Natural Farming – The farm community’s ‘Mann Ki Baat’ ::::::::::::: RS suspends 19 Opp. MPs

Organic farming, which is the buzzword in the agriculture sector across the country, has some similarities with Natural farming, but there are essential differences. 

Having our roots in the agrarian economy, India’s financial success has often been linked with prosperity and success in the agriculture sector.

In Gujarat, too, agriculture is an important sector, providing employment to about 52 % people (as per 2011 census). 

The agro based economy has got a considerable attention in the Prime Minister’s home state- right from common people to scientists, private players and rural bodies. 

As the government introduced a series of measures, over time , to promote this 

sector and ensure prosperity of farmers, a new strategy has been recently adopted and promoted by the state administration. 

It is called Natural Farming.

Organic farming, which is the buzzword in the agriculture sector across the country, has some similarities with Natural Farming, but there are essential differences. 

In natural farming, neither chemical nor organic fertilizers are added to the soil. However, organic farming includes the use of  organic fertilizers and manures like compost, vermicompost, cow dung manure, etc.

On July 10, 2022 Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while attending an event in Surat said, “I am happy to mention that village committees, taluka committees and district committees were formed to select 75 farmers from each village panchayat to get into 'natural farming'. This resulted in more than 40,000 farmers from over 550 panchayats in a short span of time. 

The Surat model of natural farming should be an inspiration for India.”

Adding more, the Prime Minister said, “When you practice natural farming, you serve Mother Earth, protect the quality of soil, and ensure long lasting productivity. In a way, you are protecting the environment. Zero Budget or Natural Farming can change the crop pattern in a scientific manner".

Gujarat is fortunate to have Governor Acharya Devvrat- a strong proponent of Natural Farming. 

Organser -- Link

On Chief Minister Bupendra Patel's take on natural farming, a government official said, “Our Chief Minister is a firm advocate of natural farming for two reasons. One, it ensures better and healthy food for the population. At the same time, it is sustainable.” 

In December 2021, the Government of Gujarat declared Dang district as ‘100% organic farming district.”  This has opened new horizons. 

Adivasis or tribals have been residing in the natural forest and highland areas of Dang. 

The natives are very much engaged in agricultural practices. It goes without stating that Dang region is thus a unique and perfectly setup region for natural farming where farming can be undertaken without harming nature.

 

Sharing his personal experiences in natural farming, Governor Devvrat says, “Natural farming has no restrictions. 

No artificial components are used. It uses Jeevamrut – natural fertilisers made from cow dung and urine of native cattle. 

The only thing a farmer has to do is ensure a healthy breed of cattle which produces eight kilograms of dung and about the same quantity of urine a day”.

The state government has also announced a financial aid of Rs 31 crore under 'Sampurna Rasayan Mukt Dang Jilla' to be distributed in Dangs to ensure that the district becomes completely free of chemical pesticides and fertilisers.

Chief Minister Patel said, "It is the need of the hour to turn towards Natural Farming. I am confident that the farmers 

of Dang will inspire and encourage other farmers and people, at large, to undertake natural farming".

State officials have been instructed to study more on natural farming as the poisonous substances that enter the food chain through urea and pesticides in fruits and vegetables are starting to create adverse effects on the health of people”.

The Chief Minister also says that agriculture accounts for about 19% of greenhouse gases emission at the national level and hence gradual switchover to natural farming can bring down emission rates.

To sum up, the agricultural growth rate was not low in Gujarat. It was volatile. However, the sector picked up dramatically with high growth and low volatility after 2000.

In recent years too, the sector continued to achieve a high growth rate with comparatively lower volatility. 

From 2001–02 to 2013–14, Gujarat’s agricultural GDP grew at 9.2%, which was highest among the major agri-states.

According to Prime Minister Modi, the Centre has created 30,000 clusters of natural farms for the benefit of farmers.

 

One million hectares of land will be covered under the ‘Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Scheme’. 

Recalling the natural farming knowledge hidden in the scriptures and popular culture of India, the Prime Minister also has urged institutions, NGOs and experts to research traditional knowledge and how that can be communicated to farmers based on changing times. 

ends 

Rajya Sabha suspends 19 Opposition MPs for ‘misconduct’

 New Delhi: 

A day after four Congress MPs were suspended from Lok Sabha for ‘disrupting proceedings and unruly behaviour’, 19 Opposition MPs including TMC leaders Sushmita Dev, Santanu Sen, and Dola Sen were suspended from Rajya Sabha on Tuesday for the remaining part of the week for ‘misconduct’.

They were suspended for storming well of the House and sloganeering against the government over inflation. Following the incident, Rajya Sabha adjourned for the day to meet at 11am tomorrow.
A total of seven MPs were suspended from the TMC.

