology lecturer at Mahatma Gandhi Government School in Shri Mahaveerji, Karauli, reports that no action has been taken against the accused principal even 13 days after the incident. Meena’s complaint claims that he faced threats, verbal abuse, and confinement by the school principal, Mukut Kumari Gurjar, who reportedly has political influence in the local community.
The incident, which reportedly took place on October 16, 2024, involved the principal allegedly locking Meena in a classroom, using caste-based slurs, and threatening him. An audio recording of the incident was made by Meena to support his claims, which he submitted along with the complaint to the district collector of Karauli. However, Meena claims that due to the principal’s political connections, no action has been taken by the authorities or the school administration to address the matter.
Pattern of Harassment and Abuse
According to the FIR, Meena stated that this was not the first instance of abuse by the principal. Earlier, on February 21, 2024, he had allegedly faced physical assault by the principal’s brother-in-law, Bhupendra Panwar, within school premises. Attempts to file a complaint at that time were reportedly suppressed due to local influence. Meena also alleged that when he escalated the matter to higher officials, pressure was exerted on him to settle, and he was forced to withdraw his complaint under duress.
Accusations of Favoritism and Misconduct
The FIR further describes a pattern of alleged misconduct, favoritism, and improper management within the school. Meena claimed that the principal exercises undue influence in school matters, often disregarding school rules to benefit family members employed at the institution. The complaint outlines instances of unauthorized leave declarations, discriminatory treatment of staff, and even arbitrary alteration of attendance logs, creating a “hostile work environment” that has instilled fear among the teaching staff and negatively impacted the school’s educational atmosphere.
Call for Justice
Meena has requested immediate action from the authorities to address the abuse, harassment, and caste-based discrimination that he and other faculty members reportedly face at Mahatma Gandhi Government School. He has urged the administration to ensure the safety and dignity of all employees by taking firm measures against the alleged misconduct.
Legal Proceedings and Investigation Status
The case has been filed under Sections 134, 351(2), and 352 of the Indian Penal Code (BNS) 2023. However, despite the submission of audio evidence and multiple witness testimonies, no official steps have been taken so far, and Meena remains hopeful that justice will be served.
Community Reaction
The alleged abuse and lack of administrative response have raised concerns within the local community and among educators about the accountability of school authorities and the need for fair treatment in government institutions. The situation underscores the importance of safeguarding teachers from workplace harassment, caste-based discrimination, and misuse of power.
Amritlal Meena’s case has brought to light the challenges faced by educators in seeking justice amid local political influence. As Meena continues to pursue his case, educational and civic groups are calling for a transparent investigation to ensure that educational spaces remain safe, respectful, and conducive to learning.
Art
Mohammad Rafi Birth Centenary Celebrated with Musical Tribute in Jaipur
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Jaipur, October 22, 2024 – The year 2024 marks the birth centenary of the legendary playback singer Mohammad Rafi, fondly remembered for his exceptional voice, humility, and generosity. Known as Rafi Sahab, his timeless contribution to Indian music and his compassionate persona have made him a beloved figure across the globe. Every year, thousands of tributes are paid to the late singer through musical events held in India and abroad.
In honor of his 100th birth anniversary, Jaipur’s renowned art organization Swar Surabhi hosted a special musical evening titled “Pukarta Chala Hoon Main” on October 21 at Maharana Pratap Auditorium. The event paid homage to “Geeton ke Masiha: Rafi Sahab” through a series of his most iconic songs, performed by some of the city’s leading artists.
A Musical Tribute to Rafi Sahab
The event, conceptualized by Dr. Prakash Chhablani, featured renowned artists Deepak Mahaan, Maru Kokila Seema Mishra, Mamta Jha, and Shashi Mahan. Together, they transported the audience to the golden era of Bollywood music with soulful renditions of Mohammad Rafi’s classics. The auditorium resonated with nostalgia as these talented singers recreated Rafi Sahab’s magic on stage.
