Tragic School Bus Fire In Thailand Sparks Debate On Stringent Safety Measures

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In a horrifying incident that unfolded on the outskirts of Bangkok, Thailand, a school bus carrying students and teachers on a field trip caught fire. The tragic event, which occurred on October 1, 2024, has left an estimated 25 people feared dead and 16 passengers hospitalized.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the nation and the international community, triggering debate on the importance of stringent safety measures in school transportation everywhere.

The bus was transporting students and teachers from the province of Uthai Thani, located approximately 250 km (155 miles) north of the capital, Bangkok. The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation, according to Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit. The minister also confirmed that 16 students and three teachers were sent to a hospital for treatment.

The horrifying scene was captured in early images posted on social media and carried by local news outlets, showing thick grey smoke pouring out of the bus, parts of which were still ablaze. Firefighters later managed to extinguish the fire.

A Reuters photographer at the scene reported seeing fire trucks, police, and rescue vehicles parked around the blackened vehicle, with a cluster of firefighters at the entrance.

PM Shinawatra condoles

Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed her condolences in a social media post, stating, “As a mother, I would like to express my deepest condolences to the families.” The Prime Minister also confirmed that the students were on a field trip from Uthai Thani province. She assured that the government would take care of the medical expenses and provide compensation to the families of the deceased.

Rescue group Hongsakul Khlong Luang 21, in a post on its Facebook page, reported finding at least 10 bodies on the bus. The students and teachers belonged to the Wat Khao Phraya School, according to a report by Reuters.

Similar incidents elsewhere

This tragic incident is not a sole example. In November 2023, a bus carrying high school students was involved in a deadly crash on westbound Interstate 70 in Licking County, Ohio. The bus was carrying students and chaperones from the Tuscarawas Valley Local School District in eastern Ohio, who were headed to perform at an educational conference.

In another incident in August 2023, wildfires in Maui, Hawaii, claimed 67 lives, with some residents alleging that they were not sufficiently warned through emergency alerts as the crisis deepened. This incident, similar to the school bus fire in Thailand, called for the importance of effective emergency response systems and the need for stringent safety measures, particularly when it involves the transportation of children.

As the nation mourns the loss of young lives, it is hoped that the incident will lead to a thorough review of safety measures and protocols, particularly in school transportation, to prevent such tragedies in the future.

NEET Row: Bengal Assembly passes resolution on scrapping of NEET; Karnataka next?

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On Wednesday, the West Bengal Assembly passed a resolution, introduced by the ruling Trinamool Congress, demanding the abolition of the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) and advocating for the return to state-level entrance exams. This move positions West Bengal as the second state, after Tamil Nadu, to formally call for the scrapping of NEET.

This resolution follows recent incidents of NEET paper leaks across the country. Prior to the motion, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the same change.

With the passage of this motion, the West Bengal Treasury Bench has officially documented its opposition to NEET. Education Minister Bratya Basu reiterated that his party has consistently opposed NEET due to its nationwide scope, arguing that it undermines the federal structure of the country.

Previously, in 2021, the DMK government in Tamil Nadu had passed legislation seeking exemption from NEET, with Chief Minister MK Stalin calling the exam as discriminatory and disadvantageous to rural aspirants aspiring to pursue medical careers. A similar attempt was made by the AIADMK government under Edappadi K Palaniswami, but the bill failed to receive presidential approval in 2017.

Meanwhile, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has initiated investigations into multiple alleged irregularities and instances of paper leaks in the NEET-UG 2024 exams, lodging six FIRs so far.

Karnataka Next?

 

Meanwhile, the Karnataka Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, approved a resolution on Monday to abolish the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) in the state, proposing a new entrance exam for undergraduate and postgraduate medical students.

During a late-night session, the Cabinet also approved two additional resolutions: one addressing the delimitation of state legislative assemblies and Lok Sabha constituencies, and another opposing the ‘One Nation, One Election’ concept. It will be taken up by the current legislative session next.

This move comes amid increasing concerns about NEET. Last week, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar urged the central government to scrap NEET and allow states to conduct their own entrance examinations.