The other leaders who were suspended include Mausam Noor (AITC), Shanta Chhetri (AITC), Abhi Ranjan Biswar (AITC), Md Nadimul Hague (AITC), M. Hamamed Abdulla (DMK), B Lingaiah Yadav (TRS), AA Rahim (CPI), Ravihandra Vaddiraju (TRS), S Kalyanasundaram (DMK), R Girranjan (DMK).

N.R. Elango (DMK), V. Sivadasan (CPI), M. Shanmugam (DMK), Damodar Rao Divakonda (TRS), Sandosh Kumar P (CPI), Kanimozhi NVN Somu (DMK) were among the other leaders who were suspended from Rajya Sabha.

Speaking to ANI, Derek O’Brien, TMC Rajya Sabha MP said that democracy has been suspended with the suspension of the MPs.

“PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have suspended democracy…what are you talking about MPs?” he said.

Earlier today, both Houses of Parliament – Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha were adjourned till 2 pm on Tuesday amid continuous sloganeering by Opposition members, on the seventh day of the Monsoon session.

Earlier Rajya Sabha was also adjourned twice during the day. The Upper House was adjourned till 12.20 pm amid ruckus by Opposition MPs. Earlier it was adjourned till 12 noon soon after the Opposition parties raised issues including over a dozen deaths in Gujarat’s Botad district due to consumption of illicit or toxic liquor.

Earlier on Monday, four Congress MPs including Manickam Tagore, Ramya Haridas, Jothimani and TN Prathapan were suspended from the Lok Sabha for the entire Monsoon session for their ‘unruly behaviour and disrupting proceedings.’

The MPs were suspended according to Rule 374 on ‘unruly and disrespectful behaviour towards the Chair.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi along with several party leaders were detained by Delhi Police at Vijay Chowk during MPs’ march to Rashtrapati Bhavan to protest against the questioning of the party’s interim president Sonia Gandhi by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the National Herald case.

“All (Congress) MPs came here. They talked about inflation and unemployment. They (Police) are not allowing us to sit here. Discussions are not allowed inside (the Parliament) and here they are arresting us,” said Rahul Gandhi before being detained.

Several MPs of the party were detained by the police following their protest march from Parliament.

All Congress MPs were stopped at Vijay Chowk and prevented from marching to Rashtrapati Bhavan.

“We’re protesting as per the instruction of the police. All of this is a conspiracy by PM Modi & Amit Shah to completely destroy the Opposition and muzzle our voices. We won’t be scared, our fight will continue,” Congress leader and LoP Mallikarjun Kharge said.

“We had demanded that there be discussion in Parliament on inflation, unemployment, Agnipath & misuse of agencies. Govt rejected it. We said we’ll protest at Rajghat on this, but weren’t permitted. We said that we’ll give a memorandum to President. They didn’t permit,” Deepender Hooda said. (ANI)

When Sumi leader Shikiho did not fight Jamir !

New Delhi 

The phrase 'Naga history is unique' could be an inspiration from the Sema tribe.
This is being stated more in a lighter vein. 

Nagas do not like comparison with others generally, but Semas don't mind it if you make that comparison at the larger level or say the 'world level'.

I had asked this question innocuously to Congress leader Shiikiho Sema. His response was - "Our people like comparison at a large level; not merely northeast or Nagaland. Sometimes you will find our Naga people saying 'so and so is the first Sema achiever' in the world".  

Jamir: Illustrious Naga veteran

Shikiho was one character who wanted to be counted among fighters but would not fight.

Huska sumi, a committed regionalist, was always a fighter. He fought Congress fiercely and at times he fought Vamuzo-Vizol group and even floated a separate regional outfit Nagaland People's Party.

Semas are of course dynamic and exuberant in their own style and ground. 

Look at N Kitovi Zhimomi of NNPG. He fought it out against Isak Chishi Swu and Thuingaleng Muivah in 1988 itself and is still fighting. I had a chance meeting with him in a crowd in Delhi in 2021 and he made his intention clear - "Peace and Solution to our Naga problem are not easy. I know it, and so I am into it, struggling hard to achieve them".  

Shikiho's decision to give up fighting in 1993 actually changed the game ultimately in favour of S C Jamir. 

This left a lasting impact in Nagaland politics.

The 1993 post-election leadership tussle was the crucial battle, he not only gave in so easily; Shikiho had done 

so even without striking a hard bargain with Jamir. 

Shikiho's fellow comrades like K V Pusa and Z Lohe were definitely not pleased.

Prime Minister and Congress chief Rao had his own reasons and team and he preferred Hokishe Sema as his first choice for Chief Ministership. Because Chingwang Konyak was state unit Congress president, he also had a fair chance.