Distinguished Guests in Attendance
The evening saw the presence of several notable guests, including Sangeeta Gupta, daughter of legendary music composer Madan Mohan, Professor Suman Yadav, a respected musician and academic, graced the event as the chief guest. Among the special guests were Uday Mishra, Chairman of Trimurti Colonizers & Builders, and renowned painter Gopal Khetanchi. Their presence added to the evening’s significance and paid respect to the everlasting legacy of Mohammad Rafi.
Deepak Mahan’s Powerful Tribute: Over 20 Songs in Honor of Mohammad Rafi
In a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Mohammad Rafi, Deepak Mahan captivated the audience by singing more than 20 of Rafi Sahab’s iconic songs. When he performed the classic “O Duniya Ke Rakhwale,” the auditorium erupted in applause, giving him a standing ovation. Seema Mishra added to the magical evening with her soulful rendition of “Dil Deewana Bin Sajna Ke Maane Na,” filling the venue with a romantic ambiance.
A Free Musical Evening for All
True to the spirit of generosity that Mohammad Rafi embodied, the event was made free of charge for all music lovers. The audience, which included Rafi Sahab’s ardent fans and connoisseurs of classic Bollywood music, enjoyed an unforgettable evening of melodies that continue to inspire generations.
A Global Icon Remembered
From his captivating voice to his humility and philanthropic deeds, Mohammad Rafi remains an eternal figure in the world of music. The centenary celebrations are a fitting tribute to his legendary status, not just in India but across the world. With numerous events organized globally in his honor, “Pukarta Chala Hoon Main” in Jaipur was a heartfelt homage to the man whose music continues to touch hearts.
Art
Bhutta Khan Manganiyar mesmerized Jaipur audience at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Infosys Foundation cultural outreach programme
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Jaipur, October 22, 2024 – The Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Infosys Foundation Cultural Outreach Program continues to revive and promote the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan. In its 108th series, the event celebrated Rajasthan’s folk music and arts, with a spectacular performance by the renowned artist Bhutta Khan Manganiyar and his team. The evening, organized in collaboration with Time Bank of India, took place at Maharana Pratap Auditorium, where the artists captivated the audience with their soulful renditions and traditional instruments.
Reviving Rajasthan’s Folk Art
The Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Infosys Foundation Cultural Outreach Program has been a crucial platform for reviving and showcasing the traditional folk arts of Rajasthan. This initiative aims to re-establish the value of Rajasthan’s cultural legacy by bringing folk artists to the forefront. In this edition, the spotlight was on Bhutta Khan Manganiyar, a legendary figure in the realm of Rajasthani folk music, who performed along with his collaborators, casting a musical spell on the audience.
An Evening of Soulful Folk Music
The event, held on Tuesday from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM, witnessed Bhutta Khan’s melodious voice filling the auditorium with an aura of devotion and gratitude. His soulful rendition of “Mere Sanwariya Ke Hazaar Naam,” which praises the various names of Lord Krishna, transformed the venue into a divine space. The listeners were enthralled by the rich cultural significance of the song, which beautifully celebrated the deity’s many forms.
Celebrating Folk Traditions
As the evening progressed, Bhutta Khan continued to immerse the audience in the essence of Rajasthan’s folk culture. The next performance, “Ae Ri Sakhi Mangal Gao,” was a tribute to the humble Charkha, symbolizing its role in traditional Indian life. His song “Dhora Dhora Ma” offered a vivid depiction of the vast desert landscape, highlighting the beauty of the Thar Desert. The performance culminated with “Jhirmir Jhirmir,” which captured the refreshing joy of the first monsoon rains over the arid land, as if the sweet scent of the wet earth had filled the entire auditorium.
A Team of Talented Musicians
The mesmerizing performance was supported by a talented ensemble of musicians. Roshan Khan lent his vocals alongside Bhutta Khan, while Sawai Khan played the Dholak, Moti Khan performed on the Khartal, and Sawan Khan added rhythm with the Bhapang. Together, they created an enchanting musical experience that resonated with the audience and left a lasting impression.
The evening not only celebrated the musical heritage of Rajasthan but also reaffirmed the commitment of the Infosys Foundation Cultural Outreach Program to uplift folk artists and ensure that these valuable traditions continue to thrive in the modern world.