“The irregularities in the NEET exam are serious. It is a question of the future of lakhs of students. The Centre must scrap NEET and allow states to conduct their own entrance tests. Students from across the country can participate in the tests conducted by states,” Shivakumar stated.

He also highlighted the negative impact on Karnataka students, saying, “Injustice is being meted out to the students from Karnataka. Karnataka has built colleges, but it is benefitting students from North India and depriving its own students. We have to fight unitedly against this. The Centre must conduct an inquiry into the NEET exam irregularities.”

 

 

2019 Easter Sunday Bombings: Why Did Lanka Ignore Prior Intelligence Info From India? Probe Ordered

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The Easter Sunday bombings in Sri Lanka in 2019, which claimed around 270 lives, finally prompted President Ranil Wickremesinghe to initiate an inquiry into why prior intelligence from Indian sources regarding the attacks was disregarded.

This move follows the revelations of the final report from the Commission of Inquiry released on January 31, 2021, which underscored the existence of advance warnings provided by Indian intelligence agencies and other sources.

The Committee of Inquiry, led by retired high court judge A.N.J. De Alwis, has been granted extensive powers by President Wickremesinghe to thoroughly investigate the actions taken by the State Intelligence Service (SIS), Chief of National Intelligence (CNI), and other relevant authorities in response to the prior intelligence.

Additionally, the committee will scrutinize the circumstances surrounding the Directorate of Military Intelligence’s (DMI) initial assessment linking the killing of two police officers in Vavunathivu to the LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam), a belief held for four months before suspects with alleged links to the National Thowheed Jamath (NTJ) were identified.

With access to the final report of the Commission of Inquiry and supported by a Senior Assistant Secretary to the President as Secretary, the committee aims to submit its findings and recommendations to President Wickremesinghe by September 15, 2024.

The 2019 Easter Sunday bombings, orchestrated by ISIS suicide bombers targeting three star hotels and three churches in Colombo, resulted in the tragic loss of 270 lives, including at least 45 foreign nationals, and left over 500 others injured.

World Bank Forecasts 6.7% GDP Growth in India Next Three Years

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In its latest report, the World Bank anticipates India to maintain its status as the world’s fastest-growing economy, fueled by robust domestic demand, increased investment, and a thriving services sector. The forecast predicts a steady growth trajectory, with India expected to achieve a GDP growth rate of 6.7% over the next three fiscal years.

The ‘Global Economic Prospects’ report underscores India’s resilience, projecting a growth rate of 6.6% for the fiscal year 2025. Despite expectations of a moderation in expansion, India is poised to outpace other major economies.

The World Bank’s projections extend further, with the Indian economy forecasted to grow at rates of 6.7% and 6.8% for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, respectively. The report highlights factors such as a recovery in agricultural output and declining inflation contributing to buoyant private consumption growth.

Echoing similar sentiments, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) have raised their growth forecasts for India. The IMF cites strong domestic demand and a burgeoning working-age population as catalysts for the upward revision.

RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das recently revised India’s GDP growth forecast for the current financial year to 7.2%, anticipating sustained momentum across all quarters. Notably, India recorded a robust GDP growth of 7.8% in the January-March quarter of 2024, contributing to an impressive annual growth rate of 8.2% for the fiscal year 2023-24.

The Ministry of Statistics attributes this stellar performance to the remarkable strides made by the manufacturing and mining sectors, underscoring India’s economic resilience amidst global uncertainties.

Kuwait Fire Tragedy Claims 49 Lives of Indian Migrant Workers

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The death toll from a devastating fire that engulfed a six-floor building in the al-Mangaf area has surged to 49, as reported by Kuwait’s state news agency Kuna, citing the Interior Ministry. The blaze, which erupted while residents were asleep, primarily housed migrant workers, according to local media.

Eyewitnesses recounted harrowing scenes of residents leaping from the burning building in a bid to escape. Kuwait’s Emir Meshal Al Ahmad has ordered a thorough investigation to ascertain the cause of the inferno and to hold accountable those responsible, Kuna revealed.