Jamir was not naive about all these and so he ensured the defeat of both - Dimapur I and Wakching. 

So when the CLP leadership issue came, there was still suspense. Rao or the high command may not allow Jamir an easy cakewalk! 

P R Dasmunshi was deputed as AICC observer and he changed his track more than once. 

Ultimately, the high command agreed to accept Jamir as the leader provided there was no strong opponent. 

Jamir spoke for an hour to Shikiho at the Kohima helipad enlisting his support as they awaited the copter with two other leaders from Delhi.

At the meeting of new legislators, Shikiho easily proposed Jamir's name and the sail was smooth.

This was a crucial strategic and political mistake by Shikiho. Jamir brought in K L Chishi as number 2 and handed him over the Finance portfolio. There were a few more powerful and 'juicy' portfolios but nothing came to Shikiho's kitty. 

He was made only a Higher and Technical Education Minister --- essentially a boss for

eight government colleges.

The power portfolio was given to Shikiho only after N I Jamir expired in 1996.

That was a turning point. Jamir strengthened his grip in Congress with the blessings of Sushilkumar Shinde

as AICC general secretary and Neiphiu Rio and Kewekhape Therie were his two most trusted colleagues

in the cabinet. Slowly, they forced the exit of Hokishe Sema and Chingwang Konyak -- first to

Congress (N D Tiwari-Arjun Singh) faction and then to the NDM. 

In the long run as NDM and NPC boycotted 1998 assembly elections, Jamir and Congress had a cakewalk in the polls. In the new set up, Neiphiu Rio was number 2 and he was given the portfolio of Home.

While proposing Jamir's name as the leader for CLP (in 1998), Rio had said - "There is no doubt, we all want Shri S C Jamir as the Chief Minister had he been from a larger state like Uttar Pradesh, today, he would be competing for prime minister's post".

Of course, the likes of Neiba Ndang, K Therie and others raised their hands and clapped on the grand occasion.

But a few years later, first, Therie and then Rio rebelled against their mentor Jamir, and the rest is little more than history.

Nagaland Page Link

The other day, Jamir in an article blasted Chief Minister Rio and his government. 
Rio knows the art of playing it well. 

A few days later his response was - “If he (Jamir) wants to put allegations, the burden lies on him to prove. Anyway, I have high regards for him".

ends 

"Public service has been meaning of my life ..... Working for world welfare has to be greater than own interests" - Prez Murmu

"Public service has been the meaning of my life so far. A line from the poem of eminent Poet Bhim Bhoi Ji states: 

“Mo Jiwan Pachhe Narke Padi Thau, Jagat Uddhar Heu”.

That is, working for the welfare of the world is far greater than one’s own interests."

 We are building 'Ek Bharat - Shreshtha Bharat' by embracing many languages, religions, food habits & customs: President Murmu

"I want all sisters & daughters to be empowered more as they continue to increase their contribution in every field," she said in her maiden address.

"In 75 years as parliamentary democracy, India has carried forward resolve of progress through participation & consensus". 

Droupadi Murmu, 64, took oath to become the country’s first tribal and also the youngest president on Monday. 

The oath was administered by the Chief Justice of India NV Ramana and was followed by a 21-gun salute. The president then addressed the nation. First President of Independent Republic to be born in post-independent India.  

Significantly, she succeeds incumbent Rashtrapati, Ram Nath Kovind and she will be stewarding India's fate when India will complete 75 years of its independence on August 15.

Ms Murmu was born in a little known place in the development-starved region of Mayurbhanj in Odisha and had a truly self-made career. So her elevation to the elevated office in more ways than one demonstrates truly the triumph of democracy. She will not only be India's first tribal President but also first to be born in independent India.

Her election has been marred by hectic politicking and in the ultimate 17 opposition MPs cross-voted for Ms Murmu. Several opposition parties which otherwise are firmly against BJP kept the political differences aside and decided to back her candidature. 

This club includes leaders like Mayawati of BSP and even an aggrieved Uddhav Thackeray of Shiv Sena. About 126 opposition state legislators also voted for her.

She even got a vote from Kerala where BJP or its allies did not have any alliance. She drew 100 percent votes from Nagaland, Sikkim and Andhra Pradesh. 

In her election and with such a massive mandate, shows India has made a crucial statement as the world's largest democracy and showing immense faith in women empowerment and on the leadership ability of a tribal who came up the ladder as a self-made person.

Nagaland BJP leader Kevechutso Doulo, a tribal and a Christian, told this journalist, "Time and again, the people’s spirit and yearnings for liberty, inclusion, and pluralism have triumphed in this country. The incoming President is a tribal and a woman, making us all feel more proud of the momentous occasion".