A Cultural Experience to Remember
The program, dedicated to the promotion and preservation of Rajasthan’s folk arts, brought together both the young and old, offering them a chance to witness the magic of traditional Rajasthani music. It was a reminder of the deep connection between music, culture, and community in the state, and the need to preserve these invaluable traditions for future generations.
Crime
Iran-Israel conflict: Iran Launches 180 Missiles at Israel; Middle East Conflict Escalates
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Iran Launches 180 Missiles at Israel: Middle East Conflict Escalates
Israel, 19 October, 2024: Iran-Israel conflict took a new turn on the night of October 1st, 2024, the sky over Israel was lit not by fireworks, but by missiles launched from Iran. In an aggressive move, over 180 ballistic missiles were fired towards Israel under the direct orders of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed that more than 90% of these missiles hit their targets. However, Israeli officials claimed their air defense systems intercepted most of the missiles, minimizing damage.
Missiles Target Key Israeli Locations
The attack inflicted visible destruction, with images showing deep craters across the country. One significant strike created a 30-foot deep crater outside the Mossad headquarters. The Negev Desert, home to a large Israeli military base, was also heavily targeted. Despite the scale of the attack, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that damage was limited but vowed to retaliate, declaring that “Iran has made a big mistake, and it will pay for it.”
Iran’s Growing Role in the Israel Conflict
This latest missile strike marks Iran’s direct involvement in the Israel-Hamas conflict, which has now spread to neighboring countries. Originally a conflict between Israel and Palestinian forces, particularly Hamas, the war has drawn in various paramilitary groups and now includes major players like Hezbollah, the Houthis, and Iran. Iran’s involvement signals a dangerous escalation that threatens to turn the regional conflict into a broader war in the Middle East.
Retaliation Looms Amid Escalating Tensions
Netanyahu’s strong words reflect Israel’s determination to respond decisively. “The regime in Iran does not understand our determination to defend ourselves,” Netanyahu warned. Israel’s retaliation could further deepen the conflict, pulling in more regional powers. The broader context includes tensions with Lebanon, where Hezbollah continues to launch attacks against Israel.
Israel air defense system: The Role of Iron Dome and Beyond
Israel’s renowned air defense system, the Iron Dome, played a critical role in countering this missile barrage. The Iron Dome intercepts short-range rockets, but with Iran situated 1,000 kilometers away, Israel relied on advanced systems like David Sling and the Arrow System to combat longer-range missiles. Despite these systems’ effectiveness, operating them is extremely costly. A single Iron Dome missile costs $50,000, while David Sling’s and Arrow’s interception costs range from $1 million to several million dollars per missile. Iran’s advanced ballistic missiles, including hypersonic missiles like the Fatah-2023, pose an ongoing threat.
A Series of Retaliations and High-Profile Assassinations
The missile attack comes in response to a series of Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon, where several high-ranking Hezbollah and Iranian leaders were assassinated in recent months. Iran’s response through missile strikes is seen as a direct retaliation for these targeted killings, as tensions continue to rise across the region.
International Reactions and the Threat of Broader Conflict
As the conflict escalates, international leaders are urging restraint. The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called for immediate de-escalation, while countries like the United States and Saudi Arabia are monitoring the situation closely. Iran’s Foreign Ministry, meanwhile, stated that the missile strikes were an act of self-defense, warning Israel not to provoke further hostilities.
With both Israel and Iran locked in a dangerous cycle of retaliation, the Middle East stands on the edge of a potentially broader conflict. Although some media outlets have declared the onset of World War 3, experts caution that this remains a regional war for now. Still, with powerful non-state actors like Hezbollah and the Houthis involved, and Iran’s direct involvement, the stakes are higher than ever. Israel’s next moves will be critical in determining the future trajectory of this volatile situation.
Courtesy : https://www.youtube.com/@dhruvrathee/
Health
Art of Wellness with the Universe Workshop Held at Rajasthan State Scout & Guide Headquarters
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Art of Wellness with the Universe Workshop Enlightens Scouts and Guides on Universal Energy and Well-being
Jaipur, October 19, 2024 : An engaging wellness workshop titled Art of Wellness with the Universe was organized at the Rajasthan State Scout and Guide Headquarters, Bani Park, Jaipur. The event, held under the guidance of Neeta Sharma, Assistant State Commissioner for Guides, aimed to educate students on maintaining harmony with the elements of the universe for enhanced health and energy.