Interior Ministry spokesman Nasser Abu Salib emphasized that stringent actions would be taken against the building’s proprietors. Meanwhile, efforts are underway to identify the victims and probe the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

Initial reports had estimated the death toll at over 35, with most fatalities attributed to smoke inhalation, as confirmed by a security official. The Health Ministry disclosed that 43 individuals had been hospitalized for treatment.

In response to the catastrophe, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a review meeting, extending condolences to the families of the deceased and announcing ex-gratia relief of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister Relief Fund for affected Indian nationals.

Modi directed swift government assistance and dispatched Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs to Kuwait to oversee relief efforts and facilitate the repatriation of victims’ remains. Key officials including External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval were present at the meeting to address the unfolding crisis.

Four-year-long AP farmers’ protest over Amaravati ends hours after Naidu’s Govt sworn-in

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Farmers in Amaravati have brought an end to their four-year protest with the swearing-in of the Naidu government. Following the inauguration of the Chandrababu Naidu-led administration in Andhra Pradesh, farmers from Amaravati have dismantled their protest camps after a lengthy struggle against the previous YSR Congress government’s decision to establish three capitals.

 

AP’s new cabinet with PM Modi.

After Naidu and his Cabinet took their oaths in Vijayawada, the farmers, who had persevered for 1,631 days, including women, dismantled their protest sites across the villages. Their demand throughout this period had been for the development of Amaravati as the sole capital.

The protest commenced in December 2019, triggered by Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy’s announcement of the three-capital plan, which overturned the previous TDP government’s commitment to Amaravati as the sole capital.

Moid and Naidu / X

Under the new plan, Visakhapatnam was designated as the administrative capital, Kurnool as the judicial capital, leaving Amaravati solely as a legislative capital, a decision vehemently opposed by the farmers who had contributed 33,000 acres of land under a land pooling system during the TDP’s tenure.

The Amaravati Parirakshana Samithi (APS), leading the movement against the three-capital idea, organized two padyatras in the past two years to garner public support for their cause.

Earlier in the day, farmers watched the swearing-in ceremony of Chandrababu Naidu and his Cabinet members on specially installed screens. During a meeting of NDA’s newly-elected MLAs on Tuesday, Naidu affirmed that Amaravati would be developed as the singular state capital, with Visakhapatnam as the financial capital and comprehensive development planned for Kurnool.

The return of Naidu to power has injected fresh optimism among the farmers and other stakeholders who have been advocating for justice. Naidu had envisioned Amaravati as a dream capital and a global city nearly a decade ago. However, development works were abruptly halted in 2019 after the YSRCP assumed power.

Amaravati’s foundation stone was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in October 2015 during the BJP-led NDA government, with Naidu overseeing the preparation of the master plan by Singapore. Spanning an area of 217 square kilometers, the city was envisaged in three phases: seed area or core capital, capital city, and capital region, comprising nine theme cities and 27 townships.

Mount Everest Cleanup Operation Yields Four Bodies and Tonnes of Debris

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In a monumental effort to preserve the sanctity of Mount Everest and its neighboring peaks, the Nepalese Army has successfully retrieved four bodies and a skeleton, alongside a staggering 11 tonnes of rubbish, during a recent cleaning operation.

Since April, Nepalese soldiers have been diligently combing through the iconic peaks of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse, striving to rid these majestic landscapes of accumulated waste and human remains.

Standing tall at 8,849 meters, Mount Everest holds the esteemed title of the world’s highest mountain, yet sadly, it has also become infamous for bearing the burden of being the planet’s highest rubbish dump.

Among the debris littering the slopes are broken tents, discarded clothing, food packaging, cookers, empty water bottles, beer cans, and oxygen cylinders, remnants left behind by the countless adventurers who have dared to conquer its formidable heights.

Tragically, along with the discarded waste, lies the somber reminder of human mortality, with dozens of corpses scattered across the terrain, some serving as morbid trail markers for passing climbers.

Recovering these fallen climbers presents a formidable challenge. The harsh conditions and extreme altitude make retrieval efforts perilous and prohibitively expensive, with estimates ranging between $32,000 to $64,500 per mission, as revealed by US mountaineer and blogger Alan Arnette.