Some of her achievements were milestones in themselves.

Born into a Santhal tribal family in 1958, she was the first girl in Uparbeda village in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district to go to a college.

Ms Murmu won an election to the Rairangpur Nagar Panchayat in 1997, and served as councillor. She was elected to two terms in the Odisha Assembly in 2000 and 2004, and served as a Minister in Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s BJD-BJP coalition government.

Her admirers say Ms Murmu will not be a rubber stamp President as is being alleged in certain quarters.

As the first woman Governor of Jharkhand, she showed her eyes for critical observation.

In November 2016, the BJP government in Jharkhand passed amendments to two centuries-old land laws — the Chhotanagpur Tenancy Act and the Santhal Pargana Tenancy Act — that would have ensured easy transfer of land for industrial use.

But she declined to sign initially and returned the Bills in June 2017 and her decision to seek state government's clarification how the amendments would benefit tribals had earned her respect and admiration as all along she had been a saffron party foot soldier herself.

Madam Murmu as President is watershed moment for poor, marginalised: PM Modi

New Delhi  

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday hailed President Droupadi Murmu taking charge as 

new President and said the occasion marks a "watershed moment for India especially for the poor, 

marginalised and downtrodden".

"The entire nation watched with pride as Smt. Droupadi Murmu Ji took oath as the President of India. Her 

assuming the Presidency is a watershed moment for India especially for the poor, marginalised and downtrodden. 

I wish her the very best for a fruitful Presidential tenure," the Prime Minister wrote in a series of tweets.

He also wrote, "In her address after taking oath, President Droupadi Murmu Ji gave a message of hope and compassion". 

"She emphasised on India's accomplishments and presented a futuristic vision of the path ahead at a time 

when India is marking Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav," he tweeted. 

Sharing similar sentiments, Home Minister Amit Shah said, "I have the conviction that

your stint as President will ensure India attain new heights".

"Today is a historic day and this resembles much significance for empowerment of the 

downtrodden and marginalised," Shah tweeted in Hindi.

ends 

Full Text of new President's address:

Johar!

Namaskar!

"I express my heartfelt gratitude to all Members of Parliament and Legislative Assemblies for electing me to the highest Constitutional post of India.

Your vote for me is an expression of the faith of crores of citizens of the country.
I humbly greet all the fellow citizens from this sacred Parliament, a symbol of the hopes, aspirations and rights of all the citizens of India."

Your affection, trust and support will be my greatest strength in discharging my functions and responsibilities.

The country has elected me as the President at a crucial time when we are celebrating ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’.

A few days from today, the country will complete 75 years of its independence.

It is also a coincidence that my political career started when the country was celebrating its 50th year of independence.

And today, in the 75th year of independence, I have been assigned this new responsibility.

It is my great privilege to be given this responsibility at such a historic time when India is engaged with full vigour in realising its vision for the next 25 years.

I also happen to be the first President of the country who was born in independent India.

We have to work at a fast pace in this Amritkal to fulfil the expectations of our freedom fighters from the citizens of independent India.

In these 25 years, the path to attain the goals of Amritkal will proceed on two tracks – Sabka Prayas aur Sabka Kartavya (everyone’s effort and everyone’s duty).

The new development journey towards the bright future of India has to be undertaken by our collective efforts, following the path of duty.

We will be observing Kargil Vijay Diwas tomorrow i.e. July 26th. This day is a symbol of both-the bravery and restraint of the Indian armed forces.

Today, I extend my best wishes in advance to the armed forces of the country and to all the citizens.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I started my journey of life from a small tribal village in Odisha in the eastern part of the country.

From the background that I come from, it was like a dream for me to get elementary education.

But despite many obstacles, my determination remained strong and I became the first daughter of my village to go to college.

I belong to tribal society. I have got the opportunity to rise from serving as a ward councillor to becoming the President of India. This is the greatness of India, the mother of democracy.

It is a tribute to the power of our democracy that a daughter born in a poor house in a remote tribal area can reach the highest constitutional position in India.

That I attained the post of President is not my personal achievement, it is the achievement of every poor person in India.

My election is a proof of the fact that the poor in India can have dreams and fulfill them too.

And it is a matter of great satisfaction for me that those who have been deprived for centuries and those who have been denied the benefits of development, those poor, downtrodden, backwards and tribals are seeing their reflection in me.

This election of mine has blessings of the poor of the country. And it reflects the dreams and potential of crores of women and daughters of the country.

This election of mine also shows the courage of today’s youth of India who is ready to walk on new paths and shun the beaten tracks.

Today I feel proud to lead such a progressive India.