Wellness Expert Alok Khanna Highlights Universal Connection to Health
The workshop was led by renowned wellness expert Alok Khanna, who enlightened the Scout and Guide students on how to establish harmony with the five key elements of the universe – Earth, Sky, Water, Fire, and Air – and the gravitational force. Khanna emphasized that every element present in the universe also exists within our bodies, and through this connection, individuals can maintain health and energy.
Transforming Negative Energy into Positive Energy Through Exercise
One of the key lessons taught during the workshop was how to dispel negative energy through exercise and replace it with positive energy. Khanna demonstrated various exercises designed to promote physical well-being and boost positive energy levels, leaving participants feeling rejuvenated and full of vitality. The importance of connecting with the Sun’s energy was also emphasized as a crucial factor in maintaining a healthy and energetic life.
Harnessing the Power of the Sun for a Healthy Lifestyle
Alok Khanna also shared insights on how the Sun plays an essential role in human wellness. He explained the process of absorbing energy from the Sun to maintain an energetic and healthy lifestyle. Through various techniques, participants were taught to leverage solar energy to enhance their physical and mental well-being.
At the conclusion of the workshop, Assistant State Commissioner for Guides, Neeta Sharma, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Wellness Expert Alok Khanna for sharing his invaluable insights with the students and staff. She also thanked the Scout and Guide students for their active participation, along with all the staff members who contributed to making the event a success.
Delhi/NCR
Satyendar Jain Walks Free as Delhi Court Approves Bail in ₹4.8 Crore Money Laundering Case
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Bail Granted After 18 Months in Custody
18 October, New Delhi: A Delhi court has granted bail to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and former minister Satyendar Jain in connection with a ₹4.8 crore money laundering case. Jain was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in May 2022 and had spent more than 18 months in judicial custody. Special Judge Vishal Gogne of the Rouse Avenue Court stated that the trial in the case was unlikely to start soon, leading to the decision to release Jain on a personal bond of ₹50,000.
Influence of Manish Sisodia’s Case
Judge Gogne’s decision also referred to the August 9 Supreme Court ruling, which granted bail to former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in the alleged excise policy scam. Jain’s lawyer, Senior Advocate N Hariharan, highlighted this ruling, arguing that bail was granted in several interim PMLA (Prevention of Money Laundering Act) cases despite stringent conditions, further supporting Jain’s bail request.
Case Details and ED’s Investigation
Jain’s arrest followed an ED probe that linked him to alleged financial irregularities and disproportionate assets of ₹1.47 crore. The ED had also attached properties worth ₹4.81 crore related to four companies allegedly tied to Jain and his relatives. Despite these charges, Jain’s legal team emphasized the large volume of evidence, which includes 108 witnesses and over 5,000 pages of documents, and argued that the trial would take a significant amount of time to conclude.
Bail Conditions
As part of the bail conditions, Satyendar Jain has been instructed not to contact witnesses, influence the trial, or travel outside India. These conditions ensure that the trial can proceed without any interference from Jain.
Legal Arguments and Comparisons
Senior Advocate Hariharan drew comparisons with the excise policy case, noting that most accused, including Sisodia, were granted bail despite the higher financial stakes involved. Jain had spent more time in custody than many accused in the excise policy case, leading to further arguments for his release on bail.
Events
Sharad Purnima 2024: Date, Significance, Auspicious Timing, and the Special Offerings to Goddess Lakshmi
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Sharad Purnima 2024: A Festival of Health, Prosperity, and Divine Blessings
Jaipur October 15, 2024 : Sharad Purnima, a festival that holds great religious and cultural significance in Hindu tradition, will be celebrated on October 16, 2024. This day marks a powerful confluence of divinity, health, and prosperity as it is believed that the full moon on Sharad Purnima showers nectar-like rays, blessing devotees with health and wealth.