Typically, a specialized team comprising six to ten experienced Sherpas equipped with oxygen cylinders is mobilized for the arduous task. In some instances, helicopters are employed to airlift the bodies from the mountain, a costly endeavor that underscores the immense logistical and financial burden associated with such operations.

As the cleanup initiative continues, the Nepalese Army remains steadfast in its commitment to preserving the pristine beauty of Mount Everest while honoring the memories of those who have perished on its unforgiving slopes.

Breaking News: Malawi’s Vice President Saulos Chilima Confirmed Dead in Tragic Plane Crash

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In a devastating turn of events, Malawi’s Vice President, Saulos Chilima, has been confirmed dead following a fatal plane crash. President Lazarus Chakwera made the somber announcement on Tuesday, revealing that Chilima, along with nine other passengers aboard a military aircraft, lost their lives after the plane disappeared on Monday morning.

The wreckage of the aircraft, which was carrying Vice President Chilima, has been discovered with no survivors, President Chakwera declared.

Chilima, aged 51, was en route to attend the funeral of Ralph Kasambara, Malawi’s former Attorney General and Minister of Justice, who was found deceased in a lodge in Lilongwe last Friday.

The ill-fated journey was marred by adverse weather conditions, leading to the aircraft’s inability to land at its intended destination, Mzuzu Airport in northern Malawi. The pilot was instructed to return to Kamuzu International Airport in Lilongwe, but tragically, the plane vanished from radar screens at approximately 10 a.m. local time (0800 GMT) on Monday.

A tireless search effort ensued, with soldiers combing through Chikangawa Forest overnight and into the morning in hopes of locating the missing aircraft.

During a news briefing on Tuesday, President Chakwera conveyed the news that the Malawi Defence Force commander had confirmed the completion of the search and rescue operation, with the discovery of the wreckage. Expressing profound sorrow, Chakwera extended his condolences to the nation, acknowledging the immense loss suffered.

The President revealed that the aircraft was found in a completely demolished state. In a poignant tribute, Chakwera hailed Chilima as “a good man,” a “devoted father,” and a “formidable VP.” He reflected on the honor of working alongside Chilima, describing him as a valued deputy and counselor.

The nation of Malawi mourns the untimely loss of Vice President Saulos Chilima, as investigations into the cause of the tragic plane crash are set to commence.

‘Big cat’ seen in background as ministers being sworn-in at Rashtrapati Bhavan? Mystery resolved

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During the oath-administering ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhawan, a peculiar video has captivated netizens’ attention. In the footage, as BJP MP Durga Das Uikey greeted President Droupadi Murmu after completing the oath procedure, a feline-like creature appeared in the background, sparking astonishment among viewers.

 

The incident occurred when the President was administering the oath of office and secrecy to a 72-member Council of Ministers, including 30 cabinet ministers, 36 Ministers of State (MoS), and five MoS with independent charge. The grand ceremony, attended by 8,000 guests including foreign leaders, dignitaries, industrialists, and film stars, took place at Rashtrapati Bhawan on Sunday.

The video clip, now widely circulated, has ignited various speculations about the identity of the animal leisurely wandering the presidential palace. Some viewers question whether it was a leopard, a common house cat, or even a dog.

Modi 3.0 cabinet after oath-taking ceremony at Rastrapati Bhavan (Twitter/BJP)

 

Social media users expressed their surprise, with one remarking, “Lmao..is it edited or what? How come no one noticed this. Looks like a big cat,” while another commented, “Seems a damn leopard due to tail and gait. People were really lucky it peacefully passed.”

Amidst the speculation, the police intervened, clarifying that the animal captured on camera was a common house cat, dispelling rumors of a wild creature. An official explained, “The camera angle and the lighting made the cat look bigger than it actually was.”

Delhi Police officials confirmed the presence of only dogs and ‘domestic’ cats within the complex, refuting claims of a leopard sighting. The Forest Department also stated no prior reports of leopards in the presidential estate.