Today, I assure all fellow citizens especially youth of India and the women of India that their interests will be paramount for me while working in this position.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Before me is such a great legacy of the Presidency of India which has continuously strengthened the prestige of Indian democracy in the world.

From the country’s first President Dr. Rajendra Prasad to Shri Ram Nath Kovind ji, stalwarts have adorned this post.

Along with this post, the country has also entrusted me with the responsibility of representing this great tradition.

In the light of the Constitution, I will discharge my duties with utmost sincerity.

For me, the democratic-cultural ideals of India and all the citizens will always be my source of energy.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Our freedom struggle had prepared the roadmap for India’s new journey as a nation.

Our freedom struggle was a continuous stream of those struggles and sacrifices which had nurtured so many ideals and possibilities for independent India.

Pujya Bapu had resorted to Swaraj, Swadeshi, Swachhta and Satyagraha to show us the way for realising Indian cultural ideals.

Countless personalities like Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, Nehru ji, Sardar Patel, Babasaheb Ambedkar, Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, Rajguru and Chandrashekhar Azad had taught us to keep national pride as paramount.

Many brave women icons like Rani Lakshmi Bai, Rani Velu Nachiyar, Rani Gaidinliu and Rani Chennamma had taken to new heights the role of women power in defending and building the nation.

From Santhal revolution, Paika revolution to Kol revolution and Bhil revolution, all these revolutions had strengthened the tribal contribution in the freedom struggle.

We derived inspiration from the sacrifice of ‘Dharti Aaba’ Bhagwan Birsa Munda Ji for social upliftment and patriotism.

I am happy that many museums are being built across the country dedicated to the role of the tribal communities in our freedom struggle.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

In 75 years as a parliamentary democracy, India has carried forward the resolve of progress through participation and consensus.

In our country full of diversities, we are engaged in the making of ‘Ek Bharat – Shreshtha Bharat’ by adopting many languages, religions, sects, food habits, life styles and customs.

This Amritkaal, which commences with the 75th year of our independence, is a period of new resolutions for India.

Today I see my country inspired and ready to welcome this new era with new thinking.

Today India is adding a new chapter of development in every field.

The kind of capability that India has shown in combating the global crisis of Corona pandemic has enhanced India’s credibility all over the world.

We Indians not only faced this global challenge with our efforts but also set new standards for the world.

Just a few days ago, India has set a record of administering 200 crore doses of corona vaccine.

The patience, courage and cooperation shown by the people of India in this entire battle is a symbol of our growing strength and sensitivity as a society.

India not only took care of itself in these difficult situations but also helped the world.

In the atmosphere created by the Corona pandemic, today the world is looking at India with a new confidence.

The international community has high hopes from India for ensuring global economic stability, ease of supply chain and peace.

In the coming months, India is also going to host the G-20 Group under its chairmanship.

In this grouping, twenty big countries of the world will brainstorm on global issues under the chairmanship of India.

I am sure that the conclusions and policies that will emerge from this brainstorming in India will determine the direction of the coming decades.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Decades ago, I had the opportunity to work as a teacher at Sri Aurobindo Integral School in Rairangpur.

After a few days, we will observe the 150th birth anniversary of Sri Aurobindo.

Sri Aurobindo’s thoughts on education continue to inspire me.

I have had an active association with educational institutions, serving in various positions as a public representative and then as a governor.

I have closely observed the enthusiasm and self-confidence of the youth of the country.

Our revered Atal ji used to say that when the youth of the country progress, they not only create their own destiny but also shape the fate of the country.

Today we are witnessing it come true.

Moving ahead in every field – from ‘Vocal for Local’ to ‘Digital India’ – today’s India, marching in step with the world, is all set for ‘Industrial Revolution Four Point O’.

The youth of India have a big role in creating a record number of start-ups, in numerous innovations and in the adoption of digital technology in far flung areas.

In the past few years, a new energy has been infused in the country due to the decisions taken and policies formulated for women empowerment.

I want all our sisters and daughters to be empowered more and more so that they continue to increase their contribution in every field of nation building.

I want to tell the youth of our country that you are not only building your own future but also laying the foundation of the India of the future.

As the President of the country, I will always extend my full cooperation to you.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Growth and progress mean continuously marching ahead, but equally important is awareness about one’s past.

Today, when the world is talking about sustainable planet, the role of India’s ancient traditions and sustainable lifestyle becomes more important.

I was born in that tribal tradition which has lived in harmony with nature for thousands of years.

I have realized the importance of forests and water bodies in my life.

We take necessary resources from nature and serve nature with equal reverence.

This sensitivity has become a global imperative today.

I am happy that India is guiding the world in the field of environmental protection.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

In my life so far, I have realised the meaning of life only through public service.