According to the Hindu lunar calendar, Sharad Purnima falls on the full moon day of the Ashwin month. This festival is celebrated with fervor across India, as it is closely associated with Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Krishna. The day is also known for the tradition of preparing kheer (a sweet dish made of rice and milk) and offering it to the moonlight for divine blessings.
When is Sharad Purnima 2024? Date and Auspicious Timings
In 2024, Sharad Purnima will be celebrated on October 16, beginning from 8:40 PM and ending on October 17 at 4:55 PM. The most auspicious time to perform the puja and offer prayers to Goddess Lakshmi is during the night of October 16, when the moon will be at its fullest, radiating its healing energy.
This day is also seen as the end of Sharadiya Navratri, further enhancing its spiritual importance. Devotees look forward to performing rituals under the moonlight, believing that its rays have healing powers and bring positive energy into their lives.
The Significance of Sharad Purnima: Blessings from the Full Moon
Sharad Purnima is more than just a celebration of the full moon. It is considered a day when the moon is at its brightest and possesses all sixteen kalas (phases), making it spiritually and cosmically powerful. According to religious beliefs, the moon showers amrit (divine nectar) through its rays, which can cure illnesses and rejuvenate the body and soul.
Hindu mythology also associates this day with Lord Krishna’s Raasa Leela, where he danced with the gopis under the full moon, symbolizing the divine love between the human soul and the divine. It is believed that Lord Krishna enchanted the gopis with his flute and created a mystical bond of love on this auspicious night.
Sharad Purnima is also deeply connected to Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. On this day, devotees offer prayers to her in hopes of receiving blessings for financial abundance, well-being, and familial harmony.
The Rituals of Sharad Purnima: Kheer Offering and Lakshmi Puja
One of the most popular rituals of Sharad Purnima is the preparation of kheer, a dish made from rice, cow’s milk, sugar, and cardamom. This kheer is left outside under the moonlight all night, allowing the moon’s rays to bless the dish with their nectar-like energy. It is believed that consuming this moonlight-soaked kheer the next morning will provide health benefits and is considered extremely auspicious.
Apart from the kheer ritual, special Lakshmi Puja is performed on this day. Devotees wake up early, cleanse their homes, and prepare the puja altar with yellow or red cloth, placing idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu. Offerings of white and yellow sweets, flowers, and lamps are made to seek the blessings of eight forms of Lakshmi: Dhan Lakshmi, Dhanya Lakshmi, Raj Lakshmi, Vaibhav Lakshmi, Aishwarya Lakshmi, Santan Lakshmi, Kamala Lakshmi, and Vijay Lakshmi.
It is believed that worshiping Lakshmi on Sharad Purnima brings prosperity, success, and wealth, and strengthens one’s financial and familial bonds.
Health and Prosperity: Why Sharad Purnima is Known as the Festival of Well-being
The cosmic significance of Sharad Purnima extends beyond spiritual beliefs. In Hindu tradition, this day is also known as the festival of health. It is believed that the moon’s rays on Sharad Purnima carry healing properties that can help cure certain ailments. The kheer, which is infused with these rays, becomes a form of amrit (nectar), enhancing its nutritional and healing value.
For this reason, many people follow the tradition of sitting under the moonlight on Sharad Purnima, absorbing the moon’s cooling and rejuvenating rays. Devotees pray for good health and consume the moon-blessed kheer to benefit from its curative powers.
Sharad Purnima 2024 – A Night of Divine Light and Blessings
Sharad Purnima 2024 will once again bring together thousands of devotees who will celebrate this magical night under the full moon’s radiance. As people across India prepare for the festival, the significance of this day is heightened by its promises of divine blessings, health, and prosperity. Whether through Lakshmi Puja, moonlight rituals, or the special kheer offering, Sharad Purnima continues to hold an important place in the hearts of Hindus, symbolizing the eternal connection between humanity, the cosmos, and the divine.
Art
Ish Madhu Talwar Remembered: Seminar Highlights Media’s Role and Credibility Crisis
Media Must Uphold Its Credibility: Afridi
Literature Award to Be Launched in Talwar’s Memory
Jaipur, October 14: A seminar on the theme “Media: From Where to Where” was organized on Sunday at Pink City Press Club, Jaipur, in memory of senior journalist and author Ish Madhu Talwar, who was also the General Secretary of the Progressive Writers’ Association, Rajasthan, on his birth anniversary.