India Clinches Thrilling Victory Over Pakistan in T20 World Cup Clash

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In a nail-biting encounter at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, India emerged victorious against Pakistan by a slim margin of six runs in the Men’s T20 World Cup match.

Jasprit Bumrah showcased his bowling prowess with an outstanding spell of 3-14, supported by Hardik Pandya’s 2-24, as India successfully defended a modest total of 119. Despite a shaky start with the bat, Rishabh Pant’s resilient knock of 42 off 31 balls helped India post a competitive score after being bowled out in 19 overs.

Pakistan, chasing 120 for victory, stumbled in their pursuit as Bumrah’s early breakthroughs dented their momentum. Despite valiant efforts from Muhammad Rizwan and others, Pakistan fell short of the target, managing only 113/7 in their allotted 20 overs.

India’s stellar bowling performance, coupled with Bumrah’s exceptional spell and crucial contributions from Pandya, ensured a memorable victory over their arch-rivals.

Brief Scores: India 119 in 19 overs (Rishabh Pant 42; Naseem Shah 3-21, Haris Rauf 3-21) beat Pakistan 113/7 in 20 overs (Muhammad Rizwan 31; Jasprit Bumrah 3-14, Hardik Pandya 2-24) by six runs.

Top 5 in Cabinet remain same, here’s list of key portfolios of ministers in Modi 3.0

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In the third term of the NDA government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, key ministers have retained their pivotal portfolios in NDA government, according to the list released on Monday following the first Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Modi.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari are among those who have retained their positions.

Additionally, ministers like Hardeep Singh Puri (Petroleum and Natural Gas), Piyush Goyal (Commerce and Industry), and Dharmendra Pradhan (Education) have retained their respective ministries.

Some changes have been made with BJP President Jagat Prakash Nadda now holding Health and Family Welfare, along with Chemicals and Fertilisers.

Former Chief Ministers Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Manohar Lal Khattar have entered the Union Cabinet, taking charge of Agriculture and Rural Development, and Housing and Urban Affairs respectively.

Furthermore, CR Patil from the BJP’s Gujarat unit has been assigned the crucial Jal Shakti Ministry in his first stint in the Union Cabinet.

Several ministers have been allocated different portfolios compared to the previous government.

From the allies, TDP’s Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu has been appointed Civil Aviation, JD-S’ H.D. Kumaraswamy received Heavy Industry and Steel, and HAM-S’s Jitan Ram Manjhi is now the MSME Minister.

Among Ministers of State (Independent Charge), Rao Inderjit Singh has been assigned Statistics and Programme Implementation, and Planning, while Jitendra Singh will handle Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, and serve as Minister of State in the PMO.

The list also includes key Ministers of State like Jitin Prasada (Commerce and Industry and Electronics and IT) and BJP’s first-ever Kerala MP Suresh Gopi (Petroleum and Natural Gas and Tourism).

India Inc Sees Soaring Growth Trajectory in Modi 3.0 Era: Assocham

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India Inc expressed optimism on Monday, asserting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership will propel the nation to unprecedented heights, maintaining its position as the world’s fastest-growing major economy, according to Assocham.

The apex industry chamber lauded PM Modi’s third consecutive term, foreseeing a trajectory of continued progress and enhanced global standing fueled by inclusive and sustainable economic expansion in the years ahead.

Deepak Sood, Secretary General of Assocham, emphasized the industry’s confidence in bold reforms transcending economic domains, encompassing governance, quality of life, and capitalizing on the potential of India’s youthful demographic.

“We have been attentive to your resolute messages advocating transformative steps to elevate India’s developmental trajectory,” remarked Sood in a statement.

Sanjay Nayar, President of Assocham, highlighted PM Modi’s commitment to positioning India as the world’s third-largest economy, a goal that aligns with its current ranking as the fifth-largest global economy.

“The entire industrial, commercial, and financial landscape is invigorated with the dawn of a new era,” noted Nayar.

The industry body pledged unwavering support to the government’s nation-building efforts, emphasizing collaboration between industry and government, harnessing the energy of India’s youthful populace, and driving innovation and technology in the next phase of development.