There is a line from the poem of Bhim Bhoi Ji, a famous poet of Shri Jagannath Kshetra-

“Mo Jeeban pachhe narke padi thau, jagato uddhar heu”.

That is, working for the welfare of the world is far greater than one’s own interests.

With this spirit of welfare of the world, I will always be ready to work with full devotion and dedication to live up to the trust you all have reposed in me.

Let us all unite and move forward on the path of duty with a dedicated spirit to build a glorious and self-reliant India.

Thank you,

Jai Hind!

Smriti Irani serves notice to Congress leaders, seeks written apology

Union minister Smriti Irani has served legal notice to Congress party through its president and leaders such as Pawan Khera and Jairam Ramesh and Ms Netta D'Souza and asked the Congress leaders to tender a written apology and withdraw the ‘malicious’ allegations against her daughter.

“An 18-year-old child, a college student, her character today was assassinated by Congress men at a Congress headquarters... her fault is that her mother fought the Lok Sabha election against Rahul Gandhi from Amethi in 2014, in 2019... her fault is that her mother, as has been said by the Congress spokesperson, does press conferences against Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi,” Irani had lashed out at  Congress and its leaders. 

The Minister has taken exception that her 18-year-old daughter was alleged of running a bar and non-veg eating outlet in Goa. 

Irani has asked the leaders to tender "a written unconditional apology" and withdraw the allegations with immediate effect. 

The Congress had, in a press conference, charged that the BJP leader's daughter was involved in running a bar in Goa, which got its excise licence illegally. The bar got two bar licences when regulations allow only one, the leaders claimed. 

However, reports said the RTI response which was made the basis of the Congress allegation does not mention name of Ms Irani's daughter.  

Shiv Sena MP Priyanka Chaturvedi on Saturday backed Irani. “18 year olds may not know the process is the punishment in acquiring licenses for running a restaurant in India, a young girl attempted something audacious in pursuit of her dreams,maybe erred, do not demonise. 

PS: I speak as a mother of a 19 year old& keeping my politics aside. (sic)," she wrote in a tweet without naming the union minister. Shiv Sena and the BJP have been former allies.

Priyanka Chaturvedi

Smriti Irani's legal notice issued by a law firm says - "All of you have conspired with each other and with other unknown individuals /organisations to launch a series of scathing and belligerent personal attack.....,".

Partha Chatterjee's 'women associates' and their rags to riches stories

New Delhi

Trinamool Congress leader and a trusted aide of Mamata Banerjee for many years - Partha Chatterjee is cooling his heels in ED custody after he was arrested in connection with West Bengal's now infamous SSC recruitment scam.

So far ED authorities have received huge amounts of cash from various spots. Of course a substantial amount - around Rs 21 crore came from the flat of one little known model and actress Arpita Mukherjee.

Arpita has one flat at Haridebpur area of Kolkata. That picture of stacks of cash has already been released by ED.  Apart from cash, 20 mobile phones were also recovered from her house. 

Reportedly, Arpita was into modelling and came in touch with the Trinamool leader a few years back when she was 

engaged as a model by a local club in Chatterjee’s neighbourhood during Durga Puja. 

The ED suspects another woman in Partha Chatterjee's life and corruption games. Her name is Monalisa 

Das, Head of Department of Bengali department in Kazi Nazrul Islam University in Asansol.

How these ladies have amassed such huge wealth have automatically fallen under ED scanner.

Her Facebook describes Arpita Mukherjee as “a multi-talented versatile actor, having worked in several films in 

Tollywood.”

Arpita has  acted in Bengali movies alongside Bengal superstars Prosenjit Chatterjee and also in a few Tamil

and Odiya movies.

Her mother stays in the ancestral house at Belgharia in North 24- Parganas while Arpita repotedly has another flat 

in a posh campus in Belgharia. 

The ED has tracked at least 10 flats in Monalisa's name. She joined Kazi Nazrul University in Asansol in 2014. 

Questions were raised about her appointment as a professor and it was alleged that perhaps Mamata Banerjee's

Man Friday, Partha Chatterjee, had helped her in that. It has to be probed how en educationist can have as many as

10 flats in her name including one at Santiniketan,

Reports also say in total as many 20 flats have been identified owned by Partha Chatterjee but in different

names including a few in the name of his associates and relatives. One flat is named 'Apa' -- supposed to be short

form of Arpita Mukherjee.

In Santiniketan itself, Trinamool Congress secretary general has about seven flats. Of course in 2021 assembly

elections, Partha Chatterjee's affidavits did not have any mention of these properties. The affidavit had said he had 

His papers in total showed properties worth Rs 1.15 crore only and this included cash a modest 

amount of Rs 1.48 lakh.