In his keynote address, senior journalist, poet, and guest faculty at Haridev Joshi University of Journalism and Mass Communication, Tribhuvan, highlighted that journalism is a challenging and risky profession. “During the freedom movement, journalists fulfilled their responsibilities despite significant personal sacrifices. Today, journalism remains just as essential, empowering us with a sense of duty,” he said. Tribhuvan also noted that Talwar connected people through fearless and impartial journalism.
Presiding over the event, senior satirist and acting president of the Progressive Writers’ Association, Rajasthan, Farooq Afridi, expressed concern about the current state of media credibility. “The country is passing through a transitional phase, and it is crucial for the media to maintain its trustworthiness. Only a few media persons and newspapers are playing the role of a people’s ombudsman. The media needs to be more vigilant about the growing hardships of the common man,” he stated. Afridi further added that the media today faces allegations of being too aligned with power, which poses a danger to democracy. Both print and electronic media are in a concerning state, and for the media to be truly people-centric, the public must take a stand.
Afridi praised Ish Madhu Talwar as both a distinguished journalist and a literary figure. “Talwar’s language was rich, and he laid the foundation of the Jan Sahitya Utsav, bringing writers from India and abroad into the movement to free literature from commercialism,” he said.
Ish Madhu Smriti Shakuntalam Award announced by Premchand Gandhi and Dr Anish Talwar
Senior poet Premchand Gandhi and Talwar’s son, Dr. Anish Talwar, announced that the Bharatendu Sahitya Sansthan would be revived and a ₹21,000 Ish Madhu Smriti Shakuntalam Award will be instituted in his memory. The seminar was moderated by journalist Sunita Chaturvedi, with insights shared by Sawai Singh, journalist Roshanlal Sharma, and Rishikesh Rajoriya. A large number of journalists, writers, artists, and distinguished citizens attended the event.
Accident
Tamil Nadu Train Accident: Signal Mismatch Causes Derailment Near Chennai, 19 Injured
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Tiruvallur, 12 October, 2024
Railway Derailment in Tiruvallur District
Tamil Nadu Train Accident occurred in Tamil Nadu’s Tiruvallur district on Saturday when the Mysuru-Darbhanga Bagmati Express collided with a stationary goods train. The passenger train was traveling at 75 km per hour when it rammed into the parked goods train, causing 12 coaches to derail and 19 passengers to suffer injuries. The derailment occurred around 40 km from Chennai, causing disruption to over 1,300 passengers on board.
Signal and Route Mismatch Behind the Accident
According to RN Singh, General Manager of Southern Railways, the accident was caused by a “mismatch between signal and route”. He explained that the Mysuru-Darbhanga Bagmati Express should have been switched to the main line, but due to an error, it was instead directed onto a closed section of the track where the goods train was stationed.
Fault in Track Switching Despite Signal Clearance
Mr. Singh clarified that while the signal was set for the main line, the track switch sent the passenger train to the closed loop. “Something wrong happened,” he said, indicating that a full investigation is needed to determine the exact cause. A high-level inquiry has been ordered, with the Railway Safety Commissioner set to ascertain the reasons for this signal and track mismatch.
Derailment After Heavy Jerk
Officials reported that the passenger train’s crew felt a “heavy jerk” before the train entered the loop line and hit the goods train. The impact led to the engine’s derailment and damage to multiple coaches. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported, and the injured passengers are receiving treatment in nearby state-run hospitals.
Restoration and Disruption to Train Services
As rescue operations continue, restoration work at the accident site is expected to last up to 24 hours. This has resulted in the cancellation or diversion of at least 18 scheduled trains. Stranded passengers from the express train were transported to Chennai and later accommodated on a special train to reach their respective destinations.
CM MK Stalin Calls for Swift Rescue Operations
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has expressed shock over the accident and urged authorities to speed up rescue efforts. The government has assured that all affected passengers are being taken care of, and a thorough investigation will be conducted to prevent such incidents in the future.
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