“We eagerly await the forthcoming regular budget, which should delineate the policy roadmap and priorities of the NDA government,” added Nayar.

Rising Incomes Drive Surge in Household Spending Across India

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Recent data released by the Ministry of Statistics highlights a substantial increase in household consumption expenditure across rural and urban India, signaling a notable uptick in living standards and overall well-being among the populace.

In rural areas, monthly per capita household consumption surged by over 40 percent during the 2022-23 period, when adjusted for inflation, compared to figures from 2011-12. This translates to a significant rise from Rs 1,430 to Rs 2,008 in absolute terms.

Similarly, urban regions witnessed a robust gain of 33 percent, with per capita household consumption expenditure climbing from Rs 2,360 to Rs 3,510 after adjusting for inflation.

In unadjusted terms, the figures for 2022-23 stood notably higher at Rs 6,459 for urban households and Rs 3,773 for rural households, compared to Rs 2,630 and Rs 1,430 respectively in 2011-12.

Household consumption expenditure encompasses various essentials such as food, fuel, electricity, medical services, transport, and education. Notably, the survey underscores that food accounts for a significant portion of household spending, representing 46 percent for rural households and 39 percent for urban households.

Moreover, there has been a discernible shift in consumption patterns, with a gradual decline in the per capita consumption of cereals like rice and wheat, accompanied by increased consumption of pulses, milk, vegetables, fruits, eggs, and meat. This shift reflects an improving standard of living, facilitated by rising incomes in the wake of India’s emergence as the world’s fastest-growing major economy.

The survey, conducted across 8,723 villages and 6,105 urban blocks, encompassing approximately 2.62 lakh households nationwide, offers crucial insights into the evolving dynamics of household spending in India.

Ola Electric slashes prices for S1 X line of e-scooters

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Ola Electric has unveiled new pricing structures for its S1 X line of e-scooters, alongside details regarding delivery. The S1 X series, available in three battery variants – 2 kWh, 3 kWh, and 4 kWh, will now be priced at Rs 69,999 (introductory offer), Rs 84,999, and Rs 99,999, respectively. Deliveries are slated to commence next week.

A spokesperson from Ola stated, “Our revised pricing for the S1 X series addresses the significant upfront costs associated with electric vehicle (EV) ownership, a key hurdle in wider EV adoption. With competitive pricing across our S1 X range, catering to various consumer segments, we anticipate a substantial increase in EV adoption nationwide.”

Additionally, Ola revealed updated prices for the S1 Pro, S1 Air, and S1 X+, now available at Rs 1,29,999, Rs 1,04,999, and Rs 84,999, respectively. The S1 X e-scooters boast an IDC-certified range of 190 km, 143 km, and 95 km for the 4 kWh, 3 kWh, and 2 kWh models, respectively.

Driven by a 6kW motor, the scooter accelerates from 0 to 40 km/h in 3.3 seconds, reaching a maximum speed of 90 km/h in the 4 kWh and 3 kWh models, and 85 km/h in 4.1 seconds for the 2 kWh variant, according to company specifications.

Featuring three riding modes – Eco, Normal, and Sports, riders can seamlessly transition between them based on their preferences and requirements.

Sensex down by 300 points, Israel’s return attack fears grip markets

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BSE Sensex is down by more than 300 points on Tuesday after a plunge of 845 points on Monday, continuing the declining trend amid concerns about general elections, geopolitical factors, and uncertainty in the markets.

Sensex is trading at 73,040 points, down by 358 points. Sensex is on the verge of falling below the 73K mark if the weakness persists. IT and financials are trading weak with Infosys, Bajaj Finserv, Indusind Bank, Ultratech Cement, L&T down more than 1 per cent.

Analysts expect economic and geopolitical issues to continue to weigh on markets in the near term. The economic factor is the rising US bond yields which reduces the prospects of rate cuts by the Fed this year. High bond yields are negative for risky assets like equity and will accelerate FII selling in emerging markets like India, they said.

Essentially the market is more concerned about the geopolitical issue.