Reports also say in Pachim Medinipur, he and his relatives have an English medium school in a spacious

compound. This school is said to be in memory of Chatterjee's wife Babli Chatterjee.

Only the land price of the 15 Bigha area compound is estimated to be Rs 45 crore and allegedly entire amount

was paid in cash. More importantly, such a huge amount payment was made in 2016 and during the period

when demonetization on high value currency notes were enforced.

The SSC recruitment scam and the probe are bound to reflect a totally new chapter of West Bengal politics.

ends 

Mixed Bag: Mizoram's only BJP MLA Chakma convicted :::: Mamata's Man Friday Partha Chatterjee arrested by ED

Mamata's man Partha Chatterjee: snap Zee News

New Delhi

In a crucial development and bringing an end to a fierce litigation, Mizoram's
only BJP legislator Dr Buddha Dhan Chakma, chief executive member of the Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC) was convicted in a corruption case.

The order was passed by the Court of the Special Judge (Prevention of Corruption Act). The judge Vanlalenmawia also convicted 12 others including two executive members and two sitting members of district council.

Chakma is the first legislator convicted in a graft case in the history of Mizoram.

The saffron party will be embarrassed by the development certainly.

Only consolation for the BJP would be that Chakma was a Congressman previously and the period of allegation of corruption to the tune of Rs 137.10 lakh was when Chakma was still in the grand old party.

The original allegation was made by a local BJP leader only. Chakma joined the BJP in 2018 and was elected as a legislator to become the first ever BJP legislator in the state.

Dr Chakma while coming out from the courtroom said he would immediately appeal to the Gauhati High Court.

The judge is expected to pronounce the quantum of sentence on Monday, July 25.  

The court order said that the total amount of money misappropriated was Rs 137.10 lakh and the amount allocated for developmental works was withdrawn as 'advance salaries' by these 13 accused people.

Ironically, the corruption cases against the convicted people which included the lone BJP legislator in the state assembly, was initiated by the then general secretary of the BJP state unit and the current president Vanlalhmuaka by making a written complaint to the state governor.

The political party in power at the CADC then was the Congress party headed by CEM Dr. B.D. Chakma, who later was elected as MLA and became a minister of state before he resigned after massive protests by student organisations against Chakma students being included in the technical courses outside the state.

BD Chakma later joined the BJP and was elected as a legislator in 2018 to become the first ever BJP MLA in the state.

Following Vanlalhmuaka's complaint, the then governor constituted a one-man inquiry commission of Dr A. Muthamma, the then deputy commissioner of southern Mizoram's Lawngtlai district within which jurisdiction the CADC was situated.

After the Muthamma commission submitted its inquiry report to the state governor, Zohmingthanga, under secretary of the state District Council and Minority Affairs filed FIR to the SP of the Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB) on April 18, 2018.

ends 

Mamata's Man Friday Partha Chatterjee arrested by ED

Nirendra Dev 

New Delhi 

Mamata Banerjee's Man Friday and Trinamool Congress secretary general Partha Chatterjee was arrested 

by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Saturday, July 23, after being questioned for around 26 hours in 

connection with an alleged scam in recruitment of teachers in state-run schools.

Chatterjee was taken to the ED's office at the CGO Complex in Salt Lake, and will be produced in court later in the 

day. 

He was allegedly not cooperating with ED officials who were questioning him since Friday morning. 

The scam pertained to recruitment of group 'C' and 'D' staff, assistant teachers of classes 11 and 12 and

primary teachers.

ED had recovered Rs 20 crore in cash from one of the properties of Chatterjee's close associate Arpita Mukherjee in 

south Kolkata. Mukherjee was also detained.

Chatterjee was the state education minister when the scam took place and the ED was probing the money laundering 

aspect based on an FIR by the Central Bureau Of Investigation (CBI) that was filed following orders of the 

Calcutta High Court. 

ends 

Nagaland needs to draw lessons from Sri Lanka, says K L Chishi ::::: 'Naga People are angry today, I am worried'

Chishi flays Rio, says time to draw lessons from Sri Lanka

New Delhi/Dimapur

Former Nagaland Chief Minister and senior politician K L Chishi on Thursday lashed out at the Neiphiu Rio-led 'opposition-less government and said the only achievement of this regime has been a combination of gross corruption, nepotism, promoting tribalism and an autocratic style of functioning.  

Blogger and Former Nagaland CM 

"Where is peace and solution...Lip service cannot bring these lofty ideals. If things were so, Nagaland would have been heaven long back. This dispensation has made things worse. As a senior politician, one feels pained at heart to see what all is going around," Chishi told 'Nagaland Page' in a telephonic interview.