Israel military chief vowed that “there will be a response to Iran’s attack on Israel” and it has increased the probability of escalation of tensions in the Middle East, evolving into a bigger scale.

As investors seek to wait and watch the developments. high quality large-caps are on corrections to make them fair. Large-caps in banking, IT, autos, capital goods, oil & gas and cement are advised as ideal for long-term investment, V K Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist, Geojit Financial Services said.

EVM Issue: Supreme Court bench to hear petitions seeking full implementation of VVPATs

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A panel comprising Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta is set to address all concerns regarding Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) during a hearing scheduled for April 16, 2024.

Tomorrow, the Supreme Court will review a series of petitions advocating for the implementation of Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) to cross-verify votes. VVPAT offers an independent mechanism for voters to ensure the accuracy of their votes by generating a paper slip that confirms their selections. These slips, securely sealed, can be accessed in case of disputes.

In anticipation of the upcoming seven-phase Lok Sabha elections beginning on April 19, the Supreme Court is poised to examine crucial matters regarding EVMs and VVPAT.

Earlier, the Supreme Court had deferred hearing the plea filed by the NGO Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and other related matters. Advocate Prashant Bhushan had urged an expedited hearing on April 3.

Now, ADR has petitioned the Supreme Court to direct the Election Commission and the Central Government to ensure voters can verify that their votes have been accurately recorded through VVPATs. The plea aims to align the EVM count with verifiably cast votes and guarantee that voters can confirm their selections via VVPAT slips.

Additionally, the petition underscores the importance of voters verifying that their choices have been accurately registered, which is partially addressed by the brief display of VVPAT slips after pressing the EVM button.

Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta’s panel, unable to address previous EVM-related pleas, will now consider all petitions during Tuesday’s session. Both petitions will be on the docket for today’s hearing.

On April 1, the Supreme Court sought responses from both the Election Commission of India and the central government regarding activist Arun Kumar Agrawal’s plea for a comprehensive count of VVPAT slips in elections, challenging the current practice of sampling only five randomly selected EVMs per assembly segment.

Jaishankar visits Singapore, highlights need for strategic partnership ahead of ISMR meeting

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India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar engaged in a series of high-level meetings during his three-day visit to Singapore, aimed at bolstering bilateral ties between the two nations. Among the key figures he met were top leaders of Singapore, to whom he conveyed personal greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

During his discussions, Jaishankar underscored the importance of Singapore’s support for the strategic partnership between the two countries. He highlighted the positive sentiments expressed by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong towards the India-Singapore relationship, which he described as a source of strength.

In addition to governmental meetings, Jaishankar interacted with leading corporate figures who shared insights into India’s growth story and their investment experiences in the country. These discussions aimed to further enhance economic cooperation between India and Singapore.

Among the officials Jaishankar met was Singapore’s Indian-origin Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, with whom he exchanged views on regional matters such as the Indo-Pacific and West Asia. They also reviewed the progress of bilateral cooperation and discussed preparations for the upcoming India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR) meeting, which marks 60 years of diplomatic ties between the two nations.

The ISMR, initiated by Prime Minister Modi, aims to deepen existing cooperation and explore new opportunities for collaboration. Its inaugural meeting was held in 2022, receiving appreciation from PM Modi for strengthening bilateral relations.

Jaishankar’s discussions extended to Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Lawrence Wong, focusing on advancing bilateral ties, particularly in new-age technologies, and addressing the evolving global economic landscape.

Concluding his visit, Jaishankar met Home Affairs & Law Minister K Shanmugam, expressing appreciation for the consistent support received for the strategic partnership. His visit to Singapore is part of a broader regional engagement strategy, with subsequent stops planned in Malaysia and The Philippines to discuss mutual concerns and regional issues.

UN Security Council passes resolution on Gaza ceasefire, US abstains; Israel upset

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The Security Council, after more than five months of conflict, issued a historic demand for an immediate ceasefire on Monday, marking a significant shift in approach. The United States, typically an ally of Israel, abstained from the vote, allowing the resolution to pass with unusual unanimity among the other 14 members.

Notably, the latest resolution does not directly tie the ceasefire to ongoing negotiations led by Qatar, the US, and Egypt, which aim to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas. Israel has criticized previous resolutions for failing to condemn Hamas explicitly.

This shift in diplomatic efforts reflects the urgent need to address the humanitarian crisis and prevent further escalation of violence in the region.

This resolution, supported by diverse nations including Algeria, Slovenia, and Switzerland, emphasizes the need for a ceasefire during the ongoing Islamic holy month of Ramadan. It calls for a truce to pave the way for a lasting peace and urges the release of hostages seized by Hamas and other militants on October 7.

However, Russia objected to the removal of the term “permanent” ceasefire, leading to a failed vote on that amendment. This development underscores the complex dynamics within the Security Council.

The United States’ evolving stance was evident in its recent proposal for an “immediate and sustained ceasefire,” indicating growing frustration with Israel’s military actions. Previous attempts by the US to broker a ceasefire were blocked, highlighting the delicate balance between supporting Israel and addressing concerns about civilian casualties.

 

No permission to AAP protest, says Delhi Police; Security beefed up at PM residence

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Delhi Police said on Tuesday that it has not given permission to AAP to hold any protest, reports ANI. However, entry/exit at Lok Kalyan Marg Metro station, Gate no 3 of Patel Chowk Metro Station, and Gate no 5 of Central Secretariat Metro Station will remain closed.

Security at the Prime Minister’s residence has been beefed up by the Delhi Police following the AAP’s announcement of a protest on Tuesday to “gherao” the premises in response to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest.

“Due to security reasons, entry/exit at Lok Kalyan Marg Metro station, Gate no 3 of Patel Chowk Metro Station and Gate no 5 of Central Secretariat Metro station will remain closed till further notice,” Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) said in a post on X.

“Large number of security personnel, including paramilitary forces, were seen deployed at Patel Chowk after a call was given by AAP to gather here before the march,” said a senior Delhi Police official.

The Delhi Traffic Police have advised commuters to avoid routes, including Kemal Ataturk Marg, Safdarjung Road, Akbar Road and Teen Murti Marg.

“Commuters are requested to cooperate by avoiding/bypassing these roads, if possible, and make maximum use of public transport,” said the official. “People, who are going towards ISBT/Railway Stations/Indira Gandhi Airport, are advised to carefully plan their travel with sufficient time at hand,” he added.

“General public and motorists are advised to keep patience, observe traffic rules and road discipline and follow directions of traffic personnel deployed at all intersections,” the official said.

Ujjain Mahakal Temple witnesses fire during ‘Bhasma Aarti’ time, 14 priests injured

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A blaze erupted within the inner sanctum of Ujjain’s revered Mahakal Temple on Monday morning, leaving 13 priests wounded during the traditional ‘bhasma aarti’ ceremony. Ujjain Collector Neeraj Kumar Singh confirmed the incident, stating that a thorough investigation has been initiated.

“Thirteen priests sustained burn injuries and are currently receiving medical attention at the district hospital here. A magisterial probe has been launched,” Singh informed ANI.

Witnesses recounted that colored ‘gulal’ was being dispersed within the sanctum as part of the Holi festivities when an individual inadvertently cast it onto an earthen lamp, believed to have ignited the flames due to potentially reactive chemicals within the ‘gulal.’

Among the injured is Sanjay Guru, the chief priest overseeing the ‘bhasma aarti.’ Presently, nine individuals are reported to be in critical condition and have been transferred to Indore for specialized care.

Superintendent of Police Pradeep Sharma conveyed insights from an injured party, suggesting that ‘gulal’ had been mistakenly tossed onto priest Sanjeev, precipitating the fire upon contact with the lamp.

Mahakal temple corridor

In May 2023, the Mahakal Lok Temple corridor, which was unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in October 2022, witnessed six out of the seven Saptrishi statues displaced and two of them severely damaged after a massive thunderstorm. on May 29, 2023.

Usually, no minister or political leader prefers to stay in Ujjain as the popular belief is that Mahakal or Lord Shiva is known to be the ruler of Ujjain, hence, no other ruler can spend the night here.