"It has double whammy....First corruption. Sanctioned money got into some pockets. Secondly, ill treat people and areas you do not like. ENPO area is development starved, its share was a modest Rs 11.95 crore from a department and the areas falling under Mokokchung, Zunheboto and Wokha got Rs 9.5 crore".

"You do not run a welfare state like this. We find these approaches in olden day's fables of stepmothers making their stepchildren suffer. People find these insulting and provocative. It is time to draw lessons from what's going around in countries like Sri Lanka," he cautioned.

"Nagas deserve equitable distribution of funds meant for growth and development irrespective of tribal bias or

colour," the former Chief Minister emphasised.

"In 2018 when the NDPP-led government took over there was a grand claim, 'Change is Coming?'...and oh goodness.

If this is change; we should not have it. Never," he said.

"....for the first time in the history of Nagaland Assembly, a mere 15 minutes was the duration for sessions

and of course, that was a great change, and my 'G' is capital here".

Mr Chishi - under whose ministry CM Rio served as Power Minister in 1990 - said, "Negative and diabolical politics

were played. Funds were pumped in some select districts especially since 2018... As an example, I can tell you,

Kiphire and Longleng got zero funds from the Minority Affairs under Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK). Why?

Tell me, what is their crime?"

In contrast, Kohima got Rs 51.5 crore and Chumukedima Rs 45.21 crore, he says.

To a question, the former Chief Minister said, "In 2018 they gave the slogan 'Change is Coming...' and in the

process what we have is some mega projects rotting in negligence. The Nagaland Stadium is one of them.

The Cricket Stadium at Sovima village near CM's house does not look better. Road communication is at a standstill,

health and hospitals remain extremely pitiable".

To another question, he said, "I would not like to be harsher....But with the High Court complex there is already

an investigation. Law should take its course".

Chishi, who has handled the portfolio of Finance in the past, also said, "In the list of mis-governance comes

the poorest conditions of state finances today despite some good amount coming in from centrally sponsored

schemes".

"In corruption and diversion of funds, this government is the worst regime ever in the history of Nagaland".

Another issue he is concerned about is "unemployment and backdoor appointments with prejudiced jaundiced eyes".

Answering questions on the peace process, he said, "Some brownie points are claimed here and there. They are busy

stealing media limelight. What we have is lip service. They compete in making things

worse. Often ministers and senior leaders contradict each other. The Chief Minister himself contradicts what he

says in May and what he says in June. Things are in a mess as a result".

He lamented that all such chaotic things continued unabated in Nagaland when BJP was part of the government.

"At the national level, the BJP claims itself as a model of good governance and probity in public life. In Nagaland,

I am sad to note and stunned that they allowed such peak of mis-governance and miscarriage of justice for

the Naga people. People will hold everyone accountable, such days are not far off".

Chishi maintained that the worst of the 'sins' committed by the state government is lop-sided development and

indiscriminate way of fund allocation.

"People are angry today.... I am worried. People were shell-shocked to find that in some departments, a few districts

walked away with Rs 191.7 crore and the rest of Nagaland got Rs 106 crore".

ends

India stands with people of Sri Lanka in quest for 'stability and economic recovery'

New Delhi 

India has asserted that it stands firmly with the people of crisis-hit Sri Lanka and will continue to help the island nation attain stability and economic recovery through "democratic means". 

"We would stand with them in their quest for stability, economic recovery through democratic means and values, established democratic institutions and the constitutional framework. And I think the fact that this transition happened through the constitutional framework is a clear and positive indicator," MEA spokesman Arindam Bagchi toldreporters here. 

On some 'economic packages', he said, "Now that they have a new President, and they will probably take more steps ahead to set up a government, and they also have these discussions with the IMF. Let's see, what is required, what happens". 

Moreover, he hastened to add, "I think, we have extended assistance in various ways and some of it is actually not even fully utilized, some of it has been utilized. So we will look at all that, as I said, we will continue to stand with the people of Sri Lanka". 

India-China issues:

Answering a series of questions on India-China ties and border related issues, the MEA spokesman said,"I would like to say and reiterate what I have been saying earlier that we are engaged with the Chinese side. We are having this diplomatic as well as military discussions to resolve the issues from our perspective, which is disengagement, de-escalation, having some degree of stability and normalcy on the border areas".

"I think that's the path we would remain focused on," he said adding such measures would certainly help in improving the "overall relations". 

Mr Bagchi further said, "....our point as you know, has been a larger issue, which says that if you can resolve the issues particularly on disengagement and that would help in de-escalation and restoration of peace and tranquillity along the LAC in the Western sector and that would be the right step towards enabling a progress in the bilateral relations". 

"I don't think I would be able to add much more to that in terms of assessment," he added.

